Patent ID: 7395984

Claim:
For use in combination with a tool, a tether device comprising: a mounted shaft in association with said tool; a retractable reel mounted for rotation on said shaft, said reel including, a hub defining a set of radially extending teeth; a constant tension spring having a first end fixed to said shaft and a second end attached to said hub; a cable having a first end attached to said hub and a second distal end for attachment to a lock point; a lock plate having at least one tooth adapted to engage with said teeth of said hub and inhibit rotation of said hub when engaged, said lock plate mounted for sliding movement between a first disengagement position device in an upright position in which said lock plate is free of said hub and said hub is free to rotate about said shaft, and a second position when said device is inverted, to lockingly engage said hub to prevent rotation thereof; and a receptacle for holding and guiding said lock plate between said disengagement and engagement positions.