Quick-change auxiliary handles for power tools

Abstract

A power tool includes an adjustable auxiliary handle assembly that facilitates safe use of the tool by an operator while allowing for convenient carrying and storage of the tool when not in use. The adjustable auxiliary handle assembly includes an indexing mechanism comprising an angled connector, a slidable latching mechanism, and a handle base. The indexing mechanism allows the longitudinal handle to be rotated and locked into a position that is convenient and comfortable for the operator. The indexing mechanism is adjustable and can be operated with one hand (e.g., one-handed operation). The latching mechanism holds the auxiliary handle in place while allowing the power tool to be used in high torque / high load applications.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 552,227, filed on August 27, 2019, entitled “TOOL WITH WIRELESS SWITCH,” under 35 U.S.C. §120. The entire contents of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 552,227 are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] Portable (handheld) power tools include a variety of tools that are configured to be held by an operator during use and are actuated by a power source such as an electric motor or pneumatic motor. Depending on the application in which they are used, the size, torque, and operating speed of portable power tools vary greatly. Because they are handheld, portable power tools used for high load / torque applications are often equipped with stability features and / or safety features that are not typically found in power tools used for low load / torque applications. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying drawings.In the description and the drawings, the use of the same reference numerals in different instances may indicate similar or identical items.

[0005] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a power tool having an auxiliary handle assembly according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A side view of a power tool with an auxiliary handle assembly is shown.

[0007] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A top view of a power tool is shown illustrating a first configuration of an auxiliary handle assembly according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A top view of a power tool is shown illustrating a second configuration of an auxiliary handle assembly according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A side view of a power tool with an auxiliary handle assembly is shown.

[0010] Figure 6 is an isometric view of an assist handle assembly according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 7 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 6A cross-sectional view of the assist handle assembly is shown.

[0012] Figure 8 is an exploded view of a slidable latch mechanism and a handle base according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 9 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 8 A side view of the slidable latch mechanism engaging the handle base shown in FIG.

[0014] Figure 10 is an isometric view of an auxiliary handle assembly and a second switch of a printed circuit board according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 11 is an isometric view of a battery cover and backup battery according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 12 is an isometric view of a slidable latch mechanism and handle base according to a second example embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or process operations, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

[0018] Overview

[0019] Portable power tools vary in size, torque, and speed. Heavy-duty power tools have auxiliary handles that allow the user to better position, balance, and control the typically larger and heavier tool during use. Secondary or auxiliary handles also provide an additional measure of safety for the operation of the power tool. Auxiliary handles are generally configured to provide precautions to help prevent the user from experiencing accidental injuries from the tool. For example, holding a high-torque drill with an auxiliary handle in addition to a pistol grip can provide the operator with increased stability when reaction forces act on the tool. However, auxiliary handles positioned to facilitate tool use may be uncomfortable or impractical to use in some situations, or may render the tool unsuitable for carrying and / or storage when not in use.

[0020] Therefore, the present disclosure relates to a power tool with an adjustable auxiliary handle assembly that facilitates the operator's use of the tool while allowing the tool to be conveniently carried and stored when not in use. In an embodiment, the adjustable auxiliary handle assembly includes an indexing mechanism that includes an angled connector, a slidable latch mechanism, and a handle base. The indexing mechanism allows the longitudinal handle to be rotated and locked in a position that is convenient and comfortable for the operator. The indexing mechanism is easy to adjust and can be operated with one hand (e.g., one-handed operation). The latch mechanism holds the auxiliary handle position in place while allowing the power tool to be used in high torque / high load applications. In an embodiment, the adjustable auxiliary handle assembly includes a second switch configured to be used in conjunction with the main (trigger) switch of the tool. In such an embodiment, before the tool is operated, the second switch is pressed in conjunction with (e.g., simultaneously with) the trigger switch of the power tool to ensure that the power tool operator correctly holds the power tool with both hands.

[0021] Detailed Description of Example Embodiments

[0022] Figures 1 to 12 A power tool assembly 100 with an auxiliary handle assembly is shown in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the power tool assembly 100 includes a portable handheld power tool 102 having an auxiliary handle assembly 108 mounted thereto. The portable handheld tool 102 includes a drive mechanism 104. In an embodiment, the drive mechanism 104 includes an electric motor (not shown) powered by a power source such as a removable battery (in the illustrated configuration), an internal battery, or an external power source via a cord. However, it is contemplated that the portable handheld power tool 102 may also include a pneumatic tool having a drive mechanism 104 that employs a pneumatic (compressed air) motor powered by a compressed air source.

[0023] The portable handheld power tool 102 also includes a first handle 106 having a trigger switch 110. The first handle 106 is configured to allow an operator to hold the power tool 102 with one hand while operating (pressing and depressing) the trigger switch 110. The trigger switch 110 causes the electric motor (or pneumatic motor) of the drive assembly 102 to be turned on and off (e.g., pressing the trigger switch 100 applies power to the electric motor to turn it on, while releasing the trigger switch 100 removes power from the electric motor to turn it off).

[0024] The portable handheld power tool 102 also includes a gear assembly coupled to the drive mechanism 104. The gear assembly includes a gear train that transmits torque (drive power) from the drive mechanism 104 to the work tool element 105 via the output drive 124. In some embodiments, the gear assembly may include a clutch mechanism that operates to prevent excessive torque on the work tool element 104 and the workpiece.

[0025] The output drive 124 transmits the torque received from the drive mechanism 104 and the gear assembly to the work tool element 105, so that the torque can be applied to the workpiece (e.g., a nut, screw, bolt, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the work tool element 105 comprises a high-torque nut runner. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the work tool element 105 is not necessarily limited to the work tool element 105 shown, and a variety of different elements that may require an auxiliary handle when used can be used in conjunction with the drive mechanism 102 of the power tool assembly 100. For example, other work tool elements 105 suitable for use with the power tool 102 may include, but are not limited to, nut runner tools, impact wrenches, grinders, drills, combination hammers, and the like.

[0026] In the illustrated embodiment, the portable handheld power tool 102 includes a housing 120 that supports and houses the drive mechanism 105 and the gear assembly. The illustrated housing 120 utilizes a pistol-grip design, with the first handle 106 comprising a pistol-grip grip that is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the output drive 124. As shown, the housing 120 includes the first handle 106, which is configured to be grasped by an operator when using the power tool assembly 100. For example, the first handle 106 can be used by the operator to pick up the power tool assembly 100, move it, and guide it onto a workpiece. The first handle 106 allows the operator to apply force to hold the power tool assembly 100 against the workpiece. In the illustrated embodiment, the first handle 106 includes a trigger switch 110, which turns the electric motor within the drive mechanism 102 on and off to generate torque at the output drive 124. The illustrated trigger switch 110 comprises a push-button "trigger" switch that is configured to be depressed and released by the operator's index finger while gripping the first handle 106. However, it is contemplated that the trigger switch 110 may include a hinged lever switch, a toggle switch, a rocker switch, a rotary switch, a sliding switch, etc. The housing 120 also includes a gear box 122 that encloses the gear assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, the gear box has a generally cylindrical shape. However, in other embodiments, the gear box 122 may have a square shape, a rectangular shape, an oval shape, an irregular shape, etc. Furthermore, the shape of the gear box may vary depending on the work tool element 104 used in the power tool assembly 100 and is not a limitation of the present disclosure.

[0027] According to the present disclosure, the power tool assembly 100 includes an auxiliary handle assembly 108. The auxiliary handle assembly 108 allows the operator to resist the torque output of the power tool assembly 100 during high torque operations. Figures 1 to 5 As shown in FIG, the auxiliary handle assembly 108 is coupled to the housing 120. Other configurations of the power tool assembly 100 may include the auxiliary handle assembly 108 being coupled to the work tool element 104 instead of the housing 120.

[0028] See also Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the auxiliary handle assembly 108 includes a strap 112, a handle base 130, an angled connector 114, and a longitudinal handle 116. The angled connector 114 is fixedly connected to the extended longitudinal handle 116. The handle base 130 is rotatably connected to the angled connector 114 to support the longitudinal handle 116. The angled connector 114 is connected to the extended longitudinal handle 116 at an angle of approximately forty-five degrees (45°) so that the longitudinal handle does not accidentally strike the work surface or the exterior of the housing 120. However, in embodiments, the auxiliary handle assembly 108 can be connected to the longitudinal handle 116 at an angle other than forty-five degrees (45°).

[0029] refer to Figures 7 to 9 , depicts the components of the assist handle assembly 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the assist handle assembly 108 includes a slidable latch mechanism 126 housed by the angled connector 114. The slidable latch mechanism 126 includes a sliding button 128 accessible on the angled connector 114 to actuate the slidable latch mechanism 126 to rotate the longitudinal handle 116.

[0030] In an embodiment, the sliding latch mechanism 126 includes a bevel gear assembly including one or more angled teeth 138 that extend from the sliding latch mechanism 126 and engage with a notched receiver 132 housed in the handle base 130. As shown, the notched receiver 132 includes a plurality of angled notches 140 formed therein that extend away from the notched receiver 132 and parallel to the rotational axis 134 of the longitudinal handle 116. In operation, the teeth 138 of the sliding latch mechanism 126 are rotationally secured to the notched receiver 132 by the plurality of notches 140 extending from the notched receiver 132. When the teeth 138 engage the notches 140 of the notched receiver 132, the handle base 126 provides torque support to the longitudinal handle 116, preventing the longitudinal handle 116 from rotating.

[0031] exist Figures 7 to 9 In the illustrated embodiment, the slidable latch mechanism includes a bevel gear assembly including at least two opposing teeth 138 that retain the slidable latch mechanism 126 in engagement with the notched receiver 132. Having at least two opposing teeth 138 allows the longitudinal handle 116 to be rigidly maintained in a desired position relative to the handle base 126 without movement when the power tool assembly 100 is used in high torque applications.

[0032] However, in other embodiments, the power tool assembly 100 may be configured for use in relatively low reaction load applications. Figure 12An auxiliary handle assembly 108 for a power tool assembly 100 is shown according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure that is configured for use in low reaction load applications. In such an embodiment, the auxiliary handle assembly 108 can include a slidable latch mechanism 126 that includes a bevel gear assembly having a single beveled tooth 144 that engages with a plurality of notches 140 of a notched receiver 132.

[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, the slidable latch mechanism 126 is biased toward the handle base 130 by a coil compression spring 134. When engaged with the notched receiver 132, the teeth 138 lock the position of the longitudinal handle 116 relative to the handle base 130. By activating the sliding button 128 of the angled connector 114 (e.g., upwardly away from the handle base 130 (and the power tool 102 ( Figure 1 ) by pressing and / or sliding the slide button), the operator can disengage the slidable latch mechanism 126 from the notched receiver 132 (i.e., disengage the teeth 114 from the notches 140) to allow rotation of the longitudinal handle 116. The longitudinal handle 116 can then be locked into a desired position by releasing the slide button 126 and allowing the compression spring 134 to bias the slidable latch mechanism 126 into engagement with the notched receiver 132. While in the illustrated example embodiment, the coiled compression spring 134 is shown and described as being used to bias the slidable latch mechanism 126 into engagement with the notched receiver 132, it is contemplated that other biasing mechanisms may be used to bias the slidable latch mechanism 126 in the direction of the notched receiver 132 of the handle base 130.

[0034] In other embodiments, the power tool 100 may be configured for low reaction load applications. Figure 12 An example embodiment of a power tool 100 configured for use in low reaction load applications is shown. As shown, the power tool 100 includes a slidable latch mechanism 126 including at least one tooth 144 that engages a plurality of notches 140 of a notched receiver 132.

[0035] Reference again Figures 1 to 5 , describes the rotation of the longitudinal handle 116 of the auxiliary handle assembly 108. Figure 3 , the longitudinal handle 116 is shown rotated to a position perpendicular to the axis extending through the length of the power tool assembly 100 and to the left relative to the longitudinal axis. Figure 4, the longitudinal handle 116 is shown rotated to a position on the right relative to the longitudinal axis of the power tool assembly 100. As shown, the longitudinal handle 116 can be rotated relative to the handle base 130 about the rotation axis 134. Rotating the longitudinal handle 116 to both sides of the power tool assembly 100 allows both left-handed and right-handed users to effectively hold the power tool assembly 100 in place during tool operation.

[0036] As discussed herein above, the operator disengages the slidable latch mechanism 126 from the handle base 130 by pressing and / or sliding the slide button 128, causing the slidable latch mechanism 126 to disengage from the notched receiver 140 within the handle base 130 and allowing the longitudinal handle 116 to rotate about a rotation axis 134 extending through the handle base 130 and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the power tool assembly 100. In an embodiment, the longitudinal handle 116 can rotate through a full three hundred and sixty degree (360°) arc about the rotation axis 134. In an embodiment, the longitudinal handle 116 can be indexed (or indexable) to a plurality of positions relative to the handle base 130. In this manner, the power tool assembly 100 can be made ambidextrous (i.e., comfortable for use by both right-handed and left-handed operators) because the longitudinal handle 116 can be repositioned according to the operator / user's preference. The longitudinal handle 116 can also be rotated to be generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the power tool assembly 100 to facilitate carrying and / or storing the power tool assembly 100 .

[0037] In an embodiment, the angled notches 140 of the notched receiver 132 are equally spaced about the rotational axis 134 to provide recesses for positioning the longitudinal handle 116. In the illustrated embodiment, adjacent ones of these recesses (about the rotational axis 134) are separated from each other by ninety degree (90°) intervals (incidents), aligned with the direction of the plurality of notches 140 extending from the notched receiver 132. For example, as Figure 8 As shown, the four notches 140 extending from the notched receiver 132 are arranged in quadrants spaced apart at ninety degree (90°) intervals. However, it is contemplated that the location and number of the plurality of notches 140 need not be limited to the example embodiment shown. Thus, the handle base 130 may have more than Figure 8 140 and thus have fewer or more positioning recesses. In such an embodiment, adjacent notches can be separated by more than ninety degrees (90°) intervals or less than ninety degrees (90°) intervals relative to the number of notches 140. Furthermore, in such an embodiment, the longitudinal handle 116 can be indexed to a plurality of positions relative to the plurality of notches 140 extending from the notched receiver 132.

[0038] like Figure 5As shown, the strap 112 extends around the gear housing 122 to secure the auxiliary handle assembly 108 to the housing 120 of the portable handheld power tool 102. The handle base 130 is removably secured to the strap 112, which allows the auxiliary handle assembly 108 to be rotated and secured about the longitudinal axis of the power tool assembly 100. In one exemplary embodiment, the strap 112 includes an open clamping ring that is secured to the front of the housing 120 with one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners such as screws or bolts). In some embodiments (not shown), the outer surface of the gear housing 122 includes knurling to increase friction between the strap 112 and the gear housing 122 to secure the auxiliary handle assembly 108 in place relative to the housing 120.

[0039] refer to Figures 6 and 7 , shows an embodiment of an assist handle assembly 108. The assist handle assembly includes a longitudinal handle 116, an angled connector 114 including a slide button 128, and a handle base 130. The slide button 128 is ergonomically oriented relative to the longitudinal handle 116 to allow a user to actuate the button 128 with only their thumb while gripping the longitudinal handle 116, thereby enabling one-handed operation. In addition, the flat surface of the button 128 is angled to prevent inadvertent actuation.

[0040] The auxiliary handle assembly 108 described in the present disclosure also accommodates a variety of gear box sizes and can therefore be adapted for use with power tools 102 having a variety of work tool element sizes. In an embodiment, the auxiliary handle assembly 108 can be rotated when carried by an operator so that the power tool assembly 100 remains balanced below the handle 108 relative to the center of gravity of the power tool assembly. By reducing the longitudinal distance between the auxiliary handle assembly 108 and the center of gravity of the power tool assembly 100, the operator can maintain a balanced grip on the power tool assembly 100 without placing undue stress on the user's hand. For example, when the power tool assembly 100 is carried using the longitudinal handle 116, the longitudinal handle 116 can be configured to be positioned substantially aligned with the housing 120 along the longitudinal axis of the power tool assembly 100, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 and Figure 5 In addition, for heavier work tool elements 104, such as Figure 2 As shown, the handle 116 can be oriented toward the front of the power tool assembly 100, placing the user's hand closer to the center of gravity 158 of the power tool assembly 100. However, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, for lighter gearboxes or work tool components, the longitudinal handle 116 can be rotated toward the rear of the power tool assembly 100, bringing the user's hand closer to the center of gravity 160 of the lighter power tool assembly 100. In this manner, the weight of the power tool assembly 100 can be better distributed when carrying the power tool assembly 100, such as when moving from one location to another on a job site.

[0041] In some embodiments, as Figure 6 As shown, the auxiliary handle assembly 108 may include a second switch 136 that serves as an interlock to prevent unintended operation of the power tool 102. In operation, the electric motor within the drive assembly 102 is not energized to provide output torque to the power tool 100 until both the trigger switch 110 and the second switch 136 are simultaneously actuated. Thus, to operate the tool, the user places one hand on each handle 106 and 108 and simultaneously actuates both switches 110, 136 (e.g., such that both switches 110, 136 are actuated simultaneously, even though one switch may be actuated before the other) to turn on the power tool assembly 100. When the operator releases the trigger switch 110, the second switch 136, or both switches 110, 136, the trigger switch 110 and the second switch 136 may further deactivate the electric motor within the drive assembly 102. Thus, during operation of the power tool assembly 100, the operator is forced to maintain both hands on the power tool assembly 100 to simultaneously depress both switches 110 and 136. In an embodiment, the second switch 136 may include a button, a toggle switch, a rocker switch, a slide switch, or the like.

[0042] Reference Figure 7 , the assist handle assembly 108 includes a cavity 146 within which a switch sensor circuit 148 is enclosed. The cavity 146 may also house a battery 150 to provide power to the controller 148. For example, the cavity 146 may be configured to house a button cell battery to minimize the size of the components in the assist handle assembly 108 while providing sufficient battery 150 life. However, other types of batteries may be used. A battery cover 152 configured to enclose the cavity 146 to facilitate replacement of the battery 150 is located in the Figure 11 As shown in FIG. , the interior of the battery cover 152 may have a slot 154 configured to store a spare battery 156 .

[0043] The switch sensor circuit 148 of the assist handle assembly 126 is Figure 10. In an embodiment, the switch sensor circuit 148 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) that supports the control circuit and includes an antenna to send a wireless signal to a tool controller or monitoring system within the power tool 102 to indicate that the second switch 136 has been actuated. When the trigger switch 110 is pressed and when the controller 148 sends a wireless signal to indicate that the second switch 136 has been actuated, the electric (or pneumatic) motor is enabled. In an embodiment where the wireless signal from the auxiliary handle assembly 108 is received directly by the tool controller in the power tool 102, the transmission distance is short (e.g., less than one to two (1-2) feet). Therefore, in this arrangement, the power level of the wireless transmitter can be reduced to limit the transmission distance to less than a very short distance (e.g., 10 feet or less). As shown, the antenna of the auxiliary handle assembly 108 is simply a conductive trace on the printed circuit board PCB of the switch sensor circuit 14, especially because the transmission distance is very short when communicating directly with the tool controller.

[0044] It should be understood that the terms “operator” and “user” may be used interchangeably herein to describe any person who uses, operates, and / or transports the power tool assembly 100 .

[0045] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or process operations, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A power tool assembly including an adjustable handle, comprising: a drive mechanism for providing power to the work tool element; a gear assembly connected to the drive mechanism; a housing for supporting and retaining the drive mechanism and the gear assembly, the housing including a gear box for enclosing the gear assembly; and A handle assembly, the handle assembly comprising: Vertical handle, an angled connector fixedly connected to and extending from the longitudinal handle, a slidable latch mechanism housed by the angled connector and including a button accessible on the angled connector to actuate the slidable latch mechanism, the slidable latch mechanism including at least two opposing teeth extending from the slidable latch mechanism, a handle base for supporting a longitudinal handle, the longitudinal handle having an axis of rotation relative to the handle base, the handle base including a notched receiver, the notched receiver configured to receive at least two opposing teeth of the slidable latch mechanism to rotationally secure the longitudinal handle in position relative to the handle base when the at least two opposing teeth engage the notched receiver to index the longitudinal handle, the notched receiver including notches extending to either side of the axis of rotation of the longitudinal handle to provide torque support to the longitudinal handle when the at least two opposing teeth engage the notched receiver, and A strap is provided for connection to the handle base, the strap being configured to extend around the gear housing to securely secure the handle assembly to the housing of the power tool assembly.

2. The power tool assembly of claim 1, wherein: The notched receiver includes a bevel gear.

3. The power tool assembly of claim 1, wherein: The slidable latch mechanism is biased toward the handle base.

4. The power tool assembly of claim 3, the slidable latch mechanism being biased toward the handle base by a compression spring.

5. The power tool assembly of claim 1, wherein: The longitudinal handle is indexable to a plurality of positions relative to the handle base.

6. The power tool assembly of claim 5, wherein: Adjacent locations in the plurality of locations are at least approximately ninety degrees apart from one another.

7. The power tool assembly of claim 5, wherein: The plurality of positions includes at least two opposing positions that are at least generally aligned with the housing.

8. An adjustable handle for a power tool assembly, the adjustable handle comprising: vertical handle; an angled connector fixedly connected to and extending from the longitudinal handle; A slidable latch mechanism is received by the angled connector, the slidable latch mechanism comprising: a button accessible on the angled connector to actuate the slidable latch mechanism; and at least one tooth extending from the slidable latch mechanism; A handle base is used to support a longitudinal handle, wherein the longitudinal handle has a rotation axis relative to the handle base, and the handle base includes: a notched receiver configured to receive at least one tooth of the slidable latch mechanism to rotationally secure the longitudinal handle in position relative to the handle base when the at least one tooth engages the notched receiver to index the longitudinal handle, and Notches are located on the notched receiver and extend to either side of the rotational axis of the longitudinal handle to provide torque support to the longitudinal handle when the at least one tooth engages the notched receiver.

9. The adjustable handle of claim 8, further comprising a strap connected to the handle base, the strap being configured to securely secure the handle assembly to the housing of the power tool assembly.

10. The adjustable handle according to claim 8, wherein: The notched receiver includes a bevel gear.

11. The adjustable handle according to claim 8, wherein: The slidable latch mechanism is biased toward the handle base.

12. The adjustable handle of claim 11, the slidable latch mechanism being biased toward the handle base by a compression spring.

13. The adjustable handle of claim 8, wherein: The longitudinal handle is indexable to a plurality of positions relative to the handle base.

14. The adjustable handle of claim 13, wherein: Adjacent locations in the plurality of locations are at least approximately ninety degrees apart from one another.

15. The adjustable handle of claim 13, wherein: The plurality of positions includes at least two opposing positions that are at least generally aligned with the housing.

16. An adjustable handle for a power tool assembly, the adjustable handle comprising: vertical handle; an angled connector fixedly connected to and extending from the longitudinal handle; A slidable latch mechanism is received by the angled connector, the slidable latch mechanism comprising: a button accessible on the angled connector to actuate the slidable latch mechanism; and at least two opposing teeth extending from the slidable latch mechanism; A handle base is used to support a longitudinal handle, wherein the longitudinal handle has a rotation axis relative to the handle base, and the handle base includes: a notched receiver configured to receive at least two opposing teeth of the slidable latch mechanism to rotationally secure the longitudinal handle in position relative to the handle base when the at least two opposing teeth engage the notched receiver to index the longitudinal handle, and notches located on the notched receiver and extending to either side of the rotational axis of the longitudinal handle to provide torque support to the longitudinal handle when the at least two opposing teeth engage the notched receiver, the longitudinal handle being indexable to a plurality of positions relative to the handle base, the plurality of positions including at least two opposing positions that are at least generally aligned with the housing.

17. The adjustable handle of claim 16, wherein: The notched receiver includes a bevel gear.

18. The adjustable handle of claim 16, wherein: The slidable latch mechanism is biased toward the handle base.

19. The adjustable handle of claim 18, the slidable latch mechanism being biased toward the handle base by a compression spring.

20. The adjustable handle of claim 19, wherein: Adjacent locations in the plurality of locations are at least approximately ninety degrees apart from one another.

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