Abstract: A hand tool for crimping a work piece by sliding jaw action is provided. The tool has a first handle which fixedly mounts a first jaw at one end thereof and slidably mounts a second jaw in a channel formed therein. A second handle is pivotally connected to the second jaw. A link is pivotally connected to both the first and second handle. A detent device, or piezo electric crystal and read out are provided in the structure to give either a release or a read out response responsive to the generation of a predetermined force load on a work piece.

Abstract: A hand operated crimping tool comprising a crimping head 10 and a pair of operating handles 12 for actuating said crimping head. At least one of said handles includes a force sensing arrangement including detent mechanism for maintaining handle portions 80, 88 in an unloaded position until a predetermined crimping force is applied by the crimping head whereupon the detent mechanism releases to allow slight, relative pivotal motion between the handle portions. The detent arrangement includes a tapered extension post 90 defining a recess 100 and a grip 80 pivotally connected to the post. The grip slidably mounts a spring biased slider 98 which defines a recess, confrontingly aligned with the recess in the tapered post when the grip and extension are in an unloaded position. A detent ball 94 is captured between the confronting recesses. The force exerted by the slider on the detent ball resists pivotal movement between the grip and the extension.