Abstract: Handle portions of hand tools are disclosed that enhance gripping properties while simultaneously imparting flexibility and cushioning properties to the tool handle portion to promote a softer, more ergonomic tool handle portion. The handle portion of a hand tool housing is ergonomically configured for normal gripping by a user's hand and wherein the pressure points of contact by at least one predetermined portion of the hand principally contact a relatively soft tactile cushion surface. The handle portion has at least one support structure configured to provide a volume around which the user's hand can grip with the user's thumb, palm and fingers in contact with said volume, wherein the support structure has at least one window located adjacent the predetermined portion, and a cushion structure bonded to the support structure and spanning each window to provide the relatively soft tactile cushion surface.

Abstract: Handle portions of hand tools are disclosed that enhance gripping properties while simultaneously imparting flexibility and cushioning properties to the tool handle portion to promote a softer, more ergonomic tool handle portion. The handle portion of a hand tool housing is ergonomically configured for normal gripping by a user's hand and wherein the pressure points of contact by at least one predetermined portion of the hand principally contact a relatively soft tactile cushion surface. The handle portion has at least one support structure configured to provide a volume around which the user's hand can grip with the user's thumb, palm and fingers in contact with said volume, wherein the support structure has at least one window located adjacent the predetermined portion, and a cushion structure bonded to the support structure and spanning each window to provide the relatively soft tactile cushion surface.

Abstract: An AC to DC power supply is disclosed which converts an AC input voltage to a DC output voltage and supplies the DC output voltage to power devices. The power supply includes a transformer for reducing a voltage level of the AC input voltage and an energy storage device in the form of a Bolder battery that has low internal resistance and is capable of generating high power generally instantaneously. The energy storage device enables the power supply to meet high electrical loads that exceed the output of the transformer.

Abstract: A cordless powered ratchet wrench includes a ratchet actuator that selects a direction of rotation of an output shaft that is adapted to hold rotating tools for use. The ratchet actuator also serves as a ratcheting stop to permit a limited amount of ratcheting motion for manual tightening or loosening of a nut, bolt or the like. A lost-motion drive transmits power from a battery to the output shaft while permitting nearly two full circles of ratcheting rotation. An external pushbutton operates internal switches to connect a rechargeable battery in a desired direction, and also functions as an interlock to prevent reversal of the direction in which torque is applied while the pushbutton is engaged.

Abstract: A battery charging circuit is operable for recharging batteries in both trickle and fast charge modes. The fast charge mode is initiated and maintained by enabling a silicon controlled rectifier in circuit between a current source and the battery. A capacitor maintains the SCR in the operative state until the battery reaches full charge. A thermostatically controlled switch terminates the fast charge mode. The battery is then trickle charged for an indefinite period. Reversion to the fast charge mode is prevented by discharging the capacitor associated with the SCR when the thermostatically controlled switch opens.

Abstract: A double pole, trigger actuated switch employs a bridge contact and a separate contactor for opening and closing both lines from a source of current to an associated power tool. The bridge contact is always closed first and opened last with respect to the contactor so that the former is not subjected to arcing and may be made smaller and less expensively than the latter. The contactor is of the fast closing type constructed to minimize arcing. A speed control circuit is associated with the contactor. The entire switch, including the speed control circuit, is provided in a compact housing for mounting in small portable hand tools such as electric drills. A heat sink is exposed to the ambient air by virtue of louvers in the switch housing.

Abstract: A cordless electric drill has a housing formed by two clam-shell sections secured together by a plurality of fasteners. These housing sections define a closed motor and gear compartment which receives a sub-assembly, the latter including a generally U-shaped gear box frame mounting a small D.C. electric motor, a plurality of reduction gears and a spindle. A drill chuck is mounted on the spindle. The sub-assembly and the housing sections include co-operating mounting formations, defined in part by projections and cavities, which mounting formations serve to mount the sub-assembly in place in response to securing the clam-shell housing sections together by the aforesaid fasteners.