Abstract: A ratcheting handle having a ratchet device, an asymmetrical, triangular-shaped grip, and a tool adapter connected to the grip by the ratchet device, and a selector for changing the ratcheting direction of the ratchet device. The selector has a cylindrical wall that surrounds the tool adapter, guides the tool into engagement with the tool adapter, and stabilizes the tool when the grip is being rotated. The tool may be a conventional socket tool or a universal socket tool having a plurality of pins that are closely packed in parallel to each other and which move in accordance with the size of the fastener. The grip includes a first gripping portion extending below the rotational axis of the ratchet device and a second gripping portion extending above the rotational axis.

Abstract: A ratcheting handle having a ratchet device, an asymmetrical, triangular-shaped grip, and a tool adapter connected to the grip by the ratchet device, and a selector for changing the ratcheting direction of the ratchet device. The selector has a cylindrical wall that surrounds the tool adapter, guides the tool into engagement with the tool adapter, and stabilizes the tool when the grip is being rotated. The tool may be a conventional socket tool or a universal socket tool having a plurality of pins that are closely packed in parallel to each other and which move in accordance with the size of the fastener. The grip includes a first gripping portion extending below the rotational axis of the ratchet device and a second gripping portion extending above the rotational axis.

Abstract: A heavy duty, large self-forming socket having a plurality of retractable gripping pins bundled in parallel and held in a frame within a housing is disclosed. The frame is positioned axially within the housing by radially extending, elongated hold elements that are positioned circumferentially around the housing. Slots in the housing exterior allow efficient inspection of the position of holes into which the hold elements are installed. A collar with shelf around the center pin protects the bias spring for the pin from over-compression. The gripping pins may be held to the frame by spring clips and/or a resilient O-ring. An adaptor is attached wherein a secondary operation is used to remove the adaptor from the square end of the socket. The self-forming socket is well suited for use with valves and controls for water, gas, sewage conduits and piping.

Abstract: A torque applying tool with a removable adaptor for actuating an underground valve of a fluid-carrying conduit, such as a water main, gas line, petroleum pipeline, etc. The adaptor has a hollow cylindrical sleeve for receiving an elongate rod of a T-bar tool, the rod and the sleeve being removably connected to each other by a bolt. The adaptor of the T-bar is configured to engage with a socket tool for application of torque to a valve, the adaptor including a nib shaped to closely fit within an opening in the socket tool. To prevent the socket from sliding off the adaptor during use, an optional spring loaded detent is provided on the adaptor to retain the socket in releasable connection with the T-bar.

Abstract: A heavy duty, large self-forming socket having a plurality of retractable gripping pins bundled in parallel and held in a frame within a housing is disclosed. The frame is positioned axially within the housing by radially extending, elongated hold elements that are positioned circumferentially around the housing. Slots in the housing exterior allow efficient inspection of the position of holes into which the hold elements are installed. A collar with shelf around the center pin protects the bias spring for the pin from over-compression. The gripping pins may be held to the frame by spring clips and/or a resilient O-ring. An adaptor is attached wherein a secondary operation is used to remove the adaptor from the square end of the socket. The self-forming socket is well suited for use with valves and controls for water, gas, sewage conduits and piping.

Abstract: An article, such as a power tool, that includes a housing, a motor, and an anti-theft device is provide. The anti-theft device may be disposed within the housing or within a cavity located in the housing and may be enclosed by a covering, such as an adhesive label. Alternatively, the anti-theft device may be affixed to or contained within a cord strap. For example, the anti-theft device may be housed within a clip that attaches the cord strap to the power cord of the article. The anti-theft device may be located on a component of the article remote from the motor to decrease the likelihood that the anti-theft device will be deactivated by a magnetic or electromagnetic field generated by the motor. In addition, a method is provided for deterring the theft of electronic articles. The method includes placing an anti-theft device inside an article that contains a motor and activating the anti-theft device by passing the article through a magnetic field with the device having an appropriate polarity.

Abstract: A tool assembly includes a multi-purpose tool, an adaptor and a socket wrench. The multi-purpose tool includes a body that contains implements such as knives, openers, scissors and other such devices. A fixed plier jaw extends from the body, and a movable plier jaw pivots about the body to a closed position against the fixed plier jaw. The closed plier jaws include an opening that surrounds and engages a driven section of the adaptor. The driven section includes an elongated cross-section to form a long torque arm within the closed jaw opening. A flange at each end of the driven section holds the adaptor in an axial direction. A universal socket may be attached to the driven end of the adaptor to provide a wrench suitable for many fastener shapes.