Extensible wrench

Abstract

A pipe wrench is disclosed that is provided with an extendable handle that fits within a cavity of a head. A lever locks the extension length of the extendable handle along a continuous range between a maximum extension range and a minimum extension range of the handle. The lever includes a cam surface. In an unlocked position, the thickness between the pivot and the friction plate is less than the thickness between the pivot and the friction plate in a locked position. The friction plate is a composite that includes a top lever plate, a middle section, and a concave surface. The lever plate and the concave surface include a hard, durable material, and the middle section is a soft, resilient material that redistributes the friction force across the friction block. A channel lock prevents inadvertent overextension of the extendable handle and / or accidental removal of the extendable handle.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing of related patent applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 060,930, filed August 4, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] This invention generally relates to the field of wrenches. Specifically, it relates to an extendable wrench. Wrenches (such as pipe wrenches) are generally used for rotating, tightening, and manipulating pipes, valves, fittings, and other piping components. Pipe wrenches typically include jaws and a handle for rotating the jaws. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One embodiment relates to a wrench including an upper jaw having toothed and threaded sections, a head, an extendable handle, a rod, and a friction block. The head includes an orifice. The wrench includes a hole at a first end of the head extending along a longitudinal axis of the tube wrench. The wrench further includes a lower jaw coupled to a second end of the head. The lower jaw includes a plurality of teeth defining a lower contact area. The wrench includes an upper jaw extending at least partially through the orifice of the head. The upper jaw includes a threaded section and a plurality of teeth defining an upper contact area. The wrench further includes an actuator having threads engaging with the threaded section of the upper jaw, such that rotation of the actuator moves the upper jaw relative to the lower jaw. The extendable handle is received within the orifice of the head. The wrench further includes a rod and a friction block. The rod is rotatable about a pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the extendable handle is fixed relative to the head, and in which the extendable handle is adjustable relative to the head. The head further includes a rear surface. The rear surface includes a recess that is configured to receive the lever when it is in the locked position. A friction block is positioned between the lever and the extendable handle.

[0005] Another embodiment relates to a pipe wrench including a head having an orifice. The wrench further includes a bore located at a first end of the head and extending along a longitudinal axis of the pipe wrench. The pipe wrench includes a lower jaw coupled to a second end of the head. The lower jaw includes a plurality of teeth defining a lower contact area. The pipe wrench further includes an upper jaw extending partially through the orifice of the head. The upper jaw includes a plurality of teeth defining an upper contact area. The pipe wrench includes an actuator having threads engaging a threaded section of the upper jaw, such that rotation of the actuator moves the upper jaw relative to the lower jaw. An extendable handle is received within the orifice of the head. The pipe wrench further includes a channel locking mechanism configured to retain the extendable handle within the orifice, and a handle length locking mechanism. The handle length locking mechanism includes friction elements pivotally coupled to a rod and a contact rod of the head. The lever is rotatable about a pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the lever pushes a friction element into engagement with the outer surface of the extendable handle, fixing the extendable handle relative to the head. In the unlocked position, the extendable handle is adjustable relative to the head. The head further includes a rear surface. The rear surface of the head includes a recess formed to receive the lever when it is in the locked position. A friction block is positioned between the lever and the extendable handle.

[0006] Another embodiment relates to a pipe wrench including a head having an orifice. The wrench further includes a bore located at a first end of the head and extending along a longitudinal axis of the pipe wrench. The pipe wrench includes a lower jaw coupled to a second end of the head. The lower jaw includes a plurality of teeth defining a lower contact area. The pipe wrench further includes an upper jaw extending partially through the orifice of the head. The upper jaw includes a plurality of teeth defining an upper contact area. The pipe wrench includes an actuator having threads engaging a threaded section of the upper jaw, such that rotation of the actuator moves the upper jaw relative to the lower jaw. An extendable handle is received within the orifice of the head. The pipe wrench further includes a rod and a friction block. The rod is rotatable about a pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the extendable handle is fixed relative to the head, and in which the extendable handle is adjustable relative to the head in the unlocked position. The head further includes a rear surface. The rear surface of the head includes a recess formed to receive the rod when it is in the locked position. The friction block is positioned between the rod and the extendable handle. The rod applies a normal force to the friction block, and the friction block distributes this force to the extendable handle, fixing the extendable handle at the desired length.

[0007] Several different embodiments of the invention also relate to the arm and grip portion of the lever, the cam surface of the lever, multi-layered friction blocks, and a locking mechanism for locking the handle at any length selectable by the user, between the maximum and minimum extension lengths. In a specific embodiment, the lever is located within a recess to prevent unintentional rotation and to enhance user access to the lever.

[0008] In a particular embodiment, the channel lock includes a spring-loaded protrusion that follows the overtravel channel. The channel lock is oriented relative to the head of the handle to prevent overextension or unintentional removal of the handle. In several different embodiments, the channel lock includes a recess and angled grooves, requiring two coordinated user actions to intentionally remove the handle. In a specific embodiment, the friction block includes a rigid, durable top plate layer and a concave surface layer. The intermediate section layer is made of an elastically compressible material to evenly distribute the load generated by friction.

[0009] Alternative exemplary embodiments involve other features and combinations of features, as typically described in the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0010] This application will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals denote similar elements:

[0011] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a pipe wrench with an extendable handle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 This is another perspective view of a pipe wrench with an extendable handle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a right-side view of a pipe wrench according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a left-side view of a pipe wrench according to an exemplary embodiment, with the lever in the locked position.

[0015] Figure 5 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 The left-side view of the pipe wrench, with the lever in the unlocked position.

[0016] Figure 6 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 Rear view of a pipe wrench with the lever in the locked position.

[0017] Figure 7 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 Rear view of a pipe wrench with the lever in the unlocked position.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a pipe wrench according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the lever is in the locked position.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a pipe wrench according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the lever is in the unlocked position.

[0020] Figure 10This is a detailed cross-section of a rod located in a slot on the handle and in a locked position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of a rod extending from the slot in the handle in the unlocked position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a detailed view of a rod having a cam surface according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] Figure 13 This is a detailed cross-sectional perspective view of a channel lock according to an exemplary embodiment, used to secure the handle in the unlocked position and prevent the handle from being overextended or removed.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of a friction block according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] Figure 15 This is an exploded view of a pipe wrench with an extendable handle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] Figures 16A to 16D The rotation process of removing the handle via a channel lock according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0027] Figure 17 This is a view of a handle having a visual indicator showing the rotation of the handle to lock or remove the handle, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] Figure 18 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 17 A detailed view of the laser etching shown. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, several different embodiments of an extendable pipe wrench are shown. The pipe wrench includes upper and lower jaws that rotate about a fastener, pipe, valve, fitting, or other joint. The applicant has discovered that including an extendable handle within the head of the pipe wrench allows the operator to extend or retract the total length (e.g., size) along a continuous range of the pipe wrench. A channel lock prevents the handle from over-extending from the head of the pipe wrench. A friction plate or friction block allows the user to fix and lock the pipe wrench to a desired length at any point along the handle length between the maximum and minimum handle lengths. Specifically, the user determines the desired / needed length (e.g., position) to lock the handle at any point along the handle length between the maximum and minimum handle lengths, thereby providing the desired length of the pipe wrench for the task or application.

[0030] The applicant has discovered that the ability to select the handle length position anywhere within the range of maximum / length and minimum / length allows the user to select the desired length of the pipe wrench. For example, a longer handle increases the lever arm of the pipe wrench, but the length may be limited within an enclosed area. In this case, the user can extend the handle to the maximum distance available in a confined area and maximize the applied torque within the constraints of the available space.

[0031] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Different perspective views of a pipe wrench 10 with an extendable handle 12 are shown. The pipe wrench 10 is shown with the handle 12 in its maximum extended position. The pipe wrench 10 includes a body or head 14 and an extendable handle 12 that can extend to a range 15 between a maximum length and a minimum length. Figure 9 The handle 12 does not have discrete locking positions, and as will be discussed below, the pipe wrench 10 includes a novel locking structure that allows the handle 12 to be locked at any position, as selected by the user, between the maximum and minimum lengths, to extend the proximal end 18 of the pipe wrench 10. In a particular embodiment, the handle 12 and / or the head 14 are formed of a metallic material, such as a metal alloy, specifically an aluminum alloy.

[0032] The head 14 has an opening or hole 16 at a first end 25 to receive an extendable handle 12. At a second or distal end 20 (e.g., opposite to the hole 16 on the first end 25), the head 14 is coupled to a first or lower jaw 22 and a second hook or upper jaw 24. The lower jaw 22 has a plurality of teeth 26 that form a working / contact area defining a lower contact area of ​​the lower jaw 22, and the lower jaw can be fixedly or removably coupled to the head 14. For example, a removable lower jaw 22 is replaceable, such that when the teeth 26 of the lower jaw 22 wear, the user can replace the entire working area of ​​the lower jaw 22.

[0033] The extended upper jaw 24 has a plurality of teeth 26 that form an upper working / contact area defining an upper contact area, and the upper jaw includes a threaded extension 28 passing through an aperture 30 in the head 14. The threaded extension 28 of the upper jaw 24 is coupled to the head 14 by an actuator. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The thumb wheel 32 is shown in the diagram. The teeth 26 on the lower jaw 22 and the upper jaw 24 together form a contact area that allows the user to grip and rotate pipes, fittings, valves, or other structures. In other words, when the operator applies force to the handle 12, the opposing teeth 26 on the lower jaw 22 and the upper jaw 24 cooperate to grip the fitting and rotate it with the pipe wrench 10.

[0034] The thumbwheel 32 is fitted within an opening 30 on the head 14 and is used to open and close the upper jaw 24 relative to the lower jaw 22. When the operator rotates the thumbwheel 32, the threads within the thumbwheel 32 engage the threaded extension 28 of the upper jaw 24, causing the upper jaw 24 to move relative to the lower jaw 22. In this way, the user can change the distance or extension range between the lower jaw 22 and the upper jaw 24 along the longitudinal axis 34 of the pipe wrench 10.

[0035] As used herein, the total length 36 of the pipe wrench 10 refers to the length along the longitudinal axis 34 from the proximal end 18 of the handle 12 to the top of the upper jaw 24. Thus, the total length 36 includes the extension range of the upper jaw 24. As used herein, the handle extension length 38 refers to the length as measured along the longitudinal axis 34 from the proximal end 18 of the handle 12 to the lower jaw 22.

[0036] Hole 16 is located on the first end 25 of the head 14 opposite to the lower jaw 22. The distal end of the extendable handle 12 is inserted into the hole 16, and the handle 12 includes a cap 40 on the proximal end 18 of the handle 12. The handle 12 slides in and out of the head 14 through the hole 16. The handle 12 is locked in place along its length, as selected by the operator, at any position between the maximum and minimum extension positions within the hole 16. In other words, the operator adjusts the total length 36 of the pipe wrench 10 (defined from the upper jaw 24 to the cap 40) by adjusting both the thumbwheel 32 and the locked position of the extendable handle 12 within the hole 16. As will be discussed in more detail below, the user slides the extendable handle 12 within the hole 16 to the desired length and rotates the locking lever 44 to the locking position 46 to fix or lock the handle 12 relative to the head at the selected desired length. For reference, Figure 4 The lever 44 is shown in the locked position 46. Figure 5 The lever 44 is shown in the unlocked position 48.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, a cap or end cap 40 is disposed on the proximal end 18 of the handle 12 and provides a rotatable attachment position or handle loop 50. For example, the loop 50 is freely rotatable (360 degrees) about the longitudinal axis 34, such that the loop 50 can be tethered or hooked for storage in any orientation of the pipe wrench 10. The cap 40 also prevents debris and other foreign objects from entering the hollow handle 12, thereby enabling the hollow handle 12 to reduce the weight of the pipe wrench 10.

[0038] At locked position 46 ( Figure 1 , Figures 3 to 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 , Figure 10 , Figure 16A and Figure 17The lever 44 is received within a groove or recess 52 on the rear surface 53 of the head 14. In other words, the recess 52 is configured to receive the lever 44 and protect it from accidental unlocking. For example, the recess 52 protects the lever 44 from being caught on a tether and from being accidentally opened during operation. Adjustment of the handle 12 includes extending (e.g., pulling) the extendable handle 12 out of the hole 16 in the head 14 or retracting (e.g., pushing) it into the hole in the head to increase or decrease the handle extension length 38 and the total length 36 of the pipe wrench 10.

[0039] During use, handle 12 is locked to prevent unintentional adjustment of the handle extension length 38. The operator adjusts the handle extension length 38 by rotating cam lever 44 about pivot 54. Lever 44 is in the locked position 46 ( Figure 4 Rotate to the unlock position 48 ( Figure 5 To release the extendable handle 12.

[0040] Friction block 56 ( Figure 14 A friction block 56 is positioned between lever 44 and extension handle 12 to increase the friction generated when lever 44 rotates. Lever 44 generates a normal force distributed on handle 12 from friction block 56 to fix or lock the position of extension handle 12 through frictional engagement. The user rotates lever 44 to the unlocked position 48 to release friction block 56 without it pressing against extension handle 12. In the locked position 46, friction block 56 distributes the normal force generated by lever 44 to increase friction and locks / fixes extension handle 12 along longitudinal axis 34 at the desired handle extension length 38.

[0041] As will be described in more detail below, the lever 44 includes different cam surfaces on the wall 58 and the base 60 (e.g., it is a cam lever 44). In the unlocked position 48, the wall thickness 62 pressing against the friction block 56 is less than the base thickness 64 of the lever 44 pressing against the friction block 56 in the locked position 46. Figure 12 The cam surface configuration allows the lever to lock the handle extension length 38 at any location identifiable by the user along the longitudinal axis 34 of the extendable handle 12. In other words, the operator can lock the extendable handle 12 at any handle extension length 38 between the maximum and minimum handle lengths (e.g., between the maximum and minimum extension lengths).

[0042] Figure 3 and Figure 4The opposite right and left sides of the pipe wrench 10 in the locked position 46 are shown respectively. In the locked position, the end or gripping end 66 of the lever 44 extends beyond the recess 52 to allow access to a portion of the lever 44. In this way, the recess 52 protects the lever 44 from unintentional rotation. However, the operator can access the gripping end 66 to grasp the lever 44 in the locked position 46 and rotate the lever 44 to the unlocked position 48. In the unlocked position 48, the handle 12 is free to slide into and / or out of the hole 16 in the head 14 to increase or decrease the handle extension length 38.

[0043] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The rod 44 rotates about a pin, fastener, or pivot 54 that both holds the rod 44 within the opposite side of the head 14 (e.g., within a recess 52) and allows the rod 44 to rotate. The pivot 54 extends from the right side of the head 14. Figure 3 Cross to the left ( Figure 4 ) and through the central hole 68 formed on at least two cam surfaces of the rod 44 (see example) Figure 12 ), and capture lever 44. As lever 44 rotates about pivot 54, the normal force against friction block 56 changes to lock / unlock extendable handle 12.

[0044] Figure 6 and Figure 7 Side views of the locking and unlocking pipe wrench 10 are shown from the rear to provide a top view of the rotating lever 44. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The maximum and minimum extendable handle lengths of 38 are also shown. In other words, Figure 6 and Figure 7 It shows the range between the maximum and minimum extendable handle lengths.

[0045] Specifically, Figure 6 The pipe wrench 10 is shown in its fully extended position, such that the visual indicator 70, shown as laser-etched, is aligned with the edge 72 of the hole 16 on the head 14. Figure 6 The pipe wrench 10 is further shown in the locked position 46, with the lever 44 locked within a recess 52 on the head 14. In contrast, Figure 7 The lever 44 is shown rotated to the unlocked position 48 and the extendable handle 12 is at least partially slid into the head 14. From this unlocked position, the user slides at least a portion of the extendable handle 12 out of the head 14 to increase the handle extension length 38 of the pipe wrench 10.

[0046] Figure 8 and Figure 9 It also demonstrates the range of handle 12 between its maximum and minimum extendable handle length 38. The operator can... Figure 9Locking handle 12 at any length of the range 15 shown. Figure 8 The fully compressed extendable handle 12 is shown, illustrating its minimum extension range. In contrast, Figure 9 The maximum extension range of the extendable handle 12 is shown.

[0047] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe wrench 10 in its compressed or minimum extended position (e.g., minimum handle extension length 38). The lever 44 rotates to the locked position 46 and presses against the friction block 56 to frictionally lock the handle 12. Figures 10 to 12 As shown, the base thickness 64 of the cam surface on rod 44 is greater than the wall thickness 62 on the rotating side surface. (Reference) Figure 8 and Figure 12 In the locked position 46, the increased base thickness 64 formed along the bottom surface of the rod 44 increases the normal force pressing against the friction block 56. This increased normal force generates friction to fully lock the extendable handle 12. In contrast, Figure 9 and Figure 11 The lever 44 is shown in the unlocked position 48, and the wall thickness 62 of the rotating lever 44 (e.g., along one side of the lever 44 or the cam surface of the wall) is less than the base thickness 64 of the lever 44. When the cam lever 44 rotates to the unlocked position 48, the reduced wall thickness 62 reduces the normal force that generates the locking friction and unlocks the extendable handle 12.

[0048] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a pipe wrench, with the lever in the unlocked position. (Example) Figure 9 As shown, the extendable handle 12 is fully extended. Further extension of the handle 12 may result in insufficient engagement within the bore 16 (e.g., insufficient overlap between the handle and the bore), preventing the transmission of applied torque to the lower jaw 22 and upper jaw 24. Similarly, unintentional further extension may cause the handle 12 to be removed from and / or lost from the bore 16. Accordingly, the pipe wrench 10 is configured to limit / prevent unintentional extension of the handle 12 beyond its intended range. Figure 9 The location shown.

[0049] Specifically, refer to Figure 9 and Figure 13The channel lock 74 includes a biased protrusion 76, shown as a spring-loaded protrusion 76 on the extendable handle 12, which engages within a longitudinally extending over-extension channel 78 within the bore 16. The protrusion 76 is configured to slide and / or drive within the channel 78 during adjustment of the handle 12 to prevent unintentional over-extension and / or removal of the extendable handle 12. The spring-loaded protrusion 76 on the handle 12 and the channel 78 in the bore 16 limit accidental removal of the handle 12. Additionally, the spring-loaded protrusion 76 can lock within the aperture in the channel 78 of the handle 12 at specific desired discrete locations (e.g., minimum, maximum, and / or center extendable handle length). In some embodiments, the protrusion 76 is located within the bore 16, and the over-extension channel 78 extends along the handle 12.

[0050] Figure 10 and Figure 11 yes Figure 8 and Figure 9 Detailed diagrams of the portion are provided to show the features of lever 44 in the locked position 46 and the unlocked position 48, respectively. (See attached diagram.) Figure 10 As shown, rod 44 has a base 60 and a wall 58. The base thickness 64 is measured between the edge of pivot 54 and the base 60. Similarly, the wall thickness is measured between the edge of pivot 54 and the wall 58.

[0051] Because lever 44 includes a cam surface (e.g., base 60 and wall 58), the orientation of lever 44 alters the force applied to handle 12 (e.g., via friction block 56). The base thickness 64 is greater than the wall thickness 62, such that when lever 44 is oriented in the locked position 46, the base 60 generates a larger normal force, causing the extended handle 12 to be firmly pressed against friction block 56 for a frictional fit (e.g., locking). When lever 44 is released and rotated to the unlocked position 48, wall 58 provides a smaller wall thickness 62 and reduces the normal force applied to friction block 56, thereby releasing handle 12.

[0052] The lever 44 also includes an arm 80 coupled to an inner surface 81 of the lever 44, which orients the lever 44 offset relative to the head 14. The arm 80 extends across the inner surface 81 in an orientation generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the lever 44, and positions the gripping end 66 of the lever 44 away from the surface of the head 14, making it easier for the user to grip. In the locked position 46, the lever 44 and arm 80 are securely fitted within a recess 52 of the handle 12. The head 14 has shoulders 55 on either side of the recess 52, which prevent unintentional release of the locking mechanism (e.g., rotation of the lever 44 about a pivot 54). Figure 11The lever 44 is shown rotated to the unlocked position 48 and extends from the recess 52 of the handle 12. In this unlocked position 48, the user can grasp the arm 80 to position the gripping end 66 and close the lever 44. The wall 58 reduces the wall thickness 62 of the cam lever 44 and releases the normal force that generates friction between the friction block 56 and the extendable handle 12, allowing the user to freely adjust the extendable handle 12 to any desired length or position between the maximum and minimum positions.

[0053] Figure 12 This is a detailed side view of the cam lever 44, showing the cam surfaces of the base 60 and wall 58, where the base thickness 64 is thicker than the wall thickness 62. When the cam lever 44 rotates to the locked position 46, causing the base 60 to contact the friction block 56, the increased base thickness 64 exerts a larger normal force on the friction block 56. This generates higher pressure between the friction block 56 and the handle 12 and increases the total frictional force locking the handle 12. However, when the cam lever 44 rotates to the unlocked position 48, causing the wall 58 to contact the friction block 56, the reduced wall thickness 62 decreases the normal force and reduces the pressure on the friction block 56 to release the handle 12.

[0054] In other words, lever 44 includes a cam, causing the thickness of lever 44 to be uneven. In the locked position 46, the base thickness 64 increases the normal force and pressure within the friction block to produce a firm frictional fit. In the unlocked position 48, the wall thickness 62 reduces the normal force and pressure to release the friction on handle 12.

[0055] Figure 13 This is a detailed perspective cross-sectional view of the first end 25 of the head 14 having a channel lock 74, which includes a spring-loaded protrusion 76, a channel 78, and an angled recess 82. During adjustment of the handle 12 (e.g., extension or retraction), the protrusion 76 in the handle 12 slides through the channel 78 in the head 14. At the maximum extension range of the handle 12, the channel 78 includes a recess 84 at the first end 25 of the head 14. The recess 84 captures and secures the protrusion 76 to prevent the handle 12 from over-extension or release. To remove the handle 12 from the head 14, the user rotates the lever 44 to the unlocked position 48 and extends the handle 12 to its maximum extension range, then rotates the protrusion 76 through the angled recess 82. When the angled recess 82 interfaces with the biased protrusion 76, the biased protrusion is pushed inward and the handle 12 is released, allowing the entire handle 12 to be removed from the hole 16.

[0056] As in Figure 13As can be seen, the channel lock 74 mechanism includes a recess 84 and an angled groove 82. The recess 84 captures the protrusion 76 during unintentional extension and prevents unintentional misalignment of the extendable handle 12. The angled groove 82 allows the user to release the handle 12 from within the head 14 by a combination of rotating and continuing to extend it. In other words, to release / remove the extendable handle 12, the user intentionally rotates the protrusion 76 through the angled groove 82 and further extends the handle 12.

[0057] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the composite friction block 56. The friction block 56 comprises different material layers sandwiched together or stacked to enhance locking properties on the extendable handle 12. The friction block 56 includes a concave surface 86 along the bottom layer of the friction block, a soft, compressible, elastic intermediate section 88, and a rigid top layer or bar plate 90. In several different embodiments, the bar plate 90 and the intermediate section 88 are relatively flat rectangular shapes with various inserts 92 that receive protrusions 94 to secure the friction block 56. The concave surface 86 is curved and / or has a radial profile along the bottom section to distribute normal forces across the outer circumference of the handle 12 and increase the friction generated by the friction block 56. The concave surface 86 and the bar plate 90 are also made of hard and / or rigid materials to prevent excessive wear on the components, and the intermediate section 88 includes a compressible, elastic material to help distribute the normal forces applied to the bar plate 90 more evenly across the concave surface 86. The applicant has discovered that the intermediate section 88 further enhances manufacturability by increasing the manufacturing tolerances of the thickness of the friction block 56 and / or the base thickness 64.

[0058] In a specific embodiment, the concave surface 86 is formed of a first material having a first hardness, the intermediate section 88 is formed of a second material having a second hardness, and the rod plate 90 is formed of a third material having a third hardness. In such an embodiment, the second hardness is less than the first and third hardnesses. The concave surface 86 is made of a relatively hard material. The concave surface 86 is a hard base layer to increase friction and toughness. The hard composite material (e.g., ABS, polymer, or metal alloy) increases the contact area of ​​the concave surface 86 with the extendable handle 12 to generate friction and provides a hard, durable material that is not easily worn.

[0059] The intermediate section 88 is a compressible layer made of rubber, polymer, or elastic damping material, which has compressible elasticity to redistribute the loads and forces applied to the concave surface 86. For example, the intermediate section 88 is a lightweight thermoplastic rubber (TPR) or vulcanized rubber material. The applicant has discovered that using a soft / elastic intermediate section 88 redistributes any localized or generated frictional forces on the concave surface 86 and / or the extendable handle 12. For example, the springs and dampers provided by the intermediate section 88 uniformly distribute localized loads between the concave surface 86 and the rod plate 90. The intermediate section 88 also enhances manufacturability by providing a wider range of acceptable tolerances for the friction block 56.

[0060] In other words, the intermediate section 88 uses a soft, elastic material to evenly redistribute localized frictional forces across the concave surface 86 and the rod plate 90, thereby enhancing the frictional locking force of the rod 44 in the locked position 46. The intermediate section 88 also provides a spring and damper absorption system for the localized frictional forces generated on the friction block 56, ensuring that the normal force generated by the cam rod 44 abuts against the extendable handle 12.

[0061] The lever plate 90 is made of a rigid material (such as metal) to receive the normal force from the cam surface of the base 60 on the lever 44. The rigid top layer or lever plate 90 is flexible to prevent wear. As the lever 44 rotates about the pivot 54, the cam surface of the base 60 presses against the lever plate 90 to clamp the intermediate section 88 in the middle and generate a normal force against the extendable handle 12 on the concave surface 86. The lever plate 90 distributes this force on the top side of the intermediate section 88 and allows the intermediate section 88 to redistribute the normal force on the concave surface 86 to enhance the frictional force of locking the extendable handle 12 when the lever 44 is in the locked position 46.

[0062] refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15 The friction block 56 is directly held against the handle 12 by the rod 44 through the closed cavity 96 in the recess 52 of the head 14. Generally, when the handle 12 is inserted into the hole 16, the rod 44 (base 60 or wall 58) and the closed cavity 96 in the head 14 completely hold the friction block 56 against the handle 12. When the handle 12 is removed from the hole 16, the additional protrusion 94 on the head 14 and the insert 92 on the friction block 56 retain the friction block within the head 14 and prevent the friction block 56 from entering the hole 16 or detaching from the head 14.

[0063] Figure 15This is an exploded view of the pipe wrench 10, with the extendable handle 12 partially removed. The cam surface of the base 60 on the lever 44 is shown in the locked position 46, such that when the pivot 54 passes through the pivot 54 of the lever 44, the thickness of the base 60 is greater than the thickness of the wall 58 and the lever 44 presses against the friction block 56 to lock the extendable handle 12. The friction block 56 comprises three separate components or layers: a concave surface 86, a middle section 88, and a lever plate 90. As described above, these three component layers of the friction block 56 redistribute the normal force to maximize the frictional force generated by the lever 44 on the handle 12. The laser-etched indicator 70 visually indicates to the user the maximum extension limit of the handle 12 relative to the edge 72 of the hole 16. The indicator 70 also indicates the direction of rotation for the user to release the handle 12 from the hole 16 and insert the extendable handle 12 into the channel lock 74.

[0064] Figure 16 illustrates the rotational process of removing the extendable handle 12 via the channel lock 74. The process begins in step A. In step A, lever 44 is in the locked position 46, and handle 12 is fully extended. In step B, the user rotates lever 44 about pivot 54 to release handle 12 from hole 16. Then, as shown in step C, the user rotates the extendable handle 12 between 45 and 90 degrees to disengage from channel lock 74. Figure 13 In step D, the handle 12 is pulled out of the hole 16 and completely released and removed from the head 14.

[0065] Removing the extendable handle 12 from the hole 16 frees up the hole 16 and makes the head 14 usable for receiving another tube or an extendable handle 12 of a different size within the hole 16. For example, the outer diameter of the handle 12 is equal to the outer diameter of a standard tube (e.g., 1 / 2 inch, 3 / 4 inch, 1 inch, 1.24 inch, 1.5 inch, or 2 inch tube). When the handle 12 is removed / released from the hole 16, the user inserts a standard tube of the desired length into the hole 16 to obtain the desired total length 36. In this way, the operator can select discrete lengths of standard tubes and / or select from a variety of extendable handles 12 to obtain the desired handle extension length 38. The hole 16 in the head 14 allows the inserted tube or new handle 12 to have different ranges defined between the maximum and minimum positions of the hole 16 within the head 14. In other words, in some embodiments, the size of the hole 16 is determined to receive the outer diameter of a tube, and the extendable handle 12 is completely removed from the hole 16 and replaced by a standard-sized tube or a handle 12 of a different length. In any configuration, lever 44 operates between maximum and minimum or range to provide optimal range for pipe wrench 10.

[0066] Similarly, the operation of lever 44 is essentially the same as described above. Specifically, the lever is rotated to the locking position 46 to push the friction block 56 against the inserted tube (or the new extension handle 12). The friction locks the inserted tube extending from the hole 16 of the head 14 at any point between the maximum and minimum extension range within the hole 16. In other words, from the user's perspective, the inserted tube functions similarly to the locking position 46 of the extendable handle 12.

[0067] Figure 17 This is a view of an extendable handle 12 with an indicator 70 (such as an applied sticker or laser etching). The indicator 70 shows the direction of rotation of the extendable handle 12 for the user to lock the handle 12 and / or remove the handle from the hole 16. Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A detailed view of the indicator 70 is shown. The indicator 70 includes a maximum extension line 98 aligned with the edge 72 of the hole 16. For example, the maximum extension line 98 on the handle 12 is aligned with the edge 72 of the hole 16 when the handle 12 is fully extended or correctly and fully inserted into the head 14. The indicator 70 also has an upper line 100 indicating the direction of rotational insertion and a lower arrow 102 indicating the direction of rotational removal.

[0068] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments in detail, and that this application is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the specification or shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the terminology is for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0069] In view of this specification, other modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, this specification is to be construed as illustrative only. The constructions and arrangements shown in various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments are described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., changes in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportions of individual elements, values ​​of parameters, mounting arrangements, materials used, colors, orientations, etc.) without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Some elements shown in the integral molding may be composed of multiple parts or elements, the positions of elements may be reversed or otherwise changed, and the nature or number or position of discrete elements may be varied or altered. According to alternative embodiments, the order or sequence of any process, logical algorithm, or method steps may be changed or reordered. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may also be made in terms of the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0070] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "connection" refers to two components being directly or indirectly linked to each other. Such a connection may be fixed in nature or movable in nature. Such a connection may be achieved by forming a single entity from which two components and any additional intermediate components are integrally formed, or by attaching two components or two components and any additional components to each other. Such a connection may be permanent in nature, or alternatively, removable or detachable in nature.

[0071] In several different exemplary embodiments, as shown in the figures, relative dimensions, including angles, lengths, and radii, are scaled. Actual measurements of the figures will disclose the relative dimensions, angles, and scales of several different exemplary embodiments. These various exemplary embodiments extend to several different ranges surrounding the absolute and relative dimensions, angles, and scales that can be determined from the figures. The various exemplary embodiments include any combination of one or more relative dimensions or angles that can be determined from the figures. Further, actual dimensions not explicitly stated in this specification can be determined by using the size ratios measured in the figures in conjunction with the explicit dimensions stated in this specification. Additionally, in several different embodiments, this disclosure extends to various ranges surrounding any absolute or relative dimensions disclosed herein or that can be determined from the figures (e.g., plus or minus 30%, 20%, or 10%).

Claims

1. A wrench, comprising: A head, which includes an opening; A hole located at the first end of the head and extending along the longitudinal axis of the wrench; The lower jaw is connected to a second end of the head and includes a plurality of teeth defining a lower contact area. The upper jaw extends partially through the orifice of the head, and includes a threaded section and a plurality of teeth defining an upper contact area; An actuator including a thread that engages with a threaded section of the upper jaw, such that rotation of the actuator causes the upper jaw to move relative to the lower jaw. An extendable handle is received within a hole in the head; A rod, the rod including an end portion, the end portion including at least two cam surfaces; and Friction block; The lever is rotatable about a pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the extendable handle is fixed relative to the head, and in the unlocked position, the extendable handle is adjustable relative to the head. The head further includes a rear surface, and the rear surface includes a recess that is configured to receive the rod when the rod is in the locked position, and wherein the friction block is positioned between the rod and the extendable handle; In both the locked and unlocked positions, the end of the rod engages with the friction block.

2. The wrench as described in claim 1, wherein, When the lever is in the locked position, it applies a normal force to the friction block, and the friction block distributes the normal force to the extendable handle, thereby fixing the extendable handle at the desired length.

3. The wrench as described in claim 2, wherein, The friction block includes a concave surface layer formed of a first material and having a first hardness, an intermediate section layer formed of a second material and having a second hardness, and a plate layer formed of a third material and having a third hardness.

4. The wrench as described in claim 3, wherein, The second material is a compressible elastic material, such that the normal force on the concave surface layer is distributed among the concave surface layer, the intermediate section layer and the plate layer, and wherein the second hardness is less than the first hardness and the third hardness.

5. The wrench of claim 1, further comprising a channel locking mechanism, the channel locking mechanism comprising: A channel extending longitudinally within the head; A biasing protrusion is attached to the extendable handle and is configured to slide within the channel during adjustment of the extendable handle; A recess located at the first end of the head, configured to capture the biased protrusion, such that the extendable handle is secured within the hole; and An angled groove located within the head.

6. The wrench as described in claim 5, wherein, The extendable handle is in the unlocked position and extended to its maximum length. The angled groove connects with the biased protrusion interface, causing the biased protrusion to be pushed inward and the extendable handle to be released from the hole.

7. The wrench of claim 1, wherein the lever further includes a gripping end and an arm coupled to an inner surface of the lever, the gripping end being opposite to the pivot, and the arm extending across the inner surface in a vertical orientation relative to the longitudinal axis of the lever.

8. The wrench of claim 1, further comprising an end cap at the proximal end of the extendable handle, the end cap including a hole extending through the end cap and defining a rotatable handle loop configured to receive a tether.

9. The wrench as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The at least two cam surfaces include a first cam surface and a second cam surface, wherein, in the locked position, the first cam surface of the rod applies a first force to the friction block, and in the unlocked position, the second cam surface of the rod applies a second force to the friction block.

10. A pipe wrench, comprising: A head, which includes an opening; A hole located at the first end of the head and extending along the longitudinal axis of the pipe wrench; The lower jaw is connected to a second end of the head and includes a plurality of teeth defining a lower contact area. The upper jaw extends partially through the orifice of the head, and includes a threaded section and a plurality of teeth defining an upper contact area; An actuator including a thread that engages with a threaded section of the upper jaw, such that rotation of the actuator causes the upper jaw to move relative to the lower jaw. An extendable handle, which is received within a hole in the head; and A channel locking mechanism configured to secure the extendable handle within the hole; A handle length locking mechanism includes a rod pivotally coupled to the head and a friction element contacting the rod. The rod includes a base and a wall at one end, wherein the rod is rotatable about a pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the rod pushes the friction element to engage with the outer surface of the extendable handle, such that the extendable handle is fixed relative to the head. In the unlocked position, the base faces the upper jaws and the extendable handle is adjustable relative to the head. The head further includes a rear surface having a recess that is configured to receive the rod when the rod is in the locked position, and a friction block is positioned between the rod and the extendable handle.

11. The pipe wrench of claim 10, wherein the channel locking mechanism comprises: A channel extending longitudinally within the head; A biasing protrusion is attached to the extendable handle and is configured to slide within the channel during adjustment of the extendable handle; A recess located at the first end of the head, configured to capture the biased protrusion, such that the extendable handle is secured within the hole; and An angled groove located within the head.

12. The pipe wrench as claimed in claim 11, wherein, The extendable handle is in the unlocked position and extended to its maximum length. The angled groove connects with the biased protrusion interface, causing the biased protrusion to be pushed inward and the extendable handle to be released from the hole.

13. The pipe wrench as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The base applies a first force to the friction element in the locked position, and the wall applies a second force to the friction element in the unlocked position.

14. The pipe wrench as claimed in claim 13, wherein, The base thickness is defined between the edge of the pivot and the base surface, and the wall thickness is defined between the edge of the pivot and the wall surface.

15. The pipe wrench as claimed in claim 14, wherein, The base thickness is greater than the wall thickness.

16. The pipe wrench as claimed in claim 13, wherein, The first force is different from the second force.

17. The pipe wrench as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The friction element includes a bottom layer with a concave surface formed of a first material, an intermediate section layer formed of a second material, and a plate layer with a rectangular shape formed of a third material.

18. A pipe wrench, comprising: A head, which includes an opening; A hole located at the first end of the head and extending along the longitudinal axis of the pipe wrench; The lower jaw is connected to a second end of the head and includes a plurality of teeth defining a lower contact area. The upper jaw extends partially through the orifice of the head, and includes a threaded section and a plurality of teeth defining an upper contact area; An actuator including a thread that engages with a threaded section of the upper jaw, such that rotation of the actuator causes the upper jaw to move relative to the lower jaw. An extendable handle is received within a hole in the head; Rod; as well as Friction block; The lever is rotatable about a pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the extendable handle is fixed relative to the head, and in the unlocked position, the extendable handle is adjustable relative to the head. Wherein, when the rod is in the locked position, the rod extends along the longitudinal axis of the pipe wrench, and wherein, when the rod is in the unlocked position, the rod extends in an orientation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pipe wrench; The head further includes a rear surface, and the rear surface includes a recess that is configured to receive the rod when the rod is in the locked position, and wherein the friction block is positioned between the rod and the extendable handle; The rod applies a normal force to the friction block, and the friction block distributes the normal force to the extendable handle, thereby fixing the extendable handle at the desired length.

19. The pipe wrench as claimed in claim 18, wherein, The friction block includes a bottom layer with a concave surface and formed of a first material, an intermediate section layer formed of a second material, and a plate layer formed of a third material, wherein the concave surface of the bottom layer distributes the normal force on the extendable handle, thereby generating friction by the friction block.

20. The pipe wrench as claimed in claim 18, wherein, The lever is a cam lever and includes a base and a wall at one end of the lever adjacent to the pivot, wherein the thickness of the base is defined between the edge of the pivot and the base surface such that when the lever is in the locked position, the base applies a first force to the friction block, and the thickness of the wall is defined between the edge of the pivot and the wall surface such that when the lever is in the unlocked position, the wall applies a second force to the friction block.

21. The pipe wrench of claim 18, further comprising a channel locking mechanism, the channel locking mechanism comprising: A channel extending longitudinally within the head; A biasing protrusion is attached to the extendable handle and is configured to slide within the channel during adjustment of the extendable handle; A recess located at the first end of the head, configured to capture the biased protrusion, such that the extendable handle is secured within the hole; and An angled groove located within the head.

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