Abstract: A pneumatic throttle control configuration provides synchronized start-up and independent shut-off of multiple pneumatic tools. Each tool includes a throttle control assembly having a manually operable throttle valve which selectively admits air to the vane motor of the tool and a spring-biased piston operably coupled to the throttle valve which maintains it in an open position in response to air pressure in a control line which interconnects the tools. The vane motor includes a governor controlled valve which opens at a predetermined motor speed and provides air to the control line and the pistons of each tool of the multiple tool arrangement, thereby opening every throttle valve. Each pneumatic tool may then operate and stall independently. When the last tool stalls, the control air flow to all tools is terminated and the throttle valves close.

Abstract: A blade wrench includes an adjustable interconnection disposed between the tool body and the blade portion which permits selective angular positioning of the blade portion of the wrench relative to the tool body. The blade portion may thus be adjusted and fixed at a selected angle to facilitate alignment with and purchase on a fastener. The adjustable interconnection comprises apparatus for selectively angularly positioning the blade portion relative to the tool body and a locking device for maintaining this angular relationship.

Abstract: An in-line reversing mechanism for use with hand-held power tools comprises two coaxially juxtaposed epicyclic gear trains having a common carrier which may alternately be locked to or released from an outer cage to accomplish the bidirectional transmission of rotational power. The complete reversing mechanism is housed in a generally cylindrical body suitable for mounting between a conventional unidirectional motor and gear head or powered device. Forward or reverse output rotation is selected by the tool operator by moving an annular collar positioned on the periphery of the reversing mechanism to the front or rear of the mechanism.

Abstract: A portable grinder incorporates a safety clutch mechanism between the drive motor output and the grinding wheel shaft to prevent the grinding wheel from dislodging due to a malfunction of the motor. In the preferred embodiment, the clutch mechanism comprises a one-way or a free-wheeling clutch and a slip clutch in parallel between the motor rotor and the drive shaft. The one-way clutch transfers power from the motor rotor to the drive shaft and grinding wheel under normal operating conditions. In the event of a motor malfunction which suddenly locks the rotor, the clutch mechanism allows the drive shaft and grinding wheel to slow and stop in a controlled fashion thereby minimizing the possibility of the grinding wheel dislodging from the drive shaft.

Abstract: A device for mounting an electric motor stator within an outer housing is disclosed. The mounting structure comprises a longitudinally convoluted hollow metal cylinder having three longitudinal plates attached at 120.degree. intervals to its outer wall. The cylinder is sized to provide an interference fit with the stator and the convolutions permit sufficient diametral expansion to facilitate assembly and tight retention of the stator when placed within the cylinder. The cylinder/stator assembly is retained in the outer housing by a plurality of bolts which pass through the outer housing and engage threaded openings in the longitudinal attachment plates secured to the outer cylinder surface.

Abstract: An overspeed shutoff device for use in a rotary pneumatic tool is disclosed. The device is operable to shut off air supply to the motor on failure of its governor to function properly in preventing overspeeding of the motor. The device includes a valve closing plate positioned in the path of air flow to the pneumatic motor, just upstream of an inlet port for passage of air into the motor. In normal operation of the tool the valve plate, which rotates with the motor drive shaft, is retained in a position spaced from the air inlet port by a locking mechanism engaging the drive shaft of the tool to prevent axial movement therealong. The plate locking device comprises a cantilever mounted spring wire in engagement with a groove in the drive shaft and a centrifugally responsive weight operably connected to disengage the wire from the groove in response to the attainment of a predetermined rotary speed.