Angularly Adjustable Handle Patents (Class 81/177.8)
  • Patent number: 7922719
    Abstract: A two piece, adjustable angle handle for a surgical instrument, capable of easy adjustment to a number of angles, permitting the handle of the instrument to be grasped with one hand, and the other hand to guide the operating end of the instrument, said handle permanently affixed to an instrument, or capable if attachment to a number of different instruments by means of a firm but releasable fastening to the shaft of the instrument, as with a Hudson fitting; the adjustable angle fastening comprising a radial array of teeth as in a ratchet wheel and a reverse scissor pawl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: BioDynamics, LLC
    Inventors: James D. Ralph, Thomas N. Troxell, Stephen L. Tater
  • Publication number: 20110072941
    Abstract: A hand tool with an adjusting device includes a tool head having an engaging portion formed thereon. A handle is pivotally connected to the engaging portion. The handle has a chamber and a cavity defined therein. An adjusting device includes an engaging member and a spring movably received in the chamber. The spring tends to urge the engaging member toward the tool head. The adjusting device includes a positioning member and an elastomer movably received in the cavity. The positioning member has a recess defined therein and an inclined surface formed thereon. Accordingly, the tool head is able to pivotally rotate relative to the handle for adjusting to a desired angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Ming-Ching Tsai
  • Publication number: 20110067530
    Abstract: A multi-function tool includes an extendible and retractable portion that becomes offset from a centerline position of the handle when in the offset position. A locking mechanism allows the workman to offset the shaft from a centerline position of the handle, or retract the shaft back into the handle into a centerline position. While the shaft is in the extended and offset position, the shaft rotates freely in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. When the shaft is retracted in the straight centerline position, a ratchet mechanism or gear box restricts shaft rotation in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, or allows rotation in either direction. The shaft can be extended and offset by means of a spring or other device that allows the locking mechanism to offset automatically or semi-automatically when the locking mechanism is activated. The shaft allows the workman to interchange bits or sockets for multiple applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventor: Eric Matthew Alvarez
  • Publication number: 20110056335
    Abstract: A wrench includes a handle, a yoke, a shaft, a head, a mandrel, a first transmitting unit and a second transmitting unit. The shaft includes a first section securely connected to the handle and a second section rotationally inserted in the yoke. The head is pivotally connected to the yoke. The mandrel is inserted through the head. The first transmitting unit can be used to transmit a small torque to the mandrel from the handle spun relative to the yoke. The second transmitting unit can be used together with the first transmitting unit to transmit a large torque to the mandrel from the handle pivoted together with the yoke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Da-Sen LIN
  • Publication number: 20110017028
    Abstract: A bending structure of a hand tool includes a grip part. A bottom rim of an end of the grip part is formed with an actuating slot having an actuating rod. Side walls of an actuating part have respectively a wall pushing the actuating rod away from the actuating slot and a notch receiving the actuating rod in the actuating slot. By the aforementioned structures, a swiveling head can rotate freely or be fixed at a specific position by toggling a knob.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Shao-Fan Kuo
  • Patent number: 7866235
    Abstract: A multi-angle tool handle including a handle device, a connecting device and a locking unit adapted for connecting an interconnecting element to the handle device. The locking unit is moveable between a first position and a second position. When the locking unit is in the first position, the interconnecting element is able to pivot and slide with respect to the handle device. And when the locking unit is in the second position, the interconnecting element is fixed with respect to the handle device in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventor: Fanny Hi
  • Publication number: 20100307297
    Abstract: A tool includes a shank, a driving device mounted on the first end of the shank and including a first ratcheting mechanism including a compartment and a plurality of first teeth in the compartment, and a second ratcheting mechanism rotatably received in the compartment and including a plurality of second teeth engaged with the plurality of first teeth. The first ratcheting mechanism is rotatable relative to the second ratcheting mechanism in a single direction. The second ratcheting mechanism also includes a channel extending therein. A driving head is moveably received in the channel between two releasably fixed positions. In one position, the driving head is adapted to turn an element in a first direction. In another position, the driving head is adapted to turn the element in the second position opposite to the first position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventor: Jung-Chi Chiang
  • Patent number: 7841262
    Abstract: A positioning device for a hand tool includes a handle having a first connecting portion formed a chamber defined therein, a positioning member movably received in the chamber, and a tool head pivotally connected to the first connecting portion. The first connecting portion has a threaded hole. A rotatable plate has a threaded shank extended therefrom. The threaded shank passes through the threaded hole and abuts against the positioning member. The positioning member rigidly engages with the tool head. When the threaded shank is moved away from the positioning member, the tool head is available to be pivotally adjusted at a desired angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventor: Ming-Ching Tsai
  • Publication number: 20100294090
    Abstract: A positioning apparatus for hand tool includes a shank, a driving head, a switch, and a positioning device. The shank has a connecting end having a receiving space and a slot communicated with the receiving space. The driving head has multiple positioning holes. The switch includes a screw. The positioning device is received in the receiving space. The positioning device includes a spring, a pusher, and a base. The base is received in the receiving space. The base has a recess for receiving the spring and the pusher and a slot communicated with the recess. The spring has one end abutting against a bottom of the recess and the other end abutting against the pusher. The screw passes the switch and fastens with the pusher via the slot in the shank and the slot in the base. The pusher selectively engages with one of the multiple positioning holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2009
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventor: Ming-Ching Tsai
  • Publication number: 20100229692
    Abstract: A tubing connector wrench having a rotating hub held by two independent pawls. An open end of the hub and casing of the wrench allows it to engage over a piece of tubing and thereafter be engaged on a tubing connector. The wrench may be employed to turn tubing connectors without removing it for repositioning. The two pawls insure that the hub remains engaged for one way turning of the connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Alberto R. Cubillas
  • Publication number: 20100186557
    Abstract: A wrench with a rotatable head comprises a handle and a head, which are connected via a first and a second ends. The first end includes an upper and a lower lugs. A first toothed hole is formed in the upper lug; a hole is formed in the lower lug. A second toothed hole is formed in the second end. The second end is inserted between the upper and lower lugs and the second toothed hole is located between the first toothed hole and the hole. A toothed pillar is movably engaged in the toothed holes. When in the engagement position, the toothed pillar is engaged with the first and second toothed holes to fix the head and the handle. When in the disengagement position, the toothed pillar is disengaged from the teeth of the first toothed hole but still engaged with the teeth of the second toothed hole, so that the head and handle are rotatable with respect to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventor: Chih-Ching HSIEH
  • Publication number: 20100180733
    Abstract: A wrench having a main body defines a first end, an opposite second end, and an axis extending therebetween. A handle body defines a first end, an opposite second end, and an axis extending therebetween, wherein the handle body first end is pivotally coupled to the main body second end. A handle is axially fixed and rotatably coupled to the handle body second end. A tang, having a first end configured to releasably receive a tool, an opposite second end, and an axis extending therebetween, is pivotally coupled to the main body first end. A detent is received in a recesses defined in one of the handle body first end and the main body second end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas J. Brobst
  • Publication number: 20100162858
    Abstract: An adjustable ratchet system is disclosed. An adjustable ratchet system may include an adjustable ratchet having a handle and a tang attached to the handle. The tang may have a terminal end opposite the handle where the tang may include a plurality of arms extending there from. The adjustable ratchet may also include a ratchet assembly which may include a unidirectional ratcheting drive ratchet and at least one pivot arm. The at least one pivot arm may lie on an axis and the ratchet assembly may rotate 360 degrees about that axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventor: David H. Rogers
  • Patent number: 7743685
    Abstract: A ratchet wrench includes a handle having two spaced pivoting walls, two through holes respectively formed through the pivoting walls, and an inner threaded section provided at one of the through holes with a length shorter than the total length of the through hole. A ratchet head has a pivoting portion disposed between the pivoting walls of the handle and a pivoting hole through two opposite sides of the pivoting portion. A screw runs through the through holes of the handle and the pivoting hole of the ratchet head and is threaded with the inner threaded section of the handle. An urging member is disposed in an accommodation chamber of the ratchet head and sleeved onto the screw with two ends thereof stopped against a periphery wall of the accommodation chamber of the ratchet head and the pivoting wall of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventor: Chih-Min Chang
  • Publication number: 20100154604
    Abstract: A tool with adjustable working angle is provided with a first rod and a second rod which are pivoted to both ends of a connecting member, so the two rods are able to swing with respect to the connecting member. Furthermore, the swing direction of the connecting member with respect to the first rod is the same as the swing direction of the connecting member with respect to the second rod. Hence, through the pivotal motion between the connecting member and the first and second rods, the wrench of the present invention can be adjusted at different working angles so as to adapt to different working environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Cheng-Wei Su
  • Publication number: 20100146801
    Abstract: Tightening device of the screw-nut type includes a tightening member, which can be rotated, and a rotary wrench for this tightening member, equipped with a handling arm. The wrench and the tightening member are joined by a connecting device in such a way that the wrench can swivel in relation to the tightening member around a swivel axis substantially perpendicular to the screwing axis of the tightening member. Thus, it can be placed in a rest position substantially perpendicular to the screwing axis and can rotate the tightening member around the screwing axis or rotated freely in relation to the tightening member around the screwing axis, over a range of angular clearance (a) of at least 170°.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: Pellenc (Societe Anonyme)
    Inventor: Roger Pellenc
  • Patent number: 7735399
    Abstract: A device having an adjustable handle and head is provided, and the device comprises: a pair of handles having opposing top and bottom ends, the top end of each of the handles having a U-shaped component; a head comprising a first and second component, each of the components having opposing top and bottom ends, the top end of each of the components having at least one contact surface, the bottom end of each of the components comprising a protrusion, and the protrusion has a plurality of external slots; the U-shaped component of the handles are designed to interact with the protrusion of the bottom end of each of the first and second components of the head, and the first and second components are connected at a pivot point; and a device for engaging the slots of the protrusion to thereby allow movement of the head and lock the head to a desired position, and the handles are designed to be squeezed together to thereby allow the contact surfaces of the first and the second top ends of the first and second compone
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: IBT Holdings, Inc
    Inventors: Glenn Robinson, Dan M. DeLaRosa
  • Patent number: 7726919
    Abstract: A machine tool includes a driver, a tool holder, and a locking device in the form of, for example, an alignment collar. In use, the machine tool carries a tool, such as a surface refinishing bit, which may be lowered into a workpiece bore, such as a cylinder head valve seat, and subsequently rotated by a machine spindle for resurfacing the bore. The machine tool receives a pilot shaft placed in a reference bore associated with the workpiece bore. The pilot shaft functions to ensure general alignment of the machine tool cutting axis and the refinishing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Rottler Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Brooks Rottler, Anthony R C Usher, Ranjit (Robin) Chera, Andrew Rottler
  • Patent number: 7717016
    Abstract: A tool handle for an exchangeable screwdriver includes a handle, a retaining unit and a control unit. The retaining unit is mounted in one end of the handle. The retaining unit has a retaining hole defined therein and extending therethrough. The retaining unit has a recess defined in a lateral thereof and communicated with the retaining hole. The retaining unit has at least one connecting portion disposed between the recess and the retaining hole. The control unit is received in the recess. The control unit has at least one resilient arm extending therefrom. The at least one resilient arm passes the recess and is abutted against the at least one connecting portion to selectively extend to the retaining hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventor: Jin-Tsai Lai
  • Patent number: 7703356
    Abstract: A system and tool assembly for driving threaded members includes, a set of interlocking torque transfer modules for transferring a torque between a driver coupled with a first one of the modules and a threaded member coupled with a second one of the modules. At least one of the modules has a body and a torque transmitting geartrain housed within the body, the geartrain includes an input gear rotatable about a first axis and an output gear rotatable about a second, different axis. The input gear includes a first connecting interface configured to receive an input torque from a driver, and the output gear has a second connecting interface configured to output an output torque to a threaded member, such as a bolt or sparkplug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Inventor: Jamie Bass
  • Patent number: 7698972
    Abstract: A multi-angle tool handle includes a handle device including a compartment longitudinally formed therein, and a through-hole formed thereon and in communication with the compartment. An embedding portion is defined in the compartment. A interconnecting element is disposed in the compartment and includes a pivoting end formed on an end thereof and having an embedding portion. A locking device is installed in the through-hole and includes an embedded end defined on an end thereof. A connecting device is pivotally coupled to another end of the interconnecting element. The locking device is moveable between a first position and a second position so that the connecting device can be operated to pivot relative to the handle device or not.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Fanny Hi
  • Patent number: 7682099
    Abstract: A indexable, lockable mechanism for a hand tool, and hand tools with such mechanism, the mechanism comprising a first member having a first splined orifice, a second member having an upper prong with a second splined orifice and a lower prong with a third splined orifice, and a splined pin assembly for insertion through said first, second and third orifices. The first member is positioned in a gap between the upper prong and the lower prong of the second member with the first splined orifice coaxially aligned with the second and third splined orifices of the second member. The splined pin assembly of either the first embodiment or the second embodiment is disposed in the three splined orifices and is axially movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. The splined pin assembly is allows a user to move the splined pin axially in the first and second orifices between the locked position and the unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventor: Charles A. Cole
  • Publication number: 20100058896
    Abstract: A screwdriving tool includes a gear head and a drive arm. The gear head forms a gear housing, in which a free wheel or ratchet gear having an output rotational axis is arranged. A front side of the gear head includes an output coupling, in the shape of a polygon. The drive arm can be pivoted about a pivot axis, which is substantially transverse to the output rotational axis, from a quick-action screwdriver position, in which the drive arm is in the output rotational axis, into a power-action screwdriver position, in which the drive arm extends substantially transversely to the output rotational axis and can be fixed in both pivot positions by detents. The detents can be moved from a detent position into a release position by means of an actuating member associated with the drive arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Michael Abel, Andre Mueller, Oliver Pistor, Martin Strauch
  • Patent number: 7658132
    Abstract: A tool for removing and installing serpentine belts in vehicles has a drive bar, a double box end wrench and a socket. The drive bar has a handle at a first end and a fitting at an opposite second end that is used to connect to the double box end wrench. The double box end wrench has a first end defining a polygonally shaped opening and an opposite second end that defines a ratcheting wrench having a first plurality of teeth on an inner circumference thereof. The socket defines a second plurality of teeth on an outer circumference thereof that are adapted to be received by the ratcheting wrench first plurality of teeth. The socket also defines one of a polygonally shaped opening and a polygonally shaped tang that is received by a work piece of an vehicle idler pulley.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Easco Hand Tools, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Taggart, Sr., Paul S. Steinweg
  • Publication number: 20100000380
    Abstract: A multiple-link tool assembly includes an elongated handle, an exchangeable extension link, and an exchangeable tool link. The exchangeable extension link has a first connecting end removably linked to the handle, and a second connecting end defining a sectioned cavity. The sectioned cavity includes a reduced-diameter internally serrated cavity section and an enlarged-diameter non-serrated cavity section. An adjustable geometric fitting having an externally serrated base is received and retained within the sectioned cavity. A spring is located within the non-serrated cavity section, and is adapted for normally urging the externally serrated base of the geometric fitting into the internally serrated cavity section. The exchangeable tool link has a proximal end removably joined to the geometric fitting of the extension link, and a fastener-engaging distal end adapted for engaging a threaded fastener.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: Michael D. Richardson
  • Patent number: 7637183
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a specialty wrench has a handle that is movable from a first position where the wrench acts as a conventional pipe or Stillson wrench and a second position where the handle is inclined, perhaps as much as 90°. The wrench can be used to start rotation of a valve wheel. After the valve wheel has been broken or started, the wrench handle is pivoted to a position where the valve wheel may be continuously rotated to either its open or closed position. In another embodiment, the jaw end of the wrench is angularly adjustable about a longitudinal axis so the wrench has another mode of operation, i.e. where the wrench may be used on conventional threaded connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Gabriel Alvarado
  • Patent number: 7624608
    Abstract: end; a first steel pin for pivotally connecting the rotator plate to the base plate, a handle disposed on the second end of the rotator plate; a second measurement plate fixedly attached to the first measurement plate and the rotator plate; a second steel pin disposed on the second measurement plate; a third steel pin disposed on the rotator plate; wherein the rebar can be positioned in between the first, second, and third steel pins; wherein a user can bend the rebar by rotating the rotator plate via the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventor: Marcus Karty
  • Publication number: 20090241740
    Abstract: A ratchet wrench with an improved universal handle comprising a ratchet head and two pivotally interactive handle parts. A first handle part works as a linkage between the ratchet head and a second handle part and is dually connected to the ratchet heads center axis for universal movement. The second handle part includes a receiving channel along its length and is pivotally connected to house the first handle part in a foldable relationship.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Scot Heagerty
  • Patent number: 7591208
    Abstract: Adjustable tools which may be linked through a plurality of couplings connected by links so that the tool and the handle and the links are rotatable relative to each other in a released condition and locked relative to each other in a locked position. The tool, the handle and the links may thus be adjusted to have the tool at any desired orientation to the handle and in a locked position in that orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Inventor: Charles A. Cole
  • Patent number: 7587781
    Abstract: A paintbrush comprising of a tubular handle (11), forged male slip/snap locking wheel (10) at top of handle (11), and a brush head (3) with two embedded forged female slip/snap locking wheels, with one female at bottom of brush head (3) marked (6) and the other marked (4) on face of brush head (3). These slip/snap locking wheels allow the user to adjust the paintbrush to paint various angles through rotation extending one-hundred and eighty degrees (180°). The tubular handle (11) also has a bottom/rear female thread (12) to accept a standard universal male-threaded pole/device to reach various heights. Also, female thread (12) will accept a male thread (16) as part of finishing cap (13) with a hanging hole (14) to give the paintbrush a classic, finished appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Raymond Vales
  • Publication number: 20090223328
    Abstract: A multi-angle tool handle includes a handle device including a compartment longitudinally formed therein, a through-hole formed thereon and communication with the compartment and an embedding portion defined in the compartment, an interconnecting element disposed in the compartment and including a pivoting end formed on an end thereof and having an embedding portion, a locking device installed in the through-hole and including an embedded end defined on an end thereof, and a connecting device pivotally coupled to another end of the interconnecting element. The locking device is moveable between a first position and a second position, therefore, the connecting device can be operated to pivot relative to the handle device or not.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: Fanny Hi
  • Publication number: 20090223329
    Abstract: A multi-angle tool handle including a handle device, a connecting device and a locking unit adapted for connecting an interconnecting element to the handle device. The locking unit is moveable between a first position and a second position. When the locking unit is in the first position, the interconnecting element is able to pivot and slide with respect to the handle device. And when the locking unit is in the second position, the interconnecting element is fixed with respect to the handle device in position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: Fanny Hi
  • Patent number: 7571517
    Abstract: The tool handle of the invention includes a shank connected via a ratcheting mechanism to a male square drive. A pair of handle wings are pivotally connected to the shank at a transverse pivot hinge such that the handle wings can be changed between a screwdriver-type configuration, an L-shape configuration, a T-shape configuration or other intermediate configurations. When the handle wings are in the fully open position, the handle wings bear against the shank to create a mechanism for transferring power between the handle wings and the tool shank without the need for a separate lock. A quick change adapter having a female drive can be connected to the male square drive such that the tool handle can be used with a wide variety of tools including taps and extractors, sockets, screwdriver bits and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool Company
    Inventors: Robin Edward Smith, Brandon C. Hoover
  • Publication number: 20090133542
    Abstract: An angle adjustable hand tool includes a driving head pivotably connected to a handle and a pawl is received in the handle and removably engaged with the teeth in the driving head. A button is engaged with a hole in the handle and perpendicularly communicates with the hole in which the pawl is received. The button includes a recess and a second contact surface connects the recess. When the button is pushed, the pawl is located in the recess of the button so that the driving head can be pivoted relative to the handle. The driving head is set when the pawl is engaged with the teeth of the driving head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Arthur Wu
  • Patent number: 7520199
    Abstract: An indexable tool includes a handle having a first prong formed with a first splined orifice and a second prong formed with a second splined orifice. An indexable body has a third splined orifice aligned with the first and second splined orifices. A splined coupling arrangement rotatably joins and selectively locks and unlocks the handle and the indexable body together. The coupling arrangement includes a push button, first and second adjacently disposed inserts, a retainer, a cap and a spring. In a locked position, the spring is biased to hold external splines of the first and second serrated inserts in common engagement with the first, second and third splined orifices to prevent relative rotation between the indexable body and the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: AJ Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Rafal P. Stawarski
  • Patent number: 7509892
    Abstract: A palm type spanner comprises a driving head having a receiving portion for receiving a driving tool; and a handle body being an integral plate-like structure; one end of the handle body being formed with an opening portion; the driving head being pivotally installed to the handle body; thereby the driving head being rotatable along the pivotal shaft; and the handle body having a hollowed groove which has a size capable of receiving the driving head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsieh
  • Patent number: 7509893
    Abstract: A hand tool locking device for a hand tool includes a switch member having a shank which is rotatably inserted in a recess defined in the head of the hand tool and the shank includes a convex and curved surface and a flat surface. A pawl and a spring are received in a passage defined in an inside of the yoke of the head of the hand tool. The pawl has teeth defined in a first end thereof and the teeth are pushed to engage with engaging teeth of the pivotable tool head when the convex and curved surface of the shank pushes a second end of the pawl toward the tool head. When the shank is rotated to let the flat surface to contact the second end of the pawl, the teeth of the pawl are disengaged from the engaging teeth of the pivotable tool head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Proxene Tools Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Arthur Wu
  • Patent number: 7497148
    Abstract: A swiveling driver includes a handle portion and a head portion operatively coupled to the handle portion for selectively pivoting relative thereto. The head portion includes an implement and defines at least one detent. A yoke extends from the handle portion and includes a protrusion for selective engagement with the detent. The yoke is movable between a locked configuration in which the protrusion is received in a detent and a released configuration in which the protrusion is not received in a detent. The head portion may be moved freely when the yoke is at the released configuration for setting the angle of the head portion relative to the handle or be fixed at the locked configuration. When the head portion is fixed, the implement may be operated with either a driver bit or in a ratcheting motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Inventor: Andrew C. Stucky
  • Patent number: 7481137
    Abstract: A folding hand tool containing a plurality of elongated tools mounted on a predetermined sized lug and pivotally held in a handle. Shaped complementary sidewalls on the lugs placed adjacent one another provide locking means for positively positioning the plurality of elongated tools in an open or used position. The shaped complementary sidewalls on adjacent lugs may be selectively disengaged with a release or by overcoming a bias of an engaging force. The predetermined sized lugs provide improved transmission of forces and easier manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Inventor: Robyn Marie Johnson
  • Patent number: 7481135
    Abstract: A hand tool includes a head that is adjustable to a plurality of positions. The head is pivotally mounted to a tool body at a pivot axis. A bearing structure is attached at the pivot axis by a hub or fastener, about which the head may be adjusted. An actuator is positioned between the body and the head and acts to lock the head in a predetermined position with respect to the tool body. A plurality of radial slots are provided on a cavity or a bearing structure and receive the actuator in order to lock the tool head in a predetermined position relative to the tool body. The adjustable head allows for the tool to be manipulated to engage fasteners in hard to reach areas and also allow an operator to apply extra torque to the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Snap-on Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael D. Schoenbeck, David T. Ross, Christopher D. Thompson, Jeffery H. Hoff
  • Publication number: 20090013834
    Abstract: A multiple-link tool assembly includes an elongated handle, at least one exchangeable extension link, and an exchangeable tool link. The handle has a portion adapted for being gripped by a user. The exchangeable extension link includes first and second connecting ends, and an angled body intermediate the first and second connecting ends. The first connecting end is removably connected to the handle. The exchangeable tool link has a proximal end removably connected to the second end of the extension link and a fastener-engaging distal end adapted for engaging a threaded fastener.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Richardson
  • Patent number: 7472631
    Abstract: A hand tool includes a handle having a connection end which includes two parallel arms and a driving member has an insertion which is pivotably connected between the two arms by a pin which extends through the two arms and the engaging notch of the insertion. The driving member can be easily replaced by disengaging the pin from the engaging recess of the driving member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Proxene Tools Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Arthur Wu
  • Publication number: 20090000430
    Abstract: A hand tool locking device for a hand tool includes a switch member having a shank which is rotatably inserted in a recess defined in the head of the hand tool and the shank includes a convex and curved surface and a flat surface. A pawl and a spring are received in a passage defined in an inside of the yoke of the head of the hand tool. The pawl has teeth defined in a first end thereof and the teeth are pushed to engage with engaging teeth of the pivotable tool head when the convex and curved surface of the shank pushes a second end of the pawl toward the tool head. When the shank is rotated to let the flat surface to contact the second end of the pawl, the teeth of the pawl are disengaged from the engaging teeth of the pivotable tool head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventor: Arthur Wu
  • Publication number: 20080307933
    Abstract: A wrench structure rotatable in multiple orientations includes a head portion, an extension element, and a holding portion. The rear end of the head portion has a first protruding connection part. The extension element includes a front end having a first concave connection part in connection with the first protruding connection part and a rear end having a second protruding connection part. The first concave connection part has a first side and a second side connected by a bottom edge. A stopping device is provided at an appropriate position on the bottom edge. The holding portion includes a front end having a second concave connection part in connection with the second protruding connection part and a rear end. The second concave connection part has a first side and a second side connected by a bottom edge. A stopping device is provided at an appropriate position on the bottom edge. It fixes the second protruding connection part as it rotates to a desired orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Cheng-Ching Hung
  • Patent number: 7461575
    Abstract: A spark plug installation and removal wrench comprising a short socket with a handle pivotally attached to the socket, forming a compact assembly that can access spark plugs in tight spaces. The socket may be rotated on the pivot axis to slip over the spark plug and down to engage and drive the spark plug. Lateral force on the handle may then rotate the socket to install or remove the spark plug. In one embodiment, the handle pivot axis may run through a clearance space for the spark plug, and the handle may have a U shape to avoid interference with the spark plug. An embodiment is disclosed wherein the handle may be attached with roll pins, rivets, screws or other pivot attachment hardware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Inventor: Jerry Walter Tribby
  • Patent number: 7434496
    Abstract: A screwdriver handle includes first and second handle parts each having an end face with a pivotal coupling portion. The second handle part is pivotable between two positions relative to the first handle part such that the screwdriver handle is switchable between an in-line state and an angled state. Two positioning holes are defined in one of the end faces and a receptacle is defined in the other end face and aligned with one of the positioning holes. A positioning member is mounted in the receptacle and includes an end releasably engaged with one of the positioning holes to retain the second handle part in one of the positions. A control member is mounted on one of the first and second handle parts and operable to disengage the positioning member from the positioning holes to thereby allow the second handle part to pivot relative to the first handle part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Inventor: Bobby Hu
  • Patent number: 7424839
    Abstract: A wrench has a body, a head and at least one pivotal device. The body has two arms separately formed on a distal end of the body and a mounting recess formed between the two arms. Each arm has a hole defined through the arm. The head is rotatably and replaceably mounted inside the mounting recess and has a driving hole defined through the head and two pivotal holes defined in the outer surface of the head and facing the holes in the body. The at least one pivotal device is movably mounted between the body and the head for holding the head. When the wrench is in use, the body may be rotated at various angles relative to the head, so that the wrench could be used in a limited space and is convenient in use. Furthermore, the head may be conveniently replaced depending on a user's needs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Inventor: Mu-Pei Chiang
  • Patent number: 7415911
    Abstract: Adjustable tools which may be linked through a coupling so that the tool and the handle are rotatable relative to each other in a released condition and locked relative to each other in a locked position. The tool and the handle may thus be adjusted to have the tool at any desired orientation to the handle and in a locked position in that orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Inventors: Melissa Cole, legal representative, Charles A. Cole
  • Publication number: 20080178710
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a specialty wrench has a handle that is movable from a first position where the wrench acts as a conventional pipe or Stillson wrench and a second position where the handle is inclined, perhaps as much as 90°. The wrench can be used to start rotation of a valve wheel. After the valve wheel has been broken or started, the wrench handle is pivoted to a position where the valve wheel may be continuously rotated to either its open or closed position. In another embodiment, the jaw end of the wrench is angularly adjustable about a longitudinal axis so the wrench has another mode of operation, i.e. where the wrench may be used on conventional threaded connections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: Gabriel Alvarado
  • Patent number: 7401538
    Abstract: This invention relates to an F figure wrench that comprises a holding rod, a moving part, a turning rod and a driving part. At one end of the holding rod, a concavity is made and two lugs are implemented; the concavity is made as a guide hole to accommodate the moving part, the lug holes of the two lugs are used as pivot holes for the driving part to be pivot-connected with the holding rod. Furthermore, a penetration is made on the holding rod and the moving part concentrically, and intersects through the concavity for installation of the turning rod. A cam eccentric to the turning rod axis is implemented on the turning rod; when the turning rod is turned, the moving part is pushed by the eccentric cam and moving along the guide hole in the holding rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Inventor: Chin-Shun Cheng