Abstract: A compound gear system and method comprising a flexible gear defining an array of gear elements in an articulating relationship, a rigid structure defining first and second spaced parallel pluralities of articulating gear support structures arrayed in a ring, the articulating gear reeved tightly about and engaging the support structures, thereby restraining the flexible articulating gear from moving inwardly or rotationally relative to the rigid structure while enabling the flexible gear to expand outward, and at least one sprocket gear having a plurality of sprocket teeth aligned to engage flexible gear element middle areas. The support structures transmit torque between the flexible gear elements and the rigid structure responsive to interaction of the flexible gear element middle areas with the sprocket gear teeth.

Abstract: A compound gear system and method comprising a flexible gear defining an array of gear elements in an articulating relationship, a rigid structure defining first and second spaced parallel pluralities of articulating gear support structures arrayed in a ring, the articulating gear reeved tightly about and engaging the support structures, thereby restraining the flexible articulating gear from moving inwardly or rotationally relative to the rigid structure while enabling the flexible gear to expand outward, and at least one sprocket gear having a plurality of sprocket teeth aligned to engage flexible gear element middle areas. The support structures transmit torque between the flexible gear elements and the rigid structure responsive to interaction of the flexible gear element middle areas with the sprocket gear teeth.

Abstract: A hand tool comprising a first handle member with integral jaw, a second handle member, and a third jaw member, all three members pivotally connected by a single common pivot pin. All three members are also cooperatively connected by a force multiplying mechanism, wherein an operative force applied to the handles is multiplied and applied to a work piece by the jaws. One embodiment of the invention features a “U”-shaped handle with two common pivot pin connection points, providing structural strength and handling stability. Other embodiments also comprise power assist devices to provide electrical and pneumatic work piece manipulation forces.