Abstract: A direction selector mechanism for a hand-held power tool that includes internal linkages that move an actuation point of a direction selection from above the trigger (as in previous tools) to a top of the tool. For example, the control for the direction selector mechanism includes a direction toggle positioned on a top of the tool, and that is movable by a user to select either of first and second rotational directions (e.g. clockwise and counter-clockwise). This position/location allows the user to select or change between the first and second rotational directions with a user's thumb for both direction changes, in either hand ambidextrously, and places the trigger actuation higher up in the tool, closer to the axis of output of the tool.

Abstract: A tool with two sequential gear trains and gear carrier assemblies adapted to be recessed into internal gears. The internal gear assembly also prevents rotation of the internal gear assembly relative to a housing of the tool. For example, the internal gear assembly can include a first gear train and second gear train sequentially coupled to the first gear train, wherein a first ring gear and first planet gears of the first gear train are substantially similar to a second ring gear and second planet gears of the second gear train.

Abstract: The present invention relates broadly to pneumatic tools, such as a sander, that provide an optimum output speed and has significant stall torque to reduce the risk of the tool from stalling during use. The tool includes a coupled gear set that drives an output accessory, such as an abrasive pad, at an optimum speed without loss of power or power reduction, and with an amplified stall torque. The coupled gear set may include a first gear set that functions as a speed reducer, and a second gear set that functions as a speed increaser.

Abstract: A tool having a housing with a motor housing portion having a motor disposed therein. A groove is formed in the motor housing portion and is disposed proximate an output axis of the tool. The groove is adapted to receive an index finger of a user, and a trigger adapted to operate the motor is adapted to be operated by a middle finger of the user.

Abstract: A direction selector mechanism for a hand-held power tool that includes internal linkages that move an actuation point of a direction selection from above the trigger (as in previous tools) to a top of the tool. For example, the control for the direction selector mechanism includes a direction toggle positioned on a top of the tool, and that is movable by a user to select either of first and second rotational directions (e.g. clockwise and counter-clockwise). This position/location allows the user to select or change between the first and second rotational directions with a user's thumb for both direction changes, in either hand ambidextrously, and places the trigger actuation higher up in the tool, closer to the axis of output of the tool.

Abstract: A tool with two sequential gear trains and gear carrier assemblies adapted to be recessed into internal gears. The internal gear assembly also prevents rotation of the internal gear assembly relative to a housing of the tool. For example, the internal gear assembly can include a first gear train and second gear train sequentially coupled to the first gear train, wherein a first ring gear and first planet gears of the first gear train are substantially similar to a second ring gear and second planet gears of the second gear train.

Abstract: A tool, such as, a socket, that is adapted to remove a stripped or otherwise difficult to remove fastener. The socket includes a body having first and second ends, a first axial bore in the first end adapted to receive the stripped or cylindrical fastener head, and one or more cutting channels in the body between the first and second ends forming internal cutting edges adapted to engage the stripped or cylindrical fastener head. The one or more cutting apertures may have an elongated diamond-like shape and extend a portion of the way around the body and toward the second end.

Abstract: A tool, such as, a socket, that is adapted to remove a stripped or otherwise difficult to remove fastener. The socket includes a body having first and second ends, a first axial bore in the first end adapted to receive the stripped or cylindrical fastener head, and one or more cutting channels in the body between the first and second ends forming internal cutting edges adapted to engage the stripped or cylindrical fastener head. The one or more cutting apertures may have an elongated diamond-like shape and extend a portion of the way around the body and toward the second end.