Oyster shucking clamp apparatus and method

Abstract

An oyster clamp includes a base element having a recess for receiving an oyster to be opened. A lip coupled to the base element overhangs and impinges on an edge of a work surface on which the oyster clamp is placed, and a plurality of rubber feet are coupled to an underside of the base element. A retainer is attached to the base element to prevent the oyster from exiting the back of the oyster clamp in use. An oyster clamping element is operatively coupled to a handle and to the base element such that operating the handle causes the clamping element to push the oyster down against the base element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 366,300, filed July 2, 2021, which further claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 064,211, filed August 11, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference as fully set forth herein. Background Technology

[0002] The process of opening oysters or other bivalve mollusks is commonly referred to as "peeling." Oysters and similar mollusks typically have two halves of a shell, called lobes, held together at a hinge, with a visible seam where the two lobes meet. Usually, a knife or thin blade is inserted into the seam and used to pry open the oyster by separating each of the opposing lobes. However, because oysters may be peeled while still alive, they may resist and prevent easy insertion and splitting of their lobes. Therefore, the blade may need to be forcibly inserted between the lobes. In such cases, using a knife applied forcefully to open the oyster can cause injury. Various tools have been developed in the art to help users avoid injury when peeling oysters and other bivalve mollusks.

[0003] Existing technological improvements to the shelling device can result in less injury or may make the tool easier to use, clean, or adapt to different oyster sizes. Improvements have also been made to secure the clamp to the surface, better protect the user's hands from slippage and injury, provide mechanisms for better securing the device to a counter or table, and / or provide a hinge between the rear end of the base and the top section.

[0004] Existing technologies include:

[0005] US299756A—This reference describes an "oyster clamp" for shucking oysters. The clamp consists of two parts, which can be made of wood or metal. One of these parts is a bottom part that is longer than the top part, and the two parts are connected at their rear ends by a hinge. The bottom has a recess that is rounded at its inner end, and the depth of the recess gradually increases from the front side of the opening to form a sloping bottom. The top has a similar horseshoe-shaped recess with sloping sides. These recesses conform to the shape of the parts inserted into the oyster clamp.

[0006] US2007 / 0042695 A1 – This reference describes an “oyster shelling block” having a base with a first flat surface and an arcuate partition attached to the base. The base and partition define an oyster receiving portion that secures the oyster when a user pries open the oyster shell.

[0007] US2020 / 0237128 A1—This reference describes an "oyster-peeling device" having a base with a first notch and a cap angled to an end of the base, the cap being removably attached to or hinged to the end. The cap has a second notch, the first and second notches being sized and configured to hold the oyster. The user holds the oyster within and can open the oyster with a knife with a low risk of injury.

[0008] WO 2018 / 124966 A1—This reference describes an "oyster-opening device" having an oyster support channel connected to a support post. A connecting rod with a notch on its lower edge is pivotally coupled to the support post at a selected notch within the notch. A connecting rod is pivotally coupled to an end of the connecting rod at an upper convex angle, and a shell-peeling blade is connected to a lower convex angle of the connecting rod. In use, the oyster is securely placed in the support channel, and the user applies a controlled force to a handle at the free end of the connecting rod, thereby forcing the shell-peeling blade to pry open the oyster.

[0009] WO 2004 / 100730 A2—This reference describes a handheld “clam and oyster opener” that is similar in form and function to a nutcracker. The opener comprises a pair of pivotally coupled components: one component has a handle and a curved, toothed portion to hold the clam or oyster in place, and the other component has a handle and a smooth rod with a protruding wedge-shaped member that slides into place and holds in place. The user’s hand holds the bivalve in place against the curved, toothed portion, while the other hand squeezes the handles of the two components together to forcefully push the wedge-shaped member between the shell halves and open them. A spoon is attached to the outside of the toothed portion to scrape the meat from the shell.

[0010] US 9.462,816B2—This reference describes an "oyster-opening device." A handle is pivotally coupled to a point that passes through a stationary positioning cylinder. A force applied to the handle by the user forces the point into an oyster hinge held on a grooved surface. The movement of the point, guided by the positioning cylinder, can accommodate a wide range of oyster sizes without requiring reconfiguration or adjustment of the device's settings.

[0011] US 7,785,176 B1 — A device for manually forcing open a housing during the downward stroke of a reciprocating plunger. At the tip of the plunger is a long, angled wedge-shaped blade. The housing rests on a non-slip base, wherein the seam of the housing is parallel to the cone angle of the tip. As the plunger descends, it applies a frictional shear force to the housing, causing the half to separate and open, thus providing access to the meat.

[0012] US 7,393,270 B2 – This reference describes a “reconfigurable mollusc opener” comprising a base and a reconfigurable handle pivotally connected to the base. The device further includes various blades, which are securely coupled to the handle, allowing selection of the blades to be positioned in an operational orientation to open the mollusc.

[0013] Despite these improvements, various drawbacks remain. For example, by placing the hinge between the rear of the top portion of the clamp and the rear of the base, the oyster is not as securely fixed as when positioned between the top and the base. Furthermore, devices to hold the various parts of the sheller in place to provide uncompromising structural stability may not be provided. Additionally, securing devices to prevent the device from slipping on the work surface on which it rests during use may not be provided. Moreover, the user's hand (the hand not holding the knife or other shelling tools) typically grips the entire top portion of the device, thus exposing the user's non-knife hand to potential injury if the knife slips. Summary of the Invention

[0014] An oyster gripper includes a base element having a notch for receiving an oyster to be opened. A lip attached to the base element hangs over and strikes an edge of a working surface, on which the oyster gripper is placed, and multiple rubber feet are attached to the underside of the base element. A retainer is attached to the base element to prevent the oyster from leaving the back of the oyster gripper during use. An oyster holding element is operatively coupled to a handle and to the base element, such that operating the handle causes the holding element to push the oyster downward against the base element.

[0015] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative, and are intended to provide a further explanation of the claimed invention. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate the disclosed embodiments and / or aspects and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims.

[0017] In the attached diagram:

[0018] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of the oyster clamp.

[0019] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp shown.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of another illustrative embodiment of the oyster clamp.

[0021] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp shown.

[0022] Figure 5A , Figure 5B Exemplary variations in the configuration and construction of the anti-reverse device and the handle are shown respectively.

[0023] Figure 6A , Figure 6B These are perspective views and illustrations of another embodiment of the oyster clamp.

[0024] Figure 7 It is similar to Figure 6A The rear perspective view of another embodiment of the embodiment shown in the figure has a different hinge construction.

[0025] Figure 8 , Figure 10 , Figure 12 , Figure 14 , Figure 16 , Figure 18 , Figure 20 , Figure 22 , Figure 24 , Figure 26 , Figure 28 , Figure 30 , Figure 32 , Figure 34 , Figure 36 and Figure 38 This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an oyster clamp.

[0026] Figure 9 , Figure 11 , Figure 13 , Figure 15 , Figure 17 , Figure 19 , Figure 21 , Figure 23 , Figure 25 , Figure 27 , Figure 29 , Figure 31 , Figure 33 , Figure 35 , Figure 37 and Figure 39 They are Figure 8 , Figure 10 , Figure 12 , Figure 14 , Figure 16 , Figure 18 , Figure 20 , Figure 22 , Figure 24 , Figure 26 , Figure 28 , Figure 30 , Figure 32 ,Figure 34 , Figure 36 and Figure 38 An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp shown.

[0027] Figure 40 A perspective view shows several illustrative embodiments of an oyster-opening blade configured as a drill bit replacement for a power drill.

[0028] Figure 41 It shows the applicability to and Figure 40 A side perspective view of two illustrative power drill embodiments shown, illustrating the use of one or more oyster-opening blades together.

[0029] Figures 42A-66B Perspective view (“A”) and exploded view (“B”) of several exemplary embodiments are shown, the several exemplary embodiments including those contained in Figures 1-39 The embodiments shown may contain the same or similar components, but in various different arrangements. It should be noted that the reference numerals in the exploded view (“B”) are irrelevant in the context of this disclosure and should be ignored. Although several exemplary embodiments are shown, it should be understood that other embodiments are possible, and other embodiments may include the same, similar, or different components. Of course, if the language of the claims covers all such embodiments, all such embodiments are considered to be within the scope of the claimed invention. Detailed Implementation

[0030] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings and descriptions provided herein may be simplified to illustrate aspects relevant to a clear understanding of the processes, machines, manufactures, and / or material composition described herein, while omitting other aspects that might be found in ordinary apparatuses, systems, and methods for clarity. Those skilled in the art will recognize that additional and / or other elements and / or steps may be desirable and / or necessary for carrying out the apparatuses, systems, and methods described herein. Because such elements and steps are well known in the art and because they do not contribute to a better understanding of this disclosure, a discussion of such elements and steps may not be provided herein. However, all such elements, variations, and modifications to the described aspects known to those skilled in the art are considered inherently included in this disclosure.

[0031] It will be readily understood that the components of the invention, as generally described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, can be implemented in various different configurations. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments described and / or shown in the drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but rather represent only selected exemplary embodiments of the invention. The use of the phrases “exemplary embodiments,” “some embodiments,” or other similar language refers to the fact that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments may be included in at least one embodiment of the invention, and does not necessarily refer to all of the same embodiments or groups of embodiments.

[0032] One aspect of the described embodiments that can be modified is the construction materials of the different elements constituting the embodiments. Generally, any suitable material can be used in any combination to manufacture any part of any embodiment. However, it should be noted that for the handle, currently preferred but non-limiting exemplary materials may include any sufficiently rigid and strong wood, plastic, high-density polyethylene (PE), etc. For the knob, natural or artificial stone, metal or wood, plastic, polyethylene (PE), high-density PE, low-density PE, ceramic, polished cement, etc., may be suitable. For the base, wood, natural or artificial stone, plastic, polyethylene, high-density PE, low-density PE, etc., may be suitable. Furthermore, various decorative finishes, such as matte, smooth, polished, textured, etc., may also be used.

[0033] Various embodiments will now be described. These embodiments are provided as illustrative examples and do not limit the scope of the invention. Although specific details of the embodiments are presented, these embodiments can be modified by changing, supplementing, or omitting many of these details.

[0034] Turn now Figure 1An exemplary embodiment of an oyster clamp (100) for safely opening (“shelling”) oysters and other bivalve mollusks (collectively referred to as “oysters” for convenience hereinafter) is shown. The oyster clamp (100) includes a metal frame (105) formed from a single sheet of stainless steel or other rigid metal, the single sheet of stainless steel or other rigid metal being bent into the frame, other elements being secured to the frame, and the metal frame (105) providing greater stability than found in the prior art. The oyster clamp (100) can be characterized as including a lower portion (110) and an upper portion (120). The lower portion (110) includes a base element (115) having a notch (125) for receiving an oyster to be opened. The lower portion (110) further includes a lip (130) for securing the oyster clamp (100) along the edge of a work surface (such as a workbench or tabletop). In use, the lip (130) hangs on and abuts the edge of the working surface to prevent the oyster clamp (100) from sliding backward when the user applies force to the oyster fixed in the oyster clamp (100) using an oyster-opening tool (such as a knife). In an embodiment, the lower portion (110) may further include or be configured to accommodate at least one fixing mechanism (610, Figure 6B Such as a fixing clamp, which can be, for example, an adjustable rod clamp or an F-shaped clamp. In an embodiment, such a fixing clamp can be provided on one or both sides of the lip (130) to more securely fix the oyster clamp (100) to the working surface.

[0035] In this embodiment, the upper end of the retaining clamp may be permanently or removably coupled directly to the base element (115). The lower end of the retaining clamp can then be adjusted to press firmly against the underside of the work surface to securely hold the oyster clamp (100) in place on the work surface. Multiple rubber feet (118) may be coupled to the underside of the base (115) to prevent damage to the work surface and to inhibit the oyster clamp (100) from sliding in any direction. The rubber feet (118) may be coupled to the underside of the base (115) by adhesive, screws, etc. In the presently preferred embodiment, the rubber feet (118) are coupled to screws that pass through holes in the frame 105 and are screwed into the bottom of the base element 115, thereby securely mounting the base element (115) to the frame (105).

[0036] The upper portion (120) of the oyster clamp includes a wedge (122) coupled to the center of the top rear portion of the base element (115) as a stop to help properly position the oyster to be opened and prevent the oyster from leaving the rear portion of the oyster clamp (100). In an embodiment, the wedge (122) may have a notch (123) to help position and hold the oyster. In the currently preferred embodiment, the surface defining the notch is arranged in a plane parallel to the top surface of the wedge (122). A clamping element (124) is rotatably coupled to the wedge (122) via a hinge (127) that allows the clamping element (124) to rotate about a hinge pin (128). Preferably, part of the hinge is formed by bending a flat section of the frame extending from the top of the frame (105) into the circle (127) through which the hinge pin (128) passes. In one embodiment, the clamping element (124) has a notch (126) at its center on its underside to help properly position the oyster and hold it in place during shelling. The notches in the base element (notch 125), wedge (notch 123), and clamping element (notch 126) define a cavity (121) for securely holding the oyster. In another embodiment, one or more of the notches (123), (125), and (126) may have notched, pointed, or otherwise adapted surfaces to further aid in controlling the oyster's position. The center of the notch (123) is positioned directly above the center of the notch (125) in the base element, and the notch (123) gradually narrows to a point below the notch (123). Thus, smaller oysters are securely held in place between the notch (123) and the narrowing portion of the notch (125), while larger oysters are positioned within the notch (125) against the front surface of the retainer 122.

[0037] In an embodiment, the top surface of the backstop (122) and the portion of the frame adjacent to the top surface can be configured to meet the rear of the top surface of the base element (115) at an angle ranging from 10 to 50 degrees. In the currently preferred embodiment, the angle between the top surfaces of the backstop (122) and the rear of the base element (115) is 30 degrees, and the bottom of the notch (123) is disposed in a plane parallel to the plane of the top surface of the backstop (122). The clamping element (124) further includes a handle (129) that the user pulls forward to press the clamping element (124) down onto the oyster (or other shellfish). The handle (129) can be permanently coupled to the clamping element (124) using adhesives, screws, etc., or it can be integrally joined directly to the hinge element (124). In the currently preferred embodiment, the hinge element (124) is removably coupled to the handle (129) so that it can be replaced if it becomes excessively worn or deformed due to use.

[0038] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp shown is provided, wherein the same components are indicated by the same reference numerals. It should be understood that the configuration of the components shown is merely illustrative, and other configurations of one or more components may be used without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0039] In use, the oyster clamp (100) is placed on a work surface (such as a table or workbench) so that the lip (130) strikes the edge of the work surface. In embodiments, such as a rod or F-shaped clamp ( Figure 6B One or more securing devices, such as 610, can be used to securely fasten the oyster clamp (100) to the working surface. The oyster is then placed in the recess (125) of the base element (115), preferably with the rear of the base element recess (125) abutting against the recess (123) of the anti-reverse device (122). The user holds the oyster in the cavity (121) and pulls down the handle (129). This causes the clamping element (124) to rotate about the hinge pin (128) of the hinge (127) to apply pressure to the oyster, thereby securely holding the oyster in the cavity (121). Preferably, the backstop (122) and the clamping element (124) are configured such that when the oyster is secured, the bottom of the clamping element (124) is slightly inclined downward toward the front of the oyster clamp (100), thereby generating a force having a component that pushes the oyster in the direction of both the base element (115) and the backstop (122).

[0040] While applying continuous downward pressure to the handle (129) with one hand ("handle hand") to secure the oyster within the cavity (121), the user holds the oyster-opening tool with their other hand ("tool hand") (such as a knife or similar object). The user then inserts the oyster-opening tool between the two lobes of the oyster shell to separate the lobes and open the shell. Advantageously, if the knife slips during the shell-opening process, the user's handle hand is positioned on the handle, far above the shell, and will not be injured.

[0041] Again, it should be noted that various materials and combinations thereof can be appropriately used for different aspects of the oyster clamp (100). In particular, materials that can be used for the handle may include various metals, wood, and plastics such as high-density polyethylene (PE) or combinations thereof. Similarly, materials that can be used for the knob may include natural or artificial stone, various metals or wood, plastic / polyethylene (PE), high-density or low-density PE, ceramics, polished cement, etc., or combinations thereof. Furthermore, suitable materials for the base may include wood, stone, artificial stone, plastic / polyethylene, high-density or low-density PE, etc., or combinations thereof.

[0042] Furthermore, in general, the described oyster clamp embodiments can be configured or adapted to work with a variety of oysters and other bivalve molluscs of all types and sizes, as long as they can be fitted inside the oyster clamp. For example, the oyster clamp can be used not only to shucking oysters, but also to shucking the shells of other bivalve mollusks (such as clams, scallops, shellfish, and the like) arranged in any orientation to present the seam between the lobes to the user so that a knife or similar object can be inserted between the lobes.

[0043] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the oyster clamp (300). The oyster clamp (300) further includes a metal frame (305) formed from a single sheet of stainless steel or other rigid metal, the single sheet of stainless steel or other rigid metal being bent into the frame, other components being secured to the frame, and the metal frame providing greater stability than found in the prior art. However, the bracket (305) does not have a hinge portion because this embodiment does not use hinges. As previously stated, the oyster clamp (300) can be characterized as including a lower portion (310) and an upper portion (320). The lower portion (310) is substantially similar to Figure 1 The lower portion (110) of the oyster clamp shown includes a base element (315) having a notch (325) for receiving an oyster (or other bivalve mollusks) to be opened. The lower portion (310) further includes a lip (330) for securing the oyster clamp (300) along the edge of a work surface (such as a workbench or tabletop). In use, the lip (330) hangs over the edge of the work surface and abuts upward against the edge of the work surface to prevent the oyster clamp (300) from sliding backward when a user, for example, applies force to the oyster secured in the oyster clamp (300) using an oyster-opening tool (such as a knife). In embodiments, the lower portion (310) may further include or be configured to accommodate at least one securing mechanism. Figure 6B , 610), such as a retaining clamp, which can be, for example, an adjustable rod clamp or an F-shaped clamp. In an embodiment, such a retaining clamp may be positioned near one or both sides of the lip (330) to more securely hold the oyster clamp (300) to the work surface. The retaining clamp operates in a normal manner to hold the oyster clamp to the work surface.

[0044] In this embodiment, the upper end of the retaining clamp may be permanently or removably coupled to the base element (315). The lower end of the retaining clamp can then be adjusted to press firmly against the underside of the work surface to securely hold the oyster clamp (300) in place on the work surface. Multiple rubber feet (318) may be coupled to the underside of the base (315) to prevent damage to the work surface and to inhibit the oyster clamp (300) from sliding in any direction. The rubber feet (318) may be coupled to the underside of the base element (315) by adhesive, screws, etc. In the currently preferred embodiment, the rubber feet (318) are coupled to screws that pass through holes in the frame 305 and are screwed into the bottom of the base element 315, thereby securely mounting the base element (315) to the frame (305).

[0045] The upper portion (320) of the oyster clamp 300 (300) includes a stop (322) attached to the center of the top rear portion of the base element (315) to help properly position the oyster to be opened and to prevent the oyster from leaving the rear portion of the oyster clamp (300). In an embodiment, the stop (322) may have a notch (327) to help position and hold the oyster. In the currently preferred embodiment, the surface defining the notch is disposed in a plane parallel to the top surface of the wedge (322). The clamping element (324) is fixedly coupled to the bottom end of the piston (335). In an embodiment, the clamping element (324) has a notch (326) at the center of its lower side to help properly position the oyster and hold it in place during the oyster-opening process. The notches (325, 326, 327) in the base element, clamping element, and anti-reverse device define cavities (321) for securely holding the oyster. In embodiments, one or more of the notches (325, 326, 327) may have notched, pointed, or otherwise adapted surfaces to further aid in controlling the oyster's position. In embodiments, the rear portion of the anti-reverse device (322) and the rear portion of the top of the base element (315) may be formed at an angle ranging from 10 to 50 degrees. In the currently preferred embodiment, the angle between the top surfaces where the anti-reverse device (322) meets the rear portion of the base element (315) is 30 degrees, and the bottom of the notch (323) is disposed in a plane parallel to the plane of the top surface of the anti-reverse device (322).

[0046] The upper portion (320) of the oyster clamp (300) further includes a shaft (332) fixedly coupled to and extending vertically from a base element (315), which provides structural support for most of the remainder of the upper portion (320). The top end of the shaft (332) is rigidly coupled to the bottom end of an elbow (340). The top end of the elbow (340) includes a tubular guide (345) through which the shaft of the piston (335) slides. This embodiment utilizes a rack and pinion system to apply vertical pressure to the top of the oyster fixed in the oyster clamp. Specifically, the piston (335) has regularly spaced notches (337) on one side, which serves as the rack. In this figure, two views of the same piston are shown (as indicated by the dashed lines). The left-facing view of the piston is rotated to show the notch (337), which is not visible in the right-facing view. The bottom end of the piston (335) is fixedly coupled to the clamping element (324). The upper portion (320) further includes a handle (350) mounted to the elbow (340) via a pivot assembly (355). The pivot assembly (355) includes a gear with teeth (357) acting as a pinion engaging a slot (337) on the piston (335). When the handle is pushed around the pivot assembly (355), the rack and pinion cause the piston (335) and the clamping element (324) to move up and down together. A cap (360) can be coupled to the top of the piston (335).

[0047] In use, the oyster clamp 300 is placed on a work surface (such as a tabletop or workbench) such that the lip 330 abuts the edge of the work surface. In embodiments, such as a rod or F-shaped clamp (610, Figure 6BOne or more securing devices, such as a handle 350, can be used to secure the oyster clamp (300) to the working surface. The handle 350 is rotated to raise the clamping element (324). Preferably, for ease of operation, the rotated handle is configured to extend in an upward direction. The rear of the oyster facing the notch (325) is placed on the base element (315), and preferably also rests on the notch (326) of the stopper (322) at the rear of the base element notch (325). The user holds the oyster in the cavity (321) and pulls the handle (350) to cause the clamping element (324) to lower, thereby applying pressure to the oyster and holding it securely in the cavity (321). While applying continuous pressure to the handle (350) with one hand (“handle hand”) to push the clamping element (324) downward, the user holds the oyster opening tool with the other hand (“tool hand”) (such as a knife or the like). The user inserts a tool into the oyster located between the two lobes of its shell to separate the lobes and open the shell. Advantageously, if the tool slips during the shell-opening process, the user's handle is positioned on the handle, well above the cavity, and without injury. In an embodiment, the notches (325, 326, 327) in the base element (315), the clamping element (324), and the anti-slip device (322) may respectively include grooves, points, or the like to further secure the oyster and prevent it from slipping. In an embodiment, the bottom of the clamping element (324) is arranged to slope downward toward the front of the oyster clamp (300), thereby generating a force having a component that pushes the oyster in both the direction of the base element (315) and the anti-slip device (322).

[0048] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp (300) shown is provided, in which the components, their relationships to each other, and their purpose and function should be clear upon examination given the foregoing description. It should be understood that the configuration of the components shown is merely illustrative, and other configurations of one or more components may be used without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0049] Exemplary modifications to the configuration and construction may include, but are not limited to, base elements, stoppers, clamping elements, and handles that can be made of or include any suitable solid material, such as wood, hard plastic, stainless steel, etc. Furthermore, in Figure 5A and Figure 5B The diagram illustrates a comparative arrangement of various exemplary alternative component configurations, showing alternative anti-reverse devices and handles. Regarding the anti-reverse device, in... Figure 7 The examples shown use Figure 5A The stopper on the left, while Figure 6A In the embodiments, the following methods are used Figure 5A The backstop on the right. Figure 6AIn the case of the hinge (633) into which the hinge pin is inserted, a portion of the hinge is integrated into a single piece including a handle (650) and an oyster clamping element 624. Figure 7 It is configured similarly. However, in Figure 6A In this case, the other part of the hinge (634) into which the hinge pin is inserted is joined to the structural frame (e.g., Figure 2 (As shown by reference numeral 105 in the attached figures). Conversely, in Figure 7 In the middle, part of the hinge (734) protrudes from the plate (703) on top of the anti-reverse device (722). Figure 6A and Figure 7 The same handle used is shown as Figure 5B An exemplary composite handle is shown on the left side. In contrast, the illustrations in the center (exploded view) and right side (as assembled) of 5B show handle assemblies with different configurations, including an oyster gripping element (524) that is screwed into the handle (550) by a hinge element (533). Notably, the screw (534) holding the gripping element (524) to the bottom of the handle (550) can be sized to couple the oyster gripping element (524) to the bottom of the handle (550) without extending all the way through the bottom of the handle. Of course, other variations of these and other components are possible. Similar types of configuration modifications and adaptations are also possible in parts of other embodiments.

[0050] Figure 6A It is basically similar in form and function Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The difference lies in that the oyster clamping element, the knob, and a portion of the hinge are formed as a single piece, as described above. Furthermore, a thick panel (630) is used instead of a thin lip. A pair of notches (602) are shown in the top surface of the base on either side of the panel (630) for positioning and fastening the clamps, which fasten the oyster clamps (600) along the edge of the working surface. Figure 6B This arrangement is illustrated in the figure, in which two retaining clamps (610) are shown, their tips pressing downward into corresponding recesses, and their bottoms pressing upward against the underside of the working surface. Of course, other arrangements are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the tips of the clamps may be adapted to be permanently coupled to the front of the base element.

[0051] Figure 7 It is basically similar to Figure 6AA perspective view of an embodiment. However, the hinge configuration is different; it is not part of the frame but includes a half-hinge (703) coupled to the top surface of the anti-reverse device (722). Again, this illustrates that variations can be made in the configuration and construction of the oyster gripper (700) without significantly affecting the functionality of the associated embodiments. Similarly, the exemplary embodiments described below generally use a knob or handle, the knob being coupled to the gripping element via a hinge, the handle causing the gripping element to press directly downward during operation to apply pressure to the oyster and hold it in place during oyster opening. In each case, during oyster opening, the hand holding the knob or handle maintains a safe distance from the oyster opening tool to prevent injury in case the tool slips. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the pressure from the oyster gripping element is configured such that the pressure is applied near the center of the oyster, thereby minimizing the possibility that the oyster may slip into or out of the oyster gripper.

[0052] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of another embodiment, and Figure 9 yes Figure 8 An exploded view of an embodiment. The bottom portion is substantially similar to the bottom portion of the embodiment described above, comprising a metal frame (905) formed from a single sheet of stainless steel or other rigid metal, cut and bent into the frame, to which other elements (such as a base element (915)) are fixed, and which provides good structural stability. The top portion, however, is different, comprising a pair of shafts (920) fixedly coupled to the base element (915) and extending vertically from it. A spring (925) is coupled to the top of the shafts. The top portion also incorporates a so-called floating sleeve comprising a pair of tubes (930), each tube (930) slidably coupled to a corresponding shaft in the shafts (920). The bottom end of each tube (930) is fixedly coupled to a cross brace (945), which in turn is coupled to an oyster gripping element (924), as indicated by the dashed lines. The handle (950) has two ends, each fixedly coupled to the top of a corresponding tube in the tube (930). In operation, the user simply lifts the handle (950), places the oyster in the base recess against the retainer, presses the handle down with one hand to hold the oyster in place, and maintains downward pressure on the handle while operating the oyster opener with the other hand. The handle hand is kept at a safe distance from the oyster opener to prevent injury in case the tool slips. Upon completion, the downward pressure on the handle is released, and a spring pushes the handle upward, releasing the oyster.

[0053] The handle (950), tube (930), cross brace (945), and oyster gripping element (924), once assembled together, form a floating sleeve (960) that can slide away from the rest of the oyster gripper (900) and be replaced by a different floating sliding sleeve more suitable for the next task at hand. Thus, the oyster gripper (900) can be easily reconfigured by removing and replacing the floating sleeve (960). This feature is convenient, for example, when changing the type of shellfish being shucked, such as from one size (e.g., small oyster) to another size (e.g., giant oyster), or from one type of bivalve (e.g., oyster) to another with a different general shape (e.g., clam). Changing the floating sleeve changes the configuration of the oyster gripping element (924) from suitable for the first shucking task to a second shucking task of opening a different type of mollusc.

[0054] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp shown. It should be understood that the configuration of the components shown is merely an example, and other configurations of one or more components can be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Upon inspection, the arrangement, function, and purpose of the shown elements are clear.

[0055] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of yet another exemplary embodiment (1100). The bottom portion is also substantially similar to the bottom portion of the embodiment described above, comprising a frame (1105), a base element (1115), and a stopper (1122). However, the top portion is different, comprising a single shaft (1120) fixedly coupled to the base element (1115) and extending vertically from the base element (1115), at its apex coupled to a spring (1125). The top portion further comprises a tube (1130) sliding on the shaft (1120), wherein the bottom end of the tube (1130) is fixedly coupled to a strut (1145), and an oyster gripping element (1124) is coupled to the strut (1145). The top end of the tube (1130) is fixedly coupled to a handle (1150) via a connector (1140). In this embodiment, the shaft (1120) and the tube (1130) are configured to have complementary shapes, such that the tube can slide vertically on the shaft but cannot rotate about the shaft. For example, both the shaft and the tube can have a close-fitting semi-circular cross-section (as shown), an elongated oval cross-section, or a rectangular cross-section, etc. In operation, the user places the oyster in the base recess against the retainer (1122), presses down on the handle (1150) with one hand to secure the oyster, and operates the oyster-opening tool with the other hand.

[0056] and Figure 8As in the previous embodiment, the handle (1150), tube (1130), strut (1145), and oyster gripping element (1124), once assembled, form a floating sleeve (1160) that can slide away from the rest of the oyster gripper (1100) and be replaced by a different floating sleeve more suitable for the next task at hand. Thus, the oyster gripper (1100) can be easily reconfigured by removing and replacing the floating sleeve (1160). This feature is convenient when changing the type of shellfish being hulled, for example, from one size (e.g., small oyster) to another size (e.g., giant oyster), or from one type of bivalve (e.g., oyster) to another type with a different general shape (e.g., clam). Changing the floating sleeve changes the oyster gripping element (1124) from a configuration suitable for the first hulling task to a different configuration suitable for the second hulling task, thereby opening mollusks of different sizes or shapes.

[0057] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp (1100) shown. As previously stated, the arrangement, function, and purpose of the shown components should be clear upon inspection. Furthermore, the configuration of the components shown is merely illustrative, and other configurations of one or more components may be used without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0058] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment. The bottom portion is also substantially similar to the bottom portion of the embodiment described above. Furthermore, the functionality of the top portion is slightly similar to... Figure 8 and Figure 10 The operation of the embodiment shown includes a knob (or handle) and a spring (1330), the knob being pressed down to secure the oyster in the oyster clamp (1300), and the spring pushing the handle up, preferably back to its initial position.

[0059] The top portion includes a pair of support members (1320), such as shafts or rods, fixedly coupled to and extending vertically from the base element (1315). Two strut elements (1345) are horizontally coupled between the support members (1320), one strut element (1345) at the top of the support member and the other strut element (1345) near the middle of the support member. Each strut element includes a hole located at its center, and a spring (1330) is arranged between the holes. A push rod (1355) is inserted through the hole, a collar (1365), and the spring (1330) and fixed to a plate (1360). The bottom of the plate (1360) is coupled to an oyster-holding element (1324), and the top of the push rod (1355) is coupled to a knob or handle (1350). During operation, the user places the oyster in the recess (1325) of the base element against the retainer (1322), presses down on the knob (1350) with one hand to compress the spring (1330) and secure the oyster, and maintains downward pressure on the knob while operating the oyster opener with the other hand. The handle is kept at a safe distance from the knob (1350) and the oyster opener to prevent injury in case the tool slips. Upon completion, the downward pressure on the knob is released, and the spring (1330) pushes the push rod (1355) upward, causing the oyster clamping element (1324) to release the oyster.

[0060] Figure 13 Is Figure 12 An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp is shown. It should be understood that the arrangement of the components shown is merely illustrative, and other arrangements of one or more components may be used without departing from the scope of the invention. As in other exploded views, the function and purpose of the illustrated elements are clear upon inspection.

[0061] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of yet another exemplary embodiment. The operation of this embodiment is similar to... Figure 12The operation of the embodiment shown is substantially similar. However, in this embodiment, structural support and guidance for the push rod are provided by the end of the frame (1505). The frame end (1545) includes a hole for guiding the push rod (1555), and a spring (1530) is disposed between the holes. The push rod (1555) is inserted through the hole, the collar (1565), and the spring (1530) and is secured to the plate (1560). The bottom of the plate (1560) is coupled to the oyster clamping element (1524), and the top of the push rod (1555) is coupled to the knob or handle (1550). In operation, the user places the oyster against the anti-reverse device (1522) in the recess (1525) of the base element, presses down on the knob (1550) with one hand, compresses the spring (1530) and secures the oyster, and maintains downward pressure on the knob while operating the oyster opening tool with the other hand. The handle is held at a safe distance from the knob (1550) and the oyster opener to prevent injury in case the tool slips. Upon completion, the downward pressure on the knob is released, and the spring (1530) pushes the push rod (1555) upward, causing the oyster clamping element (1524) to release the oyster.

[0062] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp shown. It should be understood that the configuration of the components shown is merely illustrative, and other configurations of one or more components may be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Upon inspection, the function and purpose of the shown elements are clear.

[0063] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of yet another exemplary embodiment (1700). The operation of this embodiment is similar to... Figure 1 The embodiments shown are substantially similar in operation. These embodiments differ primarily in the configuration of the hinges and handles, while remaining substantially similar in most other respects. Instead of... Figure 1 The device has a single hinge, but two hinges exist, one on either side of the rear of the base element (1715). The hinge (1710) consists of a post directly coupled to the base element (1715) and a top portion (1720) coupled to the handle (1750). The top portion of the hinge (1720) includes an extension, which can have any desired length, such that during use, the oyster gripper (1724) presses downwards onto the central portion of the oyster during oyster shucking. Furthermore, each hinge post (1710) includes a guide rod (1725) that prevents the handle from hitting the top of the working surface when the oyster gripper (1700) is open. Figure 17 yes Figure 16An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp shown. It should be understood that the configuration of the components shown is merely illustrative, and other configurations of one or more components may be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Upon inspection, the function and purpose of the shown elements are clear.

[0064] Figure 18 It is basically similar to Figure 3 The illustration shows a perspective view of an embodiment, but with a heavy-duty construction intended for commercial use. Typically, with... Figure 3 Compared to the previous embodiment, the component is thicker, wider, stronger, more durable, and more stable. Figure 19 yes Figure 18 An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp shown. It should be understood that the configuration of the components shown is merely illustrative, and other configurations of one or more components may be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Upon inspection, the function and purpose of the shown elements are equally clear.

[0065] Figure 20 This is yet another perspective view of an exemplary embodiment, and Figure 21 This is an exploded view of yet another exemplary embodiment. The operation of this embodiment is similar to... Figure 3 The operation of the embodiments shown is substantially similar to that of the embodiments described herein, and has the same characteristics as those described above. Figure 14 The embodiments provide structural support members with similar structures. Figure 20 and Figure 21In this design, the clamping element (2024) is raised and lowered via a rack (2037) and pinion (2057) system, and structural support and guidance for the piston are provided by a suitably shaped and bent end (2045) of the frame (2005). The frame end (2045) includes holes for guiding the piston (2035), and a spring (2030) is arranged between the holes. The piston (2035) is inserted into and secured to a plate (2060) through a collar (2065), the holes in the end of the frame (2045), and the spring (2030). The bottom of the plate (2060) is coupled to the oyster clamping element (2024), and the top of the piston (2035) is coupled to a cap (2070). The pinion (2057) is operatively coupled to a handle (2050). In operation, the user places an oyster in the recess (2025) of the base element against the retainer (2022), and rotates the handle (2050) with one hand to lower the oyster clamping element (2024), thereby compressing the spring (2030) and securing the oyster. The user maintains pressure applied to the handle (2050) with one hand while operating the oyster opener with the other. The handle hand is kept at a safe distance from the oyster opener on the handle (2050) to prevent injury in case the tool slips. Upon completion, the handle (2050) can be rotated or released in the opposite direction to raise the piston (2035), causing the oyster clamping element (2024) to release the oyster. The spring (2030) also pushes the piston (2035) upward.

[0066] It should be understood that the configuration of the components shown is merely illustrative, and other configurations of one or more components may be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Upon inspection, the function and purpose of the shown elements are clear.

[0067] Figure 22 This is yet another perspective view of an exemplary embodiment, and Figure 23 This is an exploded view of yet another exemplary embodiment. The operation of this embodiment is similar to... Figure 12The operation of the embodiment shown is substantially similar. The configuration is also largely the same. However, in this embodiment, instead of two struts arranged between the structural supports (2320), a single strut (2345) with a hole at its center is arranged between the tops of the supports (2320), and a tube (2357) extends downward from the hole. A spring (2330) is arranged between the hole in the strut (2345) and the knob (2350). A push rod (2355) is inserted through the spring, the hole in the strut (2345), and the tube (2357) and is coupled to a plate (2360) at its bottom end. An oyster-holding element (2324) is coupled to the bottom of the plate (2360), and the knob (2350) is coupled to the top of the push rod (2355). The tube ensures that the push rod (2335) is restricted to moving straight up and down with almost no oscillation. The cross-sectional shape of the push rod (2355) matches the shape of the hole (2357) in the support rod (2345) and the socket in the plate (2360), with the bottom end of the push rod (2355) fixed in the socket. This prevents the oyster clamping element (2324) from rotating. In operation, the user lifts the knob (2350) with one hand, places the oyster in the recess (2325) of the base element against the anti-reverse device (2322) with the other hand, presses the knob (2350) down with the handle to secure the oyster, and operates the oyster opening tool with the other hand. Figure 12 In this embodiment, the handle hand is held at a safe distance from the oyster opener on the knob to prevent injury in case the tool slips. Upon completion, the downward pressure on the knob is released, and a spring pushes it upward, causing the oyster gripping element to release the oyster.

[0068] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment, and Figure 25 This is an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment. The operation of this embodiment is again related to... Figure 12The operation of the embodiments shown is substantially similar. The configuration is also largely the same. However, in this embodiment, instead of two support members between two structural supports (2320), a single structural support (2420) is provided with two strut members (2445) horizontally coupled only on one side. One of the struts (2445) is located at the top of the support (2420), and the other is located near the middle of the strut. Each strut element includes a hole at its center, and a spring (2430) is disposed between the holes. A push rod (2455) is inserted through the hole, a collar (2465), and the spring (2430), and is secured to a plate (2460) at the bottom end of the push rod (2355). The bottom of the plate (2460) is coupled to an oyster gripping element (2424), and the top of the push rod (2455) is coupled to a knob or handle (2450). During operation, the user places the oyster in the recess (2425) of the base element against the retainer (2422), presses down on the knob (2450) with one hand to compress the spring (2430) and secure the oyster, and maintains downward pressure on the knob while operating the oyster opener with the other hand. The handle hand is kept at a safe distance from the knob (2450) and the oyster opener to prevent injury in case the tool slips. Upon completion, the downward pressure on the knob is released, and the spring (2430) pushes the push rod (2455) upward, causing the oyster clamping element (2424) to release the oyster.

[0069] It should be understood that the configuration of the components shown is merely illustrative, and other configurations of one or more components may be used without departing from the scope of the invention. The function and purpose of the elements shown are apparent upon inspection, as in the other exploded views.

[0070] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment, and Figure 27 This is an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment. The operation and construction of this embodiment are similar to... Figure 20 The operation of the embodiments shown is substantially similar to that of the embodiments described herein. However, this embodiment is more... Figure 20 The embodiments are larger and more robustly constructed, and are better suited for use in commercial environments.

[0071] Figure 28 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment, and Figure 29This is an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment. Here, the structural support is again provided by a suitably configured sheet of a rigid material, such as steel. The sheet is bent to provide the structural support (2845). A support member (2855) is coupled to the structural support (2845), and a tubular sleeve (2830) is arranged on the support (2855). The sleeve is coupled to the handle (2850) and the support (2835). The support (2835) extends vertically downward from there to a plate (2860), the bottom of which is coupled to the oyster clamping element (2824). A spring (2833) is coupled to the top of the support (2855). In operation, the user lifts the handle (2850) with the handle hand, places the oyster in the base recess (2825) against the retainer (2822), presses the handle down with the handle hand to secure the oyster, and operates the oyster opening tool with the other hand. The handle is kept at a safe distance from the oyster opener to prevent injury in case the tool slips. Upon completion, the downward pressure on the handle (2850) is released, and the spring (2833) pushes it upward, causing the oyster gripper to release the oyster. In a preferred embodiment, the model can be smaller than others and therefore easier to store for home use.

[0072] In addition, similar to Figure 9 In the embodiment shown, the handle (2950), sleeve (2830), support (2835), plate (2860), and oyster gripping element (2824), once assembled, form a floating sleeve (2870) that can slide away from the rest of the oyster gripper (2800) and be replaced by a different floating sleeve more suitable for the next task at hand. Thus, the oyster gripper (2800) can be easily reconfigured by removing and replacing the floating sleeve (2870). This feature is convenient, for example, when changing the type of shellfish being hulled, such as from one size (e.g., small oyster) to another size (e.g., giant oyster), or from one type of bivalve (e.g., oyster) to another type with a different general shape (e.g., clam).

[0073] Figure 29 yes Figure 28 An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp shown. It should be understood that the configuration of the components shown is merely illustrative, and other configurations of one or more components may be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Upon inspection, the function and purpose of the shown elements are clear.

[0074] Figure 30 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment, and Figure 31 This is an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment. The operation of this embodiment is similar to... Figure 28The operation of the embodiment shown is substantially similar. However, in this embodiment, two support members (3055) are coupled to a structural support member (3045), and a tubular sleeve (3030) is arranged above the support member (3055). The two sleeves are coupled to a handle (3050) and to a pair of support members (3035) having a semi-circular cross-section. It should be noted that the coupling to the handle (3050) opens to accommodate large hands if needed. The support member (3035) extends vertically downward to a plate (3060), the bottom of which is coupled to an oyster gripping element (3024). A spring (3033) is coupled below the sleeve (3030) to the top of the corresponding support member (3055). The two support members (3055), the sleeve (3030), and the support members (3035) make this embodiment more... Figure 28 The embodiment shown is more robust. Similar to... Figure 28 In the embodiment shown, the handle (3050), sleeve (30), support (3035), plate (3060), and oyster gripping element (3024), once assembled, form a floating sleeve (3070) that can slide off the rest of the oyster gripper (3000) and be replaced with a different floating sleeve more suitable for the next task at hand. As previously mentioned, the oyster gripper (3000) can be reconfigured simply by removing and replacing the floating sleeve (3070). This feature is convenient, for example, when changing the type of shellfish being hulled, such as from one size (e.g., small oyster) to another size (e.g., giant oyster), or from one type of bivalve (e.g., oyster) to another type with a different general shape (e.g., clam).

[0075] Figure 31 yes Figure 30 An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp is shown. It should be understood that the configuration of the components shown is merely illustrative, and other configurations of one or more components may be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Upon inspection, the function and purpose of the shown elements are clear.

[0076] Figure 32 This is yet another perspective view of an exemplary embodiment, and Figure 33 This is an exploded view of yet another exemplary embodiment. The operation and construction of this embodiment are substantially similar to... Figure 30The operation and construction of the embodiment shown are illustrated. However, in this embodiment, the structural support and guidance for the pair of push rods 3035 are provided by the end of the frame (3205). The frame end (3245) includes holes for guiding the push rods (3255), with springs (3233) vertically disposed between the holes. The push rods (3255) are inserted into and secured to the plate (3260) through the holes, collar (3265), and spring (3233). The bottom of the plate (3260) is coupled to the oyster gripping element (3224), and the top of the push rods (3255) is coupled to the handle (3250). In operation, the user presses down on the handle (3250) with one hand, thereby compressing the spring (3233) and securing the oyster, while operating the oyster opener with the other hand. The handle hand is kept at a safe distance from the oyster opener on the handle (3250) to prevent injury in case the tool slips. Upon completion, the downward pressure on the handle is released, and the spring (3233) pushes the push rod (3255) upward, thereby causing the oyster clamping element (3224) to release the oyster.

[0077] Figure 33 yes Figure 32 An exploded perspective view of the oyster clamp shown. It should be understood that the configuration of the components shown is merely illustrative, and other configurations of one or more components may be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Upon inspection, the function and purpose of the shown elements are clear.

[0078] Figure 34 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment, and Figure 35 This is an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment. The operation and construction of this embodiment are similar to... Figure 28 The operation of the embodiments shown is substantially similar. Similar to... Figure 28 In one embodiment, the handle (3450), sleeve (3430), support (3435), plate (3460), and oyster gripping element (3424), once assembled, form a floating sleeve (3470) that can slide off from the rest of the oyster gripper (3400) and be replaced by a different floating sleeve more suitable for the next type of bivalve to be shelled. However, in this embodiment, the structural support is provided by a different configuration and bent sheet of metal that does not contact the base element (3415). Instead, unlike other embodiments described herein, the floating sleeve (3470) or equivalent structure is supported from the rear of the base element (3415) and is separate from it. Furthermore, the sleeve (3430) and support (3435) are further apart from each other and more... Figure 28 The embodiments are shorter. For some peeling tasks, the resulting variations in the balance and stability characteristics of this embodiment may be preferred.

[0079] Figure 36 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment, and Figure 37 This is an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment. The operation and construction of this embodiment are similar to... Figure 34 The embodiment shown is substantially similar in operation and construction, but features a pair of sleeves (3630) and a support (3635), making this embodiment significantly more robust. Similar to... Figure 34 In one embodiment, the handle (3650), sleeve (3630), support (3635), plate (3660), and oyster gripping element (3624), once assembled, form a floating sleeve (3670) that can slide off from the rest of the oyster gripper (3600) and be replaced by a different floating sleeve more suitable for the next type of bivalve to be shelled.

[0080] Figure 38 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment, and Figure 39 This is an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment. This embodiment includes a frame support (3845) extending from the rear of the frame (3805) near the rear corner of the base element (3815). This configuration provides balance and stability, which may be preferred for some peeling tasks. Furthermore, there is space within the structure (3845) for storing peeling tools, etc.

[0081] Regarding the operability of the oyster gripper 3800, a spring is vertically positioned above a hole in the top of the frame structure (3945), and a guide tube (3857) extends downward from the hole. A push rod (3855) is coupled to a handle (2850) at its top end and is inserted through the spring (3833), the hole in the structure (3845), and the guide tube (3857), and is tightly coupled to a plate (3860) at its bottom end. An oyster gripping element (3924) is coupled to the underside of the plate (3860).

[0082] In summary, the disclosed embodiments can be characterized by features including articulated, rack and pinion, plunger, tubular, and oyster-type configurations. The embodiments can also be characterized by the arrangement of the connection between the lower and upper portions of the oyster clamp, including connections extending above the central rear portion of the base element, connections extending from the side of the base element, and connections extending from the rear of the base element. Configurations may exist that include one or two "guide rods" between the base element and the handle. Finally, the configuration may be characterized by having or not having a heavy-duty construction, being narrow or wide, and having or not having interchangeable floating sleeves.

[0083] Oyster-opening tools can take various shapes and sizes, such as knives or other sharp instruments. In one embodiment, the tool may have a power aspect to enhance its ability to easily open bivalves held in oyster grippers. Powered embodiments may include any suitable type of power source, including batteries, power lines, etc. In one embodiment, such a power tool can apply torque to a blade-like element to rotate the element to open the bivalves. The applied torque may be controllable to maintain a predetermined default rotation speed or a speed selected by the user. In some embodiments, a portable drill may be used with oyster-opening tools of various sizes suitable for opening different bivalves of different sizes and shapes.

[0084] Figure 40 A perspective view is shown of several exemplary embodiments of an oyster-opening blade configured for use with a standard portable handheld drill. Although the blade shown typically reaches a single point, various blade shapes can be used, such as pointed, rounded, shovel-shaped, chisel-shaped, etc. Furthermore, the blade can be made of or comprise various materials, such as steel, ceramic, hard plastic, etc. Figure 40 Embodiments with convex or concave shank ends and shanks of various sizes are shown, which can be used with different types of drill bits, although other configurations may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Figure 41 Two exemplary drill bits are shown, although any handheld drill bit with similar configuration and capabilities can be used.

[0085] Figures 42A-66B Perspective view (“A”) and exploded view (“B”) of several exemplary embodiments are shown, which include... Figures 1-39 The embodiments shown may contain the same or similar components, but arranged in various different ways. It should be noted that the reference numerals in the exploded view (“B”) are irrelevant in the context of this disclosure and may be ignored. Although several exemplary embodiments are shown, it should be understood that other embodiments are possible, including the same, similar, or different components. Of course, if the language of the claims covers all such embodiments, all such embodiments are considered to be within the scope of the claimed invention.

[0086] Although the invention has been described and illustrated in a specific exemplary form, it should be noted that such description and illustration are by way of example only. Many changes may be made to the details of the construction, combination, and arrangement of components and steps without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, such changes are to be understood as inherent in this disclosure.

[0087] Except for the appended claims and the limitations expressly set forth therein, the invention is not limited. The scope of the claims should be interpreted as broadly as permitted by the prior art. It should also be noted that all elements of all claims can be combined with each other in any possible combination, even if such combinations are not expressly claimed.

Claims

1. An oyster clamp, comprising: The lower portion includes: A base element having a notch for receiving an oyster to be opened; A lip, coupled to a base element, is configured to hang on and abut against the edge of a working surface, on which the oyster clamp is placed, thereby preventing the oyster clamp from sliding backward when force is applied to the oyster held in the oyster clamp; Multiple retaining feet are coupled to the underside of the base element to prevent damage to the working surface and to suppress friction between the feet and the working surface. The oyster clamp can slide in any direction on the working surface; and The upper portion includes: A backstop, which is fixedly coupled to or extends from the base element to help position the oyster to be opened and, when in use, prevents the oyster from leaving the back of the oyster clamp, the backstop having a notch for receiving the oyster; An oyster-holding element, operably coupled to the base element, the oyster-holding element having a notch to control the oyster when the oyster clamp is in use. The location of the oyster; and A handle, operably coupled to the oyster-holding element, so as to cause the oyster-holding element to push the oyster against the base element during use.

2. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, the oyster clamp further comprising a plurality of notches in the surface of the recess located in at least one of the base element, the anti-reverse device and the oyster holding element, the plurality of notches controlling the position of the oyster in the oyster clamp.

3. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A hinge and a hinge pin are coupled between the base element and the oyster clamping element, the hinge and hinge pin being arranged such that the oyster clamping element rotates about the hinge pin.

4. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A rack and pinion are coupled between the base element and the oyster gripping element, and the rack and pinion are arranged such that the oyster gripping element is pressed vertically downward when a handle operatively coupled to the pinion rotates about the central axis of the pinion.

5. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A plunger coupled between the base element and the oyster gripping element, the plunger being arranged such that the oyster gripping element is pressed vertically downward when a handle operatively coupled to the plunger is pressed downward.

6. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A tube, coupled between the base element and the oyster-holding element, is configured such that the oyster-holding element is constrained to move vertically and is prevented from rotating about a vertical axis.

7. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A sleeve, connected between the base element and the oyster-holding element, is arranged such that a first assembly including the sleeve, the oyster-holding element, and the handle is removable and interchangeable with a replacement assembly having a different oyster-holding element but otherwise identical to the first assembly.

8. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A structural element that provides stability to the oyster gripping element and a handle operably coupled to the oyster gripping element, the structural element extending upward from the central rear portion of the base element.

9. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A structural element that provides stability to the oyster gripping element and a handle operably coupled to the oyster gripping element, the structural element extending in a rearward direction from the base element.

10. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A structural element that provides stability to the oyster gripping element and a handle operably coupled to the oyster gripping element, the structural element extending upward from the side of the base element.

11. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: Metal sheet, which is cut and bent into a frame; A base element, the base element being attached to the frame; as well as A backstop is disposed between the base element and the frame and attached to at least one of the base element and the frame.

12. The oyster clamp according to claim 11, wherein, The bottom end of the frame forms the lip.

13. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: Structural elements that provide stability to the oyster clamping element; And a handle operably coupled to the oyster gripping element, the structural element including a specific guide rod.

14. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: Structural elements that provide stability to the oyster clamping element; And a handle operably coupled to the oyster gripping element, the structural element comprising two precise guide rods.

15. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein, At least some of the components of the oyster clamp are more robust and durable than the corresponding components of the second oyster clamp with the same configuration.

16. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein, At least some of the components of the oyster clamp are wider and more stable than the corresponding components of the second oyster clamp with the same configuration.

17. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein, The bottom of the oyster gripping element is arranged to slope downward toward the front of the oyster gripper, such that when the oyster gripping element is pushed downward by operating the handle, it generates a force against the oyster, the force having a component that pushes the oyster in both the direction of the base element and the anti-reverse device.

18. The oyster clamp of claim 11, further comprising a hinge; in, One half of the hinge is one of the following: Screw it onto the top surface of the anti-reverse device, and It is formed from the top of the frame.

19. The oyster clamp according to claim 18, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A handle, the handle being coupled to a metal plate having an edge that is cut and bent into another half of the hinge; as well as The oyster-shaped clamping element is coupled to the bottom of the metal plate; A hinge pin, said hinge pin being coupled between said two halves of said hinge; The two halves of the hinge are pivotally coupled together by the hinge pin; and The handle rotates around the hinge pin to press the oyster clamping element against the oyster, which is placed in the recess of the base element and abuts against the anti-reverse device.

20. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A shaft, which is fixedly coupled to the base element and extends vertically from the base element; A bend having a bottom end and a top end, the bottom end being fixedly coupled to the shaft, and the top end including a tubular guide. A piston having a bottom end and a top end, the piston being slidably arranged within the tubular guide, the bottom end of the piston being fixedly coupled to the oyster-holding element, the top end of the piston being coupled to a cap, and the piston having a notch as a rack on one side between the top end and the bottom end of the piston. As a pinion, the gear has teeth that engage with the rack on the piston; A pivoting assembly, the pivoting assembly including the pinion, the pinion being mounted to the bend between the bottom end and the top end of the bend; A handle, which is mounted to the pivot assembly and operatively coupled to the pinion; When the handle is pushed and rotates about the central axis of the pinion, the pinion teeth engage the rack and cause the piston and the oyster gripping element to move up and down together.

21. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A pair of shafts, which are fixedly coupled to the base element and extend vertically from the base element; Two springs, each fixedly coupled to the top of a corresponding shaft; A pair of tubes, each having a bottom end and a top end, each tube being slidably arranged on a corresponding one of the shaft and the spring, the bottom end of each tube being fixedly coupled to one end of the oyster gripping element, and the top end of each tube being coupled to one end of the handle.

22. The oyster clamp according to claim 21, wherein, When the pair of tubes, the oyster gripping element, and the handle are coupled together as a first floating assembly, they can be lifted away from the rest of the oyster gripper and replaced with a second floating assembly having a different oyster gripping element.

23. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A shaft, which is fixedly coupled to the base element and extends vertically from the base element; A tube having a bottom end and a top end, the tube being slidably disposed on the shaft, the bottom end of the tube being fixedly connected to the oyster clamping element, and the top end of the tube being fixedly connected to the handle; The shaft and the tube are configured to have complementary shapes, which allow the tube to slide vertically on the shaft and prevent the tube from rotating about the shaft.

24. The oyster clamp according to claim 23, wherein, When the tube, the oyster gripping element, and the handle are coupled together as a first floating assembly, they can be lifted away from the rest of the oyster gripper and replaced by a second floating assembly with a different oyster gripping element but otherwise identical to the first floating assembly.

25. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A pair of shafts serving as support members are fixedly coupled to the base element and extend vertically from the base element; A first strut element is horizontally coupled between the tops of the support members; A second strut element is horizontally coupled between the support members near the middle of the support member; Each strut element includes a hole located at the center of the strut element; A spring, the spring being disposed between the holes; Ring; A push rod, the push rod passing through the hole, the collar, and the spring; and A plate fixed to the bottom end of the push rod; Wherein, the oyster-shaped clamping element is coupled to the bottom side of the plate; and The top end of the push rod is coupled to the handle.

26. The oyster clamp according to claim 11, wherein the oyster clamp further comprises: A push rod, the push rod being coupled to a handle at its top end and to the oyster clamping element at its bottom end; spring; as well as Ring; The top of the frame is cut and bent into a rectangular column-shaped structural support with holes in the top and bottom surfaces. The spring is disposed between the holes on the top and bottom surfaces of the structural support member; The collar is located at the top of the spring; The push rod is configured to pass through the hole, the collar, and the spring.

27. The oyster clamp according to claim 1, characterized in that, The foot includes at least one of rubber, at least one suction cup, and adhesive.

28. A method for operating an oyster clamp, the method comprising: An oyster clamp is placed on a work surface, wherein the lip of the oyster clamp is suspended over the edge of the work surface; A bivalve molluskaloid is placed into the recess of the oyster clamp, wherein at least a portion of the seam between the lobes faces away from the back of the oyster clamp. The handle is operated to cause an oyster gripping element operably coupled to the handle to apply downward pressure on the top of the shellfish to hold the shellfish in the oyster gripper; While opening the shellfish with the oyster-opening tool, continuously operate the handle to apply downward pressure to the oyster-holding element; The oyster-opening tool is inserted into the seam between the two lobes of the shellfish, while the handle is used to ease the pressure of the oyster-holding element pressing against the top of the shellfish; and When the shellfish opens, the oyster-holding element releases the shellfish; and Remove the opened shellfish from the oyster clamp.

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein, The operating handle is achieved by rotating the handle about the hinge pin to swing the oyster-holding element attached to the bottom end of the handle, causing the oyster-holding element to push downward on the oyster placed in the cavity of the oyster clamp.

30. The method according to claim 28, wherein, The operating handle is achieved by rotating the handle of the oyster clamp to rotate the pinion, causing the oyster clamping element to be pushed downward on the oyster placed in the cavity of the oyster clamp, wherein the pinion has a plurality of tooth engagement notches of a rack formed in one side of the piston, and the piston has the oyster clamping element attached to the bottom end of the piston.

31. The method according to claim 28, wherein, The operation of the handle is achieved by pressing down on the handle of the oyster clamp to lower the piston of the oyster clamping element, which has the bottom end attached to the piston, causing the oyster clamping element to be pushed downward on the oyster placed in the cavity of the oyster clamp.

32. The method according to claim 28, wherein, Placing the bivalve animal within the cavity of the oyster clamp includes: The bivalve is placed toward the rear of the notch in the top surface of the base element of the oyster clamp; The device that pushes the bivalve against the oyster clamp's anti-reverse mechanism, and While operating the handle, hold the bivalve in place until the oyster clamping element presses down on the top of the bivalve.

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