Abstract:
Workers who are engaged in working on equipment often require specialized equipment beyond the regular screwdrivers, pliers and wrenches. Through trial and error certain tools have been found to be invaluable, most of those combining multiple functions into a single tool. More options in a single tool mean fewer tools and lighter loads but each industry has its unique fasteners, usually to prevent unauthorized access to dangerous or proprietary equipment, such as electrical vaults and electronic hardware. Some of these tools, such as the Leatherman, are known across industries.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    Applicant claims priority from a previously filed and pending U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/281,518 filed on Jan.21, 2016 for a “Multi-tool used in the railroad industry to combine five tools into one” by inventor Ronald Mongiello. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Workers who are engaged in working on equipment often require specialized equipment beyond the regular screwdrivers, pliers and wrenches. Through trial and error certain tools have been found to be invaluable, most of those combining multiple functions into a single tool. More options in a single tool mean fewer tools and lighter loads but each industry has its unique fasteners, usually to prevent unauthorized access to dangerous or proprietary equipment, such as electrical vaults and electronic hardware. Some of these tools, such as the Leatherman, are known across industries. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0003]    Embodiments relate to tool that contains at least  2  unique tools that are required for use in the same industry including at least one tool that is unique to a particular industry. Embodiments can also relate to the ability for the tool to include a lighting source and a safety identifier. The singular body that encompasses the embodiments is designed to enable maximum torque by the user in inclement weather or when grease or foreign bodies prevent a firm grasp of the tool. Compactness of body is important but yet having the ability to extend to reach is functionally important as well. 
         [0004]    These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become understood with reference to the following description, appended claims and accompanying figures. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0005]      FIG. 1  shows a left side oblique profile view of the multiple function tool, according to an embodiment with the socketed portion in the collapsed position and the tool in the closed position. 
           [0006]      FIG. 2  shows a left side rear oblique view of the multiple function tool, according to an embodiment with the socketed portion in the collapsed position and the tool in the closed position. 
           [0007]      FIG. 3  shows a lower oblique profile view of the multiple function tool, according to an embodiment with the socketed portion in the collapsed position and the tool in the closed position. 
           [0008]      FIG. 4  shows a left side oblique profile view of the multiple function tool, according to an embodiment with the socketed portion in the extended position with tool in open position. 
           [0009]      FIG. 5  shows a lower oblique profile view of the multiple function tool, according to an embodiment with the socketed portion in the extended position with tool in open position. 
           [0010]      FIG. 6  shows a frontal profile view of the multiple function tool, according to an embodiment with the socketed portion in the extended position with a cross-sectional line cutting through to show detail of  FIG. 7 . 
           [0011]      FIG. 7  shows a cross-sectional view as detailed from  FIG. 6  of the multiple function tool, according to an embodiment with the socketed portion in the collasped position with tool in closed position. 
           [0012]      FIG. 8  shows a frontal profile view of the multiple function tool, according to an embodiment with the socketed portion in the extended position with an obliquely angled cross-sectional line cutting through to show detail of  FIG. 9 . 
           [0013]      FIG. 9  shows a cross-sectional view as detailed from  FIG. 8  of the multiple function tool, according to an embodiment with the socketed portion in the collapsed position with tool in closed position. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0014]    The descriptions of the various embodiments have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein. 
         [0015]    This current invention covers the field of application where users are required to use a specific set of tools for a series of related job tasks. In one instance, a set of tools used for people that construct, maintain and repair railroad signal equipment is disclosed where specific sizing of nut drivers are used along with an industry specific EPost tool. One or more embodiments may have usage is in the field of safety for people working around trains includes a railroad whistle which is a requirement for those working near a railroad and the use of a illumination device, such as a flashlight, is required for lighting of a work surface or signaling. Other embodiments have one or more tools having the capability to extend, thereby increase the reach of the tool. Other embodiments may have usage as well, other types of nut drivers and tools can be used. The current state of the art does not exist for such an apparatus that is capable of holding an at least one industry specific tool (such as an EPost Tool in this instance.) along with common. 
         [0016]      FIG. 1  shows an device  1  with its two principle components, open socket portion  200 , having a proximal end  202  and a distal end  201  and cradle component  100 , which have been conjoined through internal guide socket  102 . Open socket portion  200  is a hollow cylindrical rod having an interior surface  204  and an exterior surface  205 , said surfaces are not necessarily shaped in similar fashions. Cradle  100  has a geometrically defined polygonal exterior  103  and a cylindrical internal passage  104 , said passage  104  being adapted to receive bore  102 . Bore  102  can be a separate piece inserted into passage  104  or said passage can be shaped into the exact sizing for bore  102 . Bore  102  is shaped congruently with open socket portion  200  and is designed to slidably accept the insertion of socket portion  200  into the interior of bore  102  as detailed in  FIG. 5 . Said cradle  100  has a proximal end  140  and a distal end  130 . 
         [0017]    Geometrically defined exterior  103  is defined to enhance the gripability of the tool alone with also providing additional leverage for increased torque from the user. In this embodiment, a three sided exterior is used to maximize the amount of torque can the user can exert and maintain a steady grip, especially with the user is wearing heavy gloves or when grease, grime or other surface elements are present that enhance slippage. The disclosure of the  3  sided exterior surface is not a limiting factor and other multi-faced alternatives will be suitable for this apparatus. A minimal number of sides is also preferred to prevent the tool from rolling away from the operator when it is set down after usage. Another advantage of the usage of the minimal number of sides is to differentiate the tool from others in the tool box or tool belt as from a tactical selection of tools. Often tools are selected “blindly” in toolboxes or tool belts and also at night. 
         [0018]    Integral to the exterior  103  is an embodiment that incorporates a safety whistle  105  into the tool  1 . In this disclosure, whistle  105  is located on the proximal end of cradle  140 , but the location is not limited to only being located along said end  140 . Federal regulations, in particular Safe Practices for Wayside Rail Transit Worker Protection and OSHA Rules for Confined Space Environments mandate that certain safety equipment is mandated for use by workers who work in occupations where it is noisy or where many different sounds are confined in a small area. A high decibel whistle is mandated along with the use of high visibility safety vests or steel tipped boots.  FIG. 3  shows the whistle  105  is integral to a surface of exterior  103  having a pneumatic air entrance  106  which allows for flow into chamber  108  exiting through whistle exhaust  107 . 
         [0019]    Additionally  FIG. 6  details the means for moving open socket portion  200  between the collapsed state as detailed in  FIGS. 1, 2 and 3  and the extended position as detailed in the socket portion  FIGS. 4 and 5 . Located along one of the sides of cradle  100  is socket securement means which is used to prevent the linear movement of the socket portion  200  while engaged in the bore  102 . In this disclosure, the securement means is a button  112 . Button  112  is located inside of securement button slot  120  through which slides securement button  112 . A tactile engagement means are used for the user to be able to blindly identify and operate the moving of said socket portion. In this disclosure, the tactile engagement means is a raised button, but the disclose is not limited to a particular size or style of identify and operating the securement means. Button  112  protrudes outwardly from slot  120  and is greater in height than the surrounding surfaces as seen in  FIGS. 6 and 8  said slot and the protrusion has a textured surface, shown in  FIG. 3  as a series of raised ridges, which increases the tactical recognition of the component and also increases the friction between the users digit and the button in cases of excess grease, moisture or grime. When button  112  is slidably relocated along slot  120  the button slides along paw lever arm  111 , where said arm  111  has a natural reverse bias as detailed in  FIG. 7  in the relaxed position. Perpendicular to distal end of arm  111  is paw  121 . Paw  121  extends through passage  104  and into bore  102  and engages into either forward stop  114  or rear stop  122  located along the same axis on socket portion  200 . Stops  114  and  122  are designed to accept paw  121  with sufficient engagement that will prevent the movement of socket portion  200  along bore  102 . In this disclosure, stops  114  and  122  are through-holes but detents could also be used. Also, there is no limitation as to the number of stops placed along said bore  102 . As button  112  is slid forward along slot  120 , paw lever arm  111  is depressed causing paw  121  to deflect downwardly. As button  1123  is slid rearwardly, paw level arm is is released causing the natural bias of the arm  111  to rise allowing paw  121  to disengage with stops  114  or  122 . 
         [0020]    Hingedly attached tool  115  is located on the proximal end  140  of cradle  100 . Tool  115  when not in use, is located along the one of the edges of the geometrically defined exterior  103  in tool receiver section  117  as detailed in  FIG. 4  with the tool in the open position. Pin  119  connects the proximal end of tool  115  to cradle  100  and allows for movement of tool  115  along an arc defined by the length of the tool. Catchlock  123  provides a stop limiting the travel of tool  155  along said arc to be approximately 180 degree and provides stability to the tool in the open position. Relief  124  located on the proximal surface  140  allows for the distal end of tool to rotate about pin  119 . In an embodiment, tool  115  can be slideable attached to cradle  100  through a grooved slot that would be received by a corresponding rail in receiver  117 , though this embodiment is not shown. Digit access cutout  118  allows for the user to insert a digit or another tool to access the distal end of tool  115  to facilitate its removal from receiver  117 . There is a friction fit between the walls of receiver  117  and the exterior surface of tool  115  which prevents the accidental displacement of tool  115  into the extended position as seen in  FIGS. 4 and 5 .  FIG. 1  shows that tool  115  once replaced into receiver  117  does not protrude above the natural edges of cradle  100 . In this disclosure, distal end of tool  115  is adapted with a Post Tool design  116  which is a unique tool to Railroad Signal Equipment. This disclosure is not limited to a specific tool or type of industry. 
         [0021]    An embodiment of device  1 , includes an internal bore  131  which extends inwardly from distal surface  130 .  FIG. 8  details one location for a cylindrical bore  131  but there is no limitation as to location so long as the bore  131  is located along the surface of  130 . Bore  131  is designed to accept variety of devices including a flashlight  150  as detailed in  FIG. 5 , a spot laser or any other device that is required by the user. Bore  131  is shown as being polygonal in shape in this disclosure, but this disclosure does not limit the shape of bore in any way. 
         [0022]    Socket portion  200  slidably interconnects with cradle  100  through bore  102 .  FIG. 9  details the interior of socket portion  200  where stud  129  rides in socket slot  203  which allows for both smooth linear travel of the socket along bore  102  as the socket portion is extended and allows for anti-rotational torqueing forces placed on the socket during use. Slot  203  shares a common axis with the major longitudinal axis of said socket  200 . Distal end  201  of socket  200  is adapted to a particular size of nut or screw cap that is unique to a particular application. It is desired in this disclosure that the shape of end  201  be greater than the nominal standard sizes for a particular socket size. This will allow for an easier task of locating the tool onto the nut or screw cap and prevents the “rounding over” of the edges of the nut or screw cap as well. 
         [0023]    The use of this tool  1  can be in several configurations as the user can use the socket portion in the collapsed position for close-in work where space is limited or the user can extend the socket portion for greater reach. The user extends socket to the extended position by depressing button  112  and sliding it into a rearward position thereby allowing paw  121  to disengage from said stops while the user is grasping the ribbed gripping segment  210  and slidably relocating the socket portion into an extended position where said paw reengages into desired said stop. Grip  210  can also be used for applications where guiding of the socket portion  200  or stabilizing the socket portion  200  is necessary. In this disclosure, said grip  210  has 6 protruding ribs extending form a central axis common to the axis of socket portion  200 . There are no limitations as to the size, type or configuration of the grip, so long as the operator has a means for gripping the socket during use and extension/collapsing of the socket portion.  FIGS. 6 and 8  detail the 6 sided configuration of the distal end  201  that matches common fasteners such as bolt and nut configurations. Said distal end  201  and proximal end  202  of socket portion  200  in this disclosure are of similar shape and size, but there are no limiting in this disclosure to a particular shape and size for either said proximal or said distal end of socket portion  200 . This disclosure details a single set of tool and socket sizes that will interface with common screws, nuts, bolts and enclosures specific to the railroad signal equipment, but there is are no limiting the type, size and style of the tools, tool tip, socket configuration and socket sizing in this disclosure. 
         [0024]    References in the claims to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described exemplary embodiment that are currently known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. section 112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or “step for.” 
         [0025]    The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. 
         [0026]    The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.