CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit under 35 U. S. C. 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/085,625, filed on August 1, 2008, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to the field of tools, and more specifically to pliers.

BACKGROUND Typically, pliers are used to grip a work-piece between a pair of jaws. A standard set of pliers include an upper jaw rigidly attached to a lower handle and a lower jaw rigidly attached to an upper handle. Squeezing the handles together brings the jaws together to grip the work-piece. Some pliers, such as tongue- and-groove pliers and slip-joint pliers, are manually adjustable such that the distance between the upper and lower jaws can be adjusted by the user.

Locking pliers are pliers that can be locked into position. Locking pliers include a bottom jaw that is pi vo tally coupled to both the bottom and top handles and lock onto the work-piece by squeezing the handles together until they lock due to an over-center action. Typically the upper handle includes a bolt that is used to manually adjust the spacing of the jaws.

SUMMARY

Pliers include a lower handle, an upper handle, a lower jaw pivo tally coupled to the lower handle and the upper handle, an upper jaw coupled to the upper handle, the upper jaw including a ratcheted surface facing a back end of the pliers, and a ratcheted cam member positioned to engage the ratcheted surface of the upper jaw, wherein the ratcheted cam member is configured to move to different positions along the surface of the ratcheted surface of the upper jaw by a squeezing action of the lower handle and the upper handle such that the pliers are configured to be self-adjusting for different size work-pieces.

BRIEF DES CRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a side view of a self locking, self adjusting pliers in accordance with one embodiment and shown in fully closed or start position.

Figure 2 is a side elevation of the pliers shown in Figure 1 as the pliers would appear in the fully opened position, in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 3 is a side elevation of the pliers shown in Figure 1 as the pliers would appear mid- way through the closing action, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 4 shows a side elevation of the pliers shown if Figure 1 as the pliers would appear in the closed/locked position, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 5 is a side view of a self adjusting pliers in accordance with one embodiment and shown in fully closed or start position.

Figure 6 is a side elevation of the pliers shown in Figure 5 as the pliers would appear in a mid-range closed position, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 7 is a side elevation of the pliers shown in Figure 5 as the pliers would appear in a maximum opened position, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 8 shows a side elevation of the pliers shown if Figure 5 as the pliers would appear in the largest closed position, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 9 shows an exploded view of the pliers of Figure 5, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 10 is a side view of self adjusting pliers in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 11 is a side elevation of the pliers shown in Figure 10 as the pliers would appear during a closing action, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 12 is a side elevation of the pliers shown in Figure 10 as the pliers would appear fully closed, in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 13 is a partial cross-section view of pliers, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 14 is another partial cross-section view of the pliers of Figure 13. Figure 15 is another partial cross-section view of the pliers of Figure 13. Figure 16 is an exploded view of the pliers of Figure 13. Figure 17 is a side view of a bottom portion of the pliers of Figure 13.

Figure 18 is a side view of a bottom portion of the pliers of Figure 13. Figure 19 is another partial cross-section view of the pliers of Figure 13. Figure 20 is another partial cross-section view of the pliers of Figure 13. Figure 21 is another partial cross-section view of the pliers of Figure 13. Figure 22 is another partial cross-section view of the pliers of Figure 13.

Figure 23 is a rear perspective view of the front portion of the pliers of Figure 13.

Figure 24 is a side cross-section view of a set of pliers, in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 26 is an exploded view of the pliers of Figure 24.

Figure 27 is a side, cross-section view of an upper portion of the pliers of Figure 24.

Figure 28 is a side, cross-section view of an upper portion of the pliers of Figure 24. Figure 29 is a side, cross-section view of a bottom portion of the pliers of

Figure 24.

Figure 30 is a side, cross-section view of a bottom portion of the pliers of Figure 24.

Figure 31 is a side view of the jaws of the pliers of Figure 24, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 32 is another side view of the jaws of the pliers of Figure 24. Figure 33 is another side view of the jaws of the pliers of Figure 24. Figure 34 is another side view of the jaws of the pliers of Figure 24. Figure 35 is another side view of the jaws of the pliers of Figure 24. Figure 36 is another side view of the jaws of the pliers of Figure 24. Figure 37 is an exploded view of pliers, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 38 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 37. Figure 39 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 37. Figure 40 is an exploded view of pliers, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 41 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 40. Figure 42 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 40. Figure 43 is an exploded view of pliers, in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 44 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 43.

Figure 45 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 43. Figure 46 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 43. Figure 47 is a view of the bottom handle portion of the pliers of Figure 43. Figure 48 is a view of the bottom handle portion of the pliers of Figure

43.

Figure 49 is an exploded view of pliers, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 50 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 49. Figure 51 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 49.

Figure 52 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 49. Figure 53 is an exploded view of pliers, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 54 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 53. Figure 55 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 53.

Figure 56 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 53. Figure 57 is a side view of the pliers of Figure 53.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that the embodiments may be combined or that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Figure 1 is a side view of a self-locking, self-adjusting pliers 10 in accordance with one embodiment and shown in fully closed or start position. Pliers 10, in this example, are self-adjusting, force multiplying locking pliers. Pliers 10 can be used for single-handed manual manipulation and automatically adjust to positions of positive gripping and holding of any size workpiece within the size range defined by the maximum opening between the jaws of the pliers.

Accordingly, pliers 10 can self-adjust to various sized objects without active adjustments by the user. As will be discussed in further detail below, in pliers 10 the upper jaw member encompasses the self-adjusting mechanism and the lower jaw encompasses the tensioning mechanism. This separation of mechanism types allows for more flexibility of use and allows for independent control of the tensioning and self-adjusting mechanisms.

Figures 2-4 show further details of pliers 10.

Figure 2 is a side elevation of the pliers 10 shown in Figure 1 as the pliers would appear in the fully opened position, in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 3 is a side elevation of the pliers 10 shown in Figure 1 as the pliers would appear mid- way through the closing action, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 4 shows a side elevation of the pliers 10 shown if Figure 1 as the pliers would appear in the closed/locked position, in accordance with one embodiment.

In one embodiment, pliers 10 include an upper handle member 110 which contains the pivoting connection points for the upper jaw assembly 112, lower jaw member 114, linkage arm 116, and toothed cam unit 118. The lower handle member 119 is pivotally connected to the lower jaw member 114, and a second linkage arm 120. Linkage arm 120 actuates cam unit 118 via linkage arm 116 which is pivotally connected to both linkage arm 120 and toothed cam unit 118 at the points where the full range of motion of cam 118 is attained by the range of motion exhibited by linkage arm 120. Upper jaw member 112 has a bifurcated pivot arm configuration that attaches pivotally (similar to a clevis) to the outer surfaces of handle member 110 via structural pivoting pin 100. The interior surface of upper jaw member 112 incorporates a toothed rack feature 122 which mates with toothed cam unit 118 when the pliers are actuated to the locking position (see Figure 4). The upper jaw member 112 is pivotally attached to handle member 110 at a set distance from the handle end proximal to the upper jaw member 112 in order to maintain stability of the upper jaw and allow lower jaw member 114 to fit within the area of handle member 110 without causing interference.

In this example, the clevis configuration also keeps motion of upper jaw (while applying clamping force) from creating pinch points between moving elements. In other examples, pivot points 100 and 101 can be placed at other locations along upper handle 110. The further the 100 pivot is from the front of the pliers, the more range there is from the pivoting of the upper jaw and shroud. In one example, pivots can be shared between the upper and lower jaws (because upper jaw has a clevis, and lower jaw is single member). In the present embodiment, providing pivot 100 further back allows for greater range of grip objects and also allows for upper jaw 112 to maintain a more parallel relationship to the lower jaw 114 when gripping an object, and pivot 101 closer to the front allows for greater grip force on the lower jaw.

Upper jaw member 112 is sprung to its lowest starting position via spring action using a variety of different spring force embodiments. Location of spring force to upper jaw member may be placed at a number of locations without changing the basic functionality of the pliers.

Toothed cam member 118 is pivotally connected to the extreme forward end of handle member 110 with structural pivoting pin 105. Cam 118 is positioned in such a way that the toothed surface 124 can be cammed into contact and mated with upper jaw member 112's mating toothed surface 122. Toothed surface 124 is configured to mate with mating toothed surface 122 on upper jaw member 112 when upper jaw 112 is in locked position. Cam member 118 is actuated via linkage arm 116 pivotally connected by structural pin 107 such that as linkage arm 116 is translated away from upper jaw 112, cam member 118 rotates away from toothed surface 122. Other techniques and structures for controlling the position and locking off of upper jaw member 112 are also viable, and will be discussed in further embodiments below.

Linkage arm 116 is pivotally attached at each extreme end via structural pivoting pin 107 to cam 118 and pin 106 to linkage arm 120. Linkage arm 116 is positioned in such a way that the maximum range of motion of linkage arm 120 translates to actuating cam member 118 in and out of locking contact with upper jaw 112' s toothed rack feature 122.

Lower jaw member 114 is pivotally attached to handle member 110 via structural pivoting pin 101. Pivoting point 101 is located between the forward most edge of the handle member 110 and the pivoting attachment 100 of upper jaw member 112. Lower jaw member 114 has a single pivot arm feature that connects to the interior surfaces of handle member 110. Pivot point 101 is positioned in such a way forward of pivot point 100, that the pivoting pin 101 and single pivoting arm do not interfere with upper jaw member 112. Actuation of the lower jaw member 114 is driven by lower handle member 119 via structural pivoting pin 102.

Lower handle member 119 is pivo tally attached to lower jaw member 114 via structurally pivoting pin 102, and pivotally attached to linkage arm 120 via structurally pivoting pin 103. The lower handle unit 119 controls the tensioning of the work-piece 126 as well as actuates upper jaw member to its proper positioning to reflect the size of the material positioned between the upper and lower jaw members (112, 114).

Additional and adjustable clamping force may be incorporated into the lower handle member 119 by manipulation the shape and length of the linkage arm 120. Also adding setscrews to the lower handle member 119 that comes into contact with linkage arm 120 will stop the closing motion of the pliers at pre-determined locations allowing for additional method of controlling fully closed position. Addition of a variable geometry linkage arm 120 adds the ability to change clamping forces exerted by the pliers' jaws 112 & 114. The present example shows lower linkage arm 120 as a rigid linkage arm that in coordination with lower handle member 119 and lower jaw member 114, with force applied to the lower handle member 114, will close and tension object 126 between the pliers' jaws 112 & 114.

Referring now specifically to Figure 1 which shows pliers 10 in a fully closed position referred to as Condition 1 , it is seen that in this condition 1 state, the upper jaw member 112 is shown in its start position. Spring force is utilized to hold upper jaw 112 in this start position until forces are applied to the upper jaw 112 by material 126 while actuating pliers through their range of motion.

The cam member 118 is engaged to rack 122 of upper jaw 112. The lower jaw member 114 is engaged to mate to the upper jaw member 112 through the positioning of handle member 119 and linkage arm 120. Linkage arm 116 is engaging toothed feature 124 of cam member 118 into contact with toothed rack feature 122 of upper jaw member 112.

Lower handle member 119, in combination with linkage arm member 120, are in an over-center arrangement creating the sustained/self-locking clamping force applied to the lower jaw member 114. In this configuration, the linkage arm member 120 via pivoting pin 106 also applies force to the cam member 118 via linkage arm 116 and pivoting pin 107. Travel and stopping position of lower handle member 119 can be controlled by incorporating stop features to the linkage arm 120 and/or upper handle 110 that stop motion at a predetermined location as to not over compress mechanism and cause pinch points. Pliers 10 will tend to stay in this close position during storage and non- use due to the over center relationship of pivot point 103 relative to the line defined by pivots 102 and 104 of lower handle 119 and the linkage arm 120 in the fully closed position. Referring now to Figure 2, which shows pliers 10 in a fully opened position referred to as Condition 2, it is seen that in this condition 2 state, the upper jaw member 112 is shown remaining in its spring tensioned start position. The lower jaw member 114 is in its extreme open position. In this position, there is a limit on the travel of the lower jaw member 114, as not to overly open the jaws. The jaws 112 & 114 are configured in the fully opened state at a position slightly more open than the maximum material thickness the pliers can effectively clamp to. This discourages the use pliers for oversized material that will not clamp properly.

The lower jaw 114 can have spring force applied via a spring to keep the pliers in the opened position. This allows for ease of opening and added ease of single-handed operation. For example, a torsion spring can be mounted at pivot point 103 that biases lower handle 119 away from linkage 120.

Linkage arm member 120 is in such a position that, via linkage arm 116, disengages toothed surface 124 from matching toothed surface 122 on lower jaw 112. This motion allows the upper jaw member 112 to travel freely through its full range of motion around pivot 100.

Referring now to Figure 3, which shows pliers 10 in a partially closed (mid-clamping action) position referred to as Condition 3, it is seen that in this condition 3 state, as the lower handle member 119 travels through its clamping action motion, in conjunction with linkage arm 120, forces the lower jaw 114 upward towards the upper jaw 112. The linkage arm 120 is in such a position at this point in the clamping motion process, that the linkage arm 116 keeps the toothed surface 124 of cam member 118 from being in contact, or engaging with, toothed surface 122 on upper jaw member 112. This non-engagement for the cam unit 118 allows for the spring tensioned upper jaw 112 to move upward with the material 126 and lower jaw member 114.

The lower handle 119 will continue its motion towards the upper handle member 110. At a predetermined position in the clamping motion, the angular positioning of the linkage arm member 120 forces the linkage arm 116 into cam unit 118, driving cam 118 into upper jaw 112.

Once the toothed surface 124 of cam 118 engages with the matching toothed surface 122 of upper jaw member 112, the upper jaw 112 is locked into position relative to the upper handle member 110. This stops the upper jaw 112 in a predetermined position that allows adequate clamping force to be generated using the continued motion of the clamping action. This continued motion is now confined to the lower jaw member 114 and related linkages (119, 120), creating clamping force on the material 126.

Referring now to Figure 4, which shows pliers 10 in a fully clamped position referred to as Condition 4, it is seen that in this condition 4 state, the upper jaw member 112 is in its fully opened and locked position due to the engagement of cam 118 to upper jaw member 112 locking surfaces 124 and 122 together and creating a secure locking connection.

The lower jaw member 114 is forced into an over-center friction bound locked position with linkage arm 120 and lower jaw 114 due to geometric conditions that favor this positioning.

In condition 4, the pliers 10 will maintain their clamping forces until manually disengaged by pulling the lower handle 119 away from the upper handle member 110, releasing the mechanism from its over-center binding and locked position. Opening the jaws by spreading the upper handle 110 and lower handle 119 apart will disengage the cam member 118, un-locking the bound clamping device and releasing it back to condition 1 positioning. As discussed above, the self-adjusting utility pliers 10 according to various embodiments include first and second handle members having first and second jaws respectively forming one end of each. The lower jaw member is controlled by the tensioning mechanism, and the upper jaw is controlled by the self-adjusting locking mechanism. This separation of mechanisms between the upper and lower jaw allows more secure locking of adjustable upper jaw.

The upper jaw member is pivotally attached to upper handle member via a structural pivoting pin fastener allowing the upper jaw member to travel through a predetermined range of motion. The upper jaw attaches to the upper handle member by devising over the handle unit and connecting over the outer surface. This upper jaw can then be locked into position using an internal toothed cam lock pivotally attached to upper handle member proximal to the upper jaw member.

The cam member is actuated by a variety of methods including a linkage arm that pivotally connects to the lower portion of the toothed cam member giving mechanical advantage to press cam member into contact with toothed rack feature on interior adjacent face of upper jaw member. The opposite end of the linkage arm member may be pivotally attached to the linkage arm, which adjoins the upper and lower handle members at the distal portions of the handle with respect to the jaw members.

The lower jaw member is pivotally attached to the upper handle member via a structural pivoting pin fastener placed between the upper jaw pin fastener and the proximal end of the upper handle member with respect to the upper jaw attachment. The separation of the two type mechanisms also allows for a more ergonomically correct lower actuating handle. Present pliers force the lower handle member to extreme angles when in fully opened position. This makes operating pliers with one hand quite difficult since the handles are so far apart.

In the present pliers 10, the pivoting upper jaws 112 open and adjust to accept the size of the work-piece and the lower handle member 119 limits the movement of lower jaw 114 to a consistent predetermined range designed to be enough to release cam 118 form toothed surface 124, and does not require extreme lower handle motion to clamp pliers to objects that approach the maximum thickness of material that the pliers are capable of accommodating. Once the cam 118 is in released state, the user can apply pressure (with grip object) to the top jaw 112, translating jaw 112 to the appropriate open position to grip the work-piece. Once the work-piece is located between the jaws 112, 114, continued pressure on the handles 110, 119 re-engages the cam 118, locking the top jaw 112 into place, then clamping and locking to the work-piece. All of this can be done with a minimal lower handle 119 movement using only one hand.

Moreover, typical current locking pliers have a short throw with respect to the lower jaw and pivot. This causes the jaws to be aggressively angular when gripping larger objects, causing slipping and damage to grip object. By having the top jaw 112 of pliers 10 translate upwards utilizing a pivot more distant from the jaw end, the relative angularity of the jaws 112, 114 (when gripping a larger object) is greatly reduced. In addition to allowing for a more advantageous angularity of opposing jaw grip surfaces, the pivot ability of the upper jaw 112 allows for a much greater maximum jaw opening, twice or more that of current pliers.

In other embodiments of the pliers 10 discussed above, a lock/release toggle can be incorporated to keep/release cam 118 locking feature 124 to/from toothed rack 122 on upper jaw 112. This will allow for limited device opening when using pliers for same sized material in repetitive fashion.

Figures 5-9 shows a pair of self-adjusting pliers 20, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 5 is a side view of self-adjusting pliers 20 in accordance with one embodiment and shown in fully closed or start position.

Figure 6 is a side elevation of the pliers 20 shown in Figure 5 as the pliers would appear in a mid-range closed position, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 7 is a side elevation of the pliers 20 shown in Figure 5 as the pliers would appear in a maximum opened position, in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 8 shows a side elevation of the pliers 20 shown if Figure 5 as the pliers would appear in the largest closed position, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 9 shows an exploded view of the pliers 20 of Figure 5, in accordance with one embodiment.

Pliers 20 are for single-handed manual manipulation which will automatically adjust to positions of positive gripping and holding of any size work piece within the size range defined by the maximum opening between the jaws of the pliers. Pliers 20 can self-adjust to various sized objects without active adjustments by the user. More specifically, pliers 20 mimic the size, shape, and functionality of standard tongue and groove pliers with the added features that allow for auto-adjustability and single hand usage.

Pliers 20 generally include an upper handle member 210 which contains the pivoting connection point 200 for the lower jaw assembly (lower jaw member 212, short linkage arm 214), and a toothed rack feature 216. The lower handle member 218 is pivo tally connected to the lower jaw member 212 through the short linkage arm 214. Linkage arm 214 acts in a limited camming motion member for the lower handle member 218. Short linkage arm 214 (via force applied through upward motion of the lower handle member 218) will force toothed gear feature 220 into contact/engagement with toothed rack feature 216. Short linkage arm 214 is pivotally connected to both lower jaw member 212 at pivot 201 and to the lower handle member 218 at pivot 202 which is coupled at a grooved slot 224. Short linkage arm 214 is sprung toward the distal end of upper handle member 210 as a secondary spring unit, which actuates only after lower jaw member has come into contact with a workpiece.

Upper jaw member 222 is permanently affixed to upper handle member 210. The outer surface of upper handle member 210 incorporates a toothed rack feature 216 which mates with toothed cam feature 220 on lower handle member 218 when the pliers are actuated to the locking position. The lower jaw member 212 is pivotally attached to upper handle member 210, at a set distance from the handle end, distal to the upper jaw member 222. Lower jaw member 212 is sprung to its lowest starting position via spring action, using a variety of different spring force embodiments.

Short linkage arm 214 is pivotally connected to the extreme forward end of handle member 218 with structural pivoting pin 202. Short linkage 214 is positioned in such a way that the toothed surface 220 can be cammed into contact (locked position) with upper jaw member 222' s mating toothed surface 216. Toothed rack surface 220 mates with mating toothed surface 216 on upper handle member 210 when short linkage arm 214 is in a locked position. Short linkage arm 214 is actuated pivotally at pivot 201 as a secondary spring (retraction) action. Various embodiments for controlling sprung action and engagement of lower handle member 218 and short linkage arm 214 are viable.

From the fully opened position (see Figure 7), and having a graspable object 230 placed between the open jaws 222 & 212, by placing a measured force upward on lower handle 218 towards upper handle member 210 initiates the motion of the device towards an auto adjusted grasping position. Initially the lower jaw member 212, short linkage arm 214, and lower handle member 218 move together as one unit (controlled by primary spring action). Once lower jaw member 212 comes to contact with graspable object 230, the lower jaw member 212 is placed into a binding position against object 230 and seizes. At this point, with continued applied force upward on the lower handle member 218, the secondary spring action will be initiated. This secondary spring action translates into movement of the short linkage arm 214 forward via slot 224 towards the lower jaw member 212, in turn moving the toothed gear feature 220 into contact with the toothed rack feature 216 on the upper handle member 210. This contact engages the two mating toothed features, locking off the lower jaw member 218 to this feature at an auto-adjusted position. As force is continuing to be applied to the lower handle member 218 towards upper handle member 210, the gears mesh and the rotating action there of, propagates into clamping force between jaw members 222 & 212. The toothed gear/rack pitch is configured is such a way that the amount of travel experienced by the lower jaw member 212 is significantly more than stepped adjustability of the tooth pitch. This will allow for a seamless transition between different sized graspable objects, allowing for a substantially equal grip range for any sized graspable object that falls within the fully opened jaw parameters of that particular embodiment. Referring now to Figure 5 which shows pliers 20 in a fully closed position referred to as Condition 1, it is seen that in this condition 1 state, the lower jaw member 212 is shown in its start/closed position. Spring force can be utilized to influence lower jaw 212 downward and away from this start position, allowing for ease of opening operation. The short linkage arm member 214 is sprung rearwards (away from the jaw end of pliers) thus separating the toothed gear/rack features 216 & 220, and allowing for free movement of jaw members 212 & 222. The lower handle member is sprung downwards away from the upper handle member 210, placing the lower handle into its extreme downward position. This position allows for maximum toothed gear/rack translation, giving the clamping action of the gear interaction maximum travel when pliers 20 are in the gripping position.

Referring now to Figure 6, which shows pliers 20 in a gripped position (mid-clamping action) with a medium sized object retained within the jaws under pressure, referred to as Condition 2, it is seen that in this condition 2 state, the lower jaw member 212 is in contact with the graspable object 232. The upward/closing pressure applied to the lower handle member 218, and the engagement of the toothed gear/rack features 216 & 220 apply holding pressure to the graspable object 232.

Referring now to Figure 7, which shows pliers 20 in a fully opened position referred to as Condition 3, it is seen that in this condition 3 state, the pliers 20 are in a fully relaxed position, allowing the sprung action to freely open the pliers 20 to the maximum open position. The lower jaw member 212 is bound (through the attachment of the lower handle member 218) to the predetermined motion defined by the size of the toothed rack feature 216 and its related openings. The lower handle member's toothed gear feature sits flush or past the outer surface of the rack 216 as defined by the upper handle material thickness.

The short linkage arm 214 is also in a fully sprung position (towards distal end of handle members with respect to the jaw members). This member has limits to the motion through various stop features found in existing art as well as the allowable translation of the lower handle members toothed gear feature. A limited motion joint is one embodiment of this member.

The lower handle member 218 is in the fully extended position as influenced by sprung action. The motion of this is controlled either by limited motion joint with short linkage arm 214 or through various stop features. Referring now to Figure 8, which shows pliers 20 in a fully clamped position grasping an object 230 which is at limits of maximum size for this embodiment, referred to as Condition 4, it is seen that in this condition 4 state, the lower jaw member 212 is in contact with the graspable object 230. The upward/closing pressure applied to the lower handle member 218, and the engagement of the toothed gear/rack features 216 & 220 (through positioning of short linkage arm 214) apply holding pressure to the graspable object 230.

In this position, the mating and translating of toothed gear/rack features 216 & 220 initiate at the lowest engagement point (point most distal to upper jaw member 210) as defined by the limits of the opening created for the toothed rack feature 216.

As discussed above, the self-adjusting utility pliers 20 include first and second handle members having first and second jaws respectively forming one end of each. The lower jaw member is to be controlled by the tensioning/self adjusting mechanism, and the upper jaw is to be rigid and non-moving. The lower jaw contains the adjustable mechanism, and lower handle member pivots. The intent is to maintain the basic size, overall shape, configuration, and functionality of present channel pliers while introducing single handed self sizing ability for existing channel lock type pliers.

The upper jaw member is rigidly attached to upper handle member via a structural bond. The lower jaw pivotally attaches to the upper handle member by a structural pivoting pin 200 at a point between the upper jaw member and the distal end of the upper handle member. This upper jaw/handle also contains a rack/gear interface that will index with the features on the lower handle unit. The rack feature is located between the upper jaw member and the lower jaw pivoting attachment. The lower jaw member is pivotally attached to the upper handle member via a structural pivoting pin 200 placed between the upper jaw pin fastener and the distal end of the upper handle member with respect to the upper jaw attachment.

The pivoting pin 200 is placed in a more distal position as compared to present channel pliers with respect to the upper jaw as to accomplish a more user- friendly angular association between the upper and lower jaws throughout tool's range of motion. The lower jaw travels along a predetermined path whose motion is controlled through the movement of the lower handle unit.

The lower handle member is pivotally attached to the short linkage member via structural pivoting pin fastener. The short linkage member is pivotally connected to the lower jaw member via a pivoting structural fastener. This short linkage member is sprung away from the jaw members, and rocks back and forth to engage and disengage toothed gear feature of the lower handle member to the geared rack feature on the upper handle member. Pliers 20 are predicated on the application of a two-stage spring system.

The lower jaw member 212 is the primary sprung member with lesser force to actuate into contact with the object of grip. At this point, the lower jaw 212 motion is brought into a binding arrangement where the secondary sprung member begins its range of travel. The secondary sprung member is the lower handle member 218 and short linkage arm 214. These two members are sprung so that the toothed gear feature 220 of the lower handle is disengaged with the toothed rack feature 216 on the upper handle member 210. As the short linkage arm 214 travels forward towards the jaw members, the toothed feature of the lower handle 218 engages with the toothed rack feature on the upper handle member 210. This sets the auto-adjusting feature, and continued motion of the lower handle member upwards will increase the force applied to the object of grip through the gear feature's interaction.

To return the pliers to an active adjustment state, move lower handle member away from upper handle member. This will disengage the mating toothed features and release the pliers to the fully opened position, ready for new grip object clamping.

The positioning of the lower handle member 218 pivotally connected to the lower jaw member 212 at pivot point 202 reduces the lower handle's downward swing, which allows for a more ergonomically correct lower actuating handle. Present channel pliers force the lower handle member to extreme angles when in fully opened position and when changing/resizing pliers to a new grip range. This makes operating pliers with one hand quite difficult. The lower handle member 218 in accordance with this embodiment limits the movement of this member to a consistent predetermined range, and does not require extreme lower handle motion to change pliers clamp range or to engage pliers to objects that approach the maximum thickness of material that the pliers are capable of accommodating.

According to other embodiments of pliers 20, one option includes a lock/release toggle to keep/release short linkage arm 214 locking toothed gear feature 220 of the lower handle member 218 into contact with toothed rack feature 216 of upper handle member 210. This will allow for limited device opening when using pliers for same sized material in repetitive fashion. One option configures linkage arm 214 so that it can experience variable geometry allowing for various clamping forces when in clamped position. One option adds ratchet action to lower handle member 218 so as to change variable geometry linkage arm 214 to increase pressure after clamping action is complete.

Figures 10-12 show a pair of pliers 30, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 10 is a side view of a self adjusting pliers 30 in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 11 is a side elevation of the pliers 30 shown in Figure 10 as the pliers would appear during a closing action, in accordance with one embodiment.

Figure 12 is a side elevation of the pliers 30 shown in Figure 10 as the pliers would appear fully closed, in accordance with one embodiment.

Pliers 30 generally include an upper handle member 310 which contains a pivoting connection point 300 for a lower jaw member 312, and a toothed rack feature 316. A lower handle member 314 is pivotally connected to the lower jaw member 312.

An upper jaw member 322 is permanently affixed to upper handle member 310. The outer surface of upper handle member 310 incorporates toothed rack feature 324 which mates with toothed cam feature 316 on lower handle member 314 when the pliers are actuated to the closed position. In some aspects, pliers 30 work by similar principles as discussed above for pliers 20 and the above discussion is incorporated herein.

Although the engagement mechanism, including toothed rack 324 and camming rack 316, are shown in these Figures for ease of explanation, in use, the engagement mechanism for jaw actuation of pliers 30 is concealed within upper handle member 310 to avoid creating pinch points for the user during the gripping action. Two slots 330 are located on either side of handle 310 to allow for large washer placement to help conceal mechanical parts and provide guidance and physical stops that define the maximum range of lower jaw 312 motion. Slots 330 are also curved to be concentric to the lower jaw pivot 300 at allow for unobstructed motion through the pliers 30 max range of motion, but not allowing for over travel in either direction. The guide washers attached to pivot 302 will aid in keeping jaws aligned to each other during gripping with torsional forces involved.

The device described here includes two main parts, the lower jaw 312 and the lower handle member 314, that create a variable geometry hinge. The rack 324 and pivot 300 also play a role to this device as to provide a controlled pivot and concentric geared rack to which this assembly operates within. As the assembly pivots about pivot 300, the gear teeth of 316 are moved rotatable along the concentric rack 324. The variable geometry hinge translates gear 316 into and out of meshing with rack 324 by rotating lower handle 314 upwards or downwards respectively.

The variable geometry/floating hinge is accomplished with two opposing pins 301 & 302 and two opposing slot features 332 & 334 which work together to establish a predetermined path traveled by the lower handle 314 and gear set 316. Handle 314 contains pin 301 and slot 332, and lower jaw member 312 contains pin 302, and slot 334. Pin 301 fits into slot 334, and pin 302 fits into slot 332. Pin 302 is the main pivoting point for the variable geometry hinge and considered the structural pin.

Slot 332 is bean shaped and contains a spring (not shown) at the distal end that influences pin 302 proximally towards curved rack feature 324 removing the gear teeth of 316 from curved rack 324 (Figure 10). The bean shaped slot 332 has a proximal end that is some distance eccentric to the center point of gear 316, and a distal end that is concentric with gear set 316. When pin 302 is positioned in the distal end of the bean slot 332 with respect to the rack 324, the gear teeth of 316 meshes fully gear teeth of rack 324 (Figures 11 & 12). When pin 302 is positioned in the proximal end of the bean shaped slot 332, the gear teeth of 316 are fully retracted from rack 324 (Figure 10).

As the handle 314 is lowered to its lowest position with regards to the upper handle 310, the pin 302 is moved to the distal most position of the 332 bean shaped slot compressing the spring described above and engages gear teeth 316 into rack 324 (Figure 10). To control the position of pin 302 in bean slot 332, slot 334 and pin 301 are used. Slot 334 has dual functionality due to the dog-leg shape of the slot. There is a portion of the slot that is configured in-line with the proximal end of bean shaped slot 332, and a portion that is concentric to the distal end of bean shaped slot 332 and defines the range of motion for lower handle 314.

The straight portion of slot 334 has two positions. As shown in Figure 10, pin 301 resides in the lowest portion of dog legged slot 334, and pin 302 is allowed to be positioned at the distal most portion of the bean slot 332. This removes gear teeth 316 from contact with rack 324. The second position of the straight portion of the slot 334 is shown in Figure 11 where pin 301 resides in the upper most portion of the straight portion of slot 334, and pin 302 is forced towards the distal end of the bean slot 332.

The curved portion of slot 334 is defined by its coincidence with the upper position of the straight portion of slot 334, and its concentricity with the distal end of bean slot 332, The length of this curved potion is defined by its coincidence with upper most position of the straight portion of slot 334, and continues to allow the lower handle 314 to move freely upward to a position much like the one shown in Figure 12, described as the fully closed position.

Lower handle 314 can have a spring load that influences this member downward with respect to upper handle 310. This spring (not shown) has a superior influence to the variable hinge assembly as compared to the spring located in the bean shaped slot 332, making the lower handle spring primary and the bean spring secondary. The spring load on the lower handle 314 is not necessary, but aids in the single handed operation of these pliers. With the removal of this lower handle 314 spring, the spring located within the bean slot 332 becomes the primary spring for the variable geometry hinge.

Figure 10 shows the lower handle 314 in its extreme open position, which translates pin 301 into the lowest most position along the straight portion of slot 334, and allows for the spring within the bean slot 332 to translate the pin 302 to the proximal end of bean slot 332, removing gear 316 from contact with rack feature 324. This configuration allows for the free rotational movement of the entire variable hinge assembly along its range of motion defined by slots 310 located within upper handle 310. Spring loading this entire assembly downward with respect to the upper handle is possible and desirable as to aid in the single handed nature of this device. This spring is to be of lesser for than that of the lower handle 314 and bean shaped slot 332 spring within the variable geometry hinge. This will allow for a three stage spring loaded sequence when lower handle 314 is moved upwards in order to grasp an object between jaws 312 and 322.

The three stage sequence is then as follows: First (Figure 10), lower handle 310 is in the lower most position actuating the variable hinge to a condition where the geared teeth of gear 316 are removed from contact with rack 324, allowing the variable geometry hinge to move freely upward and downward through the range of motion defined by slots 310 providing for a preset range of motion and therefore a grip range between top and lower jaws 312 and 322.

As pliers 30 perform the grasping sequence, a grip object is positioned between jaws 312 and 322 by moving the variable geometry assembly upwards or downwards as to place upper and lower jaws into contact with said grip object. As continued pressure is applied to lower handle 314 upwards towards upper handle 310, the grip object stops the motion of the spring at pivot 300 (which influences variable geometry hinge downwards), tripping the variable hinge into stage two of said sequence.

Stage two (a transitional stage where the lower jaw movement pauses), shown in Figure 11 , shows the condition where the continued upwards motion of the lower handle 314 has propagated pin 302 to the distal end of slot 332 and moved pin 301 to the upper most position of the straight portion of the dog- legged slot 334, forcing the gear set 316 into a full mesh with geared rack 324.

Stage three supplies additional lower jaw 312 movement towards the upper jaw 322 with a force multiplied many times more than what is being applied to handles 310 and 314 towards one another. As shown in Figure 12, when pin 302 is located at the distal most position of the bean shaped slot 332, and pin 301 is traveling along the curved portion of the dog-legged slot 334 (along with lower handle 314's upward motion), lower jaw 312 is moved forcefully upward applying increasing pressure upon grip item. The user then, by adjusting hand grip pressure, can select from a wide range of jaw grip forces and pause lower handle movement to maintain grip of said object.

Releasing the grip object is easily performed by releasing pressure from the lower handle 314, then transitioning (via hand movement and/or recoil spring force) lower handle 314 downwards away from upper handle 310, with reverse steps through the previous stages. Once the condition shown in Figure 10 has been attained, the lower jaw can then be easily released and then repositioned to a new grip object.

Figures 13-23 show a pair of pliers 40, in accordance with one embodiment. Figures 13-15 show partial cross-section views of pliers 40. Figure 16 is an exploded view of pliers 40. Figures 17-18 are side views of a bottom portion of pliers 40. Figure 19-22 are partial cross-section views of pliers 40. Figure 23 shows a rear perspective view of the front portion of pliers 40.

Pliers 40 include similar features as discussed above for pliers 10, and the above discussion is incorporated herein by reference. In this example, pliers 40 omit the linkage arm 116 of pliers 10 (see Figure 1) and substitute a pawl mechanism (418, 415, 429) located near an upper end of the lower jaws of pliers 40. Further, pliers 40 include a tension adjustment wheel 409 and an unlock lower handle 411.

In one embodiment, pliers 40 include an upper handle member 410 which contains the pivoting connection points for the upper jaw assembly 412 at pivot point 400, lower jaw member 414 at pivot point 401, and toothed cam unit 418 at pivot point 405. A lower handle member 419 is pivo tally connected to the lower jaw member 414 at pivot point 402, and a linkage arm 420 at pivot point 403. Linkage arm 420 is further connected to a secondary linkage arm 407 at pivot point 405, and secondary linkage arm 407 is coupled to upper handle 410 at pivot point 404. Upper jaw member 412 has a bifurcated pivot arm configuration that attaches pivotally to the outer surfaces of handle member 410 via structural pivoting pin 400. The interior surface of upper jaw member 412 incorporates a toothed rack feature 422 which mates with toothed cam unit 418 when the pliers are actuated to the locking position. The upper jaw member 412 is pivotally attached to handle member 410 at a set distance from the handle end proximal to the upper jaw member 412 in order to maintain stability of the upper jaw and allow lower jaw member 414 to fit within the area of handle member 410 without causing interference.

Upper jaw member 412 is sprung to its lowest starting position via spring action using a variety of different spring force embodiments, such as spring 433 of Figure 14. Location of spring force to upper jaw member may be placed at a number of locations without changing the basic functionality of the pliers.

Toothed cam member 418 is pivotally connected at pivot point 405 to the forward end of handle member 410. Cam 418 is positioned in such a way that the toothed surface 424 can be cammed into contact and mated with upper jaw member 412' s mating toothed surface 422. Toothed surface 424 is configured to mate with mating toothed surface 422 on upper jaw member 412 when upper jaw 412 is in locked position.

Cam member 418 is actuated via a linkage arm 415 pivotally connected to a linkage mechanism 429 which is coupled at pivot point 401 at the upper end of lower jaw 414. As jaw 414 rotates upward, linkage mechanism 429 also rotates backwards (clockwise, in view of the Figures). This action pulls linkage arm 415 backwards, which in turn causes cam member 418 to rotate around pivot point 405 clockwise (in view of the Figures) until cam member 418 engages toothed surface 422. In this example, and referring to Figure 23, linkage mechanism 429 is mounted at pivot point 401 at the upper end of lower jaw 414. A pair of set screws 443 and a spring 445 are located between the upper end of lower jaw 414 and the bottom of linkage mechanism 429. Set screws 443 allow adjustment of the engagement point of cam 418 with the toothed surface of upper jaw 412. Spring 445 is located over the front setscrew and keeps linkage mechanism 429 biased towards the rear of the pliers. This allows cam 418 to be better held in the proper position away from upper jaw 412 during lower jaw 414 movement.

Lower jaw member 414 is pivotally attached to upper handle member 410 via structural pivoting pin 401. Pivoting point 401 is located between the forward most edge of the handle member 410 and the pivoting attachment 400 of upper jaw member 412. Lower jaw member 414 has a single pivot arm feature that connects to the interior surfaces of handle member 410. Pivot point 401 is positioned in such a way forward of pivot point 400, that the pivoting pin 401 and single pivoting arm do not interfere with upper jaw member 412.

Lower handle member 419 is pivo tally attached to lower jaw member 414 via structurally pivoting pin 402, and pivotally attached to linkage arm 420 via structurally pivoting pin 403. The lower handle unit 419 controls the tensioning of the work-piece 426 as well as actuates upper jaw member to its proper positioning to reflect the size of the material positioned between the upper and lower jaw members (412, 414). Additional and adjustable clamping force may be incorporated into the lower handle member 419 by manipulation the shape and length of the linkage arm 420. For example, referring to Figures 17 and 18, thumbwheel 409 is mounted to linkage arm 420 and can be used to change the geometry of linkage arm 420 and secondary linkage arm 407. For example, when the thumbwheel is up (Figure 18), this action decreases the length of the total linkage length of linkage arms 4420, 407. This then applies less pressure to the jaws. Reversing the action (Figure 17) will apply more pressure to the jaws. In the present example, the central location of thumbwheel 409 allows for one-hand operation of the pliers. Referring now specifically to Figure 19 which shows pliers 40 in a fully closed position, the upper jaw member 412 is shown in its start position. Cam member 418 is engaged to rack 422 of upper jaw 412. The lower jaw member 414 is engaged to mate to the upper jaw member 412 through the positioning of handle member 419 and linkage arm 420. Lower handle member 419, in combination with linkage arm members

407, 420, is in an over-center arrangement creating the sustained/self-locking clamping force applied to the lower jaw member 414. Pliers 40 will tend to stay in this close position during storage and non-use due to the over center relationship of pivot point 403 relative to the line defined by pivots 402 and 404 of lower handle 419 and the linkage arm 420 in the fully closed position.

Referring now to Figure 20, which shows pliers 40 in a fully opened position, the upper jaw member 412 is shown remaining in its spring tensioned start position. The lower jaw member 414 is in its extreme open position. In this position, there is a limit on the travel of the lower jaw member 414, as not to overly open the jaws. The jaws 412 & 414 are configured in the fully opened state at a position slightly more open than the maximum material thickness the pliers can effectively clamp to. This discourages the use pliers for oversized material that will not clamp properly.

The lower jaw 414 can have spring force applied via a spring to keep the pliers in the opened position. This allows for ease of opening and added ease of single-handed operation. For example, a torsion spring can be mounted at pivot point 403 that biases lower handle 419 away from linkage 420.

Linkage arm 415 is in such a position that, via linkage mechanism 429, it disengages toothed surface of cam 418 from the matching toothed surface on lower jaw 412. This motion allows the upper jaw member 412 to travel freely through its full range of motion around pivot 400.

Referring now to Figure 21, which shows pliers 40 in a partially closed (mid-clamping action) position, as the lower handle member 419 travels through its clamping action motion it forces the lower jaw 414 upward towards the upper jaw 412. The linkage arm 415 is in such a position at this point in the clamping motion process that the linkage arm 415 keeps the toothed surface of cam member 418 from being in contact, or engaging with, the toothed surface on upper jaw member 412. This non-engagement for the cam unit 418 allows for the spring tensioned upper jaw 412 to move upward with the work-piece and lower j aw member 414.

The lower handle 419 will continue its motion towards the upper handle member 410. At a predetermined position in the clamping motion, the angular positioning of the linkage mechanism 429 forces the linkage arm 415 to rotate cam unit 418, driving cam 418 into upper jaw 412. Once the toothed surface of cam 418 engages with the matching toothed surface of upper jaw member 412, the upper jaw 412 is locked into position relative to the upper handle member 410. This stops the upper jaw 412 in a predetermined position that allows adequate clamping force to be generated using the continued motion of the clamping action. This continued motion is now confined to the lower jaw member 414 and related linkages creating clamping force on the work-piece.

Referring now to Figure 22, which shows pliers 40 in a fully clamped position, the upper jaw member 412 is in its fully opened and locked position due to the engagement of cam 418 to upper jaw member 412, creating a secure locking connection. The lower jaw member 414 is forced into an over-center friction bound locked position with linkage arm 420 and lower jaw 414 due to geometric conditions that favor this positioning.

Pliers 40 will maintain their clamping forces until manually disengaged by lower handle 411 which releases the handle 419 and linkage arm 420 from the over-center geometry or by pulling the lower handle 419 away from the upper handle member 410, releasing the mechanism from its over-center binding and locked position. Opening the jaws by spreading the upper handle 410 and lower handle 419 apart will disengage the cam member 418, un-locking the bound clamping device. Figures 24-30 show views of a pair of pliers 50, in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 24 is a side cross-section view of pliers 50. Figure 25 is a side cross-section view of pliers 50. Figure 26 is an exploded view of pliers 50. Figures 27 and 28 show details of a top portion of pliers 50. Figures 29 and 30 show details of a lower portion of pliers 50.

Pliers 50, in this example, are self-adjusting, force multiplying locking pliers. Pliers 50 can be used for single-handed manual manipulation and automatically adjust to positions of positive gripping and holding of any size work-piece within the size range defined by the maximum opening between the jaws of the pliers. Many features of pliers 50 are similar to pliers 10 discussed above, and the above discussion is incorporated herein by reference In one embodiment, pliers 50 include an upper handle member 510 which contains the pivoting connection points for an upper jaw member 512, a lower jaw member 514, a linkage arm 516, and a toothed cam unit 518. A lower handle member 519 is pivotally connected to the lower jaw member 514, and a second linkage arm 520. Linkage arm 520 actuates cam unit 518 via linkage arm 516 which is pivotally connected to both linkage arm 520 and toothed cam unit 518 at the points where the full range of motion of cam 518 is attained by the range of motion exhibited by linkage arm 520.

In one example, upper jaw member 512 has a bifurcated pivot arm configuration that attaches pivotally (similar to a clevis) to the outer surfaces of handle member 510 via structural pivoting pin 536. The interior surface of upper jaw member 512 incorporates a toothed rack feature 522 which mates with toothed cam unit 518 when the pliers are actuated to the locking position. The upper jaw member 512 is pivotally attached to handle member 510 at a set distance from the handle end proximal to the upper jaw member 512 in order to maintain stability of the upper jaw and allow lower jaw member 514 to fit at pivot point 534 within the area of handle member 510 without causing interference. The present clevis configuration also keeps motion of upper jaw (while applying clamping force) from creating pinch points between moving elements. Upper jaw member 512 is sprung to its lowest starting position via spring action using a variety of different spring force embodiments, such as spring 564. The location of spring force to upper jaw member 512 can be placed at a number of locations without changing the basic functionality of the pliers. Toothed cam member 518 is pivotally connected to the extreme forward end of handle member 510 with structural pivoting pin 530. Cam 518 is positioned in such a way that its toothed surface facing surface can be cammed into contact and mated with upper jaw member 512' s mating toothed surface 522. The toothed surface of cam member 518 is configured to mate with mating toothed surface 522 on upper jaw member 512 when upper jaw 512 is in locked position. Cam member 518 is actuated via linkage arm 516 and pivotally connected by structural pin 532 such that as linkage arm 516 is translated away from upper jaw 512, cam member 518 rotates away from toothed surface 522. Other techniques and structures for controlling the position and locking off of upper jaw member 512 are also viable.

Linkage arm 516 is pivotally attached at each extreme end via structural pivoting pin 532 to cam 518 and pin 540 to linkage arm 520. Linkage arm 516 is positioned in such a way that the maximum range of motion of linkage arm 520 translates actuating cam member 518 in and out of locking contact with upper jaw 512' s toothed rack feature 522.

In this example, linkage arm 516 includes a curved, arched shape. Also, linkage arm 516 is coupled to linkage arm 520 at a slot 562 located in linkage arm 520. Slot 562 allows pivot pin 540 to translate along the slot during operation of pliers 50. Referring to Figures 27 and 28, as linkage arm 520 is rotated upward due to action of squeezing the handles together, slot 562 translates along pivot pin 540 and then arched linkage arm 516 is pushed forward to position the cam 518 against toothed surface 522.

Lower jaw member 514 is pivotally attached to handle member 510 via structural pivoting pin 534. Pivoting point 534 is located between the forward most edge of the handle member 510 and the pivoting attachment 536 of upper jaw member 512. Lower jaw member 514 has a single pivot arm feature that connects to the interior surfaces of handle member 510. Pivot point 534 is positioned in such a way forward of pivot point 536, that the pivoting pin 534 and single pivoting arm do not interfere with upper jaw member 512. Actuation of the lower jaw member 514 is driven by lower handle member 519 via structural pivoting pin 544. Lower handle member 519 is pivotally attached to lower jaw member

514 via structurally pivoting pin 544, and pivotally attached to linkage arm 520 via structurally pivoting pin 542. The lower handle unit 519 controls the tensioning of a work-piece 526 as well as actuate upper jaw member 512 to its proper positioning to reflect the size of the material positioned between the upper and lower jaw members (512, 514).

In one example, adjustable clamping force may be incorporated into the lower handle member 519 via a thumbwheel 554, a screw 556, and an adjustment linkage arm 528. Referring to Figures 26, 29 and 30, adjustment linkage arm 528 includes a first end attached at pivot point 544 to lower handle 519 and lower jaw 514. A central portion of adjustment linkage arm 528 is coupled with screw 556. A second end of adjustment link 528 is coupled at pivot point 542 to lower handle 519 and linkage arm 520. A slot 560 of adjustment linkage arm 528 allows arm 528 to translate along pivot point 542 depending on the height of screw 556. A slot 570 in handle 519 also allows movement of linkage arm 520 relative to handle 519 at pivot point 542. This configuration allows for adjustable clamping force. For example, when adjustment linkage arm 528 is moved upwards via thumbwheel 554 this action decreases the length of the total linkage length of linkage arms 528, 520. This then applies less pressure to the jaws. Reversing the action will apply more pressure to the jaws. In other examples, adding setscrews to the lower handle member 519 that comes into contact with linkage arm 520 will stop the closing motion of the pliers at pre-determined locations allowing for additional method of controlling fully closed position.

Figure 25 shows pliers 50 in a partially closed (mid-clamping action) position. As the lower handle member 519 travels through its clamping action motion, in conjunction with linkage arm 520, forces the lower jaw 514 upward towards the upper jaw 512.

The linkage arm 520 is in such a position at this point in the clamping motion process, that the linkage arm 516 keeps the toothed surface 524 of cam member 518 from being in contact, or engaging with, toothed surface 522 on upper jaw member 512. This non-engagement for the cam unit 518 allows for the spring 564 tensioned upper jaw 512 to move upward with the material 526 and lower jaw member 514.

The lower handle 519 will continue its motion towards the upper handle member 510. At a predetermined position in the clamping motion, the angular positioning of the linkage arm member 520 forces the linkage arm 516 into cam unit 518, driving cam 518 into upper jaw 512.

Once the toothed surface of cam 518 engages with the matching toothed surface 522 of upper jaw member 512, the upper jaw 512 is locked into position relative to the upper handle member 510. This stops the upper jaw 512 in a predetermined position that allows adequate clamping force to be generated using the continued motion of the clamping action. This continued motion is now confined to the lower jaw member 514 and related linkages (560, 520), creating clamping force on the material 526.

Figure 24 shows the pliers after being fully closed. In this condition, linkage arm 516 is engaging the toothed surface of cam member 518 into contact with toothed rack feature 522 of upper jaw member 512. Some embodiments include a release lower handle 524 which is attached to linkage 552 to release the pliers.

Lower handle member 519, in combination with linkage arm member 520, are in an over-center arrangement creating the sustained/self-locking clamping force applied to the lower jaw member 514. In this configuration, the linkage arm member 520 via pivoting pin 540 also applies force to the cam member 518 via linkage arm 516 and pivoting pin 532.

Figures 31-36 show examples of the jaws 512 and 514 of pliers 50. The jaw shape of pliers 50 can be applied to any other pliers discussed herein. The jaw shape of pliers 50 are designed as a hybrid style which holds flat, round, hex, and irregular shapes equally well. Most pliers are not very efficient when gripping round and hex shaped objects due to the lack of gripping features. The present jaws are specifically designed for these applications. Referring also to Figure 23 it is shown that the jaw grooves 590 are semicircular in order to have a strong tooth with a sharp edge that can dig into the grip item's surface. The larger tooth gaps (recess between teeth) are designed to catch corners of material, allow for dirt and grim to be channeled away (like rain tires) to assure better contact with dirty or oily items. The jaws include four grip zones. The first grip zone 580 being a flat perpendicular nose which is able to grip small items that are adjacent or secured to a mostly flat surface. Second grip zone 581 is an arched zone for flat/bar type grip objects. The curve of grip zone 581 is configured to give parallel grip surfaces (within the zone) at any jaw displacement. The third grip zone 582 has a peak that when paired to the opposite jaw approximates a hex shape, which is a superior shape for gripping hex and round objects. The fourth grip zone 584 is a larger lobed and grooved shape that allows for secondary flat object grip (more stable grip position), and also allows for higher pressure for securing stubborn objects. The rear curved zone 584 of the jaw design is further configured for secondary flat object gripping with a crested shape that will have full teeth perpendicular to the grip surface allowing for a more secure grip.

By separating the grip features of the jaws into multiple zones, 580, 581, 582, and 584, and utilizing a tooth pattern that allows for both flat pressure for hard items and grooved, digging in features to better secure softer items, the present jaws are more versatile than present plier jaws. Referring again to Figure 23, in one example, the zones of the jaws are separated by larger semi-circular grooves separating the zoned profiles within the overall jaw profile.

Figure 37 is an exploded view of pliers 60, in accordance with one embodiment. Figures 38 and 39 are side views of pliers 60. Pliers 60 share certain features with other pliers discussed above and below and those discussions are also incorporated herein by reference.

Pliers 60 generally include an upper handle member 610 which contains a pivoting connection point 600 for a lower jaw 612, and a toothed rack feature 616. A lower handle member 618 is pi vo tally connected to the lower jaw member 612.

Upper jaw member 622 is permanently affixed to upper handle member 610. The back surface of upper jaw member 622 incorporates toothed rack feature 616 which faces the distal end of the pliers and mates with a toothed cam feature 620 on lower handle member 618 when the pliers are actuated to the locking position.

The lower jaw member 612 is pi vo tally attached to upper handle member 610 at pivot point 600 near the back end of the pliers. Lower jaw member 612 is sprung to its lowest starting position via spring action, using a variety of different spring force embodiments. Location of spring force to upper jaw member may be placed at a number of locations without changing the basic functionality of the pliers. Although spring type assist devices are helpful to create more easily operated pair of pliers, they are not necessary to have the pliers to work properly in every embodiment.

Upper handle member 610 represents a framework from which these pliers operate, and includes a hollow center portion that allows for free movement of parts and a means to anchor features. The upper jaw member 622 is a solid shaped member, and fits within the extreme proximal end of the upper handle member 610 (much like a clevis) as to be positioned and configured to have the curved geared rack 616 concentric with the main structural pivot 600 at the distal end of the upper handle 610. The upper handle 610 also contains curved slots 624 that act as a stability aid to the lower jaw member 612 as well as defining the maximum open and closed range of the pliers, providing a physical stop at the open most position of the pliers, keeping the pliers from over- traveling.

Upper jaw member 622 includes a grasping jaw portion, neck and arched gear rack 616 to which the gear set 620 of the lower handle member 618 is to mesh. This upper jaw member 616 is permanently affixed to the upper handle member 610 in such a way that the gear rack 620 is a set distance and concentric to the main pivot 600 of the upper handle member 610.

Lower jaw member 612 includes lower jaw feature at the extreme proximal end and a main structural pivot 603 at the opposite extreme distal end. Between these two features, an additional structural pivot 602 is located as to which the lower handle 618 can attach at pivot 602 and rotates through its range of motion without interfering with the lower jaw member 618. Concentrically aligned and at a set distance below the lower handle pivot 602 resides a secondary pin 601 that attaches to the lower jaw member 612 and passes through the concentric slots 624 at the sides of the upper handle 610 to attach to the washer unit 614.

The lower jaw 612 also contains accommodations to a spring 626 mount that influences the lower handle member 618 downward with respect to the upper handle 610 as a tension spring. One end of spring 626 may attach to lower jaw member 612 at hole 605 and may attach to lower handle member 618 at pin 606. One embodiment includes a detent ball 607 and track 608 that can hold the pliers in temporary set positions within its range of motion, such as fully open or fully closed. Other items available as features for this member include a downward protruding nub 628 used as motion stops for the lower handle 618 as not to create pinch points in the device.

A washer member 614 is an arched capsule shaped flat washer 614 that attaches to the lower jaw member 612' s mating features 601 & 602 through the upper handle sidewall slots 624. This washer is intended to give physical stops to the upper most and lower most positions of the lower jaw member 612's range of motion. The washer 614 also acts to provide stability of lower jaw member 612 while grasping and applying torque to certain grip objects 630 by sandwiching the upper handle 610 sidewall between washer 614, and the lower jaw 612, via structural pins 601 & 602. This washer is to be tight enough to provide torsional stability, but loose enough to allow free movement of the lower jaw through its predetermined range of motion.

Lower handle member 618 includes a handle portion at the distal end and an angular portion at the proximal end which contain features used to actuate the device. The proximal end of this member contains a variety of features including a main structural pivot point 604 at the extreme proximal end which pivotally connects to the mating feature 602 on the lower jaw member 612. A curved gear segment 620 is concentric to the main pivot 604 of the lower handle member 618. This curved gear 620 is to be configured to be tangent to the curved gear rack 616 located at the distal portion of the upper jaw member 622. Optional features of some embodiments include a curved detent track 608 and ball 607. Pliers 60 include a gear set 620 configured in such a way as to be able to rotate gear teeth 620 in and out of contact with geared rack 616. This "rotating out of contact" feature allows for the lower jaw 612 / lower handle 618 assembly to move freely upwards and downwards with respect to upper handle 610 as to select the appropriate jaw displacement for various sized grip objects 630. Once the jaws 612 & 622 have been positioned around the grip object 630, continued pressure upwards towards upper handle 610 of the lower handle member 618 rotates said gear set 620 into contact with rack 616. Continued motion upwards of the lower handle member 618 applies a multiplied force to the jaws 612 & 622 with respect to the force applied to the handles 610 & 618 via the user interaction. In various embodiments, the present pliers 60 provide advantages over current pliers. For example, pliers 60 include the gear/rack actuation mechanism 616, 620 located near the jaws 622, 612 which provides a superior gripping force as compared to the users applied grip by a factor of at least 5X, and can go beyond 1OX grip force if configured correctly. Pliers 60 are configured in such a way that all pinch points are eliminated by having the gear/rack actuation device 616, 620 interior of the top handle 610 and shrouding the moving parts with the upper handle sides. Although Figures 38 and 39 show the internal parts of the pliers for ease of explanation, in use, the outer handle 610 encloses the members with only slot 624 showing the internal parts.

Pliers 60 have jaw and pivot placement so as to allow for mostly parallel jaw configurations for gripping all objects within the maximum grip object size. Locating the main jaw pivot 600 to the distal end of the pliers and placing the force multiplying gear set 620, 616 close to the jaws helps accomplish this. This configuration keeps the jaws mostly parallel throughout the range of grip, and provides superior mechanical advantage for the user. Moreover, pliers 60 can include the same jaw configuration discussed above for Figures 31-36.

Pliers 60 have a geared tooth member 620 that selectively engages to a geared rack 616 providing a user grip range that is similar regardless of grip object size. This gear system 620, 626 provides very similar lower handle movement and a predetermined amount of lower handle movement for all items that are within the pliers grip range. This allows the user to apply a consistent user grip force to any size object within the pliers grip range.

Figure 38 shows pliers 60 in a fully closed position. In this condition, the pliers 60 are in a mechanically bound position where continued pressure applied to upper handle and lower handle will not provide additional actuation of said pliers. A small protrusion 624 in the distal portion of the lower jaw 612 acts as safety stop to avoid pinch points and injury to the user by providing a gap between parts 610 and 618 in the fully closed condition. Gear set 620 is shown in full contact with curved rack 616 at its upper most portion. Washer member 614 and related structures reside at the upper most portion of guide slots 726, and upper and lower jaws 612 & 622 are in full contact. Spring 626 is shown to bridge the anchor points 605 & 606, and provides tension between the two. This tensional force influences the lower handle member 618 downwards with respect to the upper handle 610, opening the pliers and releasing the grip object upon release of pressure to the upper handle 610 and lower handle 618 by the user.

An optional latch/lock can be located at the distal most point of the lower handle 918 which temporarily binds this member in place (for storage) with respect to the upper handle 610. Detent ball 607 and track 608 can also provide for means of latching for storage with an aggressive enough detent configurations. Figure 39 shows pliers 60 in a fully opened position. In this condition, the pliers 60 are in the opposite mechanically bound position with respect to condition shown in figure 38. The lower jaw 612 is shown in the lower most point with respect to the upper handle 610, and washer 612 and related structures are positioned at the bottom of curved slots 624, stopping continued downward motion and acting as a stop as not to over travel mechanism. Lower handle member 618 is in its lower most position with respect to lower jaw 612, thus rotating partial gear set 620 out of contact with curved gear rack 616. Lower handle downward motion can be stopped by mating surfaces at this position that stop further lower handle 618 rotation, or via the detent ball 607 and track 608 geometric limitations. In this condition, pliers 60 are ready to grip object 530 by simply applying force to the lower handle 618 in an upwards motion with respect to upper handle 610.

Figure 40 is an exploded view of pliers 70, in accordance with one embodiment. Figures 41 and 42 are side views of pliers 70.

Pliers 70 share certain features with pliers 60 and other pliers discussed above and below and those discussions are also incorporated herein by reference. Pliers 70 generally include an upper handle member 710 which contains a pivoting connection point 700 for a lower jaw 712, and a toothed rack feature 716. A lower handle member 718 is pi vo tally connected to the lower jaw member 712. Upper jaw member 722 is permanently affixed to upper handle member

710. The back surface of upper jaw member 722 incorporates toothed rack feature 716 which faces the distal end of the pliers and mates with a toothed cam feature 720 on lower handle member 718 when the pliers are actuated to the locking position. The lower jaw member 712 is pi vo tally attached to upper handle member

710 at pivot point 700 near the back end of the pliers.

Upper handle member 710 represents a framework from which these pliers operate, and includes a hollow center portion that allows for free movement of parts and a means to anchor features. The upper jaw member 722 is a solid shaped member, and fits within the extreme proximal end of the upper handle member 710 so as to be positioned and configured to have the curved geared rack 716 concentric with the main structural pivot 700 at the distal end of the upper handle 710. The upper handle 710 also contains curved slots 724 that act as a stability aid to the lower jaw member 712 as well as defining the maximum open and closed range of the pliers, providing a physical stop at the open most position of the pliers, keeping the pliers from over-traveling.

Upper jaw member 722 includes a grasping jaw portion, neck and arched gear rack 716 to which the gear set 720 of the lower handle member 718 is to mesh. This upper jaw member 716 is permanently affixed to the upper handle member 710 in such a way that the gear rack 720 is a set distance and concentric to the main pivot 700 of the upper handle member 710. Lower jaw member 712 includes lower jaw feature at the extreme proximal end and a main structural pivot 731 at the opposite extreme distal end. Between these two features, an additional structural pivot 702 is located as to which the lower handle 718 can attach at pivot 703 and rotate through its range of motion without interfering with the lower jaw member 712.

In one embodiment, a spring 714 influences the lower handle member 718 downward with respect to the upper handle 710. One end of spring 714 may attach to lower jaw member 712 at hole 704 and may attach to lower handle member 718 at pin 705. Other items available as features for this member include a downward protruding nub 726 used as motion stops for the lower handle 718 as not to create pinch points in the device.

Lower handle member 718 includes a handle portion at the distal end and an angular portion at the proximal end which contains features used to actuate the device. The proximal end of this member contains a variety of features including a main structural pivot point 703 at the extreme proximal end which pivotally connects to the mating feature 702 on the lower jaw member 712. A curved gear segment 720 is concentric to the main pivot 703 of the lower handle member 718. This curved gear 720 is to be configured to be tangent to the curved gear rack 716 located at the distal portion of the upper jaw member 722.

Pliers 70 include a gear set 720 configured in such a way as to be able to rotate gear teeth 720 in and out of contact with geared rack 716. This "rotating out of contact" feature allows for the lower jaw 712 / lower handle 718 assembly to move freely upwards and downwards with respect to upper handle 710 so as to select the appropriate jaw displacement for various sized grip objects. Once the jaws 712 & 722 have been positioned around the grip object, continued pressure upwards towards upper handle 710 of the lower handle member 718 rotates gear set 720 into contact with rack 716. Continued motion upwards of the lower handle member 718 applies a multiplied force to the jaws 712 & 722 with respect to the force applied to the handles 710 & 718 via the user interaction.

In this embodiment, the rear pivot 731 of the lower jaw 712 has a kidney bean shape that forces the teeth 720 into the rack 716 when gripping an object. There is a wire form spring and a coiled tension spring that control the motion so that the action happens in sequence (open pliers, grip object (primary spring allows lower jaw to move up), lock teeth into position (secondary spring), continue grip action to apply force to jaws).

In one embodiment, at the rear end of the lower handle is a wire loop 733 that can be latched over a hook 735 located on the rear extreme end of the lower jaw. This is used for storage so that the pliers can be stored in a closed position. Without this latch, the pliers are fully open in their relaxed state. Figures 41 and 42, respectively, show pliers 70 in a fully closed position and a fully opened position, with a detail view showing the gear engagement apparatus. The kidney bean shaped pivot hole 731 at the rear of the lower jaw holds a pivoting pin 700 attached to the upper handle 710. The pin 700 (relaxed state) is sprung into the lower lobe of the kidney shape hole 731. As the handles are closed, the pin 700 stays in this lower position until the jaws contact the grip object. Once the jaws contact the grip object, the secondary spring allows the pin 700 to rise into the top of the kidney shaped hole forcing the gear teeth into the rack. Continued movement of the handles (together) applies force to the grip object at a significantly greater force that applied to the handles. Figure 43 is an exploded view of pliers 80, in accordance with one embodiment. Figures 44-46 show a side view of pliers 80. Figures 47-48 show a side view of a bottom portion of pliers 80.

Pliers 80 share certain features with other pliers discussed above and below and those discussions are also incorporated herein by reference. Pliers 80 generally include an upper handle member 810 which contains the pivoting connection point 800 for the lower jaw assembly 812. The lower handle member 818 is pivo tally connected to the lower jaw member 812 at a pivot point 802.

Upper jaw member 822 is permanently affixed to upper handle member 810. The back surface of upper jaw member 822 incorporates a toothed rack feature 816 which mates with toothed cam feature 820. The lower jaw member 812 is pivotally attached to upper handle member 810 at pivot point 800 near the back end of the pliers. The upper handle 810 also contains curved slots 824 that act as a stability aid to the lower jaw member 812 as well as defining the maximum open and closed range of the pliers, providing a physical stop at the open most position of the pliers, keeping the pliers from over-traveling.

In this embodiment, toothed cam 820 includes a gear body that is pivotally attached at pivot point 802 to the lower handle 818 and lower jaw member 812. A pawl 825 is mounted at pivot 835 of lower handle 818. Small teeth are located on the rear of cam 820 to engage pawl 825. The small teeth are opposite the large teeth that engage toothed rack 816. The ratchet aspect allows for the rotation of the gear teeth along the rack 816. The ratchet feature of pawl 825 and toothed cam 820 allows for repositioning of the lower handle as to allow grip force to be applied to the grip object at any position along the rack 816.

Figure 45 and 46 show that with the cam 820 at the lowest point on the rack 816, the lower handle 818 can be repositioned for better grip or continued lower jaw movement. This would allow for the drawing together of grip items, and allows for a locking feature in the closed position.

Pliers 80 utilize ratchet pawl assembly 825 to control the ratcheting gear cam 820 with respect to the lower handle member 818. In one embodiment, the teeth of gear cam 820 remain in constant contact with geared rack 816. The translation of the lower jaw 812 is controlled by the ratcheting positionality of the gear cam 820, which is controlled by the movement of the lower handle 818 and the position of the ratchet pawl 825.

In one embodiment, pliers 70 do not allow free movement of the force multiplying assembly upwards and downwards as to freely reposition upper jaws 822 and lower jaws 812 into contact with various shaped grip objects. Movement upwards and downwards of lower handle member 818 is accomplished by actuating lower jaws 812 upwards and downwards, rotating the gear cam 820 clockwise or anti-clockwise about its structural pivot 802, depending upon the position of the ratchet pawl 825. As shown in Figures 44-46, the ratcheted gear cam 820, which is structurally pivoted on main pivot 802, remains in full contact with curved rack 816. The upward and downward motion of the lower jaw 812 (with respect to the upper jaw 810) is controlled by the ratcheting relationship of the gear cam 820 and lower handle member 818. The lower handle then can be used in a up and down motion creating a ratcheting effect on the rotating gear cam 820, creating incremental increases in jaw pressure and closure.

Optional opposing ratcheting pawls can be used as to arrest lower jaw 812 motion or gear cam 820 temporarily while lower handle member 818 is lowered to "re-cock" the ratchet to the next progressive location. This secondary pawl can also act as a locking device for the jaw locations while grasping a grip object.

Figures 47 and 48 lower handle 818 and ratcheted gear cam 820 in the two extremes of motion forward (Figure 47) and backwards (Figure 48) motion. Figure 49 is an exploded view of pliers 90, in accordance with one embodiment. Figures 50-52 show side views of pliers 90.

Pliers 90 share certain features with other pliers discussed above and below and those discussions are also incorporated herein by reference.

Pliers 90 generally include an upper handle member 910 which contains the pivoting connection point 900 for a lower jaw assembly 912. The lower handle member 918 is pivo tally connected to the lower jaw member 912 at a pivot point 902, 903.

Upper jaw member 922 is permanently affixed to upper handle member 910. The back surface of upper jaw member 922 incorporates a toothed rack feature 916 which mates with a toothed cam feature, such as pawl 920. The lower jaw member 912 is pivo tally attached to upper handle member 910 at pivot point 900 near the back end of the pliers. The upper handle 910 also contains curved slots 926 that act as a stability aid to the lower jaw member 912 as well as defining the maximum open and closed range of the pliers, providing a physical stop at the open most position of the pliers, keeping the pliers from over- traveling. In this embodiment, pliers 90 include a sprung slot 924 in the lower handle 918 and a separate pawl unit 920 that rides in the slot 924 of the lower handle. Slot 924 accepts and controls movement of floating pawl member 920. As lower handle 918 is rotated about its structural pivot 903, slot 924 carries pawl member 920 upwards and downwards against geared tooth rack 916, therefore translating lower jaw member 912 upwards and downwards with respect to upper jaw 922, with a force multiplied with respect to the hand grip pressure applied to the upper handle 910 and lower handle 918 by the user, influencing them towards and away from one another respectively. When the lower handle member 918 is in its lowest most position (Fig.

52), the pawl member 920 is lifted away from contact with the curved gear rack 916, allowing the lower jaw 912/ lower handle 918 assembly to move freely upwards and downwards within the upper handle. Slot 924 is spring loaded in a direction away from main structural pivot 903, and able to travel (under load) to and fro within the slot, and having a physical stop that limits the floating pawl 920 to allow for the above mentioned condition that allows lower handle 918/lower jaw 912 assembly to travel freely along its pre-defined path of travel. A secondary method of auto-sizing is shown in pliers 90. Once pliers 90 are in the fully open position with jaws 912 & 922 are at the maximum distance apart allowed by pliers 90 configuration and geometry, lower handle 918 can be moved upwards towards upper handle 910 without actuating lower jaw 912, thus engaging the floating pawl 920 into contact with lower portion of curved rack 916. A grip object can now be placed approximately between the upper and lower jaws 912 & 922. Once continued pressure is applied to the lower handle member 918 upwards, drives the lower jaw 912 upwards, towards grip object.

Floating pawl 920 jumps from gear position to position in an ascending fashion upwards along the geared rack 916, disallowing downward movement, in a progressive manner until both 912 & 922 jaws are in contact with grip object. Once this condition has been met, lower handle member 918 can be lowered independently allowing floating pawl 920 to jump up and mesh to the next gear tooth upwards. Applied force by user upwards on lower handle member 918 will now add force to jaws 912 & 922 towards one another at rate multiplied with respect to the user hand grip force. This action can be repeated to provide progressively more pressure to said grip object to the users' discretion.

Another optional addition to pliers 90 is to have a secondary pawl device that works in combination with lower jaw member 912 and curved rack 916. The secondary pawl will have the remote ability to engage and disengage. The secondary pawl is to be pivotally attached along the vertical portion of lower jaw member 912 near main lower handle pivot 902, configured as to engage to curved rack 916 in such a way to arrest downward motion of lower jaw 912 while lower handle 918 is moved downwards to ratchet floating pawl to the next upward gear position. This pawl provides resistance to jaws losing grip with grip object while "re-cocking" lower handle to provide additional jaw pressure. This can also be used as a locking device with respect to upper and lower jaws 912 & 922. Figures 50, 51 and 52 demonstrate the different positions of the floating pawl 920 with respect to the position of the lower handle 918.

In Figure 50, the lower handle member 918 is in the uppermost position or fully closed, and the slot 924 is applying force to the floating pawl 920 which is fully engaged to curved rack 916. The pawl 920 is held against the curved rack 920 with pressure supplied by a spring located at the end of the slot closest to the pivot 902, pushing the pawl 920 outwards, and the shape of the gear teeth that are slightly angled upwards past perpendicular to curved rack 916. Figure 50 also demonstrates how a small protrusion 939 on the lower portion of loser jaw member 912, at a set distance from main pivot 900, acts as a structural stop for lower handle 918 in the upwards motion. The position and size of this stop 939 allows for a gap between parts 910 and 918, greatly reducing likelihood of creating pinch points while closing said pliers.

In Figure 51, the lower handle is in a mid travel position between the fully opened and fully closed positions, and the pawl 920 is fully engaged with curved rack 916. As the pawl 920 travels along the curved rack 916, it also travels back and forth within the slot 924, changing the distance that the pivot of the pawl 920 from the center point of main lower handle pivot 902, thus changing the force multiplying factor generated by the mechanism. The closer the pawl 920 pivot is to the center point of pivot 902, the greater the multiplication factor that is generated with respect to the force applied to the upper and lower handles 910 & 918 by the user.

In Figure 52, the lower handle member 918 is shown in its lowest most or fully opened position, which rotates slot 924 upwards to a point past where the slot can maintain contact of the pawl 920 's gear teeth with the teeth of the curved rack 916. This disengages the pawl 920 from the rack 916, allowing for free movement of the lower jaw 912/lower handle 918 assembly within the confines of the upper handle 910 and the range of predetermined motion.

Figure 53 is an exploded view of pliers 95, in accordance with one embodiment. Figures 54-57 show side views of pliers 95.

Pliers 95 share certain features with the pliers of Figures 10-12, and other pliers discussed above and those discussions are also incorporated herein by reference.

Pliers 95 generally include an upper handle member 950 which contains a pivoting connection point 952 for the lower jaw assembly 962. A lower handle member 968 is pivotally connected to the lower jaw member 962 at a pivot point 951 and shaped slot 953.

Upper jaw member 972 is permanently affixed to upper handle member 950. The back surface of upper jaw member 972 incorporates a toothed rack feature 976 which mates with a toothed cam feature 970. The upper handle 950 also contains curved slots 958 that are concentric to pivot point 952 and act as a stability aid to the lower jaw member 962 as well as defining the maximum open and closed range of the pliers, providing a physical stop at the open most position of the pliers, keeping the pliers from over-traveling.

In this embodiment, the lower jaw 962 pivots mid body in the upper handle at pivot 952. This and a dramatic tilt (down) of the jaws 972 and 962 allows this embodiment to approximate the features of channel lock type pliers. The jaw tilt, pivot placement, and jaw shape all keep the usefulness and appearance of these pliers similar to channel locking type pliers.

Upper handle 950 is also configured in such a way as to mimic the jaw positioning and handle geometry of existing standard grooved pliers by creating an angular relationship with features including angulation of the distal portion of upper handle 950, creating a more ergonomic grip.

In this example, the pliers 95 include a dual slotted 953, 955 and pivoting 951, 957 junction between the lower jaw 962 and lower handle member 968. Each of the two parts have a slot and a pivoting pin. As the lower handle 968 is actuated, the geometry of these pins and slots forces the gears into the rack at a predetermined lower handle position to allow for maximum movement of the lower handle once the gear teeth are engaged applying for to the jaws. The rectangular portion 956 at the front of the lower handle houses a spring that influences the pin in the lower jaw towards the front of the pliers. This disengages the gear from the rack.

A secondary grip surface 978 is located on the forward or grip object facing surface of the lower portion of lower jaw member 962 opposite of the curved rack 976. This secondary grip surface 978 is useful when grasping upon items that approach the maximum jaw displacement, providing a perpendicular grip surface with respect to upper jaw 972 jaw grip surface.

Lower handle member 968 contains a lower handle user grip feature that occupies a majority of the part and has ergonomic features including the pair of finger grooves which influence the user into an intuitively correct finger placement for optimal ease of pliers operation. The proximal most end of said lower handle contains an angled portion to which the variable geometry hinge (as described in Figures 10-12) features are housed in such a way as to interact with the opposing features contained within lower jaw member 962.

Washer members 980 are located opposite one another on opposite sides of slots 958 contained within upper handle 950, and provide safety aspects and covers for variable geometry hinge mechanics, as well as surfaces to which slots 958 interact in order to limit device from over traveling. Figures 54 and 55 demonstrate the two extreme positions for lower handle member 968 while lower jaw 962 approaches its fully closed position. In the extreme upward position (fig 54) with respect to upper handle 950, the variable geometry hinge forces the gear teeth of gear set 970 with the curved rack 970. The pin 951 is located in the distal portion of slot 955, and pin 957 in located at the distal portion of slot 953. As lower handle is rotated downwards with respect to upper handle 950, lower jaw member 962 rotates downwards around pivot 952.

At the point at which the variable geometry removes gear set 970 from curved rack 976, the portion of the lower handle member 968 that contacts the lower most portion of the upper jaw 972. This protrusion causes interference and forces the variable geometry hinge to engage the gear set 970 with curved rack 976 at such a location that there remain enough teeth on the curved rack 976 to allow lower handle to properly nest to upper handle. Without said protrusion, lower handle 968 is able to travel to a higher location on the curved rack 976, thus over rotating into contact with upper handle 950 prior to having jaws contact one another making the action of closing pliers 95 for storage or to grasp small items more difficult.

Figures 56 and 57 demonstrate the two extreme positions of lower handle member 968 when lower jaw member 962 is in the open most or lower most position as defined by the travel limits of pin 951 within the curved slots 958 located either side of upper handle 950.

As lower handle member 968 is moved upwards engaging the variable geometry hinge and engaging gear set 970 into contact with curved rack 976, the lower handle rotation translates gear set 970 upwards along curved rack 976 thus rotating lower jaw 962 about pivot 952 prior to lower handle 968 contacts upper handle 950.

This translation of gear set 970 along curved rack 976 after engagement of variable geometry hinge is critical as to make pliers viable as to grasp items at the upper most limit of grip items size range able to be grasped by pliers 95. CONCLUSION

Various embodiments of pliers are discussed herein, many of the features associated or described in connection with any given embodiment can be included on other embodiments discussed above. In general, the features of the locking type pliers discussed above are configured to improve the functionality of current vise grip style (over center locking pliers) pliers.

For example, the constant adjusting of current pliers is eliminated with a pawl / gear rack feature incorporated into the auto sizing features. No size adjustment is needed by the user.

In another example, the excessive lower handle movement of current locking pliers has been greatly reduced to a pre-determined comfortable position. This is accomplished by having the top jaw member pivo tally attached to the upper handle, and its ability to accommodate the variation of different sized grip objects. Having the upper jaw pivo tally attached to the upper jaw and locked into place with a ratcheted cam member or pawl, the lower handle only needs to open far enough to disengage the pawl from the rack opposite the top jaw member. Once the pawl is in released state, user can apply pressure (with grip object) to the top jaw, translating this jaw to the appropriate open position to grip object. Once object is located between the jaws, continued pressure on the handles re-engages the pawl, locking the top jaw into place, then clamping and locking to object. All of this can be done with a minimal lower handle movement using only one hand.

In another example, the poor ergonomics found in current pliers are partly due to the geometry contained within. The crude linkage and adjustability of jaw separation forces current handle shapes to a less than desirable shape. These present pliers, by separating the auto adjustability feature from the clamping feature, allows for much more freedom in shaping the handles to a more ergonomic configuration. By being more ergonomic, the user will be able to apply much greater hand force to the pliers allowing them to apply more force to the jaws with less hand stress. In another example, current jaw shapes do not accommodate the variety of shapes these pliers type are used for. The pliers discussed herein have a zoned jaw tooth design. By separating the grip features of the jaws into multiple zones, and utilizing a tooth pattern that allows for both flat pressure for hard items and grooved digging in features to better secure softer items. Deep channels are also incorporated in order to enhance grip and channel dirt and debris from grip surface (somewhat like water channels on car tires).

In another example, current pliers have a short throw with respect to the lower jaw and pivot. This causes the jaws to be aggressively angular when gripping larger objects, causing slipping and damage to grip object. By having the present pliers translate upwards utilizing a pivot more distant from the jaw end, the angularity of the jaws (when gripping a larger object) is greatly reduced. In addition to allowing for a more advantageous angularity of opposing jaw grip surfaces, the pivot ability of the upper jaw allows for a much greater maximum jaw opening, twice or more that of current offerings.

In general, the features of the scissor type pliers discussed above are configured to improve the functionality of current scissor style (non- locking pliers) pliers.

For example, the pliers discussed herein utilize a gear/rack actuation mechanism that is located near the jaws and provides a superior gripping force as compared to the users applied grip by a factor of at least 5X, and can go beyond 1OX grip force if configured correctly.

In another example, the present pliers are configured in such a way that all pinch points are eliminated by having the gear/rack actuation device interior of the top handle and shrouding the moving parts with the upper handle sides. This is possible with these pliers where covering the pinch point of standard scissor type pliers has not been an item that has been addressed.

In another example, the pliers also have inherently favorable jaw and pivot placement so as to allow for mostly parallel jaw configurations for gripping all objects within the maximum grip object size. In one example, moving the main jaw pivot to the extreme distal end of the pliers and placing the force multiplying gear set close to the jaws accomplish this. This keeps the jaws mostly parallel throughout the range of grip, and provides superior mechanical advantage for the user. The pliers can also utilize the "zoned" grip features within the jaw that the locking pliers can use. In another example, the pliers have a geared tooth member that selectively engages to a geared rack providing a user grip range that is similar regardless of grip object size. This gear system provides very similar lower handle movement and a predetermined amount of lower handle movement for all items that are within the pliers grip range. This allows the user to apply a consistent user grip force to any size object within the pliers grip range.

In general, the features of the channel type pliers discussed above are configured to improve the functionality of current channel locking (grooved) pliers.

For example, the pliers are auto adjusting for any sized object within the grip range of the pliers. The similar mechanism to the scissor-type pliers allows for single handed operation when gripping any object within the grip range. There is no adjustment needed to grip objects small or large.

In another example, the pliers have a predetermined range of lower handle movement which allows user to apply relatively consistent forces to the handles while gripping any object within its grip range. Having a relatively shallow movement range for the lower handle also allows for more comfortable gripping by user.

In another example, the pliers have a reduced handle range of motion while still proving full grip capabilities, thus allowing for working in confined areas to be much more friendly. There is no need to re-set the pliers to a new size, and within the confined spaces, the limited handle motions allows for full gripping action in smaller areas.

In another example, due to the reduced and predetermined lower handle motion range, more force can be applied to the handles regardless of grip object size. This predetermined range can be optimized to match the highest force curve of the users hand motion range. The grip range can be predetermined to actuate through this most efficient hand force range. Added to a more correct hand gripping position, the force multiplying aspect of the pliers provides a significantly higher potential jaw grip force than can be achieved with standard channel type pliers. The channel jaw pliers can provide 10X+ user grip force upon the jaws, making once difficult or impossible grip projects possible by a wider range of the general population.

The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.