Patent Publication Number: US-7591715-B2

Title: Sanding tool with sheet loading feature

Description:
BACKGROUND 
   The present invention relates generally to hand-held, manually-operated sanding tools for use with a replaceable sheet of abrasive material such as sandpaper. More particularly, it relates to sanding tools that are easy to load and related methods of use. 
   Abrasive sheets, such as conventional sandpaper, are commonly used to hand-sand or finish a work surface, such as a wooden surface. With hand-sanding, the user holds the sandpaper directly in his/her hand and then moves the sandpaper across the work surface. Sanding by hand can, of course, be an arduous task. To facilitate the hand-sanding process, the sandpaper can instead be retained by a sanding block or tool sized to fit within the user&#39;s hand. The sanding block or tool thus makes hand-sanding faster and easier. One example of a commercially-available sanding block is the 3M™ Rubber Sanding Block available from 3M Company of Saint Paul, Minn. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 5,168,672 describes another exemplary sanding block or tool in the form of an abrasive sheet holder having a base provided with clamping shoulders formed in a pair of opposed side edges thereof. A handle is detachably secured over a rear surface of the base. The handle has opposed flexible flange walls for clamping opposed end edge portions of an abrasive paper sheet that is otherwise positioned over a front working surface of the base, with the edge portions of the paper sheet extending over the clamping shoulders. 
   Additionally, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0104777 describes a sanding block or tool including a generally rectangular base housing upon which a multi-contoured, generally convex hand-grip is secured. The hand-grip further defines inwardly extending concave portions that facilitate easy and secure grasping by the user. Further, an over-center lever clamp mechanism is operative at each end of the sanding block to secure the opposed ends of a sandpaper sheet in a releasable manner. 
   While well-accepted, known sanding blocks may have certain shortcomings. For example, it is desirable that the sheet of abrasive material be tensioned or tightly fit about the sanding block. If the sheet is not tight, it may wrinkle, and the wrinkles may snag on the work surface and cause the abrasive sheet to tear. In addition, wrinkles may cause the work surface to be damaged or sanded unevenly. These concerns arise with flexible flat sheets of abrasive material, such as conventional sandpaper, as well as with resilient flexible abrasive sheets that are thicker than conventional sandpaper, such as the sheet-like abrasive materials described in, for example, Minick et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,613,113. Unfortunately, the mechanisms by which conventional sanding blocks or tools effectuate loading of the abrasive sheet do not consistently achieve the desired, tensioned fit. 
   In particular, the common technique by which known sanding blocks are loaded with an abrasive sheet generally entails securing opposing ends of the abrasive sheet to opposite sides of the sanding block. With one approach, a user attempts to simultaneously secure the opposing ends of the abrasive sheet to the sanding block while at the same time tensioning the abrasive sheet. This requires considerable dexterity, and often times the user is unable to achieve satisfactory results. Alternatively, the user can sequentially mount a first end portion of the abrasive sheet to one side of the sanding block, wrap the abrasive sheet about a bottom of the sanding block, and then secure the second end portion of the sheet to the opposite side of sanding block. A tension is theoretically created and maintained while wrapping the sheet about the bottom. While this technique is physically easier to perform, it can be equally frustrating for the user. Namely, it is difficult at best to properly estimate the amount (i.e., length) of the first end portion of the abrasive sheet to initially secure to the first side of the sanding block such that when the abrasive sheet is wrapped about the bottom, a proper length remains for securement to the opposing side of the sanding block. For example, if an excessive length of the abrasive sheet is initially secured to the sanding block, there may not be a sufficient length remaining to wrap about the sanding block and secure to the opposing side thereof. Conversely, if too short a length of the abrasive sheet is initially secured to the sanding block, it may be problematic to secure the second end to the opposing side of the sanding block as the excessive, remaining length that interferes with proper functioning of the securement mechanism; similarly, it may be impossible to achieve desired tensioning of the abrasive sheet, again due to the excessive remaining length. In either case, the user is required to release the first end from the sanding block and try again. Clearly, this can be frustrating for the user. 
   In light of the above, a need exists for a sanding tool that is comfortable and easy to consistently and satisfactorily load with a sheet of abrasive material in a manner that tightly secures the abrasive sheet without unnecessary slack. 
   SUMMARY 
   Principles of the present invention overcome the above-identified limitations in the field by providing a sanding tool that is easy to load with abrasive media and securely holds the abrasive media in a tensioned manner. The tool is able to accommodate different types, widths, and thicknesses of sheet-like abrasive material. In addition, the tool is simple to operate, requiring no special auxiliary tools, and is designed to be easy to manufacture and assembled. 
   Aspects of the present invention relate to a hand-held, manually-operated sanding tool for use with a replaceable sheet-like abrasive material. The sanding tool includes a base member, a clamping mechanism, and a tab. The base member defines first and second ends, a bottom surface, and a contact surface formed opposite the bottom surface and extending from the first end. The clamping mechanism includes a mounting section, a front section, and a gripping surface. The mounting section is pivotally connected to the base member at a pivot point that associates the gripping surface with the contact surface. In particular, the clamping mechanism is movable relative to the base member between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the front section of the clamping mechanism is spaced from the contact surface to establish a gap between the gripping surface and the upper contact surface. To this end, the gap is provided to receive an end portion of a sheet of abrasive material as part of a loading operation. Conversely, in the closed position, the front section of the clamping mechanism is more proximate to the upper contact surface as compared to the open position. Finally, the first tab extends partially between the clamping mechanism and the upper contact surface with the clamping mechanism in the open position. In this regard, the tab provides a stop surface establishing a trailing side of the gap. With this configuration, the stop surface facilitates proper positioning of the abrasive sheet when loading between the clamping mechanism and the contact surface. 
   In one embodiment, the tab projects from the upper contact surface, with the clamping mechanism including a pivoting member forming an aperture through which a portion of the tab extends while in the closed position. In other embodiments, a pair of laterally aligned side tabs are provided, projecting from either the clamping mechanism or the upper contact surface. In yet other embodiments, the tab is provided as part of a clamping mechanism configured to lock the locking mechanism relative to the base member in the closed position. 
   Other aspects in accordance with the principles of the present invention relate to a method of attaching a sheet of abrasive material to a hand-held, manually-operated sanding tool. The method includes providing a sanding tool including a base member, a clamping mechanism, and a tab. The base member defines first and second ends, a bottom surface extending there between, and first and second contact surfaces formed opposite the bottom surface and extending from the first and second ends, respectively. The clamping mechanism is pivotally mounted to the base member and includes a gripping surface. More particularly, the clamping mechanism is positioned such that the gripping surface is associated with the first contact surface. Finally, the tab extends at least partially between the clamping mechanism and the first contact surface. A sheet of abrasive material is also provided. The sheet of abrasive material has opposing, first and second edges. The clamping mechanism is transitioned to an open position to establish a gap between the gripping surface and the first contact surface. The first edge of the sheet of abrasive material is inserted into the gap to a location at which the first edge contacts the tab. The clamping mechanism is transitioned to a closed position in which the first edge of the sheet of abrasive material is secured to the sanding tool. The sheet of abrasive material is wrapped around the first end of the base member and along the bottom surface. Finally, the second end of the sheet of abrasive material is secured to the second contact surface. With this methodology, a user consistently achieves satisfactory abrasive material sheet loading onto the sanding tool in a straightforward manner without repeated attempts. In one embodiment, a longitudinal position of the tab relative to the first end of the base corresponds with a standardized length of the sheet of abrasive material such that following securement of the first edge of the sheet of abrasive material to the sanding tool, a sufficient length of the abrasive material sheet remains for wrapping about the base member and securement to the second contact surface. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective, partially-exploded view of a hand-held, manually-operated sanding tool according to principles of the present invention; 
       FIG. 2  is a side view of a portion of the sanding tool of  FIG. 1 , illustrating initial loading of a sheet-like abrasive material; 
       FIG. 3  is a side view of the portion of  FIG. 2  with the clamping mechanism in a closed position; 
       FIG. 4  is a side view of the tool of  FIG. 1  loaded with a sheet-like abrasive material; 
       FIG. 5  is a perspective view of another embodiment hand-held, manually-operated sanding tool according to principles of the present invention; 
       FIG. 6  is a perspective view of another embodiment hand-held, manually-operated sanding tool according to principles of the present invention; and 
       FIG. 7  is a perspective view of another embodiment hand-held, manually operated sanding tool according to principles of the present invention. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
   One embodiment of a hand-held, manually-operated sanding tool or sanding block  10  is shown in  FIG. 1 . The term “manually-operated” refers to the fact that the tool  10  is not a power tool. That is, all of the power for the tool  10  is provided by a user (not shown), and the tool  10  itself does not include a motor. It will be recognized, however, that principles of the present invention may be applied to a power tool and are not necessarily limited to manually-operated sanding tools. 
   The sanding tool  10  is described below as being useful with sheet-like abrasive material. As used throughout this specification, the terms “sheet-like abrasive material” and “sheet of abrasive material” are used interchangeably and refer to thin, flexible, generally square or rectangular sheets of abrasive material having discrete ends (or edges) that can be attached to a sanding block. Such sheet-like abrasive material include, for example, conventional sandpaper, flexible sanding scrims, non-woven abrasive materials such as Scotch-Brite™ available from 3M Company, St. Paul, Minn., and thin flexible abrasive sheet materials such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,613,113 (Minick et al.), the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. The tool  10  may also find use with non-abrasive sheet-like materials such as dust removing tack cloths. However, the terms “sheet-like abrasive material” and “sheet of abrasive material” do not include so-called endless belts of abrasive material commonly used with power sanding tools, die cut sheets for power detail sanding tools, or abrasive sheets having their own attachment means, such as adhesive or hook-and-loop fasteners, that independently facilitate attachment to a tool. 
   With the above in mind, in one embodiment, the sanding tool  10  includes a base member  12 , first and second clamping mechanisms  14 ,  16 , and first and second alignment devices  18 ,  20 . In some embodiments, the sanding tool  10  further optionally includes a handle  22 . As made clear below, the base member  12 , the clamping mechanism(s)  14  and/or  16 , and the alignment device(s)  18  and/or  20  can assume a wide variety of forms apart from that shown in  FIG. 1  in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Regardless, and in general terms, the first and second clamping mechanisms  14 ,  16  are pivotally associated with opposing ends, respectively, of the base member  12 . The first alignment device  18  extends at least partially between the base member  12  and the first clamping mechanism  14 , whereas the second alignment device  20  extends at least partially between the base member  12  and the second clamping mechanism  16 . During use, and as described in greater detail below, the first and second alignment devices  18 ,  20  promote consistent loading of a sheet of abrasive material (not shown) with the clamping mechanisms  14 ,  16  in a simplified manner. 
   In one embodiment, the base member  12  defines first and second opposed ends  30 ,  32 , and a generally planar bottom surface  34  against which a sheet of abrasive material (not shown) extends. While the base member  12  is illustrated in  FIG. 1  as having a generally rectangular shape, a variety of other shapes can be provided that lend themselves for use with conventional sheet-like abrasive materials. For example, the base member  12  can be configured such that one or both of the first and second ends  30 ,  32  define a triangular or curved shape. Further, the first and second ends  30 ,  32  need not be identical in shape. 
   In one embodiment, regardless of an overall shape, the base member  12  forms a first upper contact surface  36  opposite the bottom surface  34  and extending from the first end  30 . Though generally hidden in  FIG. 1 , a second upper contact surface  38  (referenced generally) is similarly formed opposite the bottom surface  34 , extending from the second end  32 . In one embodiment, the upper contact surfaces  36 ,  38  are angled or inclined. In this manner, the upper contact surfaces  36 ,  38  and the bottom surface  34  form an acute angle relative to the associated end  30 ,  32 , respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the contact surfaces  36 ,  38  are defined by the exposed upper surfaces of a plurality of spaced ribs  40  (shown for the first contact surface  36  in  FIG. 1 ). With this one configuration, the contact surface area between the sheet-like abrasive material (not shown) and the associated contact surface  36  or  38  is decreased (as compared to a continuous surface), thereby allowing the sheet to slide upwardly along the respective contact surfaces  36 ,  38  more readily to tension the sheet-like abrasive material as described below. Alternatively, the first and/or second contact surfaces  36  and/or  38  can be defined in a variety of other manners, need not be identical and need not necessarily be angled or inclined relative to the bottom surface  34 . 
   As described below, the base member  12  is configured to facilitate pivoting or rotational attachment thereto by the first and second clamping mechanisms  14 ,  16 . For example, in one embodiment, the base member  12  forms a pair of posts  42   a ,  42   b  adjacent the first contact surface  36  (opposite the first end  30 ). The posts  42   a ,  42   b  are laterally aligned (relative to a length of the base member  12 ) and are configured to receive a corresponding component associated with the first clamping member  14  in a manner allowing for rotation of the first clamping mechanism  14  relative to the posts  42   a ,  42   b . A wide variety of other structure(s) and/or mechanisms can be provided for rotatably connecting the first clamping mechanisms  14  to the base member  12 . Regardless, a pivot point  44  (referenced generally) is established by the base member  12  about which the first clamping mechanism  14  rotates or pivots. In one embodiment in which the first and second clamping mechanisms  14 ,  16  are similarly constructed, the base member  12  forms a second set of posts  46  (one of which is partially illustrated in  FIG. 1 ) for rotatably receiving corresponding features of the second clamping mechanism  16 . Once again, a pivot point  48  is established, and a wide variety of other configurations can be used in place of the posts  46 . Even further, in alternative embodiments, the second clamping mechanism  16  is not substantially similar to the first clamping mechanism  14  and/or is replaced with a conventional mechanism for securing the sheet-like abrasive material to the second end  32  of the base member  12 , such that the posts  46  can be eliminated. 
   In one embodiment, the first and second clamping mechanism  14 ,  16  are identical. Thus, the following description of the first clamping mechanism  14  applies equally to the second clamping mechanism  16 , it being understood that with other embodiments, the second clamping mechanism  16  has a different construction and/or can be replaced, for example, with a conventional sheet securement mechanism. With this in mind, the clamping mechanism  14  includes a pivoting member  60  and a gripping surface  62  (shown with phantom lines of  FIG. 1 ) provided by, with the one embodiment of  FIG. 1 , a tensioning member  64  (it being understood that the tensioning member  64  is illustrated apart from the pivoting member  60  in  FIG. 1 ). The pivoting member  60  and the tensioning member  64  can assume a wide variety of forms varying from that shown in  FIG. 1 . In general terms, however, the pivoting member  60  forms a mounting section  66  and a front section  68 . The mounting section  66  is configured for pivotable or rotatable connection to the base member  12 . Upon final assembly, the gripping surface  62  extends from the front section  68 . 
   In one embodiment, the pivoting member  60  is an integral or unitary body, with the mounting section  66  including first and second pairs  70 ,  72  of legs, each defining a slot  74 ,  76  (reference generally). The slots  74 ,  76  are sized to receive a corresponding one of the posts  42   a ,  42   b  provided with the base member  12  such that the corresponding pair of legs  70 ,  72  are rotatably secured to the posts  42   a ,  42   b , respectively, upon final assembly. Alternatively, and as mentioned above, the pivoting member  60  can be configured to include a variety of other structure(s) and/or mechanisms adapted to facilitate rotatable or pivotable connection of the pivoting member  60  to the base member  12 . 
   In one embodiment, the tensioning member  64  is a thin flexible strip of metal, for example, forming a leaf spring-like configuration, that generally returns to the orientation shown in  FIG. 1 . For example, in one embodiment, the tensioning member  64  includes a support wall  80  and a gripping wall  82 . The support wall  80  is configured for attachment to the pivoting member  60 . The gripping wall  82  extends from the support wall  80  and defines the gripping surface  62 . Upon final assembly, then, the gripping wall  82 , and thus the gripping surface  62 , extends inwardly (i.e., toward the contact surface  36 ) from the front section  68  of the pivoting member  60 . Alternatively, the gripping surface  62  can be provided with a variety of other configurations. For example, the tensioning member  64 , and in particular the gripping wall  82 , can assume a variety of other forms varying from that shown in  FIG. 1 . Even further, the gripping surface  62  can be provided as an integral, unitary portion of the pivoting member  60 . 
   While the first and second clamping mechanisms  14 ,  16  have been described as being identical, in other embodiments, the second clamping mechanism  16  can have an entirely different configuration. For example, the second clamping mechanism  16  can be replaced with a conventional mechanism for securing a sheet of abrasive material (not shown) to the tool  10 . 
   Upon final assembly, and with additional reference  FIG. 2 , the first clamping mechanism  14  is rotatably connected to the base member  12 . This construction allows the first clamping mechanism  14  to pivot (at the pivot point  44 ) between an open position as shown in  FIG. 2  and a closed position (shown for the second clamping mechanism  16  in  FIG. 1 ). In the open position, the front section  68  of the pivoting member  60  is spaced from the first contact surface  36 , establishing a gap  84  (referenced generally) between the first clamping mechanism  14  (and in particular, the gripping surface  62 ) and the first contact surface  36 . In the open position, then, a sheet-like abrasive material  86 , and in particular a first end portion  88  thereof, can be inserted within the gap  84  for subsequent securement to the first contact surface  36  via the first clamping mechanism  14 . 
   With the above general description in mind, the first alignment device  18  provides a positive stop surface for facilitating proper placement of the sheet-like abrasive material  86  ( FIG. 2 ) relative to the first end  30  of the base member  12 . With continued reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , and in one embodiment, the first and second alignment devices  18 ,  20  are similarly configured such that the following description of the first alignment device  18  equally applies to the second alignment device  20 . Alternatively, and as described in greater detail below, the first and second alignment devices  18 ,  20  can assume different forms; even further, the second alignment device  20  can be eliminated. 
   In one embodiment, the first alignment device  18  includes a tab  90  extending at least partially between the first contact surface  36  and the first clamping mechanism  14 . In particular, with the one embodiment of  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the tab  90  projects upwardly (relative to an orientation of  FIGS. 1 and 2 ) from the first contact surface  36  toward the first clamping mechanism  14 . The tab  90  and the base member  12  can be integrally formed as a unitary body; alternatively, the tab  90  can be separately formed and assembled to the base member  12 . Regardless, the tab  90  is longitudinally positioned (relative to a length of the base member  12 ) between the first end  30  and the pivot point  44 . More particularly, the tab  90  defines a stop surface  92  otherwise spaced from the first end  30 . The stop surface  92  is positioned forward of the pivot point  44  such that the sheet-like abrasive material  86  ( FIG. 2 ), otherwise traversing along the first contact surface  36 , will interface with the stop surface  92 , and thus not extend to the pivot point  44 . Thus, the tab  90 , and in particular the stop surface  92 , effectively defines a trailing side  94  (referenced generally in  FIG. 2 ) of the gap  84  (i.e., longitudinally opposite an entrance side of the gap  84  generally defined at the first end  30 ). In one embodiment, a longitudinal distance between the stop surface  92  and the first end  30  correlates with a length of the base member  12  (i.e., distance between the first and second ends  30 ,  32 ), as well as, in some embodiments, with an expected, standardized length of the sheet-like abrasive material  86  intended to be used with the sanding tool  10 . In particular, and as described in greater detail below, a longitudinal length between the stop surface  92  and the first end  30  is such that when the sheet-like abrasive material  86  is disposed against the stop surface  92 , a sufficient length remains for wrapping about the first end  30 , along the bottom surface  34 , and into engagement with the second contact surface  38 . 
   As best shown in  FIG. 1 , the tab  90  is, in one embodiment, laterally offset from opposing sides  96 ,  98  of the first contact surface  36 . For example, the tab  90  can be laterally centered relative to the opposing sides  96 ,  98  (i.e., relative to a width of the first contact surface  36 ). This one preferred location increases a likelihood that during an abrasive sheet loading operation, the stop surface  92  will be contacted by the sheet-like abrasive material  86  ( FIG. 2 ). Alternatively, other locations are also acceptable as described below. 
   In one embodiment, the first clamping mechanism  14  is configured to accommodate the tab  90  in the closed position (shown for the second clamping mechanism  16  in  FIG. 1 ). For example, the pivoting member  60  forms an aperture  100  sized and positioned such that upon final assembly, the aperture  100  is aligned with the tab  90 , and permits passage of the tab  90  through the aperture  100  as the pivoting member  60  transitions from the open position to the closed position. Alternatively, projection of the tab  90  from the first contact surface  36  can be reduced from that shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , such that the aperture  100  need not be included. Preferably, however, the tab  90  is of a fairly significant height so as to ensure interface with the sheet-like abrasive material  86  ( FIG. 2 ) otherwise being loaded to the first contact surface  36 . 
   The tab  90  further forms, in one embodiment, a portion of a locking mechanism  110  (referenced generally in  FIG. 1 ) that selectively locks or secures the first clamping mechanism  14  in the closed position (i.e., shown for the second clamping mechanism  16 ). In particular, the locking mechanism  110  includes, in one embodiment, the tab  90 , the aperture  100 , and an engagement surface  112 . To this end, the tab  90  is formed to include a finger  114  ( FIG. 2 , otherwise forming the stop surface  92 ) and a latch body  116 . The latch body  116  extends from the finger  114  opposite the contact surface  36 , preferably in a direction away from the first end  30 . The engagement surface  112  (best shown in  FIG. 1  for the second clamping mechanism  16 ) is defined at a perimeter of the aperture  100 . With this configuration, in the closed position, the finger  114  extends through the aperture  100 , with the latch body  116  abutting against the engagement surface  112 , such that the tab  90  secures the first clamping mechanism  14  relative to the base member  12 . In one embodiment, to facilitate passage of the latch body  116  through the aperture  100  as the pivoting member  60  transitions from the open position to the closed position, as well as to permit selectively disengagement of the latch body  116  from the engagement surface  112 , the tab  90  can be slightly deflectable from the upright orientation illustrated in  FIG. 1 . With this construction, then, the latch body  116  can be forced slightly toward the first end  30 , via deflection of the finger  114 , to permit passage through the aperture  100 . Alternatively, the locking mechanism  110  can assume a variety of other forms, and need not be identical relative to the first and second clamping mechanisms  14 ,  16 . In some embodiments, a locking mechanism is not provided for one or both of the clamping mechanisms  14  and/or  16 . 
   While the first alignment device  18  has been described as including the tab  90 , other configurations can be employed, several examples of which are provided below. For example, the stop surface  92  can be defined by one or more other structures that may or may not be tabs (e.g., a continuous or discontinuous bump or flange). Regardless, the first alignment device  18  is configured to provide the stop surface  92  as defining the trailing side  94  of the gap  84  for assisting in proper positioning of the sheet-like abrasive material  86  relative to the first end  30  as part of a loading operation described below. 
   With specific reference to  FIG. 2 , loading of the sheet-like abrasive material  86  to the tool  10  begins with transitioning of the first clamping mechanism  14  to an open position such that the gap  84  is formed. The first end portion  88  of the sheet-like abrasive material  86  (otherwise terminating at an edge  120 ) is manually inserted by a user (not shown) into the gap  84 . In particular, with the first clamping mechanism  14  in the open position, the first end portion  88  is inserted into the gap  84  at or about the first end  30  and positioned along the first contact surface  36 . In this regard, the first end portion  88  is maneuvered or directed within the gap  84  (i.e., away from the first end  30 ) until the edge  120  contacts or abuts against the stop surface  92  provided by the tab  90 . Further movement of the edge  120  beyond the stop surface  92  (i.e., closer to the pivot point  44 ) is thus impeded, ensuring that a desired length of the sheet-like abrasive material  86  is within the gap  84  and that the edge  120  will not interfere with subsequent movement of the clamping mechanism  14  at the pivot point  44 . 
   With the first end portion  88  properly located within the gap  84 , the first clamping mechanism  14  is then transitioned (e.g., rotated) to a closed position as shown in  FIG. 3 . In the closed position, the gripping surface  62  engages the sheet-like abrasive material  86 , frictionally capturing the first end portion  88  between the gripping surface  62  and the first contact surface  36 . In one embodiment, the first end portion  88  may slide slightly along the incline defined by the first contact surface  36  via contact with the gripping surface  62 . Regardless, the first end portion  88  is secured to the tool  10 , with a remainder  122  (reference generally) of the sheet-like abrasive material  86  freely extending from the first end  30  of the base member  12 . With reference to  FIG. 4 , the remainder  122  of the sheet-like abrasive material  86  is then wrapped about the first end  30 , along the bottom surface  34 , and directed toward the second end  32 . A second end portion  124  of the sheet-like abrasive material  86  is then secured to the second contact surface  38 , for example via the second clamping mechanism  16  in a manner similar to that previously described with respect to operation of the first clamping mechanism  14 . While an edge  126  defined by the second end portion  124  is shown in  FIG. 4  as approximately contacting the second alignment device  20 , this relationship is not required. That is to say, securement of the second end portion  124  to the tool  10  can be accomplished independent of an exact length of material actually extending along the second contact surface  38 . Regardless, a user is able to tension the sheet-like abrasive material  86  about the bottom surface  34  (i.e., because the first end portion  88  is secured to the tool  10 , the user can “pull” on the remainder  122  while wrapping), resulting in a tight, tensioned fit. 
   The first alignment device  18  allows a user to employ the above-described sequential loading technique, confident that following securement of the first end portion  88 , the remainder  122  ( FIG. 3 ) is of sufficient length to “reach” the second end  32 . This is especially applicable to instances in which the sheet-like abrasive material  86  used with the sanding tool  10  is an off-the-shelf product having a standardized length. For example, but in no way limiting, sheet-like abrasive materials are commonly sold having a length of 9 inches (either full size sheets (e.g., 9″×11″) that a user can tear to a desired width, or partial size sheets having a decreased width). Regardless, with this standardized length in mind, a longitudinal location of the stop surface  92  relative to the first end  30  is selected to ensure that a sufficient length of the sheet-like abrasive material  86  (i.e., the remainder  122  described with reference to  FIG. 3 ) is available for wrapping about the bottom surface  34  and engagement with the second contact surface  38  (e.g., via the second clamping mechanism  16 ). That is to say, appropriate loading of a standardized length of sheet-like abrasive material  86  can be consistently achieved by initially locating the edge  120  against the stop surface  92 ; the user is then assured that enough length remains for attachment to the second contact surface  38 . 
   In one embodiment, in the closed position, the locking mechanism  110  (referenced generally in  FIG. 4 ) operates to secure the first clamping mechanism  14  relative to the base member  12 , thus preventing unintentional dislodgement of the first end portion  88  from the sanding tool  10 . The second clamping mechanism  16  is also locked in a closed position via a separate locking mechanism. 
   While the sanding tool  10  has been described as forming the first and second alignment devices  18 ,  20  to each include a single tab (i.e., the tab  90 ) that is otherwise laterally centered relative to a width of the corresponding contact surface, in alternative embodiments, two or more tabs can be employed. For example,  FIG. 5  illustrates an alternative embodiment sanding tool  200  including a base member  202 , a first clamping mechanism  204 , a second clamping mechanism  206 , a first alignment device  208 , and a second alignment device  210  (referenced generally). The base member  202 , the first clamping mechanism  204 , and the second clamping mechanism  206  are highly similar to the corresponding components described above with respect to the sanding tool  10  (i.e., the base member  12 , the first clamping mechanism  14 , and the second clamping mechanism  16 , respectively, of  FIG. 1 ). Thus, for example, the base member  202  defines first and second ends  212 ,  214 , a bottom surface  216 , and first and second upper contact surfaces  218 ,  220 . The clamping mechanisms  204 ,  206  each include, in one embodiment, a pivoting member  222  pivotally attached to the base member  202  adjacent the corresponding first or second end  212  or  214 , and maintaining a gripping surface  224  (shown in phantom in  FIG. 5 ). In addition, similar to the alignment devices  18 ,  20  ( FIG. 1 ) previously described, the alignment devices  208 ,  210  facilitate desired loading of a sheet-like abrasive material (not shown). However, unlike the embodiment of FIG.  1 , the sanding tool  200  forms the alignment devices  208 ,  210  to include a pair of tabs as described below. 
   The alignment devices  208 ,  210  are identical in one embodiment, such that the following description of the first alignment device  208  applies equally to the second alignment device  210 ; alternatively, the alignment devices  208 ,  210  can have different constructions or the second alignment device  210  can be eliminated. With this in mind, the first alignment device  208  includes a first tab  230  and a second tab  232 . The first and second tabs  230 ,  232  project upwardly from the first contact surface  218 , each forming a stop surface  234 ,  236 , respectively. In this regard, the first tab  230  is positioned at or adjacent a first side  240  of the base member  202  (otherwise defining a first side of the contact surface  218 ), whereas the second tab  232  is positioned at or adjacent an opposite, second side  242  of the base member  202 . In one embodiment, the first and second tabs  230 ,  232  are similarly configured, with the stop surfaces  234 ,  236  being laterally aligned. That is to say, the stop surfaces  234 ,  236  are formed at an identical longitudinal distance from the first end  212 . Thus, the stop surfaces  234 ,  236  define a trailing side (unnumbered) of a gap  244  (referenced generally) otherwise formed when the first clamping mechanism  204  is in the open position shown. As previously described, then, a sheet-like abrasive material (not shown) is properly located or positioned within the gap  244  by locating an end thereof against the stop surfaces  234 ,  236 . 
   In one embodiment, to accommodate a desired height of the tabs  230 ,  232 , the alignment device  208  further includes first and second apertures formed by the pivoting member  222 . Though hidden in the view of  FIG. 5 , a first one of the apertures is shown at  254  of the pivoting member  222  associated with the second clamping mechanism  206 . Upon final assembly, respective ones of the apertures are aligned with corresponding ones of the tabs  230 ,  232  such that when the clamping mechanism  204  is transitioned to a closed position, the first and second tabs  230 ,  232  at least partially project through the corresponding aperture. Finally, in one embodiment, the first and second tabs  230 ,  232  form portions of a locking mechanism  260  (referenced generally). In particular, each of the tabs  230 ,  232  forms a latch body  262  that otherwise abuts against a corresponding engagement surface  264  (referenced generally for the second clamping mechanism  206 ) when the clamping mechanism  204  is in the closed position as previously described. 
   While the sanding tools  10  ( FIG. 1 ),  200  have been described as defining an alignment device(s) as including one or more tabs projecting from the contact surface provided by the base member (e.g., the tabs  230 ,  232  of  FIG. 5 ), in alternative embodiments, the tab(s) can project from the corresponding clamping mechanism. For example, the tab  90  of  FIG. 1  can project from the first clamping mechanism  14  (e.g., integrally formed with the pivoting member  60  as a unitary body). Additionally,  FIG. 6  illustrates another embodiment sanding tool  300  in accordance with principles of the present invention. Similar to previous embodiments, the sanding tool  300  includes a base member  302 , first and second clamping mechanisms  304 ,  306 , a first alignment device  308 , and a second alignment device  310  (referenced generally). The base member  302  is similar to the base member  12  ( FIG. 1 ) previously described and defines first and second ends  320 ,  322 , a bottom surface  324 , and first and second upper contact surfaces  326 ,  328 . The clamping mechanisms  304 ,  306  include a pivoting member  330  rotatably attached to the base member  302  adjacent a corresponding one of the ends  320 ,  322 , respectively, and maintaining a gripping surface  332  (shown in phantom in  FIG. 6 ). The first and second alignment devices  308 ,  310 , similar to previous embodiments, facilitate the proper loading of a sheet-like abrasive material (not shown). To this end, the second alignment device  310  is similar to the alignment device  18  ( FIG. 1 ) previously described, whereas the first alignment device  308  has the differing structure described below; alternatively, the alignment devices  308 ,  310  can be identical. 
   With the embodiment of  FIG. 6 , the first alignment device  308  includes first and second tabs  340 ,  342 . Each of the tabs  340 ,  342  defines a stop surface  344 ,  346  that otherwise faces, upon final assembly, the first end  320  of the base member  302 . Unlike previous embodiments, the first and second tabs  340 ,  342  project from the first clamping mechanism  304 , and in particular the pivoting member  330 . The tabs  340 ,  342  are provided as integral, unitary extensions of the pivoting member  330 ; alternatively, the tabs  340 ,  342  can be separately formed and assembled to the pivoting member  330 . Regardless, the first tab  340  is positioned adjacent to or at a first side  350  of the pivoting member  330 , whereas the second tab  242  is positioned at or adjacent a second side  352 . This, in turn, dictates that upon final assembly, the first tab  340  is laterally positioned adjacent a first side  354  of the base member  302 , whereas the second tab  342  is laterally positioned at or adjacent a second side  356  of the base member  302 . With this in mind, the stop surfaces  344 ,  346  are laterally aligned relative to a length of the upper contact surface  326 . That is to say, a longitudinal distance between the first end  320  and the stop surfaces  340 ,  342  is substantially the same. 
   To accommodate a desired height or length of the tabs  340 ,  342 , in one embodiment the base member  302  forms first and second apertures  360 ,  362  that are positioned to receive respective ones of the tabs  340 ,  342  when the first clamping mechanism  304  is transitioned to the closed position. Thus, upon final assembly of the first clamping mechanism  304  to the base member  302 , the first tab  340  is spatially aligned with the first aperture  360  and the second tab  342  is spatially aligned with the second aperture  362 . 
   Finally, in one embodiment, each of the tabs  340 ,  342  forms a latch body  364 ,  366  as part of a locking mechanism (unnumbered). In the closed position, the tabs  340 ,  342  extend partially through a corresponding one of the apertures  360 ,  362  with the latch body  364 ,  366  contacting an engagement surface (not shown) provided by the base member  302 , thus securing the first clamping mechanism  304  relative to the base member  302  in the closed position. 
   Loading of the sanding tool  300  with the sheet-like abrasive material (not shown, but akin to the sheet of abrasive material  86  shown in  FIGS. 2-4 ) is similar to that previously described. In particular, the first clamping mechanism  304  is transitioned to an open position as shown in  FIG. 6 , whereby a gap  370  (referenced generally) is formed between the first clamping mechanism  304  and the first contact surface  326 . In this regard, the first clamping mechanism  304  is rotatably positioned such that the tabs  340 ,  342  are in close proximity to the first upper contact surface  326  and may even partially extend into the corresponding aperture  360  or  362 . As a point of reference, the first clamping mechanism  304  is depicted in  FIG. 6  as being overtly rotated relative to the base member  302  to better illustrate various components of the tool  300 . During an actual loading operation, however, the first clamping mechanism  304  is only slightly rotated away from the first contact surface  326  to ensure interface between the sheet-like abrasive material and the stop surfaces  344 ,  346  as the abrasive sheet is inserted within the gap  370  and manually maneuvered or directed along the contact surface  326 . 
   An end portion of the sheet-like abrasive material (not shown) is then inserted within the gap  370  such that an edge thereof contacts the stop surfaces  344 ,  346 . The first clamping mechanism  304  is then transitioned to the closed position, with the first clamping mechanism  304  being locked to the base member  302  via the tabs  340 ,  342  (and in particular, the latch bodies  364 ,  366 ) in some embodiments. Once again, a longitudinal spacing of the stop surfaces  344 ,  346  relative to the first end  320  ensures that a sufficient length of the sheet-like abrasive material (that in some embodiments is otherwise of a standardized length) extends from the first end  320  and is available for wrapping about the first end  320 , along the bottom surface  324 , and onto the second contact surface  328  for securement thereto via the second clamping mechanism  306 . 
   Another embodiment sanding tool  400  in accordance with principles of the present invention is shown in  FIG. 7 . The sanding tool  400  includes a base member  402 , first and second clamping mechanisms  404 ,  406 , and a first alignment device  408  (referenced generally). The base member  402  defines first and second ends  420 ,  422 . Unlike previous embodiments, the first end  420  defines a triangular-like shape, with the first clamping mechanism  404 , and in particular, a pivoting member  430  thereof, defining a similar shape. Conversely, the second end  422  has a rectangular- or square-like shape. The alignment device  408  is similar to the alignment device  18  ( FIG. 1 ) previously described, and forms a portion of a locking mechanism  442  (referenced generally). Unlike previous embodiments, an additional alignment device is not provided with the second clamping mechanism  406 . 
   The sanding tool in accordance with principles of the present invention provides a marked improvement over previous designs. In particular, the stop surface(s) associated with an alignment device otherwise included with the sanding tool serves as a positive stop mechanism for properly locating a sheet-like abrasive material when loading to the tool, and in some embodiments, assists in locking a corresponding clamping mechanism. 
   Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that a variety of alternate and/or equivalent implementations may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown and described without departing from the scope of the present invention. This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the specific embodiments discussed herein. Therefore, it is intended that this invention be limited only by the claims and the equivalents thereof.