Clamping tool with cross member

Abstract

A gripping tool, such as pliers, is provided. The gripping tool includes a pair of handles, each having a grip section connected to a neck section. A pivot joint connects the neck segments to each other such that the neck segments pivot about the pivot joint when the grip segments are moved relative to each other. When the grip segments are pulled sufficiently close to each other, the neck segments are configured to intersect each other at a location spaced from the pivot joint.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 273,029, filed on October 28, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] The present invention generally relates to the field of tools and particularly to a clamping tool having components that are pivotally coupled together and cross each other at positions spaced apart from positions where the components are pivoted relative to each other. Utility Model Content

[0004] One embodiment of the utility model relates to a clamping tool, which comprises a lower jaw, a first component, an upper jaw, a second component and a pivot joint. The first component comprises: a first neck section, which extends from a first neck end to an opposite second neck end, and the lower jaw is located at the first neck end; a first cross section, which extends upward from the first cross end to an opposite second cross end, and the first neck section is located at the first cross end; and a first grip section, which extends from the first grip end to an opposite second grip end, and the first cross section is located at the first grip end. The upper jaw is located on the side of the longitudinal axis of the clamping tool opposite to the lower jaw. The second component includes: a second neck section extending from a first neck end to an opposite second neck end, the upper jaw being at the first neck end of the second component; a second cross section extending upward from the first cross end to an opposite second cross end, the second neck section being at the first cross end of the second component; and a second grip section extending from the first grip end to an opposite second grip end, the second cross section being at the first grip end of the second component. The pivot joint pivotally couples the first component to the second component at a location where the first neck section extends from the lower jaw and the second neck section extends from the upper jaw. The first component and the second component pivot relative to each other about a rotational axis as the upper jaw and the lower jaw move between an open configuration in which the upper jaw and the lower jaw are spaced apart and a closed configuration in which the upper jaw and the lower jaw contact each other. The gripping tool defines: a first distance along the longitudinal axis between the rotational axis and the second neck end of the first neck section when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration; and a second distance along the longitudinal axis between the second intersection end of the first grip section and a center point where the first intersection section intersects the second intersection section when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration. The second distance is less than 50% of the first distance.

[0005] Another embodiment of the utility model relates to a lower jaw, a first component, an upper jaw, a second component and a pivot joint. The first component includes: a first neck section extending from a first neck end to an opposite second neck end, and the lower jaw is located at the first neck end; a first cross section extending upward from the first cross end to an opposite second cross end, and the first neck section is located at the first cross end; and a first grip section extending from the first grip end to an opposite second grip end, and the first cross section is located at the first grip end. The upper jaw is located on the side of the longitudinal axis of the clamping tool opposite to the lower jaw. The second component includes: a second neck section extending from a first neck end to an opposite second neck end, the upper jaw being at the first neck end of the second component; a second cross section extending upwardly from the first cross end to an opposite second cross end, the second neck section being at the first cross end of the second component; and a second grip section extending from the first grip end to an opposite second grip end, the second cross section being at the first grip end of the second component. The pivot joint pivotally couples the first component to the second component at a location where the first neck section extends from the lower jaw and the second neck section extends from the upper jaw. As the upper jaw and the lower jaw move between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the first component and the second component pivot relative to each other about a rotational axis, in which the upper jaw and the lower jaw are spaced apart in the open configuration and in which the upper jaw and the lower jaw contact each other in the closed configuration, such that moving the grip section of the first component away from the grip section of the second component draws the upper jaw and the lower jaw apart from each other to form an open configuration, and moving the grip section of the first component toward the grip section of the second component draws the upper jaw and the lower jaw together to form a closed configuration. When the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, the first cross section of the first component crosses the second cross section of the second component, and the first cross end of the first component is located below the first cross end of the second component. As the upper jaw and the lower jaw move from the closed configuration to the open configuration, the first cross section of the first component does not cross the second cross section of the second component, such that the first cross end of the first component is positioned above the first cross end of the second component.

[0006] Another embodiment of the utility model relates to a clamping tool, which includes a lower jaw, a first component, an upper jaw, a second component and a pivot joint. The first component includes: a first neck section, which extends from a first neck end to an opposite second neck end, and the lower jaw is located at the first neck end; a first cross section, which extends upward from the first cross end to an opposite second cross end, and the first neck section is located at the first cross end; and a first grip section, which extends from the first grip end to an opposite second grip end, and the first cross section is located at the first grip end. The upper jaw is located on the side of the longitudinal axis of the clamping tool opposite to the lower jaw. The second component includes: a second neck section extending from a first neck end to an opposite second neck end, the upper jaw being at the first neck end of the second component; a second cross section extending upwardly from the first cross end to an opposite second cross end, the second neck section being at the first cross end of the second component; and a second grip section extending from the first grip end to an opposite second grip end, the second cross section being at the first grip end of the second component. The pivot joint pivotally couples the first component to the second component at a location where the first neck section extends from the lower jaw and the second neck section extends from the upper jaw. The first component and the second component pivot relative to each other about the rotational axis as the upper jaw and the lower jaw move between an open configuration in which the upper jaw and the lower jaw are spaced apart and a closed configuration in which the upper jaw and the lower jaw contact each other such that moving the grip section of the first component away from the grip section of the second component draws the upper jaw and the lower jaw apart from each other to form the open configuration, and moving the grip section of the first component toward the grip section of the second component draws the upper jaw and the lower jaw together to form the closed configuration. When the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, the first neck section extends downwardly from the lower jaw at an angle of less than 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis, and the second neck section extends upwardly from the upper jaw at an angle of less than 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis. When the upper jaw and the lower jaw are moved to the open configuration, the first neck segment is pulled upward until the first neck segment extends upward from the lower jaw, and the second neck segment is pulled downward until the second neck segment extends downward from the upper jaw.

[0007] Another embodiment of the utility model relates to a clamping tool having a first component and a second component pivotally coupled thereto. The first component has a first neck section connected to an upper grip section, and the second component has a second neck section connected to a lower grip section. A pivot joint connects the first neck section to the second neck section so that when the upper grip section and the lower grip section move relative to each other, the first neck section and the second neck section respectively pivot about the pivot joint. The first component and the second component are configured to cross each other at a position spaced apart from the pivot joint when the upper grip section moves sufficiently toward the lower grip section.

[0008] In a particular embodiment, the first component and the second component are further configured to not intersect each other when the upper grip segment is positioned a sufficient distance away from the lower grip segment.

[0009] Alternative exemplary embodiments involve other features and combinations of features that may be generally recited. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The present application will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, and in which:

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a clamping tool having cross members according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 1 Side view of the clamping tool.

[0013] Figure 3 is a side view of a clamping tool having a cross member according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 is a side view of a clamping tool having a cross member according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5 is a top view of a clamping tool having cross members according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 is a side view of a clamping tool having a cross member according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 is a side view of a clamping tool having a cross member according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 7 Exploded view of the clamping tool.

[0019] Fig. 9 According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 7 Side view of a clamping tool shown in an open position.

[0020] Fig.10 According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 7 A rotated side view of a clamping tool shown in a closed position.

[0021] Fig.11 According to an exemplary embodiment Fig.10 A side view of a gripping tool shown with a pair of upper and lower jaws opened 0.5 inches.

[0022] Fig.12 According to an exemplary embodiment Fig.10 A side view of a gripping tool shown with a pair of upper and lower jaws opened 1 inch.

[0023] Fig.13 According to an exemplary embodiment Fig.10 A side view of a gripping tool shown with a pair of upper and lower jaws opened 1.5 inches.

[0024] Fig.14 According to an exemplary embodiment Fig.10 A side view of a gripping tool shown with a pair of upper and lower jaws opened 2 inches. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, various embodiments of tools having cross-members are shown. In a specific embodiment discussed herein, the tool is a gripping tool. The gripping tool has a first component coupled to a lower jaw (e.g., specifically integral with the lower jaw) and a second component coupled to an upper jaw (e.g., specifically integral with the second component). The first component is pivotally connected to the second component, such as by a pivot joint, so that movement of the first component relative to the second component simultaneously moves the lower jaw relative to the upper jaw. The first component includes a first neck section that extends downwardly from the pivot joint at a small angle when the component is in a closed position. The first cross section is coupled to the first neck section (e.g., specifically integral with the first neck section) and extends upwardly from the first neck section at an angle to engage with an upper handle. The second component includes a second neck section that extends upwardly from the pivot joint at a small angle. The second cross section is coupled to the second neck section (e.g., specifically integral with the second neck section) and extends downwardly from the second neck section at an angle to engage with a lower handle.

[0026] Compared to standard gripping tools (such as pliers) in which the handles cross only at one or more connection points (such as at a pivot joint) during use, the components are configured herein to cross at a location spaced apart from the pivot joint. When the first grip and the second grip move relative to each other, the first cross section moves substantially freely on the second cross section. Applicants have discovered that this cross-component configuration allows the neck segments to have a smaller angular spacing while maintaining the same jaw opening size as standard pliers. The narrower neck profile produced by this configuration reduces the amount of clearance required to open and close the gripping tool, thereby allowing the gripping tool to operate in narrower spaces, such as connecting automotive hoses in difficult-to-reach locations. Further, as described herein, exemplary embodiments of gripping tools having a cross-component configuration are more cost-effective to manufacture and provide a greater mechanical advantage to the user than other known solutions for narrowing the neck profile of a gripping tool (e.g., a dual pivot mechanism).

[0027] Figure 1 to Figure 2 Different views of a gripping tool 10, such as pliers, are shown. The gripping tool 10 includes a first component 12 and a second component 14. The first component 12 is coupled to the lower jaw 36, and the second component 14 is coupled to the upper jaw 30. In the embodiment shown here, the first component 12 is integrally formed with the lower jaw 36, and the second component 14 is integrally formed with the upper jaw 30. In other embodiments, other substantially rigid forms of mechanical coupling are possible. In addition, Figure 2 The illustrated jaws are symmetrical about a longitudinal axis 25 (eg, a horizontal axis) of the gripping tool 10 and form a generally straight profile along the longitudinal axis 25 of the gripping tool 10. The first component 12 is connected to the second component 14 by a pivot joint 24.

[0028] In various embodiments, the upper jaw 30 is on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis 25 of the gripping tool 10 from the lower jaw 36, wherein the upper jaw 30 is above the longitudinal axis 25 and the lower jaw 36 is below the longitudinal axis 25. In other words, the term "downward" refers to the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 and means that the lower jaw 36 is on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis 25 from the upper jaw 30, and the term "upward" refers to the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 and means that the upper jaw 30 is on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis 25 from the lower jaw 36.

[0029] refer to Figure 2, the first component 12 includes: a first neck section 18 extending from a first neck end 50 to an opposite second neck end 52, where the lower jaw 36 is located; a first cross section 28 extending upwardly from a first cross end 54 to an opposite second cross end 56, where the first neck section 18 is located; and a first grip section 16 extending from a first grip end 58 to an opposite second grip end 60, where the first cross section 28 is located at the first grip end 58. In other words, the first neck section 18 is coupled to and extends from the lower jaw 36, such as by integral formation, the first cross section 28 is coupled to and extends from the first neck section 18, such as by integral formation, and the first grip section 16 is coupled to and extends from the first cross section, such as by integral formation.

[0030] When the clamping tool 10 is in the closed configuration, the first neck segment 18 extends downwardly from the pivot joint 24 at an angle A with the longitudinal axis 25 of the clamping tool 10. In various embodiments, the angle A is less than 45 degrees, more specifically less than 30 degrees, and even more specifically less than 10 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 25.

[0031] When the clamping tool 10 is in the closed configuration, the first intersection segment 28 extends upward from the first neck segment 18 at an angle B relative to the longitudinal axis 25 of the clamping tool 10, thereby joining the first neck segment 18 to the first grip segment 16. In various embodiments, the angle B is less than 60 degrees, more specifically less than 50 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 25. In various embodiments, the angle B is between 35 degrees and 55 degrees, more specifically 45 degrees. In various embodiments, the angle A is less than the angle B, more specifically, the angle A is less than half of the angle B.

[0032] In various embodiments, when the clamping tool 10 is in the closed configuration, the second neck end 52 of the first component 12 is below the second neck end 64 of the second component 14 and the first grip end 58 of the first component 12 is above the first grip end 70 of the second component 14 .

[0033] In various embodiments, the second component 14 is symmetrical to the first component 12 about the longitudinal axis 25. The second component 14 includes a second neck section 22 extending from a first neck end 62 to an opposite second neck end 64, where the upper jaw 30 is located, a second intersection section 34 extending upwardly from a first intersection end 66 to an opposite second intersection end 68, where the second neck section 22 is located, and a second grip section 20 extending from a first grip end 70 to an opposite second grip end 72, where the second intersection section 34 is located at the first grip end 70. In other words, the second neck section 22 is coupled to and extends from the upper jaw 30, such as via integral formation, the second intersection section 34 is coupled to and extends from the second neck section 22, such as via integral formation, and the second grip section 20 is coupled to and extends from the second intersection section 34, such as via integral formation.

[0034] When the gripping tool 10 is in the closed configuration, the second neck segment 22 extends upward from the pivot joint 24 at an angle symmetrical to the angle A of the first neck segment 18. The second intersection segment 34 extends upward from the second neck segment 22 at an angle symmetrical to the angle B relative to the longitudinal axis 25 of the gripping tool 10, thereby joining the second neck segment 18 to the second grip segment 20. For example, in various embodiments, when the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 are in the closed configuration, the first neck segment 18 extends downward from the lower jaw 36 at an angle of less than 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 25, and the second neck segment 22 extends upward from the upper jaw 30 at an angle of less than 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 25.

[0035] Figure 1 to Figure 2 The first and second neck segments 18, 22 are shown as being generally straight and elongated. Here, the first and second neck segments 18, 22 are integrally formed with the first and second cross segments 28, 34, but in other embodiments, other generally rigid forms of mechanical coupling are permitted. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second components 12, 14 do not form additional mechanical connections to each other at the first and second cross segments 28, 34.

[0036] When the first grip segment 16 and the second grip segment 20 are moved sufficiently close to each other, the first intersection segment 28 intersects with the second intersection segment 34 at the intersection point 41. The first intersection segment 28 and the second intersection segment 34 are substantially free to move relative to each other as guided by the movement of the first grip segment 16 and the second grip segment 20. Further, in some embodiments, as the first grip segment 16 and the second grip segment 20 are pulled sufficiently far from each other, the first intersection segment 28 and the second intersection segment 34 may substantially not intersect with each other ( Fig. 9 ).

[0037] In this embodiment, the holding tool 10 is at least partially formed from forged steel, which is resistant to corrosion damage and droplet damage. However, other rigid materials are also possible. Figure 2 The first grip section 16 and the second grip section 20 shown are formed, for example, by dipping a portion of the rigid material forming the gripping tool into a PVC grip material and covering the rigid portion with a more compliant material suitable for supporting human hand gripping. Other ways of forming the grip sections known in the art are also permitted. Figure 2 The grip segments shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 each include a first recess 46 proximate the location where the respective grip segment 16 , 20 connects to the respective intersection segment 28 , 34 , and a second recess 48 proximate the opposite end of the grip segments 16 , 20 .

[0038] The pivot joint 24 pivotably couples the first component 12 to the second component 14 at a location where the first neck section 18 extends from the lower jaw 36 and the second neck section 22 extends from the upper jaw 30. The first component 12 and the second component 14 pivot relative to each other about the rotation axis 11 as the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 move between an open configuration in which the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 are spaced apart and a closed configuration in which the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 contact each other.

[0039] Moving the first grip section 16 of the first component 12 away from the second grip section 20 of the second component 14 draws the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 away from each other to form an open configuration. Moving the first grip section 16 of the first component 12 toward the second grip section 20 of the second component 14 draws the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 together to form a closed configuration. As the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 move from the closed configuration to the open configuration, the first neck section 18 is pulled upward until the first neck section 18 extends upward from the lower jaw 36, and the second neck section 22 is pulled downward until the second neck section 22 extends downward from the upper jaw 30. As the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 move from the closed configuration to the open configuration, the first intersection section 28 of the first component 12 does not intersect with the second intersection section 34 of the second component 14, such that the first intersection end 54 of the first component 12 is positioned above the first intersection end 66 of the second component 14. When the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 are in the closed configuration, the first intersection section 28 of the first component 12 intersects the second intersection section 34 of the second component 14 and the first intersection end 54 of the first component 12 is located below the first intersection end 66 of the second component 14 .

[0040] When the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 are in the closed configuration, the second intersection end 56 of the first component 12 is above the second neck end 64 of the second component 14. When the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 are in the closed configuration, the second grip end 60 of the first component 12 is above the first grip end 58 of the first component 12. When the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 are in the closed configuration, the first grip end 58 of the first component 12 is above the first grip end 70 of the second component 14.

[0041] In various embodiments, the gripping tool 10 includes and / or defines a first distance 42 along the longitudinal axis 25 between the rotation axis 11 and the second neck end 52 of the first neck segment 18 when the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 are in the closed configuration. The gripping tool 10 also includes and / or defines a second distance 43 along the longitudinal axis 25 between the second intersection end 56 of the first grip segment 28 and a center point 41 where the first intersection segment 28 and the second intersection segment 34 intersect when the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 are in the closed configuration. In various embodiments, the second distance 43 is less than 50% of the first distance 42, more specifically, the second distance 43 is less than 25% of the first distance 42, or more specifically, the second distance 43 is equal to 20% of the first distance 42.

[0042] The gripping tool 10 also includes and / or defines a third distance 44 which is the entire length of the gripping tool 10 along the longitudinal axis 25 when the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 are in the closed configuration, and the first distance 42 is at least 25% of the third distance 44 .

[0043] The gripping tool 10 also includes and / or defines a fourth distance 38 along the longitudinal axis 25 between the first grip end 58 of the first grip segment 16 and the second grip end 60 of the first grip segment 16 when the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 are in the closed configuration. The gripping tool 10 also includes and / or defines a fifth distance 45 along the longitudinal axis 25 between the first intersecting end 54 of the first grip segment 28 and the second intersecting end 56 of the first grip segment 28 when the upper jaw 30 and the lower jaw 36 are in the closed configuration.

[0044] In various embodiments, first distance 42 is at least 50% of fourth distance 38 plus fifth distance 45 (ie, first distance 42 ≥ (0.5*(fourth distance 38 + fifth distance 45))). In various embodiments, second distance 43 is less than 25% of fourth distance 38.

[0045] In various embodiments, the distance 38 (e.g., the horizontal length of the grip segment) is between about 4.5 inches and 8.5 inches, more specifically about 4.2 inches (107 mm). In various embodiments, the distance 44 (e.g., the total horizontal length when closed) is between 11 inches and 16.5 inches, more specifically about 13 inches (330 mm). The slender profile of the neck allows the clamping tool 10 to be inserted into narrow spaces. In addition, the relatively straight, slender profile of the neck segments 18, 22 allows the neck segments 18, 22 to operate in narrower spaces. Increasing the length of the first neck segment 18 and the second neck segment 22 increases the distance that the first grip segment 16 and the second grip segment 20 must be pulled apart before the first cross-section 28 and the second cross-section 34 do not intersect and begin to increase the width of the neck profile.

[0046] refer to Figure 3 , shows a clamping tool 110 according to an exemplary embodiment. Except for the differences discussed herein, the clamping tool 110 is substantially the same as the clamping tool 10. Here, the neck sections 118, 122 and the cross sections 128, 134 are similar to the Figure 2 124 and 126. The upper and lower jaws 130 and 136 are substantially the same as shown. However, the upper and lower grip segments 116 and 120 are formed to have different shapes. Here, the upper and lower grips 116 and 120 are formed with recesses 146 only where the respective grip segments 116, 120 connect to the respective cross segments 128, 134. In addition, the upper and lower jaws 130, 136 include multiple multi-functional clamping areas 152 to support a wider range of clamping tasks that may require different clamping shapes, different levels or forms of serrations, etc., to achieve maximized clamping performance.

[0047] refer to Figure 4 , a gripping tool 210 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Gripping tool 210 is substantially the same as gripping tool 10 and gripping tool 110 except for the differences discussed herein. Gripping tool 210 includes a gripping segment of yet another shape that may be applied to the cross-handle configuration disclosed herein. Here, upper gripping segment 216 and lower gripping segment 220 are shown as having a single recess 250 positioned generally in the middle of each gripping segment 216, 220.

[0048] refer to Figure 5 , a gripping tool 310 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Gripping tool 310 is substantially the same as gripping tool 10 and gripping tool 110 except for the differences discussed herein. Gripping tool 310 includes yet another jaw configuration that may be applied to the cross-handle configuration disclosed herein. Here, lower jaw 336 includes a tip that is angled 45 degrees relative to horizontal axis 325 of gripping tool 310. Although the upper jaw is not shown here, it forms the same angle as lower jaw 336.

[0049] refer to Figure 6, a gripping tool 410 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Gripping tool 410 is substantially the same as gripping tool 10 and gripping tool 110 except for the differences discussed herein. Gripping tool 410 is a hose gripping pliers and includes yet another jaw configuration that may be applied to the cross-handle configuration disclosed herein. Here, upper jaw 430 and lower jaw 436 together form an opening 438 that is sized to grip a hose, such as an automotive hose.

[0050] refer to Figure 7 , a clamping tool 510 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. Except for the differences discussed herein, the clamping tool 510 is substantially the same as the clamping tool 10 and the clamping tool 110. The clamping tool 510 includes a gripping segment of another shape that can be applied to the cross-handle configuration disclosed herein. Here, the upper gripping segment 516 and the lower gripping segment 520 are each shown as having a single recessed portion 550, which is positioned near one end of the respective gripping segment 516, 520 that is aligned with the position where the gripping segment 516, 520 is connected to the respective cross-segment 528, 534. In addition, another variation of the multifunctional clamping area 552 is shown to support a wider range of clamping tasks. For example, the multifunctional clamping area 552 can support clamping tasks that require fine teeth or coarse teeth. The multifunctional clamping area 552 can also support clamping tasks involving pulling thin wires and / or thick wires and turning small nuts and / or large nuts.

[0051] refer to Figure 8 , an exploded view of the clamping tool 510 is shown. Here, the first handle 512 is shown separated from the second handle 514. In this embodiment, the pivot joint is formed by a rivet 515, which is configured to rotatably couple the first handle 512 to the second handle 514 when assembled. In addition, as described above, a pair of grips 517 and 519 are shown separated from the rigid bases of the corresponding first grip segment 516 and second grip segment 520.

[0052] refer to Fig. 9 , shows a side view of the clamping tool 510, wherein the clamping tool 510 is arranged in an open position. Here, the grip sections 516, 520 are shown pulled far enough from each other so that the cross sections 528, 534 do not cross each other, and the neck sections 518, 522 cross each other and are substantially non-crossed on opposite sides (with the neck sections 518, 522 being substantially non-crossed on opposite sides). Figure 7 and Fig.10When the distal ends of the grip sections 516, 520 are pulled apart a distance 554, the jaws 530, 536 are separated at an angle C at their respective distal ends and separated by a distance 556. In the position shown in this embodiment, the distance 554 between the distal ends of the grip sections 516, 520 is approximately 8 inches, the distance 556 between the distal ends of the jaws 530, 536 is approximately 2 inches, and the separation angle C between the jaws 530, 536 is approximately 35 degrees. Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 5 , the location where the cross section 528 extends from the neck section 518 is spaced apart from the location where the cross section 534 extends from the neck section 522 by a distance 555. In a particular embodiment, the distance 555 is equal to the distance 556 between the distal ends of the jaws 530, 536.

[0053] refer to Figures 10 to 14 , showing the clamping tool 510 from the closed position ( Fig.10 ) progresses to a series of rotational side views to an open position in which the distal ends of the jaws 530, 536 are separated by a spacing distance 531. Figures 11 to 14 530 and the lower jaw 536 are shown in the figure at different spacing distances when they are pulled apart. Specifically, the spacing distance 531 is shown as 0.5 inches ( Fig.11 )、1 inch( Fig.12 )、1.5 inches( Fig.13 ) and 2 inches ( Fig.14 ). As this progression occurs, the intersection segments 528, 534 de-intersect one another, and the neck segments 518, 522 de-intersect one another and then again substantially de-intersect one another.

[0054] It should be understood that the drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments in detail, and it should be understood that the present 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 as limiting.

[0055] In view of this specification, further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the utility model will be obvious to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this specification should be interpreted as being only illustrative. The construction and arrangement shown in different exemplary embodiments are only illustrative. Although only several embodiments are described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications (for example, the size, size, structure, shape and ratio, parameter value, installation arrangement, use of materials, color, orientation, etc. of various elements) can be made without substantially departing from the novel teaching content and advantages of the subject described herein. Some elements shown as being integrally formed can be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of the element can be reversed or otherwise changed, and the nature or quantity or position of the discrete element can be changed or changed. According to alternative embodiments, the order or sequence of any process, logical algorithm or method steps can be changed or reordered. Without departing from the scope of the utility model, other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions can also be made to the design, operating conditions and arrangement of various exemplary embodiments. In addition, as used herein, the article "one" is intended to include one or more parts or elements, and is not intended to be interpreted as only one.

[0056] A plurality of different embodiments of the present invention relate to any combination of any features, and any such feature combination may be claimed in this application or in future applications. Any feature, element or component of any exemplary embodiment discussed above may be used alone or in combination with any feature, element or component of any other embodiment discussed above.

Claims

1. A clamping tool, characterized in that: The clamping tool comprises: Lower jaw; A first component, the first component comprising: a first neck section extending from a first neck end to an opposite second neck end, the lower jaw being located at the first neck end; a first intersection segment extending upwardly from a first intersection end to an opposite second intersection end, the first neck segment being located at the first intersection end; and a first grip section extending from a first grip end to an opposite second grip end, the first intersection section being located at the first grip end; an upper jaw, wherein the upper jaw is on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis of the gripping tool from the lower jaw; A second component, the second component comprising: a second neck section extending from the first neck end to an opposite second neck end, the upper jaw being located at the first neck end of the second member; a second intersection segment extending downwardly from the first intersection end to an opposite second intersection end, the second neck segment being at the first intersection end of the second member; and a second grip section extending from the first grip end to an opposite second grip end, the second intersection section being located at the first grip end of the second member; a pivot joint pivotally coupling the first member to the second member at a location where the first neck segment extends from the lower jaw and the second neck segment extends from the upper jaw, the first member and the second member pivoting relative to each other about a rotational axis as the upper and lower jaws move between an open configuration in which the upper and lower jaws are spaced apart and a closed configuration in which the upper and lower jaws contact each other; a first distance along the longitudinal axis between the rotational axis and the second neck end of the first neck segment when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration; and A second distance along the longitudinal axis between the second intersecting end of the first grip segment and a center point at which the first intersecting segment intersects the second intersecting segment when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, wherein the second distance is less than 50% of the first distance.

2. The clamping tool according to claim 1, characterized in that The second distance is less than 25% of the first distance.

3. The clamping tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The gripping tool includes a third distance that is an entire length of the gripping tool along the longitudinal axis when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, wherein the first distance is at least 25% of the third distance.

4. The clamping tool according to claim 3, characterized in that The clamping tool includes a fourth distance along the longitudinal axis between the first grip end of the first grip segment and the second grip end of the first grip segment when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, and a fifth distance along the longitudinal axis between the first intersecting end of the first grip segment and the second intersecting end of the first grip segment when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, wherein the first distance is at least 50% of the sum of the fourth distance plus the fifth distance.

5. The clamping tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The clamping tool includes a fourth distance along the longitudinal axis between the first grip end of the first grip segment and the second grip end of the first grip segment when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, and a fifth distance along the longitudinal axis between the first intersecting end of the first grip segment and the second intersecting end of the first grip segment when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, wherein the first distance is at least 50% of the sum of the fourth distance plus the fifth distance.

6. The clamping tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The gripping tool includes a fourth distance along the longitudinal axis between the first grip end of the first grip segment and the second grip end of the first grip segment when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, wherein the second distance is less than 25% of the fourth distance.

7. The clamping tool according to claim 6, characterized in that The gripping tool includes a third distance that is an entire length of the gripping tool along the longitudinal axis when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, wherein the first distance is at least 25% of the third distance.

8. The clamping tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first neck segment extends downwardly from the lower jaw at an angle of less than 10 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration.

9. The clamping tool according to claim 8, characterized in that The first intersection segment extends upwardly from the first neck segment at an angle less than 60 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration.

10. The clamping tool according to claim 1, characterized in that The first intersection segment extends upwardly from the first neck segment at an angle less than 60 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration.

11. The clamping tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, the first neck segment extends downward from the lower jaw at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis, and the first intersection segment extends upward from the first neck segment at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis, and wherein the first angle is less than the second angle.

12. The clamping tool according to claim 11, characterized in that The first angle is less than half of the second angle.

13. A clamping tool, characterized in that: The clamping tool comprises: Lower jaw; A first component, the first component comprising: a first neck section extending from a first neck end to an opposite second neck end, the lower jaw being located at the first neck end; a first intersection segment extending upwardly from a first intersection end to an opposite second intersection end, the first neck segment being located at the first intersection end; and a first grip section extending from a first grip end to an opposite second grip end, the first intersection section being located at the first grip end; an upper jaw, wherein the upper jaw is on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis of the gripping tool from the lower jaw; A second component, the second component comprising: a second neck section extending from the first neck end to an opposite second neck end, the upper jaw being located at the first neck end of the second member; a second intersection segment extending downwardly from the first intersection end to an opposite second intersection end, the second neck segment being at the first intersection end of the second member; and a second grip section extending from the first grip end to an opposite second grip end, the second intersection section being located at the first grip end of the second member; a pivot joint pivotally coupling the first member to the second member at a location where the first neck section extends from the lower jaw and the second neck section extends from the upper jaw, the first member and the second member pivoting relative to each other about a rotational axis as the upper jaw and the lower jaw move between an open configuration in which the upper jaw and the lower jaw are spaced apart and a closed configuration in which the upper jaw and the lower jaw contact each other, wherein moving the grip section of the first member away from the grip section of the second member draws the upper jaw and the lower jaw apart from each other to form the open configuration, and moving the grip section of the first member toward the grip section of the second member draws the upper jaw and the lower jaw together to form the closed configuration; wherein, when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in a closed configuration, the first intersection section of the first component intersects the second intersection section of the second component, and the first intersection end of the first component is located below the first intersection end of the second component; and Wherein, as the upper jaw and the lower jaw move from the closed configuration to the open configuration, the first intersection segment of the first component does not intersect with the second intersection segment of the second component, so that the first intersection end of the first component is positioned above the first intersection end of the second component.

14. The clamping tool according to claim 13, characterized in that When the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in a closed configuration, the second intersecting end of the first component is above the second neck end of the second component.

15. The clamping tool according to claim 13, characterized in that When the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in a closed configuration, the second handle end of the first component is above the first handle end of the first component.

16. The clamping tool according to claim 13, characterized in that When the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in a closed configuration, the first handle end of the first component is above the first handle end of the second component.

17. The clamping tool according to claim 13, characterized in that: When the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, the first neck segment extends downward from the lower jaw at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis, and the first intersection segment extends upward from the first neck segment at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first angle is less than the second angle.

18. A clamping tool, characterized in that: The clamping tool comprises: Lower jaw; A first component, the first component comprising: a first neck section extending from a first neck end to an opposite second neck end, the lower jaw being located at the first neck end; a first intersection segment extending upwardly from a first intersection end to an opposite second intersection end, the first neck segment being located at the first intersection end; and a first grip section extending from a first grip end to an opposite second grip end, the first intersection section being located at the first grip end; an upper jaw, wherein the upper jaw is on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis of the gripping tool from the lower jaw; A second component, the second component comprising: a second neck section extending from the first neck end to an opposite second neck end, the upper jaw being located at the first neck end of the second member; a second intersection segment extending downwardly from the first intersection end to an opposite second intersection end, the second neck segment being at the first intersection end of the second member; and a second grip section extending from the first grip end to an opposite second grip end, the second intersection section being located at the first grip end of the second member; a pivot joint pivotally coupling the first member to the second member at a location where the first neck section extends from the lower jaw and the second neck section extends from the upper jaw, the first member and the second member pivoting relative to each other about a rotational axis as the upper jaw and the lower jaw move between an open configuration in which the upper jaw and the lower jaw are spaced apart and a closed configuration in which the upper jaw and the lower jaw contact each other, wherein moving the grip section of the first member away from the grip section of the second member draws the upper jaw and the lower jaw apart from each other to form the open configuration, and moving the grip section of the first member toward the grip section of the second member draws the upper jaw and the lower jaw together to form the closed configuration; wherein, when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, the first neck section extends downwardly from the lower jaw at an angle less than 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis, and the second neck section extends upwardly from the upper jaw at an angle less than 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis; and Wherein, as the upper jaw and the lower jaw move to the open configuration, the first neck segment is pulled upward until the first neck segment extends upward from the lower jaw, and the second neck segment is pulled downward until the second neck segment extends downward from the upper jaw.

19. The clamping tool according to claim 18, characterized in that The first intersection segment extends upwardly from the first neck segment at an angle between 35 degrees and 55 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis when the upper and lower jaws are in the closed configuration.

20. The clamping tool according to claim 18, characterized in that When the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closed configuration, the second neck end of the first component is below the second neck end of the second component, and the first handle end of the first component is above the first handle end of the second component.

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