Patent Publication Number: US-2022234154-A1

Title: Blocking Tool

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to a set of blocking tools each having a different degree of flex and each designed to have a strip of sandpaper secured to its lower surface such that each blocking tool can be moved in a desired motion to sand a work surface, such as the exterior surface of a vehicle. Each blocking tool includes a hollow member containing one or more cuts, and a base member which is secured to the hollow member. The one or more cuts formed in the hollow member alter the flexibility of the blocking tool so that it can be used to sand both flat surfaces and contoured surfaces. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Today, there are many vehicles on our roads. These vehicles come in a variety of sizes, shapes and models. These vehicles include: various size automobiles, minivans, sport cars, sport utility vehicles (SUV&#39;s), pickup trucks, small size trucks, medium size trucks, large trucks, buses, etc. It is common for accidents to occur over the life of a vehicle. An accident can involve going off the road, hitting another vehicle, hitting a person, hitting an animal, such as a deer, hitting a guard rail, hitting a signpost, or hitting some other stationary object. During inclement weather, such as driving in a wind, rain, snow or ice storm, or driving after a storm, the roads can become treacherous. Slippery roads, wet road and snow covered roads increase the distance a vehicle must travel before it can come to a complete stop. In addition, some vehicles are driven my young drivers who may have little or no experience with driving in bad weather conditions or they may be distracted by loud music or by texting a message on their smart phone. Older adults may suffer from poor eyesight and/or experience a loss of hearing which can cause them to become involved in an accident. Furthermore, some commercial drivers log a great deal of miles and they tend to encounter a plethora of situations where they need to react quickly to avoid an accident. However, all accidents cannot be avoided. After an accident, many vehicles are sent to a body shop for repair. It may be a simply fender bender or it may require extensive body work to the exterior surface of the vehicle. 
     In fixing one or more of the exterior panels or surfaces on a vehicle, different kinds of commercially available molding compounds, body fillers, fiberglass compounds, etc. can be utilized. Most of these compounds and fillers are applied in a semi-solid state (such as a paste) and are then allowed to dry over time. It is common for a body shop mechanic to sand the dried surface of the compound or filler to make the surface smooth and/or feather the dried compound or filler into the metal or fiberglass of the exterior surface of the vehicle once the compound has completely dried. This sanding is normally done before the vehicle is primed and painted. 
     A vehicle can have various contours formed on its exterior surface. Some surfaces are flat or planar, while other surface may be convex or concave. Still other surfaces may contain a lip, an indentation or a sharp contour. When sanding these various surfaces, a body shop mechanic will usually use different shape sanding blocks, each containing a strip of sandpaper secured to it. The unique shape of each sanding block allows the body shop mechanic to smooth out a planar surface, a convex surface, a concave surface, etc. However, many such sanding blocks are relatively rigid and do not provide the degree of flexibility required to obtain a smooth surface as the work surface transitions into a different contour. 
     Now, a set of blocking tools has been invented which have the flexibility to allows a body shop mechanic to sand various surfaces without gouging or scratching the work surface of the vehicle. A method of using the blocking tool is also disclosed. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Briefly, this invention relates to a set of blocking tools, where each blocking tool contains a certain degree of flex so as to allow a body shop mechanic to sand a dried molding compound, a body filler or a fiberglass compound which has been applied to an external surface of a vehicle without gouging or scratching the work surface. Each blocking tool includes a first member having a length and an outer periphery. The first member has one or more cuts formed therein which extend over at least about 70% of the length of the blocking tool. Each of the one or more cuts penetrates the outer periphery through an arc of at least about 70% of the outer periphery. Each blocking tool also includes a base member having a first surface, an oppositely aligned second surface, and a length. A portion of the wall of the first member is secured to the first surface of the base member to form an integral blocking tool. 
     In another embodiment, a blocking tool is taught which includes a hollow member having a length. The hollow member also has an inner periphery, an outer periphery, and a wall formed between the inner and outer peripheries. The hollow member has a plurality of cuts formed therein which extend over at least about 75% of the length. Each of the plurality of cuts penetrates the wall through an arc of at least about 60% of the outer periphery. The blocking tool also includes a base member having a length and a width, the length is equal to the length of the hollow member and the width is greater than the outer periphery of the hollow member. The base member has a first surface and an oppositely aligned second surface, and a portion of the wall of the hollow member is secured to the first surface of the base member to form an integral blocking tool. 
     A method of using a blocking tool is also disclosed. The blocking tool includes a hollow cylindrical member having a length, an inner periphery, an outer periphery, and a wall formed between the inner and outer peripheries. The hollow cylindrical member also has a plurality of cuts formed therein which extend over at least about 70% of the length. Each of the plurality of cuts penetrates the wall through an arc of at least about 60% of the outer periphery. The blocking tool further includes a base member having a length and a width. The length of the base member is equal to the length of the hollow cylindrical member and the width of the base member is greater than the outer periphery of the hollow cylindrical member. The base member has a first surface and an oppositely aligned second surface, and a portion of the wall of the hollow cylindrical member is secured to the first surface of the base member. The method includes the steps of attaching a strip of sandpaper to the second surface of the base member. The hollow cylindrical member is then grasped in the hand of a person. The person can be a body shop mechanic. The person&#39;s hand has a thumb and four fingers, and the thumb is positioned on one side of the hollow cylindrical member and at least two of the fingers are positioned on an opposite side of the hollow cylindrical member. The blocking tool is then positioned on a work surface with the sandpaper contacting the work surface which needs to be made smooth. Lastly, the blocking tool is moved in a desired motion by the person to sand the work surface. 
     The general object of this invention is to provide a set of blocking tools where each blocking tool has a strip of sandpaper secured to its lower surface and each blocking tool has a different degree of flex in order to sand various configured work surfaces without gouging or scratching such work surfaces. A more specific object of this invention is to provide a set of blocking tools wherein each blocking tool has a different degree of flex, so as to allow a person to sand various contour surfaces of a vehicle. 
     Another object of this invention is to provide a blocking tool which is inexpensive to manufacture. 
     A further object of this invention is to provide a blocking tool which is comfortable to use and can be moved in a desired motion using one hand or two hands. 
     Still another object of this invention is to provide a set of blocking tools, each blocking tool having a different degree of flex and each having a different length. 
     Still further, an object of this invention is to provide a method of using a blocking tool. 
     Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the following description and the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a blocking tool having a plurality of cuts formed in the first member, with the plurality of cuts evenly spaced throughout the length of the blocking tool. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective end view of the blocking tool shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a bottom view of the blocking tool shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view of the blocking tool shown in  FIG. 1  taken along line  4 - 4 . 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective end view taken from a different angle of the blocking tool shown in  FIG. 1   
         FIG. 6  is an end view of a blocking tool wherein the first member is a solid member. 
         FIG. 7  is an end view of a blocking tool wherein said first member is a hollow member. 
         FIG. 8  is cross-sectional view of  FIG. 1  taken along line  8 - 8  showing the cut penetrating though an arc of at least about 90% of the outer periphery of the wall of the hollow cylindrical member. 
         FIG. 9  is an alternative cross-section view to  FIG. 8 , wherein the cut penetrates through an arc of at least about 70% of the outer periphery of the wall of the hollow cylindrical member. 
         FIG. 10  is an isometric view of another embodiment of a blocking tool showing a hollow cylindrical member with cuts formed in a non-uniform arrangement. 
         FIG. 11  is an isometric view of still another embodiment of a blocking tool showing a hollow cylindrical member with the cuts formed at an angle to the longitudinal central axis of the hollow cylindrical member. 
         FIG. 12  is a side view of a further embodiment of a blocking tool showing a hollow cylindrical member with the cuts crisscrossing one another. 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a blocking tool showing an intermediate number of cuts formed along the length of the hollow cylindrical member which provide a greater degree of flexibility. 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a blocking tool showing a large number of cuts formed along the length of the hollow cylindrical member which provide for an even greater degree of flexibility. 
         FIG. 15  is an exploded view of the blocking tool shown in  FIG. 1  along with a strip of sandpaper which can be secured to the base member. 
         FIG. 16  is a side view of a strip of sandpaper having an adhesive backing temporarily covered by a removable peel strip. 
         FIG. 17  is an exploded view depicting the lower surface of the base member of the blocking tool having a hook material secured thereto and a strip of sandpaper having a backing layer which is a loop material. 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a blocking tool being grasped by a single hand. 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a blocking tool being grasped by two hands. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-5 , a blocking tool  10  is shown which is designed to have a strip of sandpaper secured to its lower surface such that the blocking tool  10  can be moved back and forth, be moved in a circular manner, be reciprocated, or be moved in some other fashion to sand a working surface, for example, the exterior surface of a vehicle. The blocking tool  10  is designed to be sold as a set of blocking tools each having a different degree of flex. A set of blocking tool  10  can consist of two or more blocking tools  10 ,  10 . 
     Vehicles that have been damaged in an accident can undergo body work in a body shop by a body shop mechanic. By “body shop” it is meant a shop or garage where the bodies of automotive vehicles are repaired. When repairing the exterior surface of a vehicle or a portion of the exterior surface of a vehicle, a molding compound, a body filler or a fiberglass compound can be applied to cover dents, holes and surface damage. The molding compound, the body filler or fiberglass compound is allowed to set and dry. After the molding compound, the body filler or the fiberglass compound has dried, it is sanded to make the work surface smooth and to match the remaining exterior metal or fiberglass surface from which the vehicle is constructed. 
     The blocking tool  10  has a longitudinal axis X-X, a vertical axis Y-Y, and a transverse axis Z-Z (see  FIGS. 1 and 4 ). 
     The blocking tool  10  can be formed from various materials known to those skilled in the art. Such materials include but are not limited to: plastics, thermoplastics, polymers, acrylics, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, combinations thereof, as well as from composite materials. Desirably, each blocking tool  10  is formed from a plastic material, a thermoplastic material or from polycarbonate. Some specific kinds of materials from which each blocking tool  10  can be constructed include but are not limited to: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, chlorinated poly vinyl chloride, a cross-linked polyethylene, polycarbonate, polyethylene and polypropylene. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is a common thermoplastic polymer. ABS is made by polymerizing styrene and acrylonitrile in the presence of polybutadiene. The nitrile groups attract each other and bind the chains together, making ABS stronger than pure polystyrene. Chlorinated poly vinyl chloride (CPVC) is a strong and rigid thermoplastic material that is used for hot and cold potable water applications in residential construction. Because of its makeup, CPVC is immune to damage from highly chlorinated domestic water and has a higher temperature tolerance than polyvinyl chloride (PVC). CPVC is corrosion-resistant. Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) is a flexible plastic material made from medium or high-density polyethylene. PEX piping has been used in hot- and cold-water distribution systems and for hydronic radiant heating in Europe for decades. Introduced into the U.S. in the  1980   s , PEX is the most widely used flexible piping for plumbing and radiant floor heating applications. Due to its flexibility, it&#39;s often a popular choice for remodels because it can be easily snaked through the walls. PEX tubing is recognized as acceptable for water distribution piping in all major model plumbing codes. PC or Polycarbonate (PC) is a naturally transparent amorphous thermoplastic. The raw material allows for the internal transmission of light nearly at the same capacity as glass. Polycarbonate polymers are used to produce a variety of materials and are particularly useful when impact resistance and/or transparency are a product requirement. Polycarbonate also has very good heat resistance and can be combined with flame retardant materials without significant material degradation. Polyethylene (PE) is a polymerized ethylene resin commonly used to make are kinds of items. Polypropylene (PP) is any of various thermoplastic resins that are polymers of propylene and are used to make molded articles and fibers. 
     In addition to the above, various polymers can also be used to construct the blocking tool  10 . Polymers are any of numerous natural or synthetic compounds of usually high molecular weight consisting of repeated linked units, each a relatively light and simple molecule. In addition, each blocking tool  10  can also be formed from an acrylic. An acrylic is a transparent plastic material with outstanding strength, stiffness, and optical clarity. It has superior wreathing properties compared to many other transparent plastics. An acrylic can be formed from an acrylic resin. By “acrylic resin” it is meant any of numerous thermoplastic polymers of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, esters of these acids, or acrylonitrile, used especially to produce plastics. 
     Furthermore, each blocking tool  10  can be formed from a composite. Composites are made up of distinct components; compounds. A composite can be a complex material in which two or more distinct, structurally complementary substances combine to produce structural or functional properties not present in any individual component. 
     Furthermore, other kinds and types of materials known to those skilled in the art can also be used to form each of the blocking tools  10 . These could include carbon fibers, fiberglass, foam, wood and various types of metal or metal alloys. 
     Each of the blocking tools  10  can be made transparent, if desired. By “transparent” it is meant capable of transmitting light so that objects or images can be seen as if there were no intervening material. Alternatively, each of the blocking tools  10  can be made opaque. By “opaque” it is meant that it is impenetrable by light; neither transparent nor translucent. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-7 , each of the blocking tools  10  includes a first member  12  secured to a base member  14 . Each blocking tool  10  is an integral unit. By “integral” it is meant a complete unit; a whole. The first member  12  can be a solid member  16 , as shown in  FIG. 6 , or it can be a hollow member  18 , as is shown in  FIG. 7 . Desirably, the first member  12  is a hollow member. More desirably, the first member  12  is a hollow cylindrical member. 
     The first member  12  has a length l. The length l of the first member  12  can vary from a couple of inches up to about 48 inches. The first member  12  can have a length l which ranges from between about 6 inches to about 48 inches. Desirably, the length l of the first member  12  ranges from between about 8 inches to about 36 inches. More desirably, the length l of the first member  12  ranges from between about 10 inches to about 24 inches. Even more desirably, the length l of the first member  12  ranges from between about 12 inches to about 24 inches. Most desirably, the length l of the first member  12  is less than about 30 inches. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2 and 4 , when the first member  12  is configured as a hollow member  18 , it has an inner periphery  20 , an outer periphery  22 , and a wall  24  formed between the inner and outer peripheries,  20  and  22  respectively. By “periphery” it is meant a line that forms the boundary of an area. The shape of the hollow member  18  can vary. The hollow member  18  can have a round or circular shape, an oval shape, or have some other geometrical shape. Desirably, the hollow member  18  is a hollow elongated cylinder. The hollow member  18  has an outside diameter d and an inside diameter di. The outside diameter d of the hollow member  18  can vary. Generally, the outside diameter d of the hollow member  18  can range from between about 0.5 inches to about 4 inches. Desirably, the outside diameter d of the hollow member  18  ranges from between about 0.75 inches to about 3.5 inches. More desirably, the outside diameter d of the hollow member  18  ranges from between about 1 inch to about 3.25 inches. Most desirably, outside diameter d of the hollow member  18  ranges from between about 2 inches to about 3.5 inches. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 4 , the inside diameter di is smaller than the outside diameter d. The thickness t of the wall  24  can vary. The thickness t of the wall  24  can range from between about 0.5 inches to about 1 inch. Desirably, the thickness t of the wall  24  can range from between about 0.5 inches to about 0.5 inches. More desirably, thickness t of the wall  24  can range from between about 0.5 inches to about 0.3 inches. Even more desirably, thickness t of the wall  24  can range from between about 0.5 inches to about 0.2 inches. Most desirably, thickness t of the wall  24  is less than about 0.15 inches. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1, 2, 5, 8 and 9 , the first member  12  also has one or more cuts  26  formed therein. By “cut” it is meant a narrow opening. The one or more cuts  26  are formed in the first member  12 . Desirably, a plurality of cuts  26  are formed. The one or more cuts  26  can extend over at least a portion of its length l. When a plurality of cuts  26  are formed, they can extend over a portion of the length l or over the entire length l of the first member  12 . The one or more cuts  26  provide flexibility to each blocking tool  10 . A blocking tool  10  can be constructed such that it is: rigid, semi-flexible, flexible or ultra-flexible. A rigid blocking tool  10  may contain no cuts  26  or only one cut  26 . As more cuts  26  are formed in the first member  12 , each of the blocking tools  10  becomes more flexible. In addition to the number of cuts  26 , the location of the cuts  26 , the thickness of each cut  26 , the land area existing between each the cuts  26 , the pattern of arranging the cuts  26 , the uniform or non-uniform arrangement of the cuts  26 , and the depth of each cut  26  all determine how flexible a given blocking tool  10  becomes. 
     The one or more of the cuts  26  or the plurality of cuts  26  can extend over a portion of the length l of the first member  12  or they can extend over the entire length l of the first member  12 . Except for a rigid blocking tool  10 , the more flexible blocking tools  10  will contain 3 or more cuts and they are herein referred to as having a plurality of cuts  26 . The plurality of cuts  26  can be equally spaced apart or be spaced apart at an unequal distance. Desirably, the plurality of cuts  26  will extend over at least about 70% of the length l of the first member  12 . More desirably, the plurality of cuts  26  will extend over at least about 75% of the length l of the first member  12 . Even more desirably, the plurality of cuts  26  will extend over at least about 80% of the length l of the first member  12 . Still more desirably, the plurality of cuts  26  will extend over at least about 85% of the length l of the first member  12 . More desirably, the plurality of cuts  26  are equally spaced apart and extend over at least about 90% of the length l of the first member  12 . Still more desirably, the plurality of cuts  26  will extend over at least about 95% of the length l of the first member  12 . Most desirably, the plurality of cuts  26  are equally spaced apart and extend from about 75% to about 100% of the length l of the first member  12 . 
     The number of cuts  26  can vary and will partially depend on the length l of the first member  12 . The number of cuts  26  can range from 1 to about 100 for a 36-inch-long blocking tool  10 . Desirably, the number of cuts  26  will be less than about 50 for a 36-inch-long blocking tool  10 . More desirably, the number of cuts  26  can range from about 12 to about 50 for a 24-inch-long blocking tool  10 . Even more desirably, number of cuts  26  can range from about 16 to about 30 for a 24-inch-long blocking tool  10 . Most desirably, the number of cuts  26  will be less than about 18 per foot of length of the blocking tool  10 . 
     It should be understood that if the blocking tool  10  has a non-linear shape, such as a round or circular shape, an arcuate shape, etc., that the number of cuts  26  can be less than, equal to or be more than the number of cuts  26  formed in a linear member. For example, a non-linear shape may need a lesser number of cuts  26  to exhibit the same degree of flexibility present in a linear blocking tool  10 . 
     As mentioned above, as the number of cuts  26  formed along the length l of each of the blocking tools  10  increases, each of the blocking tools  10  will exhibit an increase in the amount of flexibility. One may need a rigid blocking tool  10  for some jobs, a semi-rigid blocking tool  10  for other jobs, a flexible blocking tool  10  for still other jobs, and an ultra-flexible blocking tool  10  for still other jobs. The contour of the work surface which is being sanded will normally dictate what flexibility the blocking tool  10  should exhibit. For example, a planar work surface may require a rigid blocking tool  10 , a contoured work surface may require a more flexible blocking tool  10 , and a work surface containing a ridge, a crest, an indentation or a groove may require an ultra-flexible blocking tool  10 . For this reason, the blocking tool  10  can be manufactured in a variety of shapes, sizes, length and flexibility. A set of blocking tools  10  may be purchased to accommodate most of the work surfaces that one may encounter. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1 and 5 , each of the one or more cuts  26  has a thickness t 1 . The thickness t 1  of a cut  26  can vary. The thickness t 1  of each cut  26  can range from between about 0.01 inches to about 0.1 inches. Desirably, the thickness t 1  of each cut  26  can range from between about 0.01 inches to about 0.08 inches. More desirably, the thickness t 1  of each cut  26  can range from between about 0.01 inches to about 0.07 inches. Even more desirably, the thickness t 1  of each cut  26  can range from between about 0.01 inches to about 0.06 inches. Most desirably, the thickness t 1  each cut  26  is less than about 0.05 inches. 
     It should be noted that when one or more of cuts  26  are formed in the first member  12  of a blocking tool  10 , that the thickness t 1  of each and every cut  26  does not have to be the same. Some cuts  26  can have a greater thickness t 1  if desired. Normally, all the cuts  26  will have the same thickness t 1 . 
     The one or more cuts  26  can be formed using any equipment and technology known to those skilled in the art. Such equipment and technology includes but is not limited to: knives, saws, hand saws, circular saws, rotary saws, reciprocating knives, a knife blade, water jet cutting, laser cutting, melting of the material using heat and/or pressure, use of chemical, etc. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 1 and 5 , the thickness t 2  of the land area located between each of the one or more adjacent cuts  26  can vary. This thickness t 2  of the land area can range from between about 0.1 inches to several inches. Desirably, the thickness t 2  of the land area will range from between about 0.1 inches to about 4 inches. More desirably, the thickness t 2  of the land area will range from between about 0.15 inches to about 2 inches. Even more desirably, the thickness t 2  of the land area will range from between about 0.15 inches to about 1.25 inches. Most desirably, the thickness t 2  of the land area is less than about 1 inch. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 1 , the first member  12  has a first end  28  and a second end  30 . Both the first end  28  and the second end  30  are open. Two or more cuts  26  can be evenly spaced over the length l of the first member  12 . The plurality of cuts  26  can be uniformly arranged or be non-uniformly (randomly) arranged along the length l of the first member  12 . The plurality of cuts  26  can start at the first end  28  of the first member  12  and continue to the second end  30  with a space or land area located therebetween. Alternatively, the plurality of cuts  26  can start inward from the first end  28  and terminate inward from the second end  30 . In still another embodiment, one or more of the cuts  26  can be formed anywhere between the first and second ends,  28  and  30  respectively. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , each of the one or more cuts  26  penetrates the wall  24  of the first member  12  through an arc of at least about 60% of the outer periphery  22 . Desirably, each of the cuts  26  penetrates the wall  24  of the first member  12  through an arc ranging from between about 65% to about 99%. More desirably, each of the cuts  26  penetrates the wall  24  of the first member  12  through an arc ranging from between about 70% to about 98%. Even more desirably, each of the cuts  26  penetrates the wall  24  of the first member  12  through an arc of at least 75%. Most desirably, each of the cuts  26  penetrates the wall  24  of the first member  12  through an arc ranging from between about 70% to about 90%. In  FIG. 8 , the cut  26  penetrates the wall  24  of the first member  12  through an arc of at least 85%. In  FIG. 9 , the cut  26  penetrates the wall  24  of the first member  12  through an arc of at least 60%. 
     Stated another way, for a first member  12  having an outside diameter d of about 2 inches, each cut  26  can extend to a depth of about 1.2 inches from the outer periphery  22 . Desirably, for a first member  12  having an outside diameter d of about 2 inches, each cut  26  can extend to a depth which ranges from between about 1.2 inches to about 1.98 inches from the outer periphery  22 . More desirably, for a first member  12  having an outside diameter d of about 2 inches, each cut  26  can extend to a depth which ranges from between about 1.4 inches to about 1.96 inches from the outer periphery  22 . Even more desirably, for a first member  12  having an outside diameter d of about 2 inches, each cut  26  can extend to a depth of about 1.5 inches from the outer periphery  22 . Most desirably, for a first member  12  having an outside diameter d of about 2 inches, each cut  26  can extend to a depth which ranges from between about 1.4 inches to about 1.8 inches from the outer periphery  22 . 
     It should be understood that each of the cuts  26  could penetrates the wall  24  of the first member  12  through an identical arc. Alternatively, one or more of the cuts  26  could penetrates the wall  24  of the first member  12  through a different arc or through a different number of degrees. For example, a cut  26  could penetrate the wall  24  through an arc of about 60° while another cut  26  could penetrate the wall through an arc of about 80°. In other words, the depth of each of the cuts  26  does not have to be constant, some cuts  26  can be deeper or shallower than others. Desirably, when a plurality of cuts  26  are formed in the first member  12 , each of the plurality of cuts  26  will be formed to the same depth. 
     One advantage of constructing the first member  12  as a hollow member  18  is that less material has to be removed as each of the cuts  26  is made. If the first member  12  is solid, as shown in  FIG. 6 , more material will have to be removed when making each cut  26 . Therefore, a hollow member  18  is more economical to cut. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 10 and 11 , two additional embodiments of a blocking tool  10 ′ and  10 ″ are shown. In  FIG. 10 , an elongated blocking tool  10 ′ is shown having a plurality of cuts  26  formed over its entire length l. All of the plurality of cuts  26  are evenly and uniformly spaced apart from one another. The plurality of cuts  26  start at the first end  28  and extend to the second end  30 . Each of the plurality of cuts  26  are spaced about 0.25 inches apart to create a flexible blocking tool  10 ′. This means that each land area (space located between two adjacent cuts  26 ) has a thickness t 2 . This thickness t 2  is about 0.25 inches in  FIG. 10 . In  FIG. 11 , another elongated blocking tool  10 ″ is shown having a greater number of plurality of cuts  26  formed over its entire length l. Each of the plurality of cuts  26  is evenly or uniformly spaced apart from one another. The plurality of cuts  26  start at the first end  28  and extend to the second end  30 . Each of the plurality of cuts  26  are spaced about 0.12 inches apart to create an ultra-flexible blocking tool  10 ″. This means that the land area (space located between two adjacent cuts  26 ) has a thickness t 2  of 0.12 inches. The blocking tool  10 ″ will exhibit greater flexibility than the blocking tool  10 ′ because it contains a greater number of cuts  26 . In addition, the thickness t 1  of each of the plurality of cuts  26  and the depth of each of the plurality of cuts  26  are about the same as shown in  FIG. 10 . Furthermore, the first member  12  in both  FIGS. 10 and 11  have the same outside diameter d. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 12-13 , two additional cut patterns are shown. In  FIG. 12 , the plurality of cuts  26  do not extend from the first end  28  to the second end  30  in a uniform pattern. This means that at least some of the plurality of cuts  26  are spaced at different distances apart from one another. For example, it may be advantageous to eliminate the cuts  26  where a body shop mechanic needs to position his hand or hands. The manufacturer of the blocking tools  10  can vary the placement of the plurality of cuts  26  to suit the desired needs of a particular customer. In  FIG. 13 , one will observe that each of the plurality of cuts  26  is formed perpendicular, or at a 90° angle, to the longitudinal axis X-X of the blocking tool  10 . However, the each of the plurality of cuts  26  can be formed at an angle α to the longitudinal axis X-X of the blocking tool  10 , if desired. The degree of the angle α can vary. Desirably, the angle α can range from between about 1° to about 89°. More desirably, the angle α can range from between about 5° to about 60°. Even more desirably, the angle α can range from between about 10° to about 45°. Most desirably, the angle α can range from between about 15° to about 30°. In  FIG. 13 , the plurality of cuts  26  extend between the first and second ends,  28  and  30  respectively. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 14 , still another cut pattern is depicted. In  FIG. 14 , the plurality of cuts  26  are uniformly spaced apart from one another. In addition, the plurality of cuts  26  are arranged in a crisscrossing pattern. The plurality of cuts  26  extend along the length l of the first member  12  from the first end  28  to the second end  30 . By “crisscrossing” it is meant a pattern made by crossing lines. This crisscrossing pattern may add additional flexibility to the blocking tool  10 . 
     It should be understood that various other patterns, envisioned by those skilled in the art, can also be used. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the first member  12  can vary in cross-sectional configuration as well as in overall configuration. The first member  12  can be formed with different geometrical cross-sections. For example, the first member  12  can have a round cross-section, an oval cross-section, an elliptical cross-section, a square cross-section, a rectangular cross-section, etc. Furthermore, the outside configuration of the first member  12  can be constructed to provide for ergonomics whereby the design is intended to maximize productivity by reducing operator fatigue and discomfort. For example, a portion of the outer periphery  22  of the first member  12  can have ergonomically spaced indentations to receive a person&#39;s thumb and/or fingers. The ergonomical shape can make the blocking tool  10  more comfortable to use over an extended time period. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1, 2 and 5 , the blocking tool  10  is depicted as a linear member. However, the blocking tool  10  can also vary in configuration and shape. The blocking tool  10  can be constructed in almost any geometrical configuration known to man. For example, besides being straight or linear, the blocking tool  10  could have an arcuate shape, a boomerang shape, a round or circular shape, a square shape, a rectangular shape, a chevron shape (shaped like an inverted V), etc. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1-5  and as mentioned above, each of the blocking tools  10  also includes a base member  14 . The base member  14  can be constructed of the same material from which the first member  12  is constructed. Alternatively, the base member  14  could be constructed from a different material from which the first member  12  is constructed. The base member  14  has a first surface  32 , an oppositely aligned second surface  34 , a length I 1  and a width w. The length I 1  of the base member  14  can be less than, equal to, or be greater than the length l of the first member  12 . Desirably, the length I 1  of the base member  14  is equal to the length l of the first member  12 . The width w of the base member  14  can be less than, equal to, or be greater than the outer diameter d of the first member  12 . Desirably, the width w of the base member  14  is greater than the outer diameter d of the first member  12 . If the first member  12  is not round, then the width w of the base member  14  should be greater than the widest dimension of the first member  12 . The width w of the base member  14  can be greater than the widest dimension of the first member  12  by at least about 0.5 inches. Desirably, the width w of the base member  14  range from about 0.5 to about 2 inches greater than the widest dimension of the first member  12 . For example, when the first member  12  is a hollow cylindrical member having a 2 inch outside diameter d, the base member  14  can have a width w of at least about 2.5 inches. 
     The base member  14  also has a thickness t 3  measured as the distance located between the first surface  32  and the second surface  34 . The thickness t 3  of the base member  14  can vary in dimension. The thickness t 3  of the base member  14  can range from between about 0.1 inches to about 1 inch. Desirably, the thickness t 3  of the base member  14  can range from between about 0.1 inches to about 0.5 inches. More desirably, the thickness t 3  of the base member  14  can range from between about 0.15 inches to about 0.4 inches. Even more desirably, the thickness t 3  of the base member  14  can range from between about 0.15 inches to about 0.35 inches. Most desirably, thickness t 3  of the base member  14  can be equal to or be less than about 0.3 inches. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 2 , the base member  14  can vary in geometrical configuration. In  FIG. 2 , the base member  14  is depicted as having a rectangular configuration. However, the base member  14  could be formed as a square, an elongated rectangle, an oval, have a round or circular shape, etc. The base member  14  could have almost any geometrical configuration desired. The base member  14  is shown with corners  38  which can be rounded, as shown, or have a radius formed thereon. Alternatively, each corner  38  can be formed at a 90° angle. Rounded corners  38  are more aesthetically pleasing. In  FIG. 2 , four rounded corners  38 ,  38 ,  38  and  38  are depicted. 
     Side walls,  40  and  42 , and end walls,  44  and  46 , join the first surface  32  to the second surface  34 . The side walls,  40  and  42 , and the end walls,  44  and  46 , can vary in configuration. The side walls,  40  and  42 , and the end walls,  44  and  46 , can have a straight vertical profile, have a tapered profile, have a rounded profile, be beveled or be contoured. A straight vertical profile works well. The base member  14  can also be a solid member or a hollow member. A solid member is the most economical to construct. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 6 and 7 , the first surface  32  of the base member  14  can be a flat or planar surface, see  FIG. 7 , or it can contain a concave surface  36 , see  FIG. 6 . By “concave” it is meant curved like the inner surface of a sphere. Generally, the first surface  32  of the base member  14  is flat or planar. When a concave surface  36  is utilized, it should be sized and shaped to match the arc of the outer periphery  22  of the first member  12 . This will allow the first member  12  to be positioned in the concave surface  38  and to be secured thereto. The first member  12  is secured to the first surface  32  of the base member  14 . By joining similarly mating surfaces, a strong bond can be accomplished. This is why the flat surface is mated with another flat surface, see  FIG. 7 , or why a concave surface is formed to mate with a spherical surface, as is shown in  FIG. 6 . 
     It should be understood that various other mating surface profiles can also be utilized. 
     The first member  12  can be secured to the first surface  32  of the base member  14  various means. For example, the first member  12  can be secured to the first surface  32  of the base member  14  by solvent welding, solvent bonding, solvent cementing, be mechanically attached, be chemically attached, be melted and/or pressure bonded together, etc. Other means of securing the first member  12  to the first surface  32  of the base member  14 , which are known to those skilled in the art, can also be used. The terms solvent welding, solvent bonding and solvent cementing, are used interchangeably. Solvent welding, bonding or cementing involve a process of joining two or more members together, when the members are made of thermoplastic resins. The process involves applying a solvent capable of softening the surfaces to the two members and pressing the softened surfaces together. The two members are welded or bonded by means of chemical fusion. The solvent soften and dissolve the surfaces to be joined. Once the two surfaces are assembled, a chemical weld occurs. This weld strengthens over time as the solvent evaporate. 
     When the first member  12  and the base member  14  are formed from ABS, CPVC or PVC, they can be joined easily and quickly by using solvent welding, solvent bonding or solvent cementing. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 4, 5, 7, 8 and 9 , one will notice that a portion of the outer periphery  22  of the first member  12  is flattened or cut off to produce a flat surface  48 . This flat surface  48  forms a better contact surface with the flat or planar first surface  32  than an arc could provide. The flat surface  48  of the first member  12  is positioned against the flat surface  32  of the base member  14  and then the two members,  12  and  14  are secured or joined together. The solvent welding, bonding or cementing process produces a strong bond therebetween. The solvent weld, bond or cementing secures the first member  12  to the first surface  32  of the base member  14  and forms an integral blocking tool  10 . 
     Other ways of joining the first member  12  to the base member  14  can also be utilized. These other ways include: a mechanical attachment, such as by the use of screws, pins, wire, etc. When screws are used, countersink holes can be formed in the second surface  34  of the base member  14 . One or more screws (not shown) can then be screwed through the thickness t 3  of the base member  14  and into the first member  12  to form a secure attachment. In addition, chemical bonds can also be utilized. A chemical bond can use: an adhesive, a co-adhesive, glue, an epoxy, etc. By “epoxy” it is meant any of various thermoplastic resins capable of forming tight cross-linked polymer structures characterized by toughness, strong adhesion, and low shrinkage. Other methods of securing two members together, which are known to those skilled in the art, can also be utilized. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 15 and 16 , the second surface  34  of the base member  14  is designed to have a piece of sandpaper  50  secured to it. By “sandpaper” it is meant heavy paper coated on one side with sand or other abrasive material and used for smoothing surfaces. A strip of the sandpaper  50  can be removed from a supply roll of sandpaper (not shown). Alternatively, the sandpaper  50  can be purchased as individual sheets. In one embodiment, the sandpaper  50  contains sand and/or some other abrasive material  52  on one major surface and an adhesive  54  on an opposite major surface. The adhesive is temporarily covered and protected by a removable peel strip  56 . The adhesive  54  can be a medium to high strength adhesive which will secure the strip of sandpaper  50  to the second surface  34  of the blocking tool  10 . The adhesive  54  should be strong enough to hold the sandpaper to the second surface  34  of the base member  14  but it should not be so strong as to prevent the soiled and/or used strip of sandpaper  50  from being removed and discarded. A fresh strip of sandpaper  50  can replace the worn out strip of sandpaper  50  that was removed. The grade of the sandpaper  50  that can be used can vary from coarse to fine, depending upon the amount of sanding that needs to occur. 
     Referring to  FIG. 17 , another embodiment is shown for attaching a strip of sandpaper  60  to a base member  14 . In  FIG. 17 , the second surface  34  of the base member  14  has a hook material  58  secured to it. A strip of sandpaper  60 , containing sand and/or some other abrasive material  52  on one major surface and a loop material  62  secured to an opposite major surface, is sized to mate with the base member  14 . The loop material  62  is designed to engage the hook material  58  and securely hold the strip of sandpaper  60  to the second surface  34  of the base member  14 . Once the sandpaper  60  is soiled and/or used up, the loop material  62  can be released from the hook material  58  and the soiled and/or used up strip of sandpaper  60  can be discarded. A fresh strip of sandpaper  60 , also containing a loop material on one major surface, can then be attached to the hook material  58  which is present on the second surface  34  of the base member  14 . The blocking tool  10  can then be used to sand a work surface on a vehicle. 
     The hook and loop material can be manufactured and purchased from Velcro USA, Inc. VELCRO is a registered trademark of Velcro USA, Inc. having an office located at 95 Sundial Avenue, Manchester, N.H. 03103. Alternatively, the hook and loop material can be purchased from some other company that manufactures and sells such materials. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 18 , a blocking tool  10  is shown in which a person grasps the hollow member  18  of the blocking tool  10  in one of his hands. The person&#39;s hand includes a palm having a thumb and four fingers attached thereto. The thumb is positioned on one side of the hollow member  18  and at least two of the four fingers are positioned on an opposite side of the hollow member  18 . All four fingers can be positioned on the opposite side, if desired. The hollow member  18  serves as a handle which allows the blocking tool  10  to be positioned on a work surface  64  and be moved very easily. By sizing the hollow member  18  to have about a 1.5 inch or greater outside diameter d, the hollow member  18  can fit into the palm of most people hands. A hollow member  18  of this size can be moved on the work surface  64  in a comfortable manner. 
     The person could be a body shop mechanic. The body shop mechanic can grasp the hollow member  18  of the blocking tool  10  with either one of his hands. The person can move the blocking tool  10  back and forth, in a circular motion, and/or in a reciprocating motion to sand the work surface  64 . By “reciprocate” it is meant to move back and forth alternately. The work surface  64  can be at least a portion of the exterior surface of a vehicle or some other article. Alternatively, the work surface  64  could be the entire exterior surface of a vehicle or some other article. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 19 , for a larger size blocking tool  10  or for a longer blocking tool  10 , a person can grasp the hollow member  18  of the blocking tool  10  with both of his hands. In this situation, his two hands should be spaced apart from one another to evenly distribute the weight of the blocking tool  10 . 
     The person could be a body shop mechanic. The body shop mechanic can grasp the hollow member  18  of the blocking tool  10  with both of his hands and move the blocking tool  10  back and forth, in a circular motion, and/or in a reciprocating motion to sand a work surface  64 . The work surface  64  can be at least a portion of the exterior surface of a vehicle or some other article. Alternatively, the work surface  64  could be the entire exterior surface of a vehicle or some other article. By grasping the hollow member  18  in the palms of both of his hands, the person can sand the work surface  64  in a comfortable manner. 
     A rigid or a semi-rigid blocking tool  10  can be used to sand a surface flat. A more flexible blocking tool  10  can be used to uniformly sand a curved surface, a concave surface, a convex surface, etc. while maintaining a constant shape or constant round. By “constant round” it is meant following the curvature of the work surface  64 . 
     Method 
     A method of using the blocking tool  10  will now be explained. The method utilizes a blocking tool  10  which includes a hollow member  18  having a length l, an inner periphery  20 , an outer periphery  22 , and a wall  24  formed between the inner and outer peripheries,  20  and  22  respectively. The hollow member  18  has a plurality of cuts  26  formed therein. The plurality of cuts  26  extend over at least about 70% of the length l, and each of the plurality of cuts  26  penetrates the wall  24  through an arc of at least about 60% of the outer periphery  22 . 
     The blocking tool  10  also includes a base member  14  having a length I 1  and a width w. The length I 1  is equal to the length l of the hollow member  18  and the width w is greater than the maximum dimension of the outer periphery  22 . When the hollow member  18  has a round or circular profile, the width w of the base member  14  is greater than the diameter d of the hollow member  18 . 
     The base member  14  also has a first surface  32 , an oppositely aligned second surface  34 , and a thickness t 3  formed there between. A portion of the wall  24  of the hollow member  18  is secured to the first surface  32  of the base member  14 . This securement can be accomplished using solvent welding, solvent bonding, solvent cementing or by a mechanical or chemical attachment known to those skilled in the art. A set of blocking tools  10  can be used wherein each blocking tool has a different degree of rigidity or flexibility so as to accommodate various contour in a work surface. 
     The method includes the steps of attaching a strip of sandpaper  50  to the second surface  34  of the base member  14 . The sandpaper  50  can be attached to the second surface  34  of the base member  14  with a removable adhesive  54 . Alternatively, the sandpaper  50  can be attached to the second surface  34  of the base member  14  using a hook  58  and loop  62  attachment. A person then grasps the hollow member  18  in one of his hands. His hand includes a palm having a thumb and four fingers. The thumb is positioned on one side of the hollow member  18  and at least two of the four fingers are positioned on an opposite side of the hollow member  18 . The blocking tool  10  is then positioned on a work surface  64  which needs to be made smooth, such as an exterior surface of a vehicle or some other article. The blocking tool  10  is then moved in a desired motion by the person so that the work surface  64  can be sanded. 
     It should be noted that for a larger size blocking tool  10 , a person can grasp the blocking tool  10  with both of his hands. In this situation, both of his hands should be spaced apart from one another to properly balance and move the blocking tool  10  in a comfortable manner. 
     While the invention has been described in conjunction with several specific embodiments, it is to be understood that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations which fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.