Patent Publication Number: US-7591207-B1

Title: Device and method for remotely manipulating a magnetic object with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   This application claims the benefit of Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/851,862, filed Oct. 13, 2006 by the present inventor. 

   FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH 
   None. 
   SEQUENCE LISTING 
   None. 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   1. Field of Invention 
   This invention relates to remotely manipulating a magnetic object with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape, and more specifically to a device and method for remote placement, installation, and/or removal of a magnetic object such as fastener, bolt, nut, plug, screw, and the like: in limited access locations. 
   2. Prior Art 
   The ever increasing design constraints placed on the development of modern machinery has resulted in removable objects typically used for securing of parts or passageway closures to be disposed in limited access areas and require removal/installation from a more desirable remote location. These generally magnetic objects are usually threaded and have at least a portion thereof exhibiting a substantially prismatic shape. As used herein, a “prismatic shape” is a solid whose ends are polygonal and equal in size and shape and whose sides are parallelograms. Typically, the prismatic ends of these objects are hexagonal or square. Tools, such as various wrenches, ratchets comprising various sockets and extension bars, etc., exist for initial installation (starting or insertion of an object onto/into a counterpart and if it is threaded, screwing onto/into a threaded counterpart), final removal (removal of a pre-loosened object from its counterpart and if it is threaded, unscrewing from its threaded counterpart), and/or placement of these objects in usually remote limited access areas. However, these tools are typically either expensive; fit only one size object; not articulated; do not properly engage objects with their counterparts in adverse orientations; and are bulky, therefore, they are not conducive to placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of the objects. In addition, the installation of most threaded fasteners, including bolts and nuts, usually require that a washer, spacer, or the like be installed, however conventional wrenches and tools do not have the capability to adequately hold and maintain alignment of both a fastener and washer for remote installation at unfavorable orientations in limited access locations. With respect to removing oil drain plugs in engines, transmissions, etc., the plug is typically loosened with a conventional wrench and is then further unscrewed and removed by hand. This results in the probability of hot oil getting on hands, arms, and/or floor and the probability that the plug will be dropped in the oil drain container. This drain plug removal process, which is the norm, poses additional safety hazards when draining hot oil from a hot engine because the hot oil can burn the skin and inadvertently dropping the plug in the oil container can splash hot oil into the eyes or face. In addition, the drain plug removal process is further compounded on cars and other vehicles that are low to the ground which results in drain plugs that are not easily accessible. The requirement for drain plug final removal is a device that easily engages with the plug and places the hand and arm at a remote distance from the plug, thus, preventing hot oil from contacting the body and a device that facilitates removal of the plug in areas of limited access. 
   To facilitate the manipulation of magnetic objects either remotely and/or in areas of limited access, numerous prior art tools have been developed but they all heretofore known suffer from a number of deficiencies and drawbacks. In general, these tools fit into 2 categories, namely (1) those that position, install, and remove fasteners, bolts, nuts, screws and the like and (2) those that position, install, and remove plugs, such as oil drain plugs. Category 1 is further sub-divided into wrenches with fixed jaws, socket wrenches, and other miscellaneous tools. 
   Examples of prior art wrenches with fixed jaws are U.S. Pat. No. 6,955,105 issued Oct. 18, 2005 to Chuan-Chen Chen and U.S. Pat. No. 6,810,774 issued Nov. 2, 2004 to Chih-Ching Hsien. These wrenches have a permanent magnet integrated in a jaw or adjacent to a jaw for holding the magnetic object within the jaws of the wrench. The disadvantages of this type of wrench are that it cannot fit into areas of limited access; cannot articulate because the handle is rigid; fits only one size of fastener on each end of the wrench; cannot secure and maintain alignment of both a nut and washer or washer to the head of a bolt; is relatively expensive because a set of wrenches are usually required; and is not conducive to initial installation of a magnetic object. 
   Examples of prior art socket wrenches are U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,630 issued Dec. 28, 1999 to Richard A. Vasichek, Robert J. Vasichek, Gregory J. Grote, and Paul D. Sigaty; U.S. Pat. No. 5,916,340 issued Jun. 29, 1999 to Don Forsyth; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,544,555 issued Aug. 13, 1996 to Ronald E. Corley. These wrenches have a permanent magnet(s) integrated within the cavity of the socket for holding a magnetic fastener. The disadvantages of this type of wrench are that it fits only one size of object per socket; relatively expensive because a set of sockets are usually required; cannot secure and maintain alignment of both a nut and washer or washer to the head of a bolt; articulation is possible with the use of universal joints and extensions but is limited, thereby reducing the usefulness in restricted areas; and is not conducive to initial installation of a magnetic object. 
   Another example of a prior art socket wrench is U.S. Pat. No. 5,572,913 issued Nov. 12, 1996 to Gustav Nasiell. This wrench comprises a socket body having spring biased jaws and a flexible arm with an internal flexible shaft. The flexible arm can be configured to bias the flexible shaft into the required curve appropriate for performing placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of fasteners, spark plugs, and the like in limited access areas with the jaws being able to grasp varying sizes of heads. The disadvantages of this type wrench or tool are that it has a number of moving parts and therefore, it is relatively expensive; the jaws have a limited head grasping range and therefore, cannot adapt to a wide range of fasteners and the like; as the jaws expand to accommodate larger fastener heads, the jaw faces become non-parallel to the fastener head sides and therefore, have the tendency to not grasp the fastener head securely; the flexible arm cannot be removed from the tool and used only with the flexible shaft; it has deficiencies with respect to oil drain plug removal in that the many moving parts and cavities would entrap oil and be hard to clean and since the flexible arm is relative rigid, the drain plug will not automatically fall out of the oil stream via the force of gravity, resulting in splashing of the oil. 
   An example of prior art of a miscellaneous tool is U.S. Pat. No. 5,642,647 issued Jul. 1, 1997 to Robert Peruski. This tool comprises a coiled wire loop, a corresponding loop shaped backing plate, and a handle. The wire loop and loop shaped backing plate form a pocket for receiving and holding the head of an object. The disadvantages of this tool are that it cannot secure and maintain alignment of both a nut and washer or washer to the head of a bolt; cannot articulate because the handle is rigid; is relatively bulky and therefore, cannot be used in limited access areas; and is not conducive to initial installation and final removal of a magnetic object. 
   Examples of tools applicable to category 2, above, are U.S. Pat. No. 4,794,827 issued Jan. 3, 1989 to Denzil Poling, U.S. Pat. No. 4,145,939 issued Mar. 27, 1979 to Ward S. Garrison, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,199,331 issued Apr. 6, 1993 to Kazuichi Tsukamoto. In general, these tools comprise a rotatable socket with adjustable jaws to accommodate and secure various drain plug head sizes and a handle for rotation of the socket and plug. In addition, these tools generally have a permanent magnet attached to the inside of the socket to retain the drain plug. U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,794,827 and 4,145,939 further comprises a line for tethering the socket to an anchor to prevent the socket with attached drain plug from falling a distance greater than the line length. U.S. Pat. No. 5,199,331 further comprises a concave shield to catch and deflect draining oil away from the hand of the user. The main disadvantage of these tools is that they do not provide for remote rotation and removal of the drain plug to ensure that hot oil does not contact the user&#39;s hand and/or arm. While U.S. Pat. No. 5,199,331 comprises a concave shield to catch the initial oil, it cannot be ensured that oil will not contact the user because (1) if the user does not move the tool out of the oil stream quickly, the concave shield can overflow onto the user and (2) if the tool is removed quickly, oil can splash out of the concave shield and onto the user. In addition, the tethered tools utilize a permanent magnet to attach the tether to a convenient anchor, usually the oil pan, which in many cases is not made from magnetic material. Furthermore, the tools have a single purpose use and cannot be readily used for other applications. 
   Another example of a tool applicable to category 2, above is U.S. Pat. No. 5,499,557 issued Mar. 19, 1996 to James K. Fry. This tool comprises a removable socket at the head of the tool, a rotatable handle disposed opposite from the head, and mechanical linkage connecting the socket with the handle, whereby, rotation of the handle is translated to rotation of the socket. While the tool provides for remote rotation and removal of the drain plug, it has other disadvantages, namely: (1) the tool is mechanically involved, hence, expensive, (2) it requires a set of special sockets to accommodate varying size drain plugs, further increasing the cost, (3) the tool is hard to clean due to many crevices to entrap oil that runs over the tool, and (4) the tool has a single purpose use and cannot be readily used for other applications. 
   Additional examples of tools applicable to category 2, above are U.S. Pat. No. 4,862,776 issued Sep. 5, 1989 to Denzil Poling and U.S. Pat. No. 6,260,451 issued Jul. 17, 2001 to Frank D. Mirabito. U.S. Pat. No. 4,862,776 comprises a clip for rotatably engaging and holding a drain plug head, a flexible shaft connected to the clip, and a handle connected to the other end of the shaft for manually rotating the shaft and clip for the purpose of unscrewing an attached drain plug. The clip comprises openable spring biased jaws to secure the drain plug head. While the tool provides for remote rotation and removal of the drain plug, it has other disadvantages, namely: (1) the drain plug has to be unscrewed far enough to permit the jaws to contact the back side face of the drain plug head which could result in leakage of oil, (2) if the shaft is flexed during plug removal, as would be the usual case, the jaws tend to rotate off the drain plug center axis causing undue flexing of the shaft and unstable rotation of the tool, (3) oil will be hard to clean off of the clip because of its involved geometry, and (4) the tool has a single purpose use and cannot be readily used for other applications. U.S. Pat. No. 6,260,451 comprises a tool head, a flexible shaft connected to the tool head, and a handle connected to the other end of the shaft for manually rotating the shaft and tool head for initial installation and final removal of threaded drain plugs. The tool head comprises cavities for engaging with drain plug heads incorporating protrusions. The disadvantage of this tool is that it works only on drain plugs that have heads with protrusions, hence, it has a very limited application base. 
   While these tools usually provide for manipulating objects with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape, such as fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, screws, and the like, they all heretofore known suffer from deficiencies and drawbacks. There remains a need in the art for an inexpensive, universal, easy to clean, and simple-to-use device that permits remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of these objects (1) in distant areas of limited access, (2) by self adapting to a wide range of object heads, (3) simultaneously with washers, spacers, and the like while maintaining pre-placed alignment with the object, (4) in off axis locations were device articulation is required, (5) with a tool having no moving parts, (6) in particular, drain plugs, without hot oil or other liquid being drained contacting hands and/or arms, and (7) while maintaining adequate engagement with the objects when at adverse orientations. 
   SUMMARY 
   In accordance with the present invention, a novel, simple, inexpensive, and universal device and method for remotely manipulating a magnetic object with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape such as a fastener, bolt, nut, plug, screw, and the like in limited access locations is disclosed. The device generally comprises a head, a flexible shaft, and a handle. The head has a magnetic field, an upper side, a lower side, and at least one magnetic pole extension piece having two magnetic pole extension piece halves. The upper side of the head and the two magnetic pole extension piece halves are so arranged to concentrate and shape the magnetic field. The flexible shaft is connected to the lower side of the head at one end and the handle is connected to the flexible shaft at its other end. When the prismatic shape of the magnetic object is placed in proximity to the upper side of the head, the magnetic field draws an end of the prismatic shape into contact with the upper side of the head and two sides of the prismatic shape into contact with the two magnetic pole extension piece halves, thereby, engaging the magnetic object with the device and allowing for its remote manipulation. The magnetic pole extension piece halves have a spaced relationship with respect to each other such that they can be set to contact any two sides of any prismatic shape, either square, hex, or otherwise. In alternate embodiments, an adjustable modular arm assembly is associated with the flexible shaft to maintain the flexible shaft in a user defined configuration for remote manipulation of the magnetic object in distant areas of limited access. An additional alternate embodiment includes a method of remotely manipulating the magnetic object using the device. 
   Accordingly, the present invention may have one or more of the following advantages which are: 
   (a) to provide a device that will permit remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of magnetic objects with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape such as fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, screws, and the like in limited access locations; 
   (b) to provide a device that will engage with all sizes of magnetic objects with a given prismatic shape; 
   (c) to provide a device that will permit remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of both magnetic objects (with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape) and washers, spacers, or the like simultaneously; 
   (d) to provide a device that will permit remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of magnetic objects, with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape, in off axis locations were extreme device articulation is required; 
   (e) to provide a device without moving parts; 
   (f) to provide a device that will permit remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of magnetic objects, with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape, in adverse locations were pre-adjusted flexible shaft articulation is required to remain fixed; 
   (g) to provide a device that will permit the remote removal of drain plugs while limiting the possibility of hot oil or other liquid being drained from contacting hands and/or arms; 
   (h) to provide a method for remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of magnetic objects with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape such as fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, screws, and the like in distant locations of limited access; and 
   (i) to provide a device that is inexpensive, universal, easy to clean, and simple to use. Still further advantages may become apparent from a consideration of the ensuing description and the drawings. 

   
     DRAWINGS 
     A better understanding of the present invention may be had by reference to the drawing figures wherein: 
       FIG. 1  is a side perspective view showing a preferred embodiment of the present invention in a relaxed state comprising an independent permanent magnet. 
       FIG. 1A  is a side perspective view showing the preferred embodiment of the present invention in a relaxed state without an independent permanent magnet. 
       FIG. 2A  is a representative top view of the preferred embodiment. 
       FIG. 2B  is an alternate representative top view of the preferred embodiment. 
       FIG. 3  is a side perspective view showing the preferred embodiment in a flexed state. 
       FIG. 4  is a side perspective view showing a hex nut magnetically engaged with the preferred embodiment. 
       FIG. 5  is a top view showing the hex nut magnetically engaged with the preferred embodiment. 
       FIG. 6  is a side perspective view showing the preferred embodiment being used to remove an oil drain plug from an engine oil pan. 
       FIG. 7  is a side perspective view showing a hex nut and a washer connected to the preferred embodiment for subsequent initial installation of the nut and the washer in the downward direction. 
       FIG. 8  is a partially exploded side perspective view of a first alternate embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 9  is a partially exploded side perspective view showing a hex nut and a washer connected to the first alternate embodiment for subsequent initial installation of the nut and the washer in the downward direction. 
       FIG. 10  is a partially exploded side perspective view showing a hex nut, a washer, and a socket wrench extension bar connected to a head assembly of the first alternate embodiment for subsequent initial installation of the nut and the washer in the downward direction. 
       FIG. 11  is a side perspective view showing a second alternate embodiment of the present invention in a generally straight configuration. 
       FIG. 12  is a side perspective view of a modular link in an adjustable arm used in the second alternate embodiment. 
       FIG. 13  is a side perspective view showing the second alternate embodiment in a curved configuration. 
       FIG. 14  is a partially exploded side perspective view of a third: embodiment of the present invention. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 
   The present invention relates to remotely manipulating a magnetic object with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape, and more specifically to a device and method for remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of magnetic objects such as fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, screws, and the like in limited access locations. 
   Preferred Embodiment 
   FIG.  1 , FIG.  1 A, FIG.  2 A, FIG.  2 B, and FIG.  3   
   Referring to  FIG. 1 ,  FIG. 1A ,  FIG. 2A ,  FIG. 2B , and  FIG. 3 , a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown.  FIG. 1  shows a side perspective view of the present invention in a relaxed or unflexed state comprising an independent permanent magnet.  FIG. 1A  shows a side perspective view of the present invention in a relaxed or unflexed state without an independent permanent magnet.  FIG. 2A  shows a representative top view of the present invention and  FIG. 2B  shows an alternate representative top view of the present invention.  FIG. 3  shows a side perspective view of the present invention in a flexed state. As shown in  FIG. 1 , the preferred embodiment, according to the present invention, comprises a head assembly  16  and a drive assembly  18 . The head assembly  16  comprises a head  20 , a magnetic pole extension piece  22 , and an independent permanent magnet  26 . The magnetic pole extension piece  22  comprises a magnetic pole extension piece half  23  and a magnetic extension pole piece half  24  that form an obtuse angle  31  with respect to each other. The drive assembly  18  comprises a reboundable flexible shaft  28  and a handle  30 . The top end of the flexible shaft  28  is attached to the lower side of the head  20  and the lower side of the permanent magnet  26 , preferably of a disc configuration, is attached to the top side of the head  20 . The permanent magnet  26  is coaxially attached to the head  20 . The pole extension piece  22  attaches to the upper outer perimeter of the head  20  such that it is positioned beyond the outer perimeter of the magnet  26 . The vertical length of the pole extension piece  22  is such that its height extends above the top of the magnet  26 . The angle  31  formed between the inner face of the pole extension piece half  23  and the inner face of the pole extension piece half  24  is approximately equal to the absolute value of 180°-360° m/n, where n≧2m+1, “n” is a positive whole number representing the number of sides of the prismatic shape, and “m” is a positive whole number representing the number of sides from a reference side on the prismatic shape. The pole extension piece half  23  and the pole extension piece half  24  shown in  FIG. 2A  have an angle  31  applicable to adjacent sides (first side from a reference side) of a 6 sided prismatic shape  33  (shown as an outline for illustration) and therefore, the angle  31  shown is equal to 180°-360°×⅙=120°. If for example, the pole extension piece  22  had to connect to the third side from a reference side of a 10 sided prismatic shape  35  (shown as an outline for illustration), the angle  31  would be 180°-360°× 3/10=72°, as shown in  FIG. 2B . The pole extension piece  22  is manufactured from a ferro-magnetic material, such as steel, to conduct the magnetic field into sides of the magnetic object&#39;s prismatic shape being magnetically engaged with the head assembly  16 . The pole extension piece half  23  and the pole extension piece half  24  can be separated from each other (discontinuous), as shown, or joined (continuous). Alternately, as shown in  FIG. 1A , the independent permanent magnet  26  can be eliminated by replacing the head assembly  16  with a head assembly  16 A that comprises a head  20 A in which the head  20 A is permanently magnetized. The head assembly  16 A still comprises the magnetic pole extension piece  22  which is attached to the outer perimeter of the head  20 A. The top end of the flexible shaft  28  is attached to the lower side of the head  20 A. The preferred embodiment has the same function regardless of whether the head assembly  16  or the head assembly  16 A is used. In the following text and figures, the preferred embodiment comprising the head assembly  16  will be used. The top side of the handle  30  is coaxially attached to the bottom end of the flexible shaft  28 . The flexible shaft  28  is preferably manufactured from steel and the handle  30  is preferably manufactured from a light weight rigid material, such as plastic. 
   Operation of the Preferred Embodiment 
   FIG.  2 A, FIG.  2 B, FIG.  3 , FIG.  4 , FIG.  5 , FIG.  6  and FIG.  7   
   Most fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, screws, and the like are magnetic with at least a portion thereof having substantially prismatic shapes with 2 sides orientated, with respect to each other, at an angle that is approximately equal to the absolute value of 180°-360° m/n, where n≧2m+1, “n” is a positive whole number representing the number of sides of the prismatic shape, and “m” is a positive whole number representing the number of sides from a reference side on the prismatic shape. Since the angle  31  between the pole extension piece half  23  and pole extension piece half  24  conform to this spaced relationship, an infinite number of preferred embodiment pole extension piece half configurations exist, one to match  2  sides of all prismatic shapes. In the following explanation of the preferred embodiment operation, fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, screws, and the like incorporating hex prismatic shapes will be used as well as a pole extension piece  22  configuration applicable to adjacent sides (first side from a reference side) of a prismatic shape. The explanation of operation for fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, screws, and the like with other prismatic shapes is the same. 
   In operation, the end of a prismatic shape of a magnetic object, such as an end of a magnetic hex nut  32 , is placed in contact with and magnetically attracted to the magnetic  26 . The magnetic field from the magnet  26  is conducted through the pole extension piece halves  23  and  24  and into the hex nut  32 , which in turn pulls  2  prismatic sides of the nut  32  toward and into alignment with the pole extension piece halves  23  and  24 , until the 2 sides of nut  32  are in full contact with the pole extension piece halves  23  and  24 . The nut  32  is now firmly engaged with the head assembly  16  and therefore, reasonable torque can be applied by the shaft  28  and the handle  30  to screw and unscrew the nut  32  on and off its mating counterpart. Required alignment of nut  32  with its mating counterpart is maintained by the flexibility of the shaft  28 . Note that the preferred embodiment is universal in that all hex headed fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, screws, and the like of different sizes will fit on the preferred embodiment configuration with the pole extension pieces halves  23  and  24  orientated 120 degrees with respect to each other. Likewise, note that the same universal characteristics of the preferred embodiment apply to all prismatic shapes of varying sizes having a common angle between 2 sides. 
   The small, unique, flexible, and universal design of the preferred embodiment makes the accomplishment of tedious, difficult, awkward, and messy operations a simple and easy job. With a threaded fastener, bolt, nut, plug, screw, or the like attached to the preferred embodiment, remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal can be easily performed in locations of limited access due to (1) the relatively small size of the preferred embodiment, (2) the strong attraction and hence, strong holding power of the magnet  26  and the pole extension piece halves  23  and  24 , (3) the flexibility of the shaft  28 , and (4) the capability for the extreme off axis rotation of the handle  30 . 
   In many operations, a magnetic washer, spacer, or the like has to be installed prior to the installation of a nut or bolt in areas of limited access and at adverse orientations were, for example, the washer will fall off prior to installation of the nut or bolt, hence, making the installation of both the nut or bolt and washer very difficult. With the preferred embodiment, this operation is easy. Since the magnet  26  is of high strength, its magnetic field is conducted through the nut  32  and therefore, a washer  37  can be magnetically held on the nut  32  at any orientation (due to the strong magnetic field of the magnet  26  exiting the nut  32  and entering the washer  37 ) and with full alignment maintained while the nut  32  and washer  37  are installed in one operation. 
   Other operations require that a threaded fastener, bolt, nut, plug, screw, or the like be installed in an area of limited access where a tool or a person&#39;s fingers will not fit, making the initial installation of a nut on a bolt, for example, a challenge. In addition, if a ratchet wrench and socket are used for initial installation of the nut, usually the torque required to rotate the nut is less that the torque required to operate the ratchet mechanism, resulting in the nut not being able to be screwed unless a person&#39;s finger is placed on the socket or rotating portion of the wrench to increase the effective torque required for the wrench to ratchet and screw the nut. In remote locations of limited access usually a finger cannot be placed on the socket or rotatable portion of the wrench making the nut installation process difficult. Again, with the preferred embodiment, this operation is simple. With the fingers of one hand holding the handle  30  and the fingers of the other hand holding and positioning the shaft  28 , the nut  32  can be easily positioned and aligned with the corresponding bolt, due to the flexibility of shaft  28 , and self started by rotation of the handle  30 . The final removal of the nut  32  is also easy because the above ratchet wrench torque problems are eliminated and the nut  32  remains magnetically attracted to the preferred embodiment after removal, therefore, preventing loss of the nut  32 . 
   Another extremely useful application of the preferred embodiment is to remove oil drain plugs from oil drain pans on engines, transmissions, and the like. With respect to the conventional removal of drain plugs on engines in vehicles, especially cars and trucks, there are many problems, some of them relating to safety. In a typical oil draining process on a vehicular engine, the engine is ran for several minutes to heat the oil so that it will more easily flow from the engine&#39;s drain pan. After the oil is hot, the engine is stopped and an oil drain container is placed under the engine&#39;s drain plug. The vehicle may require jacking and the use of jack stands. The drain plug is then loosened with a wrench and hand unscrewed and removed allowing the oil to drain into the drain container. Usually, a number of adverse problems occur during a typical oil changing process, namely; the hot oil flowing on a person&#39;s hand causing burning and/or irritation; hot oil possibly splashing into a person&#39;s eyes causing severe damage; the drain plug falling into the oil drain container requiring messy removal; and/or oil splashing onto the floor requiring cleaning. These problems and the possible requirement for jacking the vehicle can be eliminated with the use of the preferred embodiment. Referring to  FIG. 6 , a side perspective view showing the preferred embodiment of the present invention being used to remove an oil drain plug  34  from an engine&#39;s oil pan  36  is shown. With the preferred embodiment, the drain plug  34  is loosened with a conventional wrench. The head assembly  16  of the preferred embodiment is magnetically engaged with the drain plug  34 . The shaft  28  is then flexed to place the handle  30  in a desirable remote location and orientation. Next, the drain plug  34  is unscrewed by rotating the handle  30 . After the drain plug  34  has been fully unscrewed, the plug  34  automatically falls downward by the force of gravity until limited by the flexing of the shaft  28  and out of the way of the oil stream. It is emphasized that (1) by remote removal of the plug  34 , body contact with the hot oil is essentially eliminated, (2) oil splashing, if any, is negligible due to the automatic and quick removal of the plug  34  from the oil stream, and (3) the plug  34  does not fall in the drain container since the plug  34  remains engaged with the preferred embodiment. The requirement for jacking the vehicle is not normally required since the preferred embodiment removes the drain plug  34  remotely from off axis orientations and therefore, usually the arm is the only part of the body that has to be placed under the vehicle. 
   First Alternate Embodiment 
   FIG.  8   
   Referring to  FIG. 8 , a first alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown. The first alternate embodiment, according to the present invention, comprises a head assembly  38  and a driver assembly  52 . The head assembly  38  comprises a head  40 , a magnetic pole extension piece  46 , and a high strength permanent magnet  50 . The magnetic pole extension piece  46  comprises magnetic pole extension piece half  47  and a magnetic pole extension piece half  48 . The pole extension piece half  47  and the pole extension piece half  48  can be separated from each other (discontinuous), as shown, or joined (continuous). The head  40 , the pole extension piece  46 , the pole extension piece half  47 , the pole extension piece half  48 , and the magnet  50  are configured, connected, and orientated, respectively to each other in the same manner as the head  20 , the pole extension piece  22 , the pole extension piece half  23 , the pole extension piece half  24 , and the magnet  26 , respectively, are in the preferred embodiment. In the same manner as with the preferred embodiment, the magnet  50  can be eliminated and the head  40  permanently magnetized. In addition, the pole extension piece  46  is manufactured from the same material as the pole extension piece  22  of the preferred embodiment. The head  40  has two differences from the head  20 , namely, a socket  42  in its lower side (see  FIG. 9  and  FIG. 10 ) and a knurl  44  on its outer circumferential surface. The driver assembly  52  comprises a drive post  54 , a reboundable flexible driver shaft  56 , and a handle  58 . The lower side of the drive post  54  is connected coaxially with the upper end of the shaft  56  and the lower end of the shaft  56  is connected coaxially with the handle  58 . The socket  42  is designed to accommodate the drive post  54 . 
   Operation of the First Alternate Embodiment 
   FIG.  8 , FIG.  9 , and FIG.  10   
   In general, the operation and uses of the first alternate embodiment are the same as the preferred embodiment with the exception that the head assembly  38  of first alternate embodiment can be positioned and rotated in one of 3 ways, namely by finger rotation; by use of a socket wrench without or with accessories, such as a ratchet wrench and extension bar, connected to the socket  42 ; and by use of the driver assembly  52 . Engaging an end of the prismatic shape of a fastener, bolt, nut, plug, screw, and the like with the head assembly  38  is exactly the same as with the preferred embodiment. When the head assembly  38  is coupled to the driver assembly  52  by inserting the drive post  54  into the socket  42 , the combined assembly essentially functions the same as the preferred embodiment, therefore, operation and uses are the same as with the preferred embodiment. In some instances, access may be limited but does not require remote rotation. In this case, the driver assembly  52  is not used and the head assembly  38  is manually rotated by finger contact with the knurl  44 . In other instances, access may or may not be limited but requires significant remote positioning and rotation of the head assembly  38  using socket wrenches with or without accessories connected to the socket  42 . In a manner similar to the preferred embodiment,  FIG. 9  shows the first alternate embodiment made ready for initial installation of both a nut  62  and a washer  60  in the downward direction, while maintaining the nut  62  to the washer  60  alignment.  FIG. 10  shows an extension bar  64  coupled to the head assembly  38  for initial installation of the nut  62  and the washer  60  in a downward direction. In addition, the driver assembly  52  can be used with conventional sockets and socket accessories to remotely perform placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, large screws, and the like in locations of limited access. 
   Second Alternate Embodiment 
   FIG.  11 , FIG.  12 , and FIG.  13   
   Referring to  FIG. 11 ,  FIG. 12 , and  FIG. 13 , a second alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown.  FIG. 11  shows a side perspective view of the second alternate embodiment of the present invention in a straight configuration and  FIG. 13  shows a side perspective view of the second alternate embodiment in a curved configuration. The second alternate embodiment, according to the present invention, comprises the head assembly  16  or  16 A of the preferred embodiment, and a drive assembly  66 . The drive assembly  66  comprises the flexible shaft  28  used in the preferred embodiment, an adjustable modular arm assembly or semi-rigid adjustable arm assembly  68 , and a handle  72 . The flexible shaft  28  is attached to the head assembly  16  in the same manner as in the preferred embodiment. The adjustable modular arm assembly  68  comprises a number of individual links  70  connected in series with each other.  FIG. 12  shows a side perspective view of one of the links  70 . Each of the links  70  comprises a ball end  80 , a socket end  78 , and a through hole  76 . Each of the links  70  is connected so that the ball end  80  fits into the socket end  78  of the adjacent link  70 . The design of each link  70  is such that an interference fit is maintained between the ball end  80  and the socket end  78  thereby, permitting rotation and twisting between each adjacent link  70  and the subsequent retainment of orientation between each adjacent link  70 . The handle  72  comprises a through hole  73  along its center axis that accommodates the end of the flexible shaft  28 , opposite from that connected to the head assembly  16 , and a set screw  74  to retain the end of the flexible shaft  28  in the handle  72 . The adjustable modular arm assembly  68  is assembled into the second alternate embodiment such that the flexible shaft  28  passes through each through hole  76  in each link  70  and is held in place by the bottom end of the head assembly  16  and the top end of the handle  72  by tightening the set screw  74 . 
   Operation of the Second Alternate Embodiment 
   FIG.  4 , FIG.  5 , FIG.  6 , FIG.  7 , FIG.  11 , and FIG.  13   
   In general, the operation and uses of the second alternate embodiment are the same as the preferred embodiment but with added capability. In the second alternate embodiment, the modular arm assembly  68  can be (1) configured to retain the flexible shaft  28  in a pre-configured curve and (2) removed from the second alternate embodiment resulting in the second alternate embodiment functioning essentially the same as the preferred embodiment. With the flexible shaft  28  being retained in a pre-configured curve by adjustment of the modular arm assembly  68 , the second alternate embodiment has a further more controlled reach into distant areas of limited access with respect to remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, large screws, and the like, than the preferred embodiment. In operation, the prismatic shape of the selected magnetic object is engaged with the head assembly  16  in the same manner as in the operation of the preferred embodiment. The modular arm assembly  68  is then configured into the required curve and the head assembly  16  placed in position to install the fastener, bolt, nut, plug, large screw, or the like. With one hand holding the modular arm assembly  68 , the other hand rotates the handle  72 , which in turn rotates the flexible shaft  28  and the head assembly  16 , to initially install the fastener, bolt, nut, plug, large screw, or the like. Final removal of a fastener, bolt, nut, plug, large screw, or the like, is accomplished in a somewhat similar manner. To configure the second alternate embodiment like the preferred embodiment, the set screw  74  is loosened and the flexible shaft  28  removed from the handle  72 . The modular arm assembly  68  is then removed from the flexible shaft  28 , the flexible shaft  28  re-inserted back into the handle  72  and the set screw  74  re-tightened. 
   Third Alternate Embodiment 
   FIG.  14   
   Referring to  FIG. 14  a third alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown.  FIG. 14  shows a side perspective view of the third alternate embodiment. The third alternate embodiment, according to the present invention, comprises a driver assembly  82  and the head assembly  38  of the first alternate embodiment. The driver assembly  82  comprises the drive post  54 , and the flexible driver shaft  56  of the first alternate embodiment (see  FIG. 8 ) and the adjustable modular arm assembly or semi-rigid adjustable arm assembly  68  and the handle  72  of the second alternate embodiment (see  FIG. 11 ). The lower side of the drive post  54  is connected coaxially with the upper end of the flexible shaft  56 . As with the second alternate embodiment, the flexible shaft  56  is passed through each through hole  76  in each link  70  of the modular arm assembly  68 . The modular arm assembly  68  is held in place by the lower side of the drive post  54  and the top end of the handle  72  by tightening the set screw  74 . The driver assembly  82  is connected to the head assembly  38  by inserting the drive post  54  into the socket  42  of the head assembly  38 . In the same manner as with the preferred embodiment, the magnet  50  can be eliminated and the head  40  permanently magnetized. 
   Operation of the Third Alternate Embodiment 
   FIG.  8 , FIG.  9 , FIG.  10 , and FIG.  14   
   In general, the operation and uses of the third alternate embodiment are the same as the first alternate embodiment but: with added capability. With the third alternate embodiment, the modular arm assembly  68  can be (1) configured to retain the flexible shaft  56  in a pre-configured curve and (2) removed from the driver assembly  82  resulting in the third alternate embodiment being essentially the same as the first alternate embodiment. With the flexible shaft  56  being retained in a pre-configured curve by adjustment of the modular arm assembly  68 , the third alternate embodiment has a further more controlled reach into distant areas of limited access, with respect to remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, large screws, and the like, than the first alternate embodiment. In operation, the drive post  54  of the driver assembly  82  is inserted into the socket  42  of the head assembly  38 . Next, the prismatic shape of the selected magnetic object is engaged with the head assembly  38  in the same manner as in the operation of the first alternate embodiment. The modular arm assembly  68  is then configured into the required curve and the head assembly  38  placed in position to perform placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of a fastener, bolt, nut, plug, large screw, or the like. With one hand holding the modular arm assembly  68 , the other hand rotates the handle  72 , which in turn rotates the flexible shaft  56  and the head assembly  38 , to initially install the fastener, bolt, nut, plug, large screw, or the like. Final removal of the fastener, bolt, nut, plug, large screw, or the like, is accomplished in a somewhat similar manner. To configure the third alternate embodiment similar to the first alternate embodiment, the set screw  74  is loosened and the flexible shaft  56  removed from the handle  72 . The modular arm assembly  68  is then removed from the flexible shaft  56 , the flexible shaft  56  re-inserted back into the handle  72 , and the set screw  74  re-tightened. As with the first alternate embodiment, the head assembly  38  can be removed from the driver assembly  82  and used independently. In addition, the driver assembly  82  can be used with conventional sockets and socket accessories to remotely perform placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, large screws, and the like in locations of limited access. 
   Fourth Alternate Embodiment 
   FIG.  4   
   The fourth alternate embodiment, according to the present invention, defines a method of manipulating a magnetic object with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape, comprising the steps of: providing a device for manipulating the magnetic object, the device comprising the head assembly  16 ; positioning an end of the prismatic shape of the magnetic object on the head assembly  16 ; positioning two sides of the prismatic shape in contact with the magnetic extension piece  22  of the head assembly  16 ; retaining by magnetic attractive force, the magnetic object in position on the head assembly  16 ; manipulating the device to place, secure, fasten, install, and/or remove the magnetic object; and removing the magnetic object from the device. As with the preferred embodiment, the head assembly  16  can be replaced with the head assembly  16 A. 
   Operation of the Fourth Alternate Embodiment 
   The operation of the fourth alternate embodiment is explained in the DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS—Fourth Alternate Embodiment, above. 
   CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE 
   Thus, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the device and method for remotely manipulating a magnetic object, with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape, is novel, simple, universal, as well as inexpensive and has many advantages, features, and benefits over the prior art. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that the device and method of this invention are essential for easy and effective remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of a prismatic shaped magnetic object such as a fastener, bolt, nut, plug, screw, and the like in limited access locations. In addition, it will be evident that design of the head assembly of the present invention, which incorporates a magnetic pole extension piece to engage with 2 sides of a prismatic shaped magnetic object, is truly unique. Moreover, the device and method may have one or more of the additional advantages in that:
         the device will permit remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of both a prismatic shaped magnetic object and washer, spacer, or the like, simultaneously;   the device will permit remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of prismatic shaped magnetic objects in off axis locations were device articulation is required;   the device will positively engage with all sizes of a fixed prismatic shaped magnetic object without requiring the use of moving parts;   the device will permit remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of prismatic shaped magnetic objects in adverse locations were pre-adjusted flexible shaft articulation is required to remain fixed;   the device will permit the remote removal of prismatic shaped drain plugs while limiting the possibility of hot oil or other drained liquid from contacting the hands and/or arms; and   the method defines a simple and effective process for remote placement, initial installation, and/or final removal of magnetic objects with prismatic shapes, such as fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, screws, and the like in distant and limited access locations.       

   Although the description above contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the presently disclosed embodiments of this invention. Many other ramifications, variations, alterations, substitutions, modifications, and the like are readily possible within the teachings of the invention. For example, sizes, shapes, materials, assembly, design, etc. of all parts can be readily modified or changed; magnetic pole extension piece halves  23  and  24  can be configured to articulate about the head to accommodate prismatic shapes with varying numbers of sides; magnetic pole extension piece halves  47  and  48  can be configured to articulate about the head  40  to accommodate prismatic shapes with varying numbers of sides; there can be more than one magnetic pole extension piece  22  on head  20  to accommodate prismatic shapes with varying numbers of sides; there can be more than one magnetic pole extension piece  46  on head  40  to accommodate prismatic shapes with varying numbers of sides; in the preferred embodiment, the drive assembly  18  can be separated from the head assembly  16  and the head assembly  16  used independently to finger manipulate the head assembly  16  to install and remove fasteners, bolts, nuts, plugs, screws, and the like; the permanent magnet  26  can be replaced with an electromagnet, the handle  30  modified to incorporate a related electrical switch and to include a cavity for housing related batteries, and the flexible shaft  28  modified to accommodate related electrical wiring; the head assembly  16  and the head assembly  16 A can include a light for illumination of the work area; the head assembly  38  can include a light for illumination of the work area; the head  20  can be a permanent magnet itself and therefore, the permanent magnet  26  eliminated; the head  40  can be a permanent magnet itself and therefore, the permanent magnet  50  eliminated; the magnet  26  can be integrated internally within the head  20 ; the magnet  50  can be integrated internally within the head  40 ; the magnetic pole extension piece halves  23 ,  24 ,  47 , and  48  can be replaced with permanent magnets; the magnetic pole extension piece halves  23 ,  24 ,  47 , and  48  can have a curved surface rather than a planar surface; the adjustable arm assembly  68  can be of a design similar to that of the flexible zone 16 of U.S. Pat. No. 3,409,224, issued Nov. 5, 1968 to Harry J. Harp, Walter T. Leible, and William M. McCort; and the adjustable arm assembly  68  can be replaced with an adjustable arm assembly of any design and/or material that can withstand continuous flexing and twisting without degradation of the adjustable arm assembly&#39;s ability to retain a pre-configured curve. The drive assembly  18 , the drive assembly  66 , the driver assembly  52 , and the driver assembly  82  should be construed as drivers. 
   Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined not by the embodiments illustrated or examples given, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.