1. Field of the Invention
The present invention is related to a wrench-type tool, and specifically to a wrench with a leveling device included for engaging locknuts and screws as employed with electrical connectors.
2. Description of the Related Art
Locknuts are typically screwed against the end of a conduit to hold it securely so as to provide an electrical ground. They commonly take the form of a collar having internal threads and may be constructed of various materials (e.g., metal, plastic) and come in a variety of shapes (e.g., hexagonal, square, round) and sizes.
Locknuts used in association with electrical conduit are typically annular metal rings. The locknut includes a threaded inner surface for engaging a complementary threaded outer surface on the electrical connector. A series of projections known as lugs, commonly six or eight, extend radially from the ring. Between the lugs are rounded openings or scallops.
Locknuts are used to secure of sections of electrical connectors within electrical junction boxes. A junction box thereby serves to join different runs of raceway or cable and provides space for the connection and branching of the enclosed conductors. The connectors are typically further secured by use of a screw.
A common method of attaching an electrical connector to a junction box includes using a locknut wrench to tighten the locknut and a screwdriver to tighten the screw in the electrical connector. Additionally, after the electrical connector is attached, a leveling device is needed to ensure the conduit is level.
Other patents add screwdrivers and a variety of tools, but they do not go far enough. The need exists for an efficient tool for tightening locknuts and screwing the electrical connector in place, and ensuring the conduit is level. By combining a screwdriver, a locknut wrench, and a leveling device in a variety of embodiments, it will allow the user to replace three tools with one.
The main objective of the invention is to provide a locknut wrench that has the ability to also be used as a screwdriver and a leveling device, thus allowing the user to use one tool instead of three, to properly secure an electrical connection to a junction box.
The invention for achieving the aforementioned objects is a locknut wrench capable of being used to tighten or loosen locknuts and screws, and ensure the conduit is level. The invention provides a wrench with a head, that can be used to tighten locknuts; a handle, which can be used as a leveling device and can be covered by a padding that provides insulation, cushion, and/or is absorbent; and an opposite end provides a screwdriver for aiding the user in the tightening the set screw.
Embodiments of the present invention are now explained. Although the disclosure is sufficient to enable to those skilled in the art to practice the invention, the physical embodiments herein disclosed merely exemplify the invention, which may be embodied in other structures. While the preferred embodiment has been described, the details may be changed without departing from the invention, which is defined by the claims.
Conventional connectors include a threaded end region sized and configured for passage through the opening. Connectors are available in a variety of sizes. The connector is typically secured within the junction box by a locknut.
The tool having a head that is complementary to the locknut is then positioned to engage the locknut. The handle is then manipulated to rotate the locknut in a first direction to tighten the locknut. The locknut may then be rotated in the opposite direction to loosen and remove the locknut.
This non-provisional patent application claims priority and the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of the U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/626,553, entitled “Locknut Wrench, Leveling Device and Screwdriver Combination Tool,” filed Sep. 28, 2011, all of which is herein incorporated by reference.