Braid removal tool and associated method

Abstract

The present invention provides an apparatus and method for removing braids. The tool is elongated and has functional features at both ends. On one end, the tool has an axially extending substantially conical debraiding point. The point is used to pierce the center of a braid. The tool is then pushed downward at an acute angle to the strand. Tapering then spreads and untangles the braid. At the other end, a hook exists which can be used to remove stitching. The device also includes a face at its middle for displaying indicia.

1 . A braid removal tool, comprising: 
 an elongated body; and    a substantially conical first end with a sharpened tip for use in removing braids.    
   
   
       2 . The tool of  claim 1 , wherein said sharpened tip is offset from the center axis of the body of the tool.  
   
   
       3 . The tool of  claim 1 , wherein said body is comprised of an injection-molded thermoplastic polymer.  
   
   
       4 . The tool of  claim 3 , wherein said polymer is polypropylene.  
   
   
       5 . The tool of  claim 1 , comprising: 
 a second end adapted to remove stitching.    
   
   
       6 . The tool of  claim 5 , wherein said second end is hooked and conical such that it is able to snare stitching.  
   
   
       7 . The tool of  claim 6 , wherein said second end is tapered so that it causes a spreading effect to separate the stitching.  
   
   
       8 . The tool of  claim 1 , comprising: 
 a second end which is bent to form a hook, said hook being adapted to remove stitching by snaring it.    
   
   
       9 . A braid removal tool, comprising: 
 an elongated body with a substantially uniform thickness;    a substantially conical first end with a sharpened tip wherein the sharpened tip is offset from the center axis of the body of the tool; and    a second end with a hooked and conical shape wherein the second end has a laterally restricted portion that extends into the elongated body.    
   
   
       10 . The tool of  claim 9 , wherein the second end is tapered.  
   
   
       11 . The tool of  claim 9 , wherein the elongated body is comprised of an injection-molded thermoplastic polymer.