Abstract: A pressure locking clamp includes a base, a hook arm, and a clasp arm. An imaginary central plane divides the base into a first and second half. The hook arm pivots on the first half of the base around a first axis parallel to the imaginary central plane. The clasp arm pivots on the second half of the base around a second axis parallel to the imaginary central plane. The hook and clasp arms each includes a lock contact area. In a closed state of the pressure locking clamp, the hook and clasp arms and the base together form an eye enclosure. In the closed state, pressure inside the eye enclosure presses the lock contact area of the clasp arm against the lock contact area of the hook arm, and this inhibits the hook and clasp arms from pivoting away from each other, reinforcing the eye enclosure.

Abstract: A apparatus for monitoring the integrity of an electrical wire includes a clamp system, a sensor system, a user interface configured to receive input data and output wire information, and a control unit configured to process the wire data, process the input data, and generate the output wire information. The clamp system includes a clamp and the sensor system includes a sensor configured to retrieve the wire data. In another embodiment, a portable device is configured to obtain wire data from a smart clamping system, to transmit the wire data to a processor and to receive a multi-dimensional representation, and a computer system configured to receive the wire data generated and to generate the multi-dimensional representation of the wire. A method for monitoring a wire includes capturing wire data using a clamp, transmitting the wire data to a control unit, generating wire information to output, and outputting the wire information.

Abstract: A wing panel assembly system includes a wing build station, a stringer staging station, and an overhead gantry sub-system including stringer lifting assemblies having lifting mechanisms and end effectors. The end effector has a stringer holder engaging and holding a stringer. The end effector has an actuator operable to move the stringer holder in at least one direction relative to the lifting mechanism. Each stringer lifting assembly is configured to move the stringer from the stringer staging station to the wing build station located relative to a surface of a skin of the wing panel to place the stringer onto the skin of the wing panel in a determined location.

Abstract: A spacer grid welding fixture comprises a frame sized to receive an assembled spacer grid comprising a first set of parallel straps and a second set of parallel straps oriented orthogonally to the first set of parallel straps, the first and second sets of parallel straps interlocked together by slots cut into the straps. A first set of grid engagement bars is placed on a first side of the spacer grid with each grid engagement bar arranged parallel with the straps of the first set of parallel straps and engaging the straps of the second set of parallel straps. A second set of grid engagement bars is placed on an opposite second side of the spacer grid with each grid engagement bar arranged parallel with the straps of the second set of parallel straps and engaging the straps of the first set of parallel straps.

Abstract: Wired connector assembly systems and methods involve fixing a connector in an assembly station and following, by an assembler, a set of instructions indicating a set of wires and a respective set of terminal portions of the connector in which the set of wires are to be seated. A controller of the assembly station then monitors a pulling force on the connector via each seated wire to verify proper wire-terminal portion seating. After completing the set of instructions, including verifying each proper wire-terminal portion seating, the connector is released from the assembly station and a fully assembled wired connector is obtained.

Abstract: A pipe clamp has a base with a fixed jaw and a beam extending from the base. A movable jaw member is slidably mounted on the beam. The movable jaw member includes a movable jaw disposed opposite the fixed jaw. A pivotable handle is mounted to the movable jaw member and a clamping mechanism is connected to the pivotable handle and operated by the pivotable handle to move the movable jaw relative to the fixed jaw. A latch secures the pivotable handle in any of a plurality of positions. A tripod stand may be provided for supporting the pipe clamp, the tripod having a multi-compartment storage spreader.

Abstract: A component-removal tool assembly is configured to remove a component from a mandrel assembly, and may include a main frame, and a plurality of rotational input devices extending from the main frame. Each rotational input device may be operatively coupled to a respective plunger that is configured to be actuated against a portion of the mandrel assembly. A synchronizing link synchronously couples the rotational input devices together. The synchronizing link operates to synchronize movement of the plurality of rotational input devices. Movement of one or more of the rotational input devices causes the plungers coupled thereto to exert a uniform and consistent disconnecting force against the mandrel assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for lightening of thin, flexible and shaped workpieces by removal machining of material from surfaces thereof, on a machining unit having a worktable and a counterthrust member which rests against a part of the surface of the workpiece opposed to the one on which said tool must work from time to time. The worktable includes a support member of the workpiece to be machined, and gripping mechanism which supports the workpiece during its machining independently of the support mechanism. The counterthrust mechanism includes a board movable according to several axes and carrying a plurality of supporting elements. The supporting elements can be individually translated or in groups between a draw-in position and an extended position to define a supporting plane depending on the shape of the surface of the workpiece against which the counterthrust mechanism rests. A method is also provided for mapping the workpiece surface.

Abstract: A portable directional tree feller is an apparatus used to brace a tree that is being felled and to control it is lowered to the ground. The apparatus comprises a trunk cradle, a notch hinge, a stump cradle, an actuator, a counterfort, and a ground support. The trunk cradle braces the cut portion of a felled tree, and the stump cradle braces the rooted portion of the felled tree. The trunk cradle is pivotally connected to the stump cradle by the notch hinge. The ground support is used to brace the apparatus against the ground and is perpendicularly connected the stump cradle. The counterfort is used to buttress the right angle created between the ground support and the stump cradle. The actuator is pivotally connected to both the ground support and the trunk brace and provides the mechanical power to raise and lower the cut portion with trunk brace.

Abstract: A strap wrench is used to drive a cylindrical object and contains: a handle including two recesses and a longitudinal slot; a strap including a first end portion and a second end portion which are inserted into the two recesses; a guiding rod longitudinally inserted into the handle; a supporting block rotatably connected with a first segment and located inside the strap; a movable member disposed on the guiding rod and moving between a first position and a second position, the movable member joining with the strap; a push switch slidably fixed in the longitudinal slot and rotatably connected with the movable member; and a spring for pushing the movable member to move toward the second position. Thereby, the movable member is driven by the engaging block to move between the first position and the second position so as to operate the strap wrench easily.

Abstract: A modular V-support holder including a rigid holder arm and strap, wherein the rigid holder arm and the strap are configured to releasably retain one or more items therein. The holder is attachable to a track mount and the track mount is slidingly received in a mounting track such that the clamp is moveable and adjustable with respect to the mounting track. The rigid holder arm includes a strap post configured to receive a distal end of the strap. The strap is flexible to conform to the one or more items retained in the holder. The track mount is a flexible finger anchor block constructed to be manually deformed and inserted in the track. The mounting protrusion is inserted into a receiving recess of the flexible finger anchor block and the holder is rotated substantially 90° to secure the mounting protrusion and holder into the flexible finger anchor block.

Abstract: A ski tip hold down assembly for holding the tip end of the ski. The ski tip hold down assembly having a base attached to a work bench and an upright stand affixed to the base. The upright stand having a ski rest on a top surface thereof and a ski tip hold down bar secured to the upright stand in spaced apart relation to the ski rest defining an opening adapted to receive a ski tip, with the ski oriented in a base-up configuration, with the ski tip extending underneath the ski tip hold down bar. The apparatus further including a tail rest assembly having a base adapted to be used on the work bench in spaced apart relation to the ski tip hold down assembly and further including an upright stand affixed to the base with a ski rest provided on a top surface thereof.

Abstract: A pipe vise stand and system for increasing the size capacity of the pipe vise stand are described. Upon incorporation of the system in a pipe vise stand, the stand can accommodate pipes of significantly larger diameter. The system includes a pipe support member which is configured to be positioned on a vise base of the stand. The system also includes a jackscrew extender that provides or relocates a jackscrew associated with the stand to a lateral position alongside the stand. Related provisions and methods are also described.

Abstract: The table saw mill trolley rolls on rails. A log holder is pivotally attached to the trolley for pivotal movement about first and second axes. A support is fixed to the holder. A log tensioner and log indexer are attached to the support. Centering pins on the tensioner and indexer engage log ends. The trolley supports a log with an indexing shaft axis transverse to the blade axis. A first slot is cut in the log. The log is pivoted about the first axis and the trolley is returned to the start. The log is rotated about the second axis and then pivoted about the first axis to support by the trolley. A second slot that intersects the first slot is cut forming a first log flat surface.

Abstract: An exhaust system includes an exhaust fan having a frame within which fan blades and a motor are secured. The frame includes an upper sidewall, a bottom sidewall, a first lateral sidewall and a second lateral sidewall, defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening on opposite sides of the frame. A flexible exhaust boot is secured to the frame of the exhaust fan adjacent the outlet opening. The exhaust boot is a flexible piece of material having a substantially tubular configuration with a first end having an opening and a second end having an opening. A support assembly secures the exhaust fan and exhaust boot in position adjacent an opening. The support assembly includes a vertical bracket having a first end and a second end, and an outwardly extending support block is mounted at the first end of the vertical bracket. The support assembly also includes a horizontal bracket extending substantially perpendicular to the vertical bracket.

Abstract: A log holder for holding a log, tree or other piece of wood in a raised position above the ground to enable the log, tree or other piece of wood to be cut into pieces is disclosed. The log holder comprises a support member arranged to provide a fulcrum on which a log can be supported and about which the log can be pivoted. Stop means is provided and is adapted to adjustably secure strap means, the strap means being adapted to wrap in a loop around a log to hold the log in a cantilevered position between the strap means and the support member, wherein the stop means is adapted to enable the size of a loop of the strap means wrapped around a log resting on the support means to be decreased but not increased.

Abstract: A vise apparatus with a bending fixture is disclosed in which the bending fixture includes a collection of projections on an operative and substantially vertical front face of a holding arrangement of the vise apparatus. The bending fixture supports and enables gravity assisted bending of a workpiece. The vise apparatus promotes bending workpieces with reduced effort and minimizes manufacturing costs.

Abstract: A vertical mounted motor hoist and a method of hoisting a motor are provided. The motor hoist includes a threaded eye bolt for lifting the motor hoist; a sleeve threaded inside one end, and attached and held to the threaded eyebolt by means of a threaded plug and dowel pins and welding; and two safety chains for placement around the motor, each safety chain attachable to the sleeve by means of two oppositely positioned pinch bolts, each pinch bolt having a welded nut welded on to the sleeve and a jam nut tightened against the welded nuts.

Abstract: A ball joint assembly that is a movable mount for a work holding device for holding an item, such as a rifle or pistol, where the ball joint assembly is for seating on, or mounting onto, a table top, bench, or like surface. The ball joint assembly includes a cylindrical housing slotted on opposite sides thereof from a center opening in the housing top and contains a ball that rests on a plunger top end of a jacking screw that is turned in a round nut by a lever arm, and the ball joint assembly is fitted into the housing. Turning of the lever arm that is fitted through a housing lateral slot extends the plunger top into the ball, lifting the ball to lock it against a housing top concave surface, and which ball includes a stem extending through the housing top to tilt between the slots and pivot when the ball in unlocked, and the ball stem end includes a tool mounting for connection to the work holding devices.

Abstract: An apparatus for attaching a device to a circular structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a clamp body attached to the outer surface of the circular structure using a strap, which can be attached to the clamp body using a spring that maintains an attachment force to prevent movement of the clamp body over a wide range of temperatures and temperature cycling of the circular structure and the strap. In one embodiment, the device can be installed in the clamp body and coupled to the outer surface of the circular structure using one or more spring washers that maintain an attachment force between the device and the outer surface of the circular structure to prevent detachment of the device from the outer surface of the circular structure over a wide range of temperatures and temperature cycling of the circular structure.

Abstract: A holding apparatus for securing an object is disclosed. The holding apparatus secures the object allowing access to the object from different angles and positions. The holding apparatus can be rotated while the object is attached providing access to different areas of the object. The holding apparatus can easily and quickly secure the object.

Abstract: A workpiece clamping device for clamping a workpiece during machining is provided. The workpiece may be a turbine blade in the region of the blade airfoil. The workpiece clamping device includes a basic body with a workpiece seat, wherein provision is made for at least one clamping strap for clamping the workpiece.

Abstract: Embodiments of a mass impact claw bar are disclosed which may be used as a pry bar or as a tool to separate articles such as trim board from wallboard. The device has a substantially vertical claw at one end and a substantially horizontal claw at the other end. Force is applied to either claw by moving a slidable mass slidably affixed to the claw bar.

Abstract: A billet loader for extrusion presses includes a pair of billet grippers supported by two arms. While the first arm is fixed in relation to the supporting structure, the second arm is mobile in relation to the first arm allowing a translational motion along the axis of the billet. The arms are joined together by a chain, which is parallel to the billet-press axis, consisting of links that allow bending in one direction only to form a rigid and continuous supporting device for the billet along its entire length. The billet can consist of one or more workpieces. The chain can be wound in the opposite direction around a rod.

Abstract: A tiltable-rotatable circular-table device for a machine tool includes a rotary-driving motor which is fixed to a tiltable table and is for rotating a circular table disposed above the tiltable table; a motor cover which is fixed to the main frame and is for housing the rotary-driving motor; and cables connected with the rotary-driving motor. The tiltable-rotatable circular-table device further includes a cable guide whose one end is fixed to the motor cover and the other end is fixed on a periphery of the rotary-driving motor. The cable guide is housed in the motor cover and is capable of surrounding at least a portion of the periphery of the rotary-driving motor so as to guide the cables in a direction in which the cables extend. The cable guide is bendable mainly in its thickness direction at multiple sections thereof such that the cable guide is capable of surrounding the rotary-driving motor.

Abstract: A lifting apparatus for a motorcycle and a fastener. The lifting apparatus comprises a lifter and a fastener arranged in the lifter. The fastener comprises two supports located at a distance from each other whose upper end is provided with fastening elements for seizing footpegs/footboard of the motorcycle. The lifting apparatus further comprises at least one stabilizing member for preventing the motorcycle from tilting in a longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A cleanroom lift for maneuvering large objects such as turbomolecular pumps utilized in semiconductor processing applications is provided. In one embodiment, the lift includes a vertically movable carriage coupled to a linkage assembly. The linkage assembly has a first link and a second link. Each link has one piece construction to minimize deflection under load. The first link is coupled to the carriage by a carriage shaft assembly and to the second link by a linkage shaft assembly. The second link is coupled to the linkage shaft assembly and a gripper assembly. Optionally, a third link and second shaft assembly may be disposed between the gripper assembly and the second link to minimize the weight of the links to facilitate assembly in cleanroom environments.

Abstract: Apparatus for holding a ski in a stable horizontal position during ski base preparation and maintenance, which apparatus also employs means permitting the ski to be placed in an edge-up orientation and held there in a stable manner for ski edge maintenance procedures. A three-point arrangement includes two ski end supports and an intermediate device which secures the ski to a work station while retracting and holding the ski brake. The apparatus is portable and adaptable for use with all skis having a ski brake.

Abstract: A clamp for aligning the confronting ends of two or more workpieces, preparatory to their permanent joining. This clamp utilizes a chain of cruciform cross-section, and one or more alignment apparatuses, to encompass and secure the first workpiece, and align the remaining connecting workpiece(s). The chain may be fitted to the first workpiece, using color coding to select added chain-link sections for larger workpieces. Each alignment apparatus is slid on the chain, and secured by a spring-biased detent. The chain is then secured about the first workpiece. The alignment apparatus overlies the connecting workpieces, which are then aligned for joining, using one or more adjustable fasteners mounted on the alignment apparatus.

Abstract: A clamping device for aligning confronting ends of a pair of pipe members having a joint therebetween, provides a support member for acting against one of the pipe members, a flexible clamping member having a first and second end and of such length as substantially to encircle one of said pipe members when positioned adjacent to the joint; an anchor member axially moveable relative to the support member; a coupler for releaseably coupling the first end of the clamp member to the anchor member; attachment device carried by the anchor member for releasable attachment of a portion of the clamp member that has been attached to the coupler, a section of the clamp member forming a loop. The section selected to be in conjunction with the support member to clampingly encircle, substantially, the circumference of one of the pipe members.

Abstract: Apparatus for holding a ski in a stable horizontal position during ski base preparation and maintenance, which apparatus also employs means permitting the ski to be placed in an edge-up orientation and held there in a stable manner for ski edge maintenance procedures. A three-point arrangement includes two ski end supports and an intermediate device which secures the ski to a work station while retracting and holding the ski brake. The apparatus is portable and adaptable for use with all skis having a ski brake.

Abstract: A tool to reduce the rotational force on a pipe to be held in a chain vise includes a curvilinear or inverted V-shaped base which saddles the pipe to be held. A U-shaped frame is mounted to the base such that one or more roller bearings may be mounted between the opposing sides of the U-shaped frame. The roller bearings provide a bearing surface for the chain of the chain vise, allowing the chain to be tensioned without applying torque to the pipe to be held. A pair of the tools may be spaced apart upon the periphery of a large pipe with the chain passing over the roller bearings of each tool.

Abstract: A fly tying vise provides a three point engagement with a hook by use of an anvil having an aperture therein. An elongate engagement member slides inwardly and outwardly relative to the aperture, and includes a slot therein for receiving a portion of the hook therethrough. Translation of the engagement member controls the degree of engagement of the hook by the vise. The vise support post is curved away from the user to provide room for the user's hands during use.

Abstract: A tool support for mounting a working tool on a pipe comprises a base having inverted V-shaped saddle portions engaging the pipe and a clamping chain extending between opposite sides of the base for clamping the base on a pipe. A first end of the chain is mounted on one side of the base by a biasing spring arrangement which provides for limited displacement of the end in the direction of tensioning of the chain, and the free end of the chain is adapted to be releasably interengaged with an adjusting mechanism on the opposite side of the base and by which the chain is tensioned to clamp the base against a pipe. A pipe drilling tool is removably mounted on the base and includes a handle by which the tool can be carried and supported during mounting on and dismounting from the base and by which the base and tool can be carried as a unit.

Abstract: An alignment device for use in welding which includes a saddle style support which rests upon a first pipe. A second pipe is clamped to the saddle style support in an orientation substantially perpendicular to the first pipe upon which the saddle style support rests. The second pipe serves as a carrier member of a fitting, such as a weldolet. Cinch straps can be used with the saddle style support to facilitate welding on the underside of horizontal pipes or on vertical pipes.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a workpiece, such as an automobile bumper, comprising a support base, a top frame attached thereto, a crossbar mounted to the top frame for supporting the workpiece and a stabilizing device for securing the workpiece to the apparatus. The top frame further comprises a central portion and a plurality of arms extending therefrom. The plurality of arms may further comprise a first pair of spaced apart arms each having a first end attached to the support base and a free second end opposite the first end. A crossbar is attached to each of the free second ends of the pair of spaced apart arms. The apparatus further includes a stabilizing device attached to the apparatus for stabilizing the workpiece positioned thereon. The apparatus may include an adjustment mechanism comprising a rod having spaced apart ends received within a pair of aligned bores, and a retainer positioned intermediate the ends for positioning the top frame in a plurality of user selectable orientations.

Abstract: A portable work platform is provided for attachment to a stationary object such as a ladder. The platform includes a frame, a clamp to retain the frame to a stationary object, a vise for retaining a work piece and a guide for retaining the free end of an elongate work piece.

Abstract: A martial arts practice apparatus which supports a hand-held striking target, called a focus pad, in a variety of positions corresponding to parts of a person's body. The apparatus generally comprises an arm adapted to hold a focus pad at its distal end and a base which pivotally supports the arm and absorbs the force of the blows delivered to the focus pad. An axle disposed through the middle of the base and the bottom end of the arm allows the arm to be pivoted over the base, and a removable pin may be inserted through the arm and one of the holes formed at regular intervals through the top edge of the base at a uniform radial distance from the axle to secure the arm in a fixed position. A spring loaded resistance system or a resilient top portion of the base allows the base to absorb the force of the blows delivered to the focus pad.

Abstract: A plumber's tool for the removal of snap-mount faucet-type handles without damaging the finish of the faucet handle. The tool includes a support member, a lever handle and a wire that can be secured to both the support member and the lever arm such that the wire can be looped around a snap-mount faucet handle and positioned in the gap between the faucet handle and faucet body. When the lever handle is pivoted and tension is increased, the loop in the pop-off wire is positioned in a gap between the faucet body and the faucet handle, causing the faucet handle to separate from the faucet body without scratching or damaging the finish of the faucet.

Abstract: Dual posts mounted to a base with a support bar with a winch on one end fastened at right angles to the rearward side of the dual posts and a non stretchable belt fastened at a beginning end to one of the posts and pulled around the cylinder to be immobilized into a winch thereby allowing the cylinder to be held immobile by the force of the belt pushing the cylinder against the posts when the winch is tightened.

Abstract: To improve a strap clamping device comprising a clamping strap forming an outer loop to wrap around one or several workpieces, and a tightening device for tightening the outer loop to clamp the workpiece or workpieces, such that it is operable in as convenient a way as possible, it is proposed that the tightening device comprise a base element supported on the loop with a guide opening through which the loop is guided, that the tightening device include a pull element, that the pull element and the base element be moveable relative to each other by means of an adjusting device, and that the loop run between the base element and the pull element and engage the pull element such that upon relative movement of the base element and the pull element, the outer loop is tightenable under the effect of a double pulley.

Abstract: There is provided a multi purpose tool to assist in the repair and adjustment of eye glasses, the tool having a body portion and clamping member moveable into and out of a clamping relationship with the body, the clamping member being a wire like member. The tool is particularly useful for mounting the flexible type of temple having a spring member onto the main body of the eyeglass.

Abstract: A ring compressor is provided including a resilient compression band for encircling, and applying a compression force to, the ring, and a band actuation device connected to the compression band for moving the compression band between a decompressed position in which the band ends are spaced and a compressed position in which the band ends are positioned in end to end, nonoverlapping abutment preventing further compression of the ring. The band actuation device may include an outer band encircling the resilient compression band and a hand operated lever assembly. The outer band provides radial support to the ends of the compression band to guide the first and second ends radially into abutment. A ring end axial alignment device may also be provided for guiding the ends of the compression band into axially aligned abutment when in the compressed position.

Abstract: A rotatable apparatus for servicing or repair of snowmobiles. The apparatus includes a frame or rack, having a pair of generally parallel curved frame members which are located along a side of the snowmobile. Adjustable connecting bars connect the corresponding upper and lower ends of the curved frame members together. A base plate is secured to the lower end of the front frame member and is disposed to be positioned beneath a ski of the snowmobile. A pair of clamping screws are connected to a bracket attached to the front frame member and are adapted to clamp the ski against the base plate. An adjustable cushioned support member is connected to the front frame member above the base plate and is adapted to engage the suspension of the snowmobile, while a rear support member is connected to the rear frame member and is positioned to engage the running board and seat of the snowmobile. A flexible strap connects opposite sides of the snowmobile to the frame.

Abstract: A clamping strap for use particularly in a fabricating process of wood, metal or plastic includes a strap for encompassing the work piece and a folded adjuster plate in the strap, having a threaded eye bolt and wing nut to vary the distance between the legs of the adjuster thereby changing the force applied to the work piece by the strap. The adjuster will allow discrete changes in the force applied.

Abstract: A belt clamp stabilizing an intact belt while it encompasses a pulley formed from a rear plate, front plate, 2 cams, and a center block with griping surfaces. The clamp is easily attached to an existing belt without having two cut an additional belt. A breaker bar may be attached to the Belt Clamp to stabilize the clamp and the pulley to which the belt is attached while the nut or bolt holding the pulley to the pulley shaft is loosened or tightened.

Abstract: A clamp comprising first and second spaced supports on either side of a clamping surface and a flexible strap having first and second ends extending between the spaced supports. A carriage system is provided to allow the flexible strap to be moved toward or away from the clamping surface to engage and clamp articles between the flexible strap and the clamping surface. The flexible strap forms about the articles to be clamped thereby ensuring a good clamping grip. The clamp is particularly suited for use in clamping logs in a delivery chute during processing operations.

Abstract: A buffing fixture and structure for supporting large and thin metal skins during a finishing operation. The structure includes a plurality of individual form fixtures, at least one trunnion table mounted for rotation along a horizontally disposed axis, and a motor for causing the rotation of the trunnion table. Each of the form fixtures is comprised of a frame having at least one brace which extends outwardly from the frame, a form shell mounted to the frame such that the interior surface is in contact with a longitudinal edge of the brace, and a layer of foam disposed substantially along the entire interior surface of the form shell in order to support the surface area of the form shell. The form shell has a three dimensional shape which follows the three dimensional shape of the metal skin to be finished.

Abstract: A fully portable device for breaking the bead of a rubber tire from a wheel rim comprises an adjustable closeable loop strap mechanism, adapted to loop around a section of the wheel and tire, in a plane generally radial from the center of the wheel. The device includes a power screw link that is positioned directly over a portion of the tire sidewall, such that a foot on a power screw threaded into and through the link can engage the tire sidewall adjacent the rim. With the loop strap mechanism tightened down around the wheel and tire, turning the power screw urges the tire sidewall inwardly to pull the bead away from the wheel rim.An urging tool is also provided for insertion into the gap between the rim and the bead to pry or otherwise leverage the bead up and over the annular safety flange of "safety rim" type cycle wheels.

Abstract: A reconfiguration table, for holding and supporting a contoured workpiece while work is performed thereon comprising a frame defining a perimeter and a plane; a plurality of support elements disposed in spaced array within the frame perimeter, each element having an end and being independently translatable in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane, the ends of the elements cooperating to define a support surface for the workpiece; clamp members, supported by the frame, for selectively locking the elements in position to define the support surface; attaching members, supported by the frame independently of the support elements, for holding the workpiece on the support surface; and a gear reducer and motor for rotating the frame with the workpiece supported thereon about an axis parallel to the plane of the frame.