Dual mode adjustable forceps

Abstract

A dual mode adjustable clamp includes a first handle member and a second handle member, the first handle member including a first handle and a first jaw, the second handle member including a second handle and a second jaw. The clamp can also include a channel disposed in the first handle member and an adjustable pivot secured to the second handle member and disposed within the channel. The clamp can also include a movable mode selector member. In an engaged position, the mode selector member is engaged with both the first handle member and the second handle member and the adjustable pivot moves within the channel as the second handle is moved toward the first handle. In a disengaged position, the mode selector member is not engaged with the first handle member and the second handle member and the adjustable pivot maintains its position within the channel as the second handle is moved toward the first handle.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Exemplary embodiments relate generally to hand tool technology, and in particular, to adjustable pliers technology. BACKGROUND

[0002] Pliers have proven to be an effective tool for gripping fasteners, fittings, and the like in a variety of situations. However, because fasteners and fittings vary greatly in size, a need has arisen for adjustability in pliers. This need has been met by introducing adjustable pliers that allow handle members of the pliers to slide relative to one another to increase the spacing between the jaws of the pliers, thereby allowing a wide range of fastener or fitting sizes to be gripped. Although adjustable pliers have met the need for not requiring many different sizes of pliers to accomplish various tasks, the adaptability of conventional adjustable pliers is still limited in many respects. Accordingly, there is a need for continued innovation in the field of adjustable pliers to further improve the adaptability and effectiveness of pliers in a variety of applications. SUMMARY

[0003] According to some exemplary embodiments, a dual mode plier is provided. In this regard, the dual mode plier can include a first handle member including a first handle and a first jaw, a second handle member including a second handle and a second jaw, and a channel disposed in the first handle member between the first handle and the first jaw. The dual mode plier can also include an adjustable pivot fixed to the second handle member and disposed within the channel of the first handle member. The second handle member can be configured to pivot relative to the first handle member about a pivot axis defined by the adjustable pivot. The dual mode plier can further include a mode selector member movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the mode selector member is engaged with both the first handle member and the second handle member, and the adjustable pivot moves the pivot axis within the channel to slide the second jaw toward the first jaw as the second handle is moved toward the first handle. In the disengaged position, the mode selector member is not engaged with both the first handle member and the second handle member, and the adjustable pivot maintains the position of the pivot axis within the channel as the second handle is moved toward the first handle.

[0004] According to some example embodiments, a tunable forceps is provided that is configured to transition between a single-hand automatic adjustment mode and a manual adjustment mode. The tunable forceps can include a first handle member including a first handle and a first jaw, a second handle member including a second handle and a second jaw, a channel disposed in the first handle member between the first handle and the first jaw, and an adjustable pivot fixed to the second handle member and disposed within the channel. The second handle member can be configured to pivot relative to the first handle member about a pivot axis defined by the adjustable pivot. The tunable forceps can also include a mode selector member fixed to the second handle member between the adjustable pivot and the second handle. The mode selector member is rotatable between an engaged position in which the mode selector member is in contact with the first handle member and a disengaged position in which the mode selector member is not in contact with the first handle member. In the engaged position, when the first handle is moved toward the second handle, the adjustable pivot moves the pivot axis within the channel to cause the second jaw to slide toward the first jaw. In the disengaged position, when the first handle is moved toward the second handle, the adjustable pivot maintains the position of the pivot axis within the channel. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0005] Having generally described some example embodiments, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0006] Figure 1 A side view of an example forceps in an open position with the mode selector member in the engaged position is shown in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0007] Figure 2 A side view of an example forceps in a closed position with the mode selector member in the engaged position is shown in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0008] Figure 3 A perspective top view of an example forceps in a closed position with the mode selector member in the engaged position is shown in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0009] Figure 4 A cross-sectional side view of an example forceps in a closed position with the mode selector member in the engaged position is shown in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0010] Figure 5 A side view of an example forceps in an open position with the mode selector member in the engaged position is shown in accordance with some example embodiments; Figure 4 A side view of an example forceps in an open position with the mode selector member in the engaged position is shown in accordance with some example embodiments;

[0011] Figure 6 A side view of an example forceps in an open position with the mode selector member in the engaged position is shown in accordance with some example embodiments; Figure 4side view of an example jaw of the example clamp of FIG. 1, showing the pawl and channel in cross-section;

[0012] Figure 7 a side view of an example jaw of the example clamp of FIG. 1, showing the pawl and channel in cross-section;

[0013] Figure 8 a side view of an example jaw of the example clamp of FIG. 1, showing the pawl and channel in cross-section;

[0014] Figure 9 a cross-sectional side view of an example clamp having another example mode selector member, according to some example embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Some example embodiments now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all example embodiments are shown. Indeed, the examples described and depicted herein are by way of example only and should not be construed to limit the scope or appropriate of the present disclosure. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Additionally, as used herein, the term "or" should be interpreted as meaning either the operator's noun or more than one of the operator's nouns are true. As used herein, operable coupling should be understood to refer to either a direct or indirect connection, in either case, which enables functional interconnection of components operably coupled to one another. As used herein, operable coupling should be understood to refer to either a direct or indirect connection, in either case, which enables functional interconnection of components operably coupled to one another.

[0016] Various example embodiments described herein relate to dual mode adjustable clamps. Such clamps can be configured to operate as adjustable clamps in a first mode, once the pivot position is set for a desired jaw distance, the clamp continues to operate at that position until the user resets the pivot position to a different position. In a second mode, the example clamps can operate as auto-adjusting clamps, whereby when the user moves the handles of the clamp toward one another, the jaws of the clamp automatically slide toward one another until, for example, the jaws close on a fastener. The ability to transition between these modes when using the example clamps adds significant flexibility and efficiency to various applications.

[0017] For example, in situations where a user needs to act on multiple fasteners of the same size, which is a common situation, the user can first place the example clamp in an auto-adjust mode. In this mode, the user can apply the example clamp to a first fastener. Because the example clamp is in the auto-adjust mode, the jaws of the example clamp can slide together and automatically adjust down onto the fastener to adjust the jaws to an optimal spacing for the size of the fastener. The user can then transition the example clamp from the auto-adjust mode to a manual-adjust mode, which will maintain the spacing of the jaws of the example clamp. The user can then manipulate the first fastener, for example, to turn the fastener in a desired direction (e.g., tighten or loosen). After manipulating the first fastener, the user can remove the example clamp from the first fastener to move the example clamp to a second fastener. Because the example clamp is in the manual-adjust mode (as opposed to the auto-adjust mode), the relative spacing of the jaws will be maintained even if the handles are moved to the closed position (the handles are moved toward each other) and the jaws are not engaged with a fastener. In this way, the user can move the example clamp directly to the second fastener without having to account for the jaws having changed spacing because the clamp is no longer in the auto-adjust mode. Thereafter, additional fasteners of the same size can be engaged while maintaining the spacing between the jaws.

[0018] In this way, according to some example embodiments, the example clamp can provide for selective engagement or disengagement of an auto-adjust mode. Further, the example clamp can be controlled by a user to transition between the auto-adjust mode and a manual-adjust mode via actuation of the mode selector member. In the auto-adjust mode, the mode selector member can be positioned such that the mode selector member is in an engaged position where the mode selector member is in contact with both handle members of the example clamp. In the engaged position, two points of engagement can be provided between the handle members, namely, a pivot axis defined by the adjustable pivot of the clamp and engagement via the mode selector member. In this way, when the mode selector member is in the engaged position, the example clamp can automatically adjust the position of the adjustable pivot and the distance between the jaws, as further described below.

[0019] The mode selector member can also be positioned in a disengaged position in which the mode selector member is not engaged with or in contact with both handle members of the example clamp. In the disengaged position, the example clamp can be operated in a manual adjustment mode. In the manual adjustment mode, as the handles of the example clamp are moved toward one another, the adjustable pivot and associated pivot axis can remain in a current position, thereby maintaining a current distance between the jaws. To change the position of the adjustable pivot, the handles can be moved away from one another to an adjustment disengaged position at which the adjustable pivot is allowed to slide by pushing with a user's hand to increase or decrease the distance between the jaws. According to some example embodiments, moving the adjustable pivot and pivot axis in a direction to increase the distance between the jaws can only be performed in the manual adjustment mode.

[0020] Having generally described some aspects of example embodiments, reference will now be made to the drawings Figure 1 which shows an example embodiment of a dual mode adjustable clamp 100 according to some example embodiments. The clamp 100 can define a front end 102 and a rear end 104. In terms of structure, the clamp 100 can include a first handle member 110, a second handle member 120, and an adjustable pivot 150.

[0021] The first handle member 110 can be an elongated member that includes a first handle 112 and a first jaw 114. The first handle 112 can be disposed at a rear end of the first handle member 110 and can include a rearwardly extending portion that can form the first handle 112, or the first handle 112 can be attached to the rearwardly extending portion. For example, the first handle 112 can include a gripping portion (e.g., a rubberized gripping portion) that can be secured to the rearwardly extending portion of the first handle member 110. The first jaw 114 can be disposed at a front end of the first handle member 110. The first jaw 114 can be configured to engage a fastener, fitting, or the like on at least one side. In this regard, the first jaw 114 can include example features such as clamping teeth and notches that are configured to clamp or facilitate a slip-free or reduced slip engagement with a fastener, fitting, or the like.

[0022] The second handle member 120 may be an elongated member including a second handle 122 and a second gripper 124. The second handle 122 may be located at the rear end of the second handle member 120 and may include a rearward extension forming the second handle 122, or the second handle 122 may be attached to this extension. For example, the second handle 122 may include a gripping portion (e.g., a rubberized gripping portion) that can be secured to the rearward extension of the second handle member 120. The second gripper 124 may be located at the front end of the second handle member 120. The second gripper 124 may be configured to engage fasteners, fittings, etc., on at least one side. In this regard, the second gripper 124 may include exemplary features such as clamping teeth and notches configured to clamp fasteners, fittings, etc., or to facilitate non-slip engagement or reduced slip engagement with fasteners, fittings, etc.

[0023] The first handle member 110 may further include a channel 116. The channel 116 may be formed as an opening in the first handle member 110 and may extend along the length of the first handle member 110 between the first handle 112 and the first gripper 114. According to some exemplary embodiments, the channel 116 may include channel teeth 117 disposed on the side edges of the channel 116, which may be configured to allow ratchet movement of the adjustable pivot 150, as further described below.

[0024] The adjustable pivot 150 can be fixed to the second handle member 120 at a position between the second jaw 124 and the second handle 122 via the pin 151. See below. Figures 4-6 Further described, the adjustable pivot 150 may define a pivot position 196 about which the first handle member 110 may pivot relative to the second handle member 120. Furthermore, the adjustable pivot 150 may be disposed within a channel 116, and the first handle member 110 may be coupled to the second handle 122 via the adjustable pivot 150 disposed within the channel 116. The adjustable pivot 150 may be configured to slide within the channel 116. The movement of the adjustable pivot 150 and the associated pivot position 196 within the channel 116 allows for the adjustability of the clamp 100. When the adjustable pivot 150 moves forward within the channel 116, the first jaw 114 moves toward the second jaw 124, thereby reducing the jaw spacing of the clamp 100. Moreover, when the adjustable pivot 150 moves backward within the channel 116, the first jaw 114 moves away from the second jaw 124, thereby increasing the jaw spacing of the clamp 100.

[0025] The clamp 100 can also include a mode selector member 140. According to some example embodiments, the mode selector member 140 can be secured to the second handle member 120, for example, at a location between the adjustable pivot 150 and the second handle 122. The mode selector member 140 can be secured to the second handle member 120, for example, via a pin 141 that passes through the mode selector member 140 and the second handle member 120. In this regard, the pin 141 can allow the mode selector member 140 to rotate about the pin 141 and relative to the second handle member 120. The mode selector member 140 can include a body portion 144 that, for example, includes an opening to receive the pin 141. According to some example embodiments, the body portion 144 can also include user grip features that facilitate the ability of a user to rotate the mode selector member 140. In Figure 1 The user grip features, in the example embodiment shown, are a series of notches on a curved edge of the body portion 144 that extend beyond the edge of the second handle member 120 to allow a user to use a finger (e.g., a thumb) to rotate the mode selector member 140. According to some example embodiments, the mode selector member 140 can also include an arm 142.

[0026] According to some example embodiments, the mode selector member 140 can be rotated between a first position, also referred to as an engaged position, and a second position, referred to as a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the arm 142 is rotated toward the first handle member 110 such that, if the second handle 122 is moved toward the first handle 112 (i.e., in the direction of arrow 198), the first handle member 110 can come into contact with the tip 146 of the arm 142. In the engaged position, the tip 146, which can be circular (e.g., convex), can be engaged with a corresponding engagement notch 118 in the first handle member 110. According to some example embodiments, the engagement notch 118 can be circular (e.g., concave) to receive the tip 126 of the arm 142. Alternatively, in the disengaged position, the arm 142 can be rotated away from the first handle member 110 such that, when the second handle 122 is moved toward the first handle 112, the arm 142 of the mode selector member 140 does not engage with the first handle member 110, as described further below. Figure 7 and 8 described further.

[0027] With respect to operation of the clamp 100, Figure 1The mode selector member 140 and the substantially spaced apart jaws 124 and 114 are shown in the engaged position. Because the mode selector member 140 is in the engaged position, an automatic adjustment mode operation can be performed. When a user exerts a force on the handles 112 and 122 to move the second handle 122 in the direction 198 toward the first handle 112, the adjustable pivot 150 can be pushed to slide forward in the channel 116 due to the multi- fulcrum pivoting action. In this regard, as the second handle 122 moves toward the first handle 112, the tip 146 of the arm 142 of the mode selector member 140 can rotate within the notch 118, the second handle member 120 can rotate about the pin 141 in the direction 190, and the second handle member 120 can rotate about the pivot location 196 relative to the first handle member 110. As a result, the adjustable pivot 150 can move in the direction 192 within the channel 116 (e.g., by ratcheting as described below), and the second jaw 124 can move in the direction 194 toward the first jaw 114. In this way, the second jaw 124 automatically adjusts toward the first jaw 114 until the jaws 114 and 124 meet, or the jaws 114 and 124 clamp down on a fastener, fitting, or the like positioned between the jaws 114 and 124. As Figure 2 shown, the second handle 122 has moved toward the first handle 112 until the second jaw 124 automatically adjusts to meet the first jaw 114. Also as Figure 2 shown, the second handle member 120 has rotated about the pin 141, and the second handle member 120 has rotated about the pivot location 196 relative to the first handle member 110. Figure 1 shown, the second jaw 124 has automatically adjusted, and the tip 146 of the arm 142 has pivoted in the notch 118, the second handle member 120 has rotated about the pin 141, and the second handle member 120 has rotated about the pivot location 196 relative to the first handle member 110.

[0028] Referring to Figure 3 , the tong 100 is shown in a top perspective view. As Figure 3 shown, according to some example embodiments, the second handle member 120 can include an opening 125 formed by side members 121 and 123. The side members 121 and 123 can be fixed between the second handle 122 and the second jaw 124. According to some example embodiments, the mode selector member 140 can be fixed to the second handle member 120 within the opening 125. Further, the arm 142 of the mode selector member 140 can be configured to rotate into the opening 125 when the mode selector member 140 is in the disengaged position such that the arm 142 is disposed between the side members 121 and 123. Additionally, as Figure 3 shown, according to some example embodiments, the first jaw 114 portion of the first handle member 110 can also pass through the opening 125 and be fixed to the second handle member 120 by the adjustable pivot 150 and the pin 151 of the adjustable pivot 150.

[0029] With consideration to Figure 3 the perspective view provided, Figure 4 a cross-sectional side view of the clamp 100 is shown such that the side member 121 is removed and components disposed in the opening 125 are visible. In this regard, Figure 4 a complete side view of the mode selector member 140 is shown. Thus, the clamp 100 can further include a spring 145 coupled with the second handle member 120 and the mode selector member 140. The spring 145 can be a torsion spring that can be coupled to the second handle member 120 via a protrusion 147 at a first end of the spring 145. A second end of the spring 145 can be engaged with a recessed surface 149 on the body portion 144 of the mode selector member 140 and allow it to slide along the recessed surface 149 when the mode selector member 140 is rotated. In operation, the spring 145, by virtue of its coupling with the second handle member 120 and the mode selector member 140, can be operable to hold the mode selector member 140 in the engaged position or the disengaged position by requiring the user to overcome a maximum spring force when moving between positions. In this way, the mode selector member 140 will tend to remain in the engaged position or the disengaged position without being intentionally urged to another position by the user due to the biasing applied by the spring 145.

[0030] Referring to Figure 4 and more particularly to Figure 5 engagement between the mode selector member 140 and the first fastening member can be seen. In this regard, the engagement notch 118 is shown to include a concave curved portion that receives a tip 146 of the arm 142 of the mode selector member 140. According to some example embodiments, the tip 146 is shown to include a convex curved surface that corresponds to the concave curved portion of the engagement notch 118. Additionally, a backside of the engagement notch 118 can be raised to ensure that the tip 146 remains seated in the engagement notch 118 when it is pivoted or rotated within the engagement notch 118 during automatic adjustment mode operation, as described above.

[0031] Further, Figure 4 the cross-sectional view also shows additional features of the adjustable pivot 150. In this regard, referring to Figure 4 and the enlarged view provided in Figure 6 the adjustable pivot 150 can include a pawl 152. In this regard, the pawl 152 can include a pawl tooth 154 and a pawl lever 156. The pawl tooth 154 can be configured to interface or engage with the channel tooth 117 to facilitate the adjustable nature of the clamp 100. The clamp 100 can further include a spring 157 that urges the pawl tooth 154 into engagement with the channel tooth 117. In this regard, as Figure 6As best shown, the pawl 152 can be narrower than the width of the channel 116, which can allow the pawl 152 to pivot within the channel 116 about the pin 151. In the absence of other external forces, the spring 157 can force the pawl 152 into a position where the pawl teeth 154 are engaged with the channel teeth 117, and the pawl 152 is in a pivoted position within the channel 116 because the force exerted by the spring 157 is offset from the pin 151.

[0032] The pawl teeth 154 can be shaped to engage the grooves formed by the channel teeth 117. Further, either or both of the pawl teeth 154 and the channel teeth 117 can be shaped to allow the pawl 152 to ratchet (pawl to slide together) in the forward direction and prevent the pawl 152 from moving in the rearward direction when the pawl teeth 154 are engaged with the channel teeth 117. In this regard, for example, the rear face of the channel teeth 117 can have a gentle slope (small positive slope) relative to the steep or even negative slope of the front face of the channel teeth 117. The pawl teeth 154 can be shaped in a corresponding manner such that the rear face of the pawl teeth 154 has a steep or even negative slope and the front face of the pawl teeth 154 has a relatively gentle slope (small positive slope). The gentle or small positive slope of the rear face of the channel teeth 117 and the front face of the pawl teeth 154 can allow the pawl teeth 154 to ride up the rear face of the channel teeth 117 (while the pawl 152 pivots against the urging of the spring 157 and compresses the spring 157) to allow ratcheting over the channel teeth 117 when the pawl 152 is moved in the forward direction within the channel 116 during automatic adjustment mode operation.

[0033] Additionally, due to the steep or negative slope of the front faces of the channel teeth 117 and the pawl teeth 154, the pawl 152 and thus the pivoted position 196 can be held at the current position in the channel 116. As such, when the mode selector member 140 is moved to the disengaged position, the handles 112 and 122 can be moved together to close the jaws 114 and 124 without automatic adjustment action occurring.

[0034] In this regard, Figure 7 A side view of the clamp 100 is shown with the mode selector member 140 in the disengaged position and the jaws 114 and 124 closed. Additionally, as Figure 7 shown, the arm 142 of the mode selector member 140 is hidden behind the side edge within the opening 125. However, the user grip feature of the body portion 144 of the mode selector member 140 can extend out of the opening 125 to facilitate the user being able to rotate the user grip feature to rotate the mode selector member 140 and the arm 142 out of the disengaged position and into the engaged position against the bias of the spring 145.

[0035] The operation of adjusting grippers 114 and 124 to increase the distance between grippers 114 and 124 according to some exemplary embodiments will now be described. In this regard, refer to Figure 8 The second handle 122 is movable in direction 199 away from the first handle 112, so that the second handle member 120 pivots relative to the first handle member 110 about a pivot position 196. See again Figure 6 When the first handle member 110 rotates relative to the second handle member 120 about a pivot position 196, the pawl 152 rotates together with the first handle member 110 due to engagement with the channel tooth 117 and the spring 157. As this rotation continues, the pin 158, fixed to the second handle member 120, responsively moves toward the pawl bar 156 until the pin 158 contacts the pawl bar 156. If rotation continues after this contact, the pin 158 will apply a force to the pawl bar 156, causing the pawl 152 to pivot within the channel 116 against the push of the spring 157. When the pawl 152 pivots (refer to...), Figure 6 (In a counter-clockwise direction), the pawl tooth 154 will be pulled away from the channel tooth 117. Since the pawl tooth 154 is no longer engaged with the channel tooth 117, the adjustable pivot 150 with the pawl 152 and the pivot position 196 can be... Figure 8 The pawl 120 slides in the rearward direction 193 (and in the forward direction). This sliding motion can be two-handed, requiring a first hand to grasp the first handle 112 and a second hand to grasp the second handle 122, causing the second handle member 120 to slide, for example, in the rearward direction via the second handle 122. Therefore, due to the sliding movement of the second handle member 120 and the adjustable pivot 150, the second pawl 124 can also move in the direction 195. When the second handle 122 subsequently moves toward the first handle 112, the pin 153 can disengage from the pawl lever 156, and the pawl tooth 154 can re-engage with the channel tooth 117, thereby preventing further rearward movement of the adjustable pivot 150 and the pawl 152.

[0036] According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 9 Another exemplary embodiment in the form of clamp 101 is shown. Except for the engagement between the mode selector member 240 and the first handle member 110, clamp 101 may be similar to clamp 100.

[0037] in this regard, Figure 9is a cross-sectional side view of the clamp 101 with the side member 121 removed. In this regard, the clamp 101 can include a mode selector member 240 that can rotate about a pin 241 between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The mode selector member 240 can include an arm 242 having a toothed tip 246. The toothed tip 246 can include one or more teeth configured to interface or engage with the engagement teeth 238 disposed on the top edge of the first handle member 110. The clamp 101 can also include a spring 245 that can serve a dual purpose. In this regard, similar to the spring 145, the spring 245 can operate to hold the mode selector member 240 in either the engaged position, where the toothed tip 246 engages with the engagement teeth 238 to operate in the automatic adjustment mode, or the disengaged position, where the toothed tip 246 does not engage with the engagement teeth 238 to operate in the manual adjustment mode. However, the spring 245 can also exert a bias on the mode selector member 240 in the engaged position to facilitate the toothed tip 246 engaging in a ratcheting motion on the engagement teeth 238 to perform the automatic adjustment operation.

[0038] Because the adjustable pivot 150 is configured in the clamp 101 in the same manner as in the clamp 100, the operation of the clamp 101 in the manual adjustment mode can be similar to the description provided above. As such, when the mode selector member 240 is in the disengaged position, the operation of the clamp 101 can be the same as the operation of the clamp 100. However, with respect to the automatic adjustment mode, the clamp 101 can similarly function, albeit in a different manner.

[0039] In this regard, with the mode selector member 240 in the engaged position, the toothed tip 246 can engage with the engagement teeth 238. As the second handle 122 is moved toward the first handle 112, the angled edge on which the engagement teeth 238 are disposed (parallel to the interior channel surface on which the channel teeth 117 are disposed) operates to move the second handle member 120 in a forward direction, thereby also moving the adjustable pivot 150 and the pivot location 196 in the forward direction. As the second handle member 120 is moved in the forward direction and slides the second jaw 124 toward the first jaw 114 in an automatic adjustment manner, the mode selector member 240 exerts a force on the first handle member 110 while ratcheting on the engagement teeth 238 in the forward direction. In this regard, unlike the tip of the arm that rotates with the clamp 100, the toothed tip ratchets on the engagement teeth 238.

[0040] According to some example embodiments, a dual mode clamp is provided. In this regard, the dual mode clamp can include a first handle member including a first handle and a first jaw, a second handle member including a second handle and a second jaw, and a channel disposed in the first handle member between the first handle and the first jaw. The dual mode clamp can also include an adjustable pivot fixed to the second handle member and disposed within the channel of the first handle member. The second handle member can be configured to pivot relative to the first handle member about a pivot axis defined by the adjustable pivot. The dual mode clamp can further include a mode selector member movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the mode selector member is engaged with both the first handle member and the second handle member, and the adjustable pivot moves the pivot axis within the channel to slide the second jaw toward the first jaw as the second handle is moved toward the first handle. In the disengaged position, the mode selector member is not engaged with both the first handle member and the second handle member, and the adjustable pivot maintains the position of the pivot axis within the channel as the second handle is moved toward the first handle.

[0041] According to some example embodiments, the adjustable pivot can be secured to the second handle member between the second jaw and the second handle, and the mode selector member can be secured to the second handle member between the adjustable pivot and the second handle. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the mode selector member can be configured to pivot between an engaged position and a disengaged position. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the mode selector member can include an arm having a rounded end, and the first handle member can include an engagement notch configured to receive the rounded end of the arm of the mode selector member when the mode selector member is in the engaged position. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the rounded end of the arm of the mode selector member can rotate within the engagement notch of the first handle member as the adjustable pivot moves within the channel. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the adjustable pivot can include a pawl, and the pawl can include pawl teeth. The channel can also include channel teeth, and the pawl can be spring biased to force the pawl teeth into engagement with the channel teeth. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the pawl can also include a pawl lever extending from the pawl. The second handle member can also include a pin, and as the first handle moves away from the second handle, the pawl lever can move toward the pin until the pawl lever engages the pin such that continued movement of the first handle away from the second handle causes the pawl teeth to disengage from the channel teeth. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, in the engaged position, as the first handle moves toward the second handle, the pawl teeth ratchet over the channel teeth as the pivot axis moves within the channel causing the second jaw to slide toward the first jaw. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the mode selector member can include an arm having a selector tooth disposed at an end of the arm, and the first handle member can include an engagement tooth disposed on an outer edge of the first handle member. Further, the dual mode clamp can also include a spring coupled to the mode selector member and the second handle member. The spring can be configured to force the selector tooth into engagement with the engagement tooth. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, in the engaged position, the selector tooth can be in engagement with the engagement tooth, and as the second handle moves toward the first handle, the selector tooth ratchets over the engagement tooth.

[0042] According to some example embodiments, an adjustable clamp configured to transition between an automatic adjustment mode and a manual adjustment mode is provided. The adjustable clamp can include a first handle member including a first handle and a first jaw, a second handle member including a second handle and a second jaw, a channel disposed in the first handle member between the first handle and the first jaw, and an adjustable pivot secured to the second handle member and disposed within the channel. The second handle member can be configured to pivot relative to the first handle member about a pivot axis defined by the adjustable pivot. The adjustable clamp can also include a mode selector member secured to the second handle member between the adjustable pivot and the second handle. The mode selector member is rotatable between an engaged position in which the mode selector member is in contact with the first handle member and a disengaged position in which the mode selector member is not in contact with the first handle member. In the engaged position, when the first handle is moved toward the second handle, the adjustable pivot moves the pivot axis within the channel to slide the second jaw toward the first jaw. In the disengaged position, when the first handle is moved toward the second handle, the adjustable pivot maintains the position of the pivot axis within the channel.

[0043] Additionally, according to some example embodiments, the adjustable clamp can further include a mode selector spring coupled with the mode selector member. The mode selector spring can be configured to bias rotational movement of the selector member to maintain the mode selector member in a current position. In this regard, the current position can be the engaged position or the disengaged position. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the mode selector member can include an arm having a rounded end, and the first handle member can include an engagement notch configured to receive the rounded end of the arm of the mode selector member when the mode selector member is in the engaged position. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the rounded end of the arm of the mode selector member can rotate within the engagement notch of the first handle member as the adjustable pivot moves within the channel. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the adjustable pivot is secured between the second jaw and the adjustable pivot to the second handle member. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the adjustable pivot can include a pawl, and the pawl can include pawl teeth. The channel can include channel teeth, and the pawl can be spring biased to force the pawl teeth into engagement with the channel teeth. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the pawl can further include a pawl lever extending from the pawl. The second handle member can further include a pin, and the pawl lever can move toward the pin as the first handle moves away from the second handle until the pawl lever engages the pin such that continued movement of the first handle away from the second handle causes the pawl teeth to disengage from the channel teeth. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, in the engaged position, as the first handle moves toward the second handle, the pawl teeth can ratchet over the channel teeth as the pivot axis moves within the channel causing the second jaw to slide toward the first jaw. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the mode selector member can include an arm having a selector tooth disposed at an end of the arm, and the first handle member can include an engagement tooth disposed on an outer edge of the first handle member. The adjustable clamp can further include a spring coupled to the mode selector member and the second handle member. The spring can be configured to force the selector tooth into engagement with the engagement tooth. Additionally or alternatively, according to some example embodiments, in the engaged position, the selector tooth can be in engagement with the engagement tooth, and as the second handle moves toward the first handle, the selector tooth can ratchet over the engagement tooth.

[0044] Many modifications and other embodiments of the applications set forth herein will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading of the foregoing description and accompanying drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the application is not to be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed herein as many modifications are possible and equivalents will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that the application is not limited to the exact construction described above. Only a few embodiments and examples of this application are given as illustrative examples, but many modifications, adaptations and variations will be possible while the application is given in the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A dual-mode clamp, comprising: The first handle component includes a first handle and a first gripper; The second handle component includes a second handle and a second gripper. A channel is disposed in the first handle member between the first handle and the first gripper; An adjustable pivot is fixed to the second handle member and disposed within the channel of the first handle member, the second handle member being configured to pivot relative to the first handle member about a pivot axis defined by the adjustable pivot; as well as The mode selector component is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position; In the engagement position, the mode selector component engages with both the first handle component and the second handle component, and when the second handle moves toward the first handle, the adjustable pivot moves the pivot axis within the channel to allow the second jaw to slide toward the first jaw, thereby automatically adjusting to the size of the fastener, fitting, or other object positioned between the first jaw and the second jaw. In the disengaged position, the mode selector component is not engaged with either the first handle component or the second handle component, and when the second handle moves toward the first handle, the adjustable pivot maintains the position of the pivot axis within the channel.

2. The dual-mode clamp of claim 1, wherein the adjustable pivot is secured to the second handle member between the second jaw and the second handle; and in, The mode selector component is fixed to the second handle component between the adjustable pivot and the second handle.

3. The dual-mode clamp of claim 1, wherein the mode selector member is configured to pivot between the engaged position and the disengaged position.

4. The dual-mode clamp of claim 1, wherein the mode selector component includes an arm having a rounded end; in, The first handle member includes an engagement notch configured to receive the circular end of the arm of the mode selector member when the mode selector member is in the engagement position.

5. The dual-mode clamp of claim 4, wherein when the adjustable pivot moves within the channel, the circular end of the arm of the mode selector member rotates within the engagement recess of the first handle member.

6. The dual-mode clamp of claim 1, wherein the adjustable pivot includes a pawl, the pawl including pawl teeth; in, The channel includes channel teeth; and The pawl is spring-biased to force the pawl teeth to engage with the channel teeth.

7. The dual-mode clamp of claim 6, wherein the pawl further comprises a pawl bar extending from the pawl; in, The second handle component also includes a pin; When the first handle moves away from the second handle, the pawl moves toward the pin until the pawl engages with the pin, causing the pawl teeth to disengage from the channel teeth as the first handle continues to move away from the second handle.

8. The dual-mode clamp according to claim 6, wherein in the engaged position, when the first handle moves toward the second handle, as the pivot axis moves within the channel, the pawl teeth perform ratcheting motion on the channel teeth, causing the second pawl to slide toward the first pawl.

9. The dual-mode clamp of claim 1, wherein the mode selector component includes an arm having selector teeth disposed at an end of the arm; in, The first handle component includes engaging teeth disposed on the outer edge of the first handle component; The dual-mode clamp further includes a spring connected to the mode selector member and the second handle member, the spring being configured to force the selector teeth to engage with the engagement teeth.

10. The dual-mode clamp of claim 9, wherein in the engaged position, the selector tooth engages with the engagement tooth, and the selector tooth performs ratcheting motion on the engagement tooth as the second handle moves toward the first handle.

11. An adjustable clamp configured to switch between an automatic adjustment mode and a manual adjustment mode, said adjustable clamp comprising: The first handle component includes a first handle and a first gripper; The second handle component includes a second handle and a second gripper. A channel is disposed in the first handle member between the first handle and the first gripper; An adjustable pivot is fixed to the second handle member and disposed within the channel, the second handle member being configured to pivot relative to the first handle member about a pivot axis defined by the adjustable pivot; as well as A mode selector component is fixed to the second handle component between the adjustable pivot and the second handle component. The mode selector component is rotatable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the mode selector component is in contact with the first handle component, and in the disengaged position, the mode selector component is not in contact with the first handle component. In the engagement position, when the first handle moves toward the second handle, the adjustable pivot moves the pivot axis within the channel so that the second jaw slides toward the first jaw, thereby automatically adjusting to the size of the fastener, fitting or other object positioned between the first jaw and the second jaw. In the disengaged position, when the first handle moves toward the second handle, the adjustable pivot maintains the position of the pivot axis within the channel.

12. The adjustable clamp of claim 11, further comprising a mode selector spring coupled to the mode selector member, the mode selector spring being configured to bias rotational movement of the selector member to hold the mode selector member in a current position, the current position being either the engaged position or the disengaged position.

13. The adjustable clamp of claim 11, wherein the mode selector component includes an arm having a rounded end; in, The first handle member includes an engagement notch configured to receive the circular end of the arm of the mode selector member when the mode selector member is in the engagement position.

14. The adjustable clamp of claim 13, wherein when the adjustable pivot moves within the channel, the circular end of the arm of the mode selector member rotates within the engagement recess of the first handle member.

15. The adjustable clamp of claim 11, wherein the adjustable pivot is fixed to the second handle member between the second jaw and the adjustable pivot.

16. The adjustable clamp of claim 11, wherein the adjustable pivot includes a pawl, the pawl including pawl teeth; in, The channel includes channel teeth; and The pawl is spring-biased to force the pawl teeth to engage with the channel teeth.

17. The adjustable clamp of claim 16, wherein the pawl further comprises a pawl bar extending from the pawl; in, The second handle component also includes a pin; When the first handle moves away from the second handle, the pawl moves toward the pin until the pawl engages with the pin, causing the pawl teeth to disengage from the channel teeth as the first handle continues to move away from the second handle.

18. The adjustable clamp according to claim 16, wherein in the engaged position, when the first handle moves toward the second handle, as the pivot axis moves within the channel, the pawl teeth perform ratcheting motion on the channel teeth, causing the second jaw to slide toward the first jaw.

19. The adjustable clamp of claim 11, wherein the mode selector component includes an arm having selector teeth disposed at an end of the arm; in, The first handle component includes engaging teeth disposed on the outer edge of the first handle component; The adjustable clamp further includes a spring connected to the mode selector member and the second handle member, the spring being configured to force the selector teeth to engage with the engagement teeth.

20. The adjustable clamp of claim 19, wherein in the engaged position, the selector teeth engage with the engagement teeth, and the selector teeth ratchet on the engagement teeth as the second handle moves toward the first handle.

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