multi-purpose tool

Abstract

A tool is provided to facilitate user use. The tool includes a handle defining a channel and including a shaft extending therethrough, a tool member rotatably mounted on the shaft and rotatable between an open position in which the tool member extends from the handle and a closed position in which the tool member is folded into the channel defined by the handle, a tool member magnet carried by the handle and configured to exert a magnetic force biasing the tool member to the closed position, a tool lock carried by the handle and configured to engage the tool member in the open position and resist rotation thereof to the closed position, and a first tool lock spring defining an opening through which the shaft extends, the first tool lock spring extending between a first spring portion and a second spring portion and mounted on the shaft such that the first spring portion receives the tool member magnet and is operatively engaged with the handle, the second spring portion being operatively engaged with the tool lock and exerting a biasing force on the tool lock to urge the tool lock into engagement with the tool.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Invention Application No. 201910398276.2, filed on May 14, 2019, entitled "Tool having one or more rotatable tool components". Technical Field

[0002] The exemplary embodiments generally relate to a tool, and in one embodiment, to a tool having features that facilitate user use of the tool in a variety of different applications. Background Technology

[0003] Tools, such as multi-purpose tools, are widely popular due to their practicality in many different applications. A multi-purpose tool comprises multiple tool components supported by a common frame. Multi-purpose tools can include different combinations of tool components depending on their intended application. For example, a multi-purpose tool designed for a more general or universal application may include pliers, a wire cutter, a drill bit driver, one or more blades, a saw blade, etc. Other multi-purpose tools are designed for more specific applications or niche markets and accordingly include tool components useful for their intended application. For example, to name just a few, multi-purpose tools may be specifically designed for car repair, hunting, fishing or other outdoor applications, gardening, skiing, snowboarding, cycling or other recreational activities, as well as military and emergency medical applications.

[0004] One reason for the popularity of multi-purpose tools is their ability to provide a wide range of functions with a single tool, thereby reducing the need to carry many different tools to perform the same function. For example, one can carry a single multi-purpose tool instead of a pair of pliers, one or more screwdrivers, a knife, and a bottle opener. Thus, the user's burden is reduced because they only need to carry a single multi-purpose tool.

[0005] Because multi-purpose tools are frequently carried by users in this field, it is desirable for them to be relatively small and lightweight while remaining robust to withstand damage. To reduce the overall size of multi-purpose tools, some are designed to be foldable. In this respect, foldable multi-purpose tools are designed to fold alternately into a closed position and an open position. Typically, the closed position is more compact, and the multi-purpose tool is often carried in this position. Conversely, while the open position is generally less compact than the closed position, it typically allows for the unfolding of one or more of the tool components that are stowed away and relatively inaccessible when the multi-purpose tool is in the closed position.

[0006] For example, a multi-purpose tool may include pliers having a pair of clamps attached to respective handles. In the open position, the pliers are extended and can be actuated by moving the handles toward and away from each other. In the closed position, the handles fold around the pliers, so that the pliers are no longer functional and are positioned within the handles. However, in the closed position, the multi-purpose tool is more compact, and its form factor is generally defined by its proximity to the handles.

[0007] Besides the pliers that unfold when the handle changes from the closed to the open position, the handle of a multi-purpose tool typically houses one or more tool components. By storing the tool components within the handle when not in use, the multi-purpose tool's form factor can be relatively small compared to the number of tool components it carries. Therefore, multi-purpose tools can possess considerable practicality and versatility, despite their relatively small size. To access the tool components stored within the handle, a user can engage them, for example, with their fingernails, and unfold them to make them operable. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Tools such as multi-purpose tools are provided according to exemplary embodiments to facilitate user use of the tool in a wide variety of applications. For example, the multi-purpose tool of the exemplary embodiments is configured to apply a biasing force to the clamp during relative rotation between the clamp and the handle, thereby providing controlled movement of the handle between a closed position and an open position. Additionally, the biasing force applied to the clamp provides unlimited positioning of the clamp relative to the handle between the open and closed positions. In the exemplary embodiments, the biasing force is applied to the clamp in a manner that does not restrict the handle but allows the handle to be applied to the clamp in a manner similar to that of the multi-purpose tool, depending on whether it is customized to be wider or narrower to include more or fewer tool components within a channel defined by the handle. As another example, the tool of the exemplary embodiments includes a tool lock that provides a secure engagement of one or more tool components in an open position. By configuring the tool lock to have at least a partially curved profile that engages with a recess of one or more tool components having planar end walls to securely hold one or more tool components in the open position, the tool lock can facilitate tool manufacturing. As yet another example, the multi-purpose tool of the exemplary embodiments includes a handle interlock to restrict or prevent lateral movement of the handles relative to each other when the multi-purpose tool is in a closed position.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, a multipurpose tool is provided, including a first handle and a second handle configured for relative movement between a closed position and an open position. At least the first handle includes a shaft extending therethrough. The multipurpose tool also includes one or more tool members rotatably mounted on the shaft and foldable into the first handle. The multipurpose tool of this exemplary embodiment also includes a first clamp and a second clamp correspondingly rotatably connected to the first handle and the second handle. At least the first clamp defines an opening through which the shaft of the first handle extends. The multipurpose tool of this exemplary embodiment also includes a resilient member disposed at least partially within the opening to apply a biasing force to the first clamp during rotation of the first clamp relative to the first handle.

[0010] The opening defined by the first clamp in the exemplary embodiment defines first and second portions of different sizes. In this exemplary embodiment, the shaft extends through the first portion and the resilient member is disposed within the second portion. In the exemplary embodiment, the second portion is larger than the first portion. The resilient member in the exemplary embodiment is formed of an elastomeric material. The first handle in the exemplary embodiment defines a cam surface, and the first clamp in this exemplary embodiment includes a cam follower configured to ride over the cam surface when the first clamp is rotated relative to the first handle. In this exemplary embodiment, the first clamp is configured such that the interaction between the cam follower and the cam during rotation of the first clamp relative to the first handle causes the first clamp to move relative to the shaft, such that the resilient member is pushed toward the shaft and the resilient member applies a biasing force to the first clamp. The first handle in this exemplary embodiment also defines a notch near one end of the cam surface to receive the cam follower when the first clamp has been rotated to an open position relative to the first handle. The cam follower of the exemplary embodiment is further configured to engage the one or more tool members and hold the one or more tool members in the tool member closed position when the first handle and the second handle are in the open position, and is also configured to be positioned outside the travel path of the one or more tool members when the first handle and the second handle are in the closed position, thereby allowing the one or more tool members to move to the tool member open position.

[0011] The multipurpose tool of the exemplary embodiment further includes a tool lock carried by the first handle and configured to engage the one or more tool components in an open position and prevent the one or more tool components from rotating to a closed position. The tool lock has a travel path from the engaged position to the disengaged position. With both the first and second handles in the closed position, the tool lock in the disengaged position extends beyond the first handle and enters a cavity defined by the second handle.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, both the first handle and the second handle include first and second opposing sidewalls defining a channel, and a base plate extending from at least the first sidewall toward the second sidewall. The base plate of each of the first and second handles includes an outwardly extending tab and defines a hole adjacent to the tab. The tab of the first handle aligns with the hole of the second handle, and the tab of the second handle aligns with the hole of the first handle, thereby allowing the first and second handles to interlock in a closed position. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more tool components include a shank defining an opening and a blade extending outwardly from the shank, the shaft extending through the opening. According to this exemplary embodiment, at least the distal end of the blade furthest from the shank is tapered, thus having a narrower width than the shank. The one or more tool components in an exemplary embodiment include a flat plug puller having a shaft and threads extending outwardly from a first and second opposing side of the shaft. The threads are discontinuous, thus not extending between the first and second opposing sides. The shaft has a third opposite side and a fourth opposite side between the first opposite side and the second opposite side, and the third opposite side and the fourth opposite side have a planar configuration.

[0013] In another exemplary embodiment, a tool is provided including a handle defining a channel and including at least one shaft extending therethrough. The tool also includes one or more tool members rotatably mounted on the at least one shaft and configured to rotate between an open position and a closed position, in which the one or more tool members extend from the handle and in which they fold into the handle in a closed position. The tool of this exemplary embodiment also includes a tool member magnet carried by the handle and configured to apply a magnetic force biasing the one or more tool members to the closed position. The tool of this exemplary embodiment also includes a tool lock carried by the handle and configured to engage the one or more tool members in the open position and prevent rotation of the one or more tool members to the closed position. In this exemplary embodiment, the tool also includes a tool lock spring defining an opening through which a corresponding shaft extends. The tool lock spring extends between a first spring portion and a second spring portion and is mounted on a respective shaft, such that the first spring portion receives the tool component magnet and operably engages the handle, and the second spring portion operably engages the tool lock and applies a biasing force to the tool lock to push the tool lock into engagement with the one or more tool components.

[0014] The handle of an exemplary embodiment includes a first and a second opposing sidewall defining the channel and a base plate extending from at least the first sidewall toward the second sidewall. A first spring portion of this exemplary embodiment operably engages the base plate of the first handle. In an exemplary embodiment, the tool lock spring defines a recess configured to receive a tool component magnet. The tool of the exemplary embodiment also includes a second tool lock spring defining an opening through which a corresponding shaft extends. The second tool lock spring extends between the first and second spring portions and is mounted on a corresponding shaft such that the first spring portion receives the tool component magnet and operably engages the handle, the second spring portion operably engages the tool lock, and, in combination with the tool lock spring, applies a biasing force to the tool lock to push the tool lock into engagement with the one or more tool components. The tool lock spring and the second tool lock spring are positioned on the corresponding shaft, thereby spaced apart from the one or more tool components mounted on the shaft between the tool lock spring and the second tool lock spring. The first and second tool lock springs may be positioned symmetrically within the channel relative to the handle.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the tool lock is positioned near a first end of the handle, and the distal end of the tool lock furthest from the first end of the handle has a profile that is at least partially curved. The one or more tool members of this exemplary embodiment define a recess configured to receive the tool lock when the one or more tool members are in an open position. The one or more tool members of this exemplary embodiment have planar end walls that, when the one or more tool members are in the open position, define a portion of the recess furthest from the first end of the handle and near the distal end of the tool lock with the at least partially curved profile.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more tool components include a shank defining an opening and a blade extending outwardly from the shank, the shaft extending through the opening. In this exemplary embodiment, at least the distal end of the blade furthest from the shank is tapered, thus having a narrower width than the shank. The one or more tool components of the exemplary embodiment include a flat plug puller, the flat plug puller including a shaft and threads extending outwardly from a first and a second opposite side of the shaft. The threads are discontinuous, thus not extending between the first and second opposite sides. The shaft also has a third and a fourth opposite side between the first and second opposite sides, the third and fourth opposite sides having a planar configuration. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Embodiments of the invention have been generally described, and reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which:

[0018] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a multi-purpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the multi-purpose tool is in the open position;

[0019] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a multi-purpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the multi-purpose tool is in a closed position;

[0020] Figure 3 This is a top view of a multi-purpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the multi-purpose tool is in a closed position;

[0021] Figure 4 This is a partial perspective view of a multipurpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, depicting the interlocking relationship between the tabs and holes of the first and second handles;

[0022] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the handle of a multi-purpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 6 This is a partial perspective view of a multipurpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, showing how a cam follower of a clamp prevents at least some of the tool components from opening when the handle is in the open position;

[0024] Figure 7 This is a partial perspective view of a multipurpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the cam member has been decomposed to show the elastic member interacting with the axis of rotation of the clamps around it;

[0025] Figures 8 to 11 This is a sequential perspective view of a multipurpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, showing a cam follower of a clamp riding on a cam surface of the handle during transitions between the open and closed positions of the handle;

[0026] Figures 12 to 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a part of a multipurpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, showing the interaction between a resilient member and a shaft, with the clamp rotating about the shaft from a closed position to an open position.

[0027] Figure 15 This is a partial perspective view of a multipurpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, showing the distal end of the handle including a tool lock;

[0028] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional side view of a multipurpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, showing the interaction between the tool lock and the tool lock spring in the closed position;

[0029] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of a tool lock spring according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 18 and Figure 19 This is a partial side view of a multipurpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, showing the deflection of the tool lock from the notch defined by the handle as the tool component rotates from the closed position through the intermediate position;

[0031] Figures 20 to 22 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a multipurpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, showing the interaction between the tool lock and the tool lock spring when the tool component is rotated from the closed position to the open position;

[0032] Figure 23 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a multipurpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, showing the disengagement of the tool lock as the tool component begins to rotate from the open position to the closed position;

[0033] Figure 24This is a side view of a multipurpose tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the tool component is in the open position, showing the way in which the tool lock is disposed within a notch defined by the handle;

[0034] Figure 25 This is a perspective view of a flat plug puller according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 26 yes Figure 25 Side view of a flat plug puller;

[0036] Figure 27 This is a top view of a tool component according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the tool component having a width that decreases from the shank of the tool component to its distal end; and

[0037] Figure 28 This is a side view of a folding knife according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The invention will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, embodiments of the invention. In fact, these inventions may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided to enable this disclosure to meet applicable legal requirements. The same numerals always refer to the same elements.

[0039] Now for reference Figures 1 to 3 The document describes a tool, such as a multi-purpose tool 10, according to exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although this tool will be described in the context of a multi-purpose tool, other types of tools can readily incorporate components of embodiments of the invention, including cutting tools and other types of tools not considered multi-purpose tools, including those components. However, for illustrative purposes and not for limitation, multi-purpose tools employing embodiments of the invention will now be described.

[0040] The multipurpose tool 10 includes a plurality of handles 12, such as first and second handles, configured to move relative to each other, and a plurality of tool components 13 carried by at least one of the handles. Typically, the multipurpose tool includes a pair of generally elongated handles that extend in a lengthwise or longitudinal direction between opposing ends (e.g., proximal end 12a and distal end 12b). Due to their connection to each other and / or to one or more of the tool components, such as a pivot connection, the handles can move toward and away from each other, actuating the tool components, for example, as described below.

[0041] In this respect, the multi-purpose tool 10 can be configured such that the handle 12 is adapted to, for example, Figure 1 The opening position shown and as Figure 2The diagram illustrates the relative movement between the closed positions. It is evident that the multi-purpose tool has a compact shape factor in the closed position to facilitate transport and storage. When the multi-purpose tool is in the closed position, one or more tool components carried by the multi-purpose tool are generally accessible. Although the multi-purpose tool is more spacious in the open position, where the handles rotate to separate further from each other, one or more different tool components of the multi-purpose tool can be accessible and usable in the open position, even if those identical tool components are retracted and generally inaccessible in the closed position.

[0042] Each handle 12 includes a pair of opposing sidewalls 14, such as first and second opposing sidewalls. The sidewalls are spaced apart from each other, thereby defining a channel within the handle for receiving and storing a plurality of tool components 13. In an exemplary embodiment, the handle also includes a base plate 16 extending from at least the first sidewall toward the second sidewall. Thus, each handle has a generally U-shaped cross-section, for example defined by the opposing sidewalls and the base plate extending at least partially therebetween. Although the base plate may extend entirely through the channel to the second sidewall, in the illustrated embodiment, the base plate extends from the first sidewall to the middle portion of the channel, thereby being spaced apart from the second sidewall. Similarly, in an exemplary embodiment, the handle also includes a base plate extending from the second sidewall toward the first sidewall. Although the base plate may extend entirely through the channel to the first sidewall, in the illustrated embodiment, the base plate extends from the second sidewall to the middle portion of the channel, thereby being spaced apart from the first sidewall. In the illustrated embodiment, for most of the length of the handle, the base plates extending from the first and second sidewalls extend only a relatively short distance toward the opposing sidewalls, for example by extending outward from the respective sidewalls no more than 20% of the channel width and, in some embodiments, no more than 10%. Therefore, the handle of the exemplary embodiment has a relatively open bottom, which allows the user to see through the channel and easily identify the tool component of interest. The relatively open bottom also provides space for receiving the clamp 34 (described below) when the tool is folded from the open position to the closed position.

[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, both the first and second handles 12 include a base plate 16 extending from at least a first sidewall toward a second sidewall, and the base plate of each of the first and second handles includes an outwardly extending tab 18. The base plate of each of the first and second handles also defines an aperture 20 adjacent to the tab (e.g., adjacent to the tab). The tab may be closer to the first handle than the aperture, while the second handle may define the aperture closer to the first handle than the tab. Figure 4In the exemplary embodiment depicted, the tab of the first handle aligns with the hole of the second handle, and the tab of the second handle aligns with the hole of the first handle, thereby allowing the first and second handles to interlock when the handles are brought to the closed position. In this respect, when the first and second handles are in the closed position, the tab of the first handle extends into and engages the hole of the second handle, and the tab of the second handle extends into and engages the hole of the first handle. Once interlocked, the engagement of the tabs within the holes restricts or prevents lateral movement between the first and second handles, thereby making the multi-purpose tool 10 more rigid in the closed position and reducing or eliminating forces that might otherwise act on other parts of the multi-purpose tool in response to lateral forces acting in opposite directions on the first and second handles.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, a portion of the base plate 16, including the tab 18 and defining the hole 20, extends further through the channel than the rest of the base plate. For example, the portion of the base plate including the tab and defining the hole may extend through at least half the width of the channel and, in some embodiments, through most of it. However, the portion of the base plate including the tab and defining the hole may be positioned close to one end of the corresponding handle 12 (e.g., the distal end 12b of the handle opposite the proximal end 12a, to which the clamp 34 is rotatably connected, as described below), such that the remaining portion of the base plate extends much shorter into the channel, making most of the channel visible through the base plate, and allowing the clamp 34 (as described below) to fold at least partially through the channel defined by the base plate when the tool is switched from the open to the closed position.

[0045] Although each handle 12 can be a single integral structure, each handle can alternatively be formed from multiple discrete handle parts, which are connected to each other to form a final handle. Figure 5 In the exploded perspective view shown, each handle is formed by two handle portions connected to each other to form a handle. Each handle portion in this exemplary embodiment includes a sidewall 14 and a base plate 16 extending inwardly from the respective sidewall. As described below, the handle of the illustrated embodiment also includes a shaft 38 extending between and interconnecting the handle portions. The shaft can be formed in various ways, for example by pins and screws engaging with each other. Each handle extends longitudinally or longitudinally between opposing ends (i.e., proximal end 12a and opposing distal end 12b). The shaft is generally located at the proximal end of the handle.

[0046] Figure 1 and Figure 5The multipurpose tool 10 depicted in the exemplary embodiment includes tool components in the form of clamps 34, which are pivotally connected to each other, for example, at a pivot point 36. Each clamp includes a working surface 37 extending from the pivot point in one direction and a base member 39 extending from the pivot point in the opposite direction. The clamps may include different types of working surfaces depending on the tool function, such as a ribbed surface 37a, wherein the clamp includes a pair of pliers and / or a blade or cutting surface 37b, wherein the clamp includes a wire cutter. Figure 7 As shown, the base member of each clamp defines an opening 40, through which the shaft 38 of the corresponding handle 12 extends, such that each clamp is rotatably connected to the corresponding handle, such as the proximal end 12a of the corresponding handle, and pivotally connected to another clamp member. Thus, the handle can be drawn from... Figure 2 The handle closed position shown is achieved by, as Figure 6 The middle position shown is rotated to, as Figure 1 The handle is shown in the open position, while in the closed position the clamps fold into a channel through an opening in the base plate 16, thus retracting into the channel defined by the handle (and the proximal end 12a of the handle can be used as a hammer if desired). In the open position, the clamps extend beyond the handle. In the open position, the handles can move alternately toward and away from each other, thereby opening and closing the clamping mechanism. As discussed below. Figures 12 to 14 As shown, the handle may also include an internal clamping stop 31, which the clamps can engage with when the handle is folded from the handle open position to the handle closed position, thereby holding the clamps in a desired position within the respective handle. The clamping stop can be formed in various ways, but in one embodiment, it extends at an angle into the channel from a base plate portion including an outwardly extending tab 18 and defining a hole 20 adjacent to the tab. For details regarding the tab and the hole adjacent to the tab, see, for example... Figure 4 and Figure 15 .

[0047] As described above, each clamp 34 (e.g., the base member 39 of each clamp) defines an opening 40 through which the shaft 38 extends. However, the opening is larger than the shaft, and thus, the multi-purpose tool also includes a resilient member 42 at least partially disposed within the opening. In an exemplary embodiment, the resilient member is formed of an elastomeric material (e.g., polyurethane). Figure 7 As shown, the opening can be elongated, thus defining first and second portions of different sizes, wherein a shaft extends through the first portion 40a of the opening and an elastic member is arranged within the second portion 40b of the opening. Figure 7 As shown and as Figures 12 to 14 As shown more clearly in the diagram, the second part can be larger than the first part, such that the elastic member arranged in the second part is also larger than the first part of the opening, and is therefore kept within the second part of the opening.

[0048] like Figures 7 to 11 As shown, each clamp 34 (more specifically, the base member 39 of each clamp) includes a cam follower 44 configured to contact and ride along a cam surface 46 during at least a segment of movement of the handle 12 between a closed position and an open position. In this respect, the cam follower and cam surface are configured such that the cam follower contacts and rides along the cam surface during the last few degrees (e.g., the last 45°) of the handle moving from the closed position to the open position, and in one embodiment during the last 30°, but is spaced apart from the cam surface during other segments of the handle moving from the closed position to the open position. Similarly, the cam follower and cam surface of this exemplary embodiment are configured such that the cam follower contacts and rides along the cam surface during the first few degrees (e.g., the first 45°) of the handle moving from the open position to the closed position, and in one embodiment during the first 30°, but is spaced apart from the cam surface during other segments of the handle moving from the open position to the closed position. The cam surface may be defined by a corresponding handle (e.g., the proximal end 12a of a handle to which a clamp is rotatably connected), and / or by a cam member 48 disposed within the proximal end of a channel defined by the handle and mounted on a shaft 38. The cam surface defines a curved surface over which the cam follower rides during rotation of the handle relative to the clamp. Figures 7 to 11 As shown, the cam surface includes a tapered portion 46a that tapers radially outward relative to the remainder of the circular cam surface. This radially tapering portion of the cam surface is located near a circumferential end of the cam surface and is used to engage the cam follower during the final few degrees of the handle moving from the closed position to the open position, and to re-engage the cam follower during the initial few degrees of the handle moving from the open position to the closed position.

[0049] The above describes one embodiment of a cam surface 46 having a tapered portion 46a. However, in other embodiments, the cam surface may be configured differently. For example, instead of or in addition to the tapered portion of the illustrated embodiment that tapers radially outward near one circumferential end of the cam surface, the cam surface may include a tapered portion that tapers radially outward near another circumferential end of the cam surface. This tapered portion of the other embodiment near the other circumferential end of the cam surface is used to engage the cam follower 44 during the initial few degrees of the handle moving from the closed position to the open position and to re-engage the cam follower 44 during the final few degrees of the handle moving from the open position to the closed position. By engaging the cam follower during the initial few degrees of the handle moving from the closed position to the open position, the interaction between the tapered portion of the cam surface and the cam follower prevents the multipurpose tool 10 from being unintentionally opened, requiring the user to apply sufficient rotational force to overcome the engagement of the cam follower and the tapered portion of the cam surface. As yet another exemplary embodiment, the cam surface and the cam follower can be configured such that the cam follower engages the cam surface during the entire movement of the handle between the open and closed positions, rather than just near one or two circumferential ends of the cam surface.

[0050] Although the cam follower 44 can be configured in various ways, the cam follower of the exemplary embodiment includes a lateral extension portion extending in opposite directions from the base member 39 of the clamp 34. The lateral extension member extends in opposite directions to engage a cam surface 46 defined by the proximal end 12a of the opposite sidewall 14 of the handle 12 and / or by a cam member 48 positioned near the proximal end of the opposite sidewall of the handle. Therefore, although the clamp including the base member of the clamp has a width smaller than the width of the channel to allow the clamp to fold into the channel, in some embodiments the lateral extension member of the cam follower may have a width equal to or approximately equal to the width of the corresponding handle.

[0051] During a period of relative rotation of the handle 12 with respect to the clamp 34 about the axis 38, the cam follower 44 of the base member 39 of the clamp rides on the tapered portion 46a of the cam surface 46, which in turn has a fixed positional relationship with the handle 12 and the axis extending through the handle channel. The interaction between the cam follower and the tapered portion of the cam surface during this period of rotation causes the clamp to attempt to move relative to the handle and the axis extending through the channel defined by the handle, such that the resilient member 42 moves toward the axis, and the axis accordingly appears to attempt to move at least partially from the first portion 40a of the opening 40 toward the second portion 40b of the opening, relative to... Figure 12 and Figure 14 like Figure 13As shown in the diagram. However, the elastic member within the second portion of the opening interacts with the shaft and the clamp, and applies a biasing force to the clamp during relative rotation of the handle, causing the clamp to remain in the same position relative to the shaft, which continues to extend through the first portion of the opening. Figure 7 and Figures 12 to 14 As shown, the opening is elongated and extends at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis defined by the respective handle between opposing proximal ends 12a and distal ends 12b. This angle is equal to or within a predetermined angular range of the force exerted on the clamp due to the interaction between the cam follower and the tapered portion of the cam surface during a portion of rotation of the handle, causing the clamp to attempt to move relative to the handle and the axis extending through the channel defined by the handle. Therefore, the biasing force applied by the elastic member can be in opposite directions and opposite forces.

[0052] In an embodiment where the resilient member 42 applies a biasing force to the clamp 34 during a period of rotation of the clamp relative to the handle 12, such as during the last few degrees (e.g., the last 45°, or 30° in one embodiment) as the handle moves from the closed position to the open position, the clamp will rotate freely relative to the handle for most of the movement from the closed to the open position. However, during the last few degrees, the rotation of the handle will occur in a more controlled manner because, in this embodiment, the handle will not rotate freely during the movement through these last few degrees. Therefore, the multi-purpose tool 10 provides smooth opening and closing of the handle to alternately extend and retract the clamp. However, the multi-purpose tool prevents unintentional opening of the handle by requiring the user to apply an increased force due to the interaction between the resilient member and the corresponding clamp to fully open the handle.

[0053] Each handle 12 also defines a notch 50 near one end of the cam surface 46, for example, a tapered portion 46a adjacent to one end of the cam surface. Figure 7 As shown in the illustration. Once the clamp 34 is rotated relative to the handle to the handle open position, the notch is sized to receive a component extending outward (e.g., laterally) from the clamp 34, such as a post, pin, or, in the illustrated embodiment, a cam follower 44. With the cam follower engaged within the notch, the handle stops rotating further and remains in the handle open position without applying sufficient force to remove the cam follower from the notch and to rotate the handle relative to the clamp from the handle open position toward the handle closed position. Thus, the multipurpose tool 10 of this exemplary embodiment prevents unintentional closure of the handle due to the engagement of the cam follower within a corresponding notch defined near the cam surface and the requirement for the user to apply additional force to initiate the folding of the handle.

[0054] To bias handle 12 into the closed position and to prevent the handle from unintentionally opening from the closed position, multipurpose tool 10 may include a first magnet 52 carried by one of the handles, more typically, first and second magnets carried by the first and second handles respectively, such as... Figure 16 As shown in the diagram. In this respect, when the handle is in the closed position, the first and second magnets can be spatially aligned with each other. The magnets are generally carried by the handle, thus being closer to the distal end 12b of the handle, which separates from each other when the handle is moved from the closed position to the open position, than to the proximal end 12a of the handle. In one exemplary embodiment, the magnets are positioned at a distance of about 5% to about 25% of the length of the handle from the distal end of the handle. The magnets generate a magnetic force. The magnetic force is guided in a magnetic flux path that extends through the handle and / or a component carried by the handle, such as tool member 13. The magnetic force is an attractive magnetic force that causes the handles to bias towards each other in the closed position. However, the magnets are configured such that the magnetic force can be overcome by an opening force applied by the user to intentionally open the handle from the closed position to the open position. Thus, the magnetic force prevents the handle from unintentionally opening from the closed position to the open position, but allows the handle to be opened once the user provides sufficient force.

[0055] Furthermore, the attractive magnetic force provided by the magnet 52 carried by the handle 12 is primarily applicable when the handles are relatively close to each other, for example, when the handles have been opened to define an internal angle of no more than about 5°, more specifically no more than 3°, between them. Subsequently, when the handles are opened more fully, the magnetic force has a more limited or even negligible effect on the force required to open the handles. The multipurpose tool 10 of the exemplary embodiment can be opened by the user holding the multipurpose tool with one hand, for example, by holding one handle of the multipurpose tool, and then applying a rotational force to the multipurpose tool, for example, by flipping the handle not held by the user away from the handle held by the user. This causes the magnetic force to be overcome and the distal end 12b of the handle to separate from the handle, and then rotate from the closed position to the open position. Conversely, when the handles are closed from the open position to the closed position, the magnetic force provided by the magnets helps to fully close the handles because the distal ends of the handles are relatively close to each other.

[0056] like Figure 5 and Figure 15 As shown, the multipurpose tool 10 of the exemplary embodiment also includes a spacer 53. The spacer may be formed of plastic and may cover the magnet 52. In this respect, the spacer may be defined as follows: Figure 5 The channel shown is for receiving a magnet. A spacer can engage with the base plate 16 of the handle, thus being located within and exposed through an opening defined by the base plate of the handle 12. The spacer can remain flush with the base plate, thereby protecting the magnet and facilitating cleaning of the multi-purpose tool.

[0057] In addition to the clamp 34, the multipurpose tool 10 typically includes a plurality of other tool components 13. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal end 12b of each handle 12 also includes a shaft 54 ​​extending between opposite sidewalls 14 of the handle. The plurality of tool components of the multipurpose tool may be rotatably mounted on the shaft near the distal end, and in the exemplary embodiment, the plurality of tool components are mounted on the shaft at the distal ends of the first and second handles. Unlike the clamp 34, which is disposed within the handle and is inaccessible when the handle is in the closed position, the other tool components are configured to open when the handle is in the closed position and thus open by means of the surface of the handle (opposite to the base plate 16) exposed when the handle is in the closed position.

[0058] While the multi-purpose tool 10 can include a variety of different tool components 13 and different combinations of tool components depending on the type of multi-purpose tool, user preferences, etc., examples of some shorter tool components include drill bit drives, files, scissors, bottle openers, screwdrivers, and knives, while longer tool components may include one or more blades, saw blades, and / or files. The utility of all multi-purpose tools can be enhanced by including both longer and shorter tool components, especially the longer tool components, which are chosen so that the functions performed by the longer tool components (e.g., blades and saw blades) can be performed more efficiently due to the increased length relative to the shorter tool components. Additionally, the handle 12 may, for example, be formed with rounded corners, and the tool components may be arranged within the handle in the closed position to provide a relatively smooth surface for the user to grip and press when using the tool components (especially the longer ones).

[0059] Although the tool component 13 can be opened in various ways, the tool component in the exemplary embodiment includes a notch 56 near the shaft 54 ​​on which the tool component is mounted, and in the exemplary embodiment, is positioned closer to the distal end 12b of the handle 12 than the shaft. Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, a notch extends laterally across the tool member mounted on the shaft along a direction extending between opposite sidewalls 14 of the handle. The notch is defined by the edge of the tool member exposed when the tool member is folded into the channel defined by the handle. In other words, when the tool member is folded into the channel defined by the handle, the notch opens outward from the multipurpose tool 10, thus serving as a finger flange or hook to be engaged by the user so as to at least partially rotatably open the tool member relative to the handle. When the user applies force to the notch, for example by positioning the user's thumb on the rear surface of the tool member exposed within the channel of the handle and applying force, such as a sliding force pointing towards the distal end of the handle, the user's thumb engages the notch, and one or more shorter tool members can be at least partially rotatably opened from the respective handle. In this respect, the notch can be defined in a uniform and aligned manner by each shorter tool member mounted on the shaft, such that the notch defined by each shorter tool member carried by the respective handle can be engaged by the user once, for example by applying a sliding action by the user's thumb towards the distal end of the handle. As a result, even when the user is wearing gloves, the user can easily access the tool component using one hand (e.g., the user's thumb) without needing to use their fingernails to pry the tool component from the handle. Although longer tool components may also define a notch, in some embodiments, longer tool components may also be accessed via a notch 60, as described below. In this exemplary embodiment, shorter tool components may present a block, wherein all or at least multiple shorter tool components are simultaneously at least partially opened by the user applying a distally oriented sliding force. Once multiple shorter tool components have been at least partially opened, for example in a block manner, the user can more easily identify the tool component they wish to use, then close the other tool components and fully open the desired tool component. Thus, when the tool components are fully folded into the handle, the user largely does not need to identify the specific tool component they wish to use, and similarly does not need to simply guess and repeatedly open different tool components one at a time, struggling to find the desired tool component. Instead, opening multiple tool components in a block manner by the user applying an opening force at once allows the user to more easily identify and select the tool to use, while simply folding the other tools back into the handle.

[0060] Although described herein in the context of a specific embodiment of multipurpose tool 10, various multipurpose tools may include one or more tool components that define a notch 56 for user access. For example, a tool with a single handle may include one or more tool components that define a notch to allow a user to rotatably open the tool component without having to use their fingernails.

[0061] When in the closed position, a portion of the tool component 13 exposed through the channel defined by the handle 12 may include a plurality of recesses 58 extending laterally across multiple tool components. Although the recesses may extend across all tool components, such as Figure 1 As shown, the groove extends across the shorter tool members, but this is not the case for the longer tool members in other embodiments. The groove spans multiple shorter tool members and is longitudinally spaced in an aligned manner. The groove provides the user with a visible indication of where to press to apply opening force to the tool members. Additionally, the groove provides some extra grip during use of the tool members.

[0062] Tool member 13 is rotatably mounted on shaft 54 ​​and configured to rotate between a tool member open position and a tool member closed position. In the open position, one or more tool members extend from handle 12, and in the closed position, one or more tool members fold into the handle. Clamps 34, and in one embodiment, the cam follower 44 of the clamps, is configured to control the movement of the tool members between the closed and open positions depending on whether the multipurpose tool 10 (more specifically, the first and second handles of the multipurpose tool) is in the handle closed or handle open position. In the handle open position, the clamps have rotated relative to the respective handles. Therefore, if effort is made to open the tool members, the cam follower of each clamp moves accordingly relative to the respective cam surface 46, such that the cam follower engages at least some of the tool members, such as longer tool members. Thus, when the multipurpose tool is in the handle open position, the tool members remain in the closed position and prevent the tool members from transitioning to the open position. See also Figure 6 The cam follower covers the distal ends of at least some tool members (e.g., longer tool members) and is positioned in the travel path of the tool members during the transition from a closed position to an open position, thereby limiting such rotational movement of at least the longer tool member and preventing at least the longer tool member from fully opening. In this exemplary embodiment, the cam follower does not prevent all tool members from being opened, and one or more tool members (e.g., shorter tool members) continue to be able to rotate from the closed position to the open position when the handle is in the open position. However, when the multipurpose tool is in the closed position, the clamps have rotated relative to the respective handles, and the cam follower of each clamp moves accordingly relative to the respective cam surface, such that the cam follower is now positioned outside the travel path of the tool member (including the longer tool member). Thus, when the multipurpose tool is in the closed position, the tool member (including the longer tool member) can move from the tool member closed position to the tool member open position without any interference from or contact with the cam follower.

[0063] In the exemplary embodiments described above, the cam follower 44 is used to restrict one or more tool members 13 from rotating from the closed position to the open position when the handle is in the open position. However, the cam follower does not need to provide this function. Instead, the multipurpose tool 10 (more specifically, the clamp 34) may include another member, such as a pin or post extending outward (e.g., laterally) from the clamp, for preventing rotation of at least some tool members (e.g., longer tool members), and accordingly restricting one or more tool members 13 from rotating from the closed position to the open position in a similar manner when the handle is in the open position.

[0064] The multipurpose tool 10 of the exemplary embodiment also includes tool locks 70, one of which is carried by each handle 12 including one or more tool members 13 configured to rotate into and out of a channel defined by the respective handle. The tool locks are configured to engage one or more tool members of the respective handle when the tool member has been rotated to the tool member open position and to resist (e.g., prevent) rotation of one or more tool members to the tool member closed position until the tool lock has been definitively disengaged from one or more tool members, for example, by a user. As shown, for example, in Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 15 In this embodiment, the tool lock can be positioned near the distal end 12b of the handle. In this respect, the tool lock can be rotatably connected to the distal end of the respective handle, for example, by a pin 72 that defines the axis of rotation of the tool lock and extends through the tool lock between opposite sidewalls 14 of the respective handle. Although the tool lock has various configurations, the tool lock in the exemplary embodiment has a generally T-shaped shape, having a wide engagement portion 74 and a narrower base 76 through which the pin extends. In this respect, the width of the base is generally not wider than, and in some embodiments narrower than, the width of the channel defined by the respective handle, while the width of the engagement portion is wider than the width of the channel, and in some embodiments the same as or substantially the same as the width of the handle. To accommodate the engagement portion of the tool lock, the sidewall of the handle defines a recess 78 in which the engagement portion of the tool lock is disposed.

[0065] The tool lock 70 is biased to engage with the tool member 13 such that the engaging portion 74 of the tool lock is positioned within a recess 78 defined by the sidewall 14 of the corresponding handle 12. More specifically, each tool member has a ridge defining a recess 80 that aligns with the engaging portion of the tool lock when the tool member is in the open position. Thus, the engaging portion of the tool lock is biased to engage and be positioned within the recesses of one or more tool members in the open position. The engagement of the tool lock with the recesses defined by the tool members prevents the tool member from moving from the open position to the closed position until the tool lock has disengaged from the recesses defined by the tool members, for example, by the user applying a lifting force to the engaging portion of the tool member, thereby moving the tool lock from the engaged position to the disengaged position, and subsequently rotating the tool member relative to the corresponding handle.

[0066] like Figure 1 and Figure 15 As shown, the distal end 82 of the tool lock 70, furthest from the corresponding handle 12b (i.e., the distal end of the engaging portion 74 of the tool lock), has a profile that is at least partially curved, such as a circular profile. In contrast, the recess 80 defined by the tool member 13 (in which the engaging portion of the tool lock is disposed when the tool member is in the open position) has a planar end wall 84 (see...). Figure 21 The tool lock is positioned within and engages with the recess defined by the tool member. The planar end wall of the recess defined by the tool member approaches the distal end of the tool lock, such that the distal end of the tool lock contacts the end wall of the recess along a contact line, which, in an exemplary embodiment, extends parallel to the axis of rotation of the tool lock. The distal end of the tool lock in the exemplary embodiment has a raised, curved shape that defines a plurality of lines parallel to the axis of rotation of the tool lock. The raised, curved shape of the distal end of the tool lock in this exemplary embodiment causes the distance between the axis of rotation of the tool lock and the contact line between the tool lock and the end wall of the recess to increase as the tool lock rotates further into the recess and correspondingly further into the locked position. Thus, any attempt to fold the tool member from the open position to the closed position without first disengaging the tool lock will prevent the tool member from moving from the open position to the closed position without first disengaging the tool lock from the tool member, because the curvature angle of the tool lock is shallow enough that friction prevents the tool lock from releasing without user input.

[0067] By defining a recess 80 in each tool component 13, which will be engaged by a tool lock 70 to have a planar end wall 84, while limiting the curved profile to the distal end 82 of the tool lock, the manufacture of the multipurpose tool 10 becomes more efficient. In this respect, it is easier to manufacture the recess that must be defined in each of the multiple tool components because producing a recess with a planar end wall is a more efficient process than producing a recess with a curved end wall. Conversely, only a single component (i.e., the distal end of the tool lock) forms a curved profile.

[0068] As described above, when the tool member is in the open position, the tool lock 70 is biased to engage with the recess 80 defined by the tool member 13. Figure 22 and Figure 24 In the exemplary embodiment depicted, the tool lock is biased by a tool lock spring 90 disposed within a channel of the corresponding handle 12. The tool lock spring... Figure 17 This is shown in more detail below. A tool lock spring defines an opening 92 through which the shaft 54 ​​extends, for example, a full or partial opening. The tool lock spring is included and extends between first and second spring portions 94, 96 on opposite sides of the opening, through which the shaft extends. Figure 22 As shown, a tool lock spring is mounted on a shaft such that a first spring portion operably engages the handle and a second spring portion operably engages the tool lock. In this respect, the first spring portion may directly contact the handle, or alternatively, it may directly contact another component that is positioned fixed relative to the handle. Similarly, the second spring portion may directly contact the tool lock, or alternatively, it may directly contact another component that is in direct contact with and moves with the tool lock. The first spring portion may engage different portions of the handle. However, in an exemplary embodiment, the first spring portion engages the base plate 16 of the handle. The second spring portion may also engage different portions of the tool lock, but in one embodiment, it operably engages the base 76, and more specifically, engages the proximal portion 76a of the base, which is located on one side of the pin 72 opposite the engaging portion 74. In this respect, the second spring portion of the exemplary embodiment is configured to engage the inner surface of the base of the tool lock, i.e., the surface of the tool lock facing inwards towards the handle, at a position on the side of the pin opposite the engaging portion. Therefore, the biasing force applied by the tool lock spring pushes the proximal portion of the base of the tool lock in the direction away from the channel, and correspondingly pushes the engaging portion of the tool lock in the direction of entering the channel and thus entering the notch 78 defined by the opposite sidewall 14 of the corresponding handle.

[0069] The multipurpose tool 10 of an exemplary embodiment may include a plurality of tool lock springs 90 mounted on the same shaft 54 ​​and configured to apply a biasing force to a tool lock 70 to press the tool lock into engagement with one or more tool members 13. Thus, the multipurpose tool of the exemplary embodiment may include a second tool lock spring and possibly additional tool lock springs, each tool lock spring also defining an opening through which the shaft extends. One or more tool members may also be mounted on the shaft and positioned between the plurality of tool lock springs (e.g., first and second tool lock springs). The plurality of tool lock springs may be positioned symmetrically on the shaft with respect to the width of the channel, such that the plurality of tool lock springs apply a relatively uniform biasing force across the width of the tool lock, thereby facilitating a secure engagement of the tool lock with a tool member on each opposite side of the respective handle.

[0070] When the tool component is in such a position Figure 14 In the case of the tool member in the open position, once the tool lock 70 has engaged the recess 80 defined by the tool member 13, the tool lock must be manually disengaged from the recess defined by the tool member. In this regard, the user must apply a lifting force to the engaged portion of the tool lock, which causes the tool lock to rotate, so that the engaged portion 74 moves upward away from the channel defined by the corresponding handle. The tool member can then be rotated from the open position to the closed position, as shown. Figure 23 , Figure 21 and Figure 20 The sequential sequence is shown and also as Figure 19 and Figure 18 As shown in the diagram. Therefore, the tool lock has a travel path from an engaged position to a disengaged position in response to a lifting force applied by the user, in which the engaged portion of the tool lock is driven by a biasing force into a notch 78 defined by the opposing sidewall 14 of the corresponding handle 12 and a recess defined by the tool member in the open position; in the disengaged position, the tool lock rotates relative to the handle, causing the engaged portion to disengage from the notch defined by the opposing sidewall of the corresponding handle and from the recess defined by the tool member, thereby allowing the tool member to rotate from the open position to the closed position. Thus, the travel path of the tool lock extends out of the channel and beyond the corresponding handle.

[0071] When the multipurpose tool 10 is in the closed handle position and the tool member 13 is in the open tool member position, and the engaging portion 74 of the tool lock 70 engages with the recess 80 defined by the tool member, the travel path of the tool lock in response to the lifting force extends beyond the corresponding handle to which the tool lock is pivotally connected, and extends into the recess 78 defined by the opposite sidewall 14 of the other handle 12, as shown. Figure 19 and Figure 23As shown in the diagram. In other words, the disengaged position of the tool lock is located outside the housing defined by the respective handle to which the tool lock is pivotally connected and inside the housing defined by the body of the other handle, for example, within a recess defined by the opposite sidewall of the other handle. By defining the multiple handles of the multi-purpose tool in recesses in the opposite sidewalls that align with each other when the handles are in the closed position, and by allowing the travel path of the tool lock on each handle to extend into the recess defined by the opposite sidewall of the other handle, the multi-purpose tool can be made more compact.

[0072] In addition to locking tool component 13 in the open position, tool lock 70 also applies a biasing force that must be overcome for the tool component to rotate between the closed and open positions. In this respect, and as... Figure 19 and Figure 21 As shown, when the tool member rotates between the closed and open positions, the tool lock engages the shank of the tool member. In this respect, the peripheral edge of the shank may define a curved surface over which the tool lock straddles as the tool member moves between the closed and open positions. The tool lock does not prevent the tool member from opening, but provides a biasing force in the form of frictional resistance as the engaging portion 74 of the tool lock deflects outward through its engagement with the peripheral edge of the shank of the tool member, until the engaging portion of the tool lock aligns with the recess 80 defined by the tool member and is pressed into engagement with the recess by the biasing force. Thus, the interaction between the tool lock and the tool member as the tool member moves between the closed and open positions prevents the tool member from opening in an uncontrolled manner.

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, a magnet 52 carried by the handle 12 (e.g., a base plate 16 near each handle) is also used to bias the tool member 13 to the tool member closed position. The magnetic force biasing the tool member to the tool member closed position can be overcome by a user applying a lifting force to rotate the tool member from the tool member closed position to the tool member open position. However, the magnetic force also prevents uncontrolled or unintentional opening of the tool member.

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, the tool lock spring 90 (more specifically, the first spring portion 94 of the tool lock spring) is configured to receive the magnet 52. In this respect, the first spring portion of the tool lock spring may define a recess 98 for receiving the magnet. Thus, the tool lock spring can be used for a variety of purposes to bias the tool lock 70 into an engaged position and secure the magnet within the corresponding handle 12.

[0075] Tool member 13, such as the shank of a tool member, can be configured such that, when the tool member is in the closed position, the longer tool member is physically closer to the magnet 52 than the shorter tool member. Thus, the magnet of this exemplary embodiment can bias the longer tool member into the closed position using a slightly larger magnetic force from the shorter tool member. Both the longer and shorter tool members are generally slightly spaced from the magnet (the shorter tool member is spaced further from the magnet than the longer tool member).

[0076] As described above, the multipurpose tool 10 may include various tool components 13. For example, one tool component may be a flat plug puller 100. Figure 25 As shown, the flat plug puller includes a shaft 102 and threads 104 extending outward from first and second opposing sides 106, 108 of the shaft. However, the threads of the flat plug puller are discontinuous, thus not extending completely around the shaft and not extending between the first and second opposing sides. In this respect, the shaft has third and fourth opposing sides 110, 112 between the first and second opposing sides, and the third and fourth opposing sides have a planar configuration. See also Figure 26 The third and fourth sides do not include helical threads. Due to its configuration, the flat corkscrew can be included within a tool member carried by a corresponding handle 12, for example by being rotatably mounted on a shaft 54, but not requiring as much space within the handle as a conventional corkscrew, in which threads are helically wound around the entire shaft. However, the threads on the first and second opposing sides of the shaft are sufficient to allow the corkscrew to engage the cork and perform its intended corkscrew function. In some embodiments, the flat corkscrew also includes a cap lifter 114.

[0077] Tool component 13 can be formed in various ways. However, in an exemplary embodiment, one or more tool components may include a shank defining an opening, through which a shaft 54 ​​extends, and a tool, such as a blade, saw blade, screwdriver blade, etc., extending outward from the shank. In this exemplary embodiment, at least the distal end of the tool furthest from the shank is tapered, thus having a narrower width than the shank. In this respect, the tool can be tapered such that the width of the tool gradually decreases from the proximal end of the tool near the shank, for example, from the pivot point of the tool, to the distal end of the tool furthest from the shank. (See example...) Figure 27 The width W1 of the blade near the distal end can be smaller than the width W2 of the middle or proximal portion of the blade. Due to the tapered nature of the tool, the tool components can more easily switch between the closed and open positions, generating less frictional resistance during opening and closing through interaction with adjacent tool components.

[0078] The multipurpose tool 10 can be assembled in various ways. However, in an exemplary embodiment, each handle 12 is formed of multiple handle portions (e.g., a pair of handle portions as described above). In this exemplary embodiment, the handle portions can be positioned such that the outer sidewall 14 lies flat on a surface (e.g., a table or bench). A shaft 54 ​​can be positioned through a corresponding opening defined by the outer sidewall to extend upward therefrom, and one or more tool components 13 can then be stacked on the shaft. One or more tool components can then be positioned on the shaft. To increase the flexibility of tool component assembly, the tool components are uniform, so that they can be actuated and unlocked in the same manner by the user's right or left hand, thereby avoiding problems related to the handiness of the tool components. Once the desired tools have been stacked on the shaft, another handle portion can be mounted on the stacked tools, and in some embodiments, a screw can be inserted through another handle portion to engage the shaft. Clamps 34 can also be positioned within channels defined by the handles. The clamps carried by the pair of handles can then be rotatably connected at a pivot point 36 to complete the assembly of the multipurpose tool.

[0079] By assembling the multipurpose tool 10 in this manner, the tool components can be mounted on the shaft 54 ​​in a more controlled and systematic way. Additionally, the user or supplier can customize the tool components or the relative positions of the tool components included within all multipurpose tools. For ease of configuration, each tool component can have the same thickness. Alternatively, the tool components can have different thicknesses selected from a set of predetermined thicknesses, for example, in increments of 0.02 inches or 0.04 inches.

[0080] Although a multi-purpose tool 10 with multiple handles 12 has been described, such description is provided by way of example rather than limitation, because the embodiments can be used in conjunction with other types of tools. For example, a tool lock 70 and an associated tool lock spring 90, along with one or more magnets 52, can be used with pocket knives and folding knives. In this respect, the pocket knife has a single handle with a shaft on which one or more tool members are rotatably mounted. Thus, the tool members are configured to rotate between open and closed positions. The pocket knife may include a tool lock and a tool lock spring as described above, the tool lock spring being mounted on the shaft and configured to bias the tool lock into an engagement position with a recess defined by the tool member when the tool member is rotated to the open position. Thus, the tool member can be held in the open position until the tool lock is raised to the disengaged position and the tool member rotates to the closed position. The pocket knife of the exemplary embodiment may also include one or more magnets carried by the handle, such as a base plate near the handle, to bias the tool member into the closed position.

[0081] Similarly, the folding knife 120 has a single handle 12, which defines first and second channels open through opposite sides of the handle, such as... Figure 28As shown in the diagram. The handle of the folding knife may include a base plate disposed within the handle and extending longitudinally through the handle to separate the first and second channels. The handle of the folding knife includes a respective shaft 54 ​​in each channel, on which one or more tool members 13 are rotatably mounted. The tool members are thus configured to rotate between open and closed positions. The shaft may be positioned near the opposite end of the handle such that the open position of the tool member located in the first channel extends in a direction opposite to the open position of the tool member located in the second channel. The folding knife may include first and second tool locks 70 and first and second tool lock springs associated with the tool members in the first and second channels, respectively. As before, each tool lock spring is mounted on the respective shaft and configured to bias the associated tool lock member into an engagement position with a recess defined by the tool member when the tool member is rotated from the respective channel to the open position. Thus, the tool member can be secured in the open position until the tool lock is raised to the disengaged position and the tool member rotates to the closed position. As described above, the folding knife of the exemplary embodiment may also include one or more magnets 52 carried by the handle, for example near the base plate of the handle, to bias the tool member into the tool member closed position.

[0082] Benefiting from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will conceive of many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forth herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terminology is used herein, it is used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes.

Claims

1. A multi-purpose tool, comprising: A handle that defines a channel and includes a shaft extending therethrough; One or more tool components, rotatably mounted on the shaft and configured to rotate between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the open position the one or more tool components extend from the handle and in the closed position the one or more tool components fold into the channel defined by the handle; A tool component magnet, the tool component magnet being carried by the handle and configured to apply a magnetic force to bias the one or more tool components to a closed position; A tool lock, carried by the handle and configured to engage the one or more tool components in an open position and prevent the one or more tool components from rotating to a closed position; as well as A first tool lock spring defines an opening through which the shaft extends, wherein the first tool lock spring extends between a first spring portion and a second spring portion and is mounted on the shaft such that the first spring portion receives the tool component magnet and operatively engages the handle, and the second spring portion operatively engages the tool lock and applies a biasing force to the tool lock to push the tool lock into engagement with the one or more tools.

2. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 1, wherein, The handle includes opposing first and second sidewalls defining the channel and a base plate extending from at least the first sidewall toward the second sidewall, wherein the first spring portion operatively engages the base plate of the handle.

3. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 1, wherein, The first tool lock spring defines a recess configured to receive the magnet of the tool component.

4. The multipurpose tool of claim 1, further comprising a second tool locking spring defining an opening through which the shaft extends, wherein, The second tool lock spring extends between the first spring portion and the second spring portion and is mounted on the shaft such that the first spring portion receives the tool component magnet and operatively engages the handle, and the second spring portion operatively engages the tool lock and, in combination with the first tool lock spring, applies a biasing force to the tool lock to push the tool lock into engagement with the one or more tool components, wherein the first tool lock spring and the second tool lock spring are positioned on the shaft, thereby spaced apart from the one or more tool components mounted on the shaft between the first tool lock spring and the second tool lock spring.

5. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 4, wherein, The first tool lock spring and the second tool lock spring are positioned symmetrically within the channel relative to the handle.

6. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 1, wherein, The tool lock is positioned near a first end of the handle, and the distal end of the tool lock furthest from the first end of the handle has a profile that is at least partially curved, wherein the one or more tool members define a recess configured to receive the tool lock when the one or more tool members are in an open position, and wherein the one or more tool members have a planar end wall that, when the one or more tool members are in the open position, defines a portion of the recess furthest from the first end of the handle and near the distal end of the tool lock having a profile that is at least partially curved.

7. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more tool components include a shank defining an opening and a blade extending outward from the shank, the shaft extending through the opening, wherein at least the distal end of the blade furthest from the shank is tapered, thus having a narrower width than the shank.

8. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more tool components include a flat plug puller, the flat plug puller including a shaft and threads extending outward from a first opposite side and a second opposite side of the shaft of the flat plug puller, wherein the threads are discontinuous and do not extend between the first opposite side and the second opposite side, and wherein the shaft of the flat plug puller has a third opposite side and a fourth opposite side between the first opposite side and the second opposite side, the third opposite side and the fourth opposite side having a planar configuration.

9. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 1, further comprising: A second handle, configured for relative movement with respect to the handle between a closed position and an open position, wherein each of the handle and the second handle includes a second axis extending therethrough; A first clamp and a second clamp are correspondingly rotatably connected to the handle and the second handle, wherein each of the first clamp and the second clamp defines an opening through which the second shaft of the corresponding handle extends; and An elastic member, at least partially arranged within the opening defined by each of the first and second clamps, so as to apply a biasing force to the respective clamp during rotation of the respective clamp relative to the respective handle.

10. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 9, wherein, The opening defined by each of the first clamp and the second clamp defines a first portion and a second portion of different sizes, wherein the second shaft extends through the first portion and the elastic member is arranged within the second portion.

11. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 10, wherein, The second part is larger than the first part.

12. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 9, wherein, The elastic member is formed of an elastomeric material.

13. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 9, wherein, The handle defines a cam surface, and the first clamp includes a cam follower configured to ride on the cam surface when the first clamp is rotated relative to the handle.

14. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 13, wherein, The first clamp is configured such that during rotation of the first clamp relative to the handle, the interaction between the cam follower and the cam surface causes the first clamp to move relative to the second axis, such that the elastic member is pushed toward the second axis and the elastic member applies a biasing force to the first clamp.

15. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 13, wherein, The handle also defines a notch near one end of the cam surface to receive the cam follower when the first clamp has been rotated to the open position relative to the handle.

16. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 13, wherein, The cam follower is also configured to engage the one or more tool components and hold the one or more tool components in the tool component closed position when the handle and the second handle are in the handle open position, and is also configured to be positioned outside the travel path of the one or more tool components when the handle and the second handle are in the handle closed position, thereby allowing the one or more tool components to move to the tool component open position.

17. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 9, wherein, The tool lock has a travel path from an engaged position to a disengaged position, and wherein, when the handle and the second handle are in the closed position, the tool lock in the disengaged position extends beyond the handle and enters the cavity defined by the second handle.

18. The multi-purpose tool according to claim 9, wherein, Both the handle and the second handle include opposing first and second sidewalls defining a channel and a base plate extending from at least the first sidewall toward the second sidewall, wherein the base plate of each of the handle and the second handle includes an outwardly extending tab and defines a hole adjacent to the tab, wherein the tab of the handle is aligned with the hole of the second handle, and the tab of the second handle is aligned with the hole of the handle, thereby allowing the handle and the second handle to interlock in a closed position.

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