Abstract: Gear sets and methods for speed transformation are provided. In one aspect, an input gear is attached to an input motor shaft and a plurality of gear elements comprising an output element cooperatively engage the input gear, wherein a bearing means disposed about the input motor shaft supports the plurality of gear elements upon the motor shaft, the input motor shaft thereby functioning as a torque arm for the plurality of gear elements, the bearing means transferring an operational load comprising a total operative torque load of the gear set to an input motor through the motor shaft. In one aspect the bearing means comprises inner and outer high-speed bearings, and inner and outer disc bodies are disposed about the high-speed bearings and supported by the high-speed bearings. Embodiments include planetary gear and harmonic gear structures, and multistage gear sets.

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.