{
  "patent_number": "US 4669140",
  "country": "US",
  "title": "Interchangeable Blades for Folding Pocket Tools",
  "original_title": "Pocket folding tool and knife system",
  "summary": "A 1987 patent for a folding pocket knife with split handles that can securely swap out different tools, like saw blades, using a locking pivot block and protective aluminum handles.",
  "what_it_does": "This patent describes a folding multi-tool with two U-shaped handles that swing around to enclose or expose a central blade. It features a mechanism to swap in different tools, such as a saw blade, using a pivoting block with a split (bifurcated) end on one handle. When the handles are closed, a pin on the second handle slides into this split end, locking the interchangeable tool securely in the middle. To prevent the blades from wobbling, built-in centering guides inside each handle hold the tool perfectly aligned. Additionally, the design uses soft aluminum handles with press-fit pivot pins and reinforcing spacers, allowing the user to use the folded tool as a heavy-duty, right-angle screwdriver without scratching or damaging the metal.",
  "what_it_does_not_cover": [
    "Does not cover multi-tools with single, solid handles where blades fold out like a traditional Swiss Army knife.",
    "Does not cover interchangeable blade systems that do not use a bifurcated pivoting block and mating pin to lock the tool.",
    "Does not cover tools that lack centering guides built inside the U-channel of the handles.",
    "Does not cover folding knives with steel or titanium handles that do not require protective press-fit reinforcing spacers."
  ],
  "filed": "1984-06-25",
  "granted": "1987-06-02",
  "expires": "2004-06-25",
  "status": "expired",
  "holder": "Individual",
  "holder_url": "https://patentbrief.org/company/individual",
  "inventors": [
    {
      "name": "Philip V. Miceli",
      "url": "https://patentbrief.org/inventor/philip-v-miceli"
    }
  ],
  "times_cited": 57,
  "tags": [
    "mechanical"
  ],
  "abstract": "A folding pocket tool and knife of the type having paired handles pivotal to a blade for enclosing or extending the blade depending on pivoted position has an improved implement holding tool block that passes through an implement and co-acting with this, blade centerers on each handle hold the implement centrally between them. An economical liner-free aluminum handle embodiment has reinforcement and scarring-preventing spacers adapted for press-fit assembly. Clip-on attachment and other structure provide plier sections. A container provides advantageous \"T\"-handle facility for boring with the system, protrusive head pivotal fasteners facilitate scraping operation, and novel storage provisions are described.",
  "url": "https://patentbrief.org/patent/us/4669140/leatherman-multitool",
  "markdown_url": "https://patentbrief.org/patent/us/4669140/leatherman-multitool/md",
  "google_patents_url": "https://patents.google.com/patent/US4669140",
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}