Tools for confined spaces

Abstract

The hydraulic tool for confined spaces applies torque to an associated fastening assembly. The hydraulic tool for confined spaces includes a piston and a ratchet wheel. The hydraulic tool for confined spaces further includes a drive plate and a piston rod extending between the drive plate and the piston. The hydraulic tool for confined spaces further includes a connecting pin that defines a first contact point between the piston rod and the drive plate and continuously connects the piston rod and the drive plate to rotate the drive plate forward and backward. In addition, the hydraulic tool for confined spaces includes a pressure plate that defines a second contact point between the piston rod and the drive plate. The pressure plate is separate and independent from the first contact point. The pressure plate selectively connects the piston rod and the drive plate to drive the drive plate.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Hydraulically powered ratchet torque tools generate precise bolt loads by rotating a fastener. A typical hydraulic torque tool may utilize a reaction arm attached to the tool housing. This arm provides a means of abutment for the tool to generate a clamping force on the fastener, rather than simply rotating the tool about the axis of the fastener. Alternatively, a reaction washer may be used as the abutment for the tool, and the reaction washer forms part of the thread tightening assembly. In particular, the reaction washer is positioned directly below the head of the nut or bolt being tightened. Furthermore, the reaction washer is connected to the tool housing.

[0002] However, known tools can be inefficient to operate and require significant maintenance to remain in working condition. Additionally, these tools can be heavy and difficult to operate. In view of the above problems, a better tool is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In light of the above, a hydraulic tool for confined spaces applies torque to an associated fastening assembly. The hydraulic tool for confined spaces includes a housing that receives hydraulic fluid and defines a piston cylinder. The piston cylinder defines a cylinder axis. The hydraulic tool for confined spaces also includes a piston slidably disposed within the piston cylinder of the housing and moving between a retracted position and an extended position to output a force, and a ratchet wheel rotatably housed in the housing. The ratchet wheel defines a ratchet axis and is configured to engage an associated fastening assembly. The hydraulic tool for confined spaces also includes a drive plate disposed within the housing to at least partially radially surround the ratchet wheel, and a piston rod extending between the drive plate and the piston.

[0004] The confined space hydraulic tool further includes a connecting pin that defines a first contact point between the piston rod and the drive plate. The connecting pin continuously connects the piston rod and the drive plate to transmit force from the piston to the drive plate, thereby constantly rotating the drive plate forward and backward. The confined space hydraulic tool further includes a pressure plate that defines a second contact point between the piston rod and the drive plate. The pressure plate is separate and distinct from the first contact point. The pressure plate selectively connects the piston rod and the drive plate to drive the drive plate. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of the hydraulic tool for small spaces and a screw fastening assembly. FIG.

[0006] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the hydraulic tool for small spaces.

[0007] [Figure 3] 1 is a cross-sectional front view of the confined space hydraulic tool showing the piston of the confined space hydraulic tool fully extended in an unloaded state. FIG.

[0008] [Figure 4] 1 is a cross-sectional front view of the confined space hydraulic tool showing the piston of the confined space hydraulic tool partially extended under a load condition; FIG.

[0009] [Figure 5] 1 is a cross-sectional front view of the hydraulic tool for small spaces, showing the piston of the hydraulic tool for small spaces in a fully retracted state; FIG.

[0010] [Figure 6] 1 is a cross-sectional front view of the confined space hydraulic tool showing a portion of the fluid passages of the confined space hydraulic tool;

[0011] [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional front view of the confined space hydraulic tool showing additional fluid passages in the confined space hydraulic tool.

[0012] [Figure 8] 1 is a perspective view of the confined space hydraulic tool with the reaction pad removed; FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] It should be understood that the present specification and drawings are merely exemplary, and that various modifications and changes can be made to the disclosed structure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Referring now to the drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements throughout the several views, Figures 1-6 schematically illustrate a hydraulic tool 10 for use in confined spaces in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0014] The confined space hydraulic tool 10 applies torque to an associated screw fastener assembly 12 (see FIG. 1 ). The confined space hydraulic tool 10 can be used to tighten or loosen the associated screw fastener assembly 12. As described in more detail below, the confined space hydraulic tool 10 can include a housing 14 defining a channel 14a, a piston 16, a ratchet wheel 18 defining a ratchet shaft 22, a magnetic ring 24, a drive plate 26, a pawl 28, a piston rod 32, a connecting pin 34, a pawl spring 36, a pressure plate 38, a first overlay 40a, a second overlay 40b, and a swivel head 42. Additionally, the confined space hydraulic tool 10 can be fluidly connected to associated first and second main lines 44 and 46. Additionally, the confined space hydraulic tool 10 can include a swivel body 48, a cover 50, and a reaction pad 60. Furthermore, the swivel head 42 defines a pivot head axis 52 and a pivot body axis 54 .

[0015] First, the configuration of the associated threaded fastener assembly 12 with which the confined space hydraulic tool 10 engages will be described. As shown in FIG. 1 , the associated threaded fastener assembly 12 may include a threaded portion 56 having a free end 56a, a reaction washer 58 defining an inner diameter 58a and an outer diameter 58b and including an engagement surface 58c, and a nut 62. The threaded portion 56 may be part of a bolt or stud that threads onto the nut 62. The reaction washer 58 is disposed on the threaded portion 56, and the nut 62 is disposed along the ratchet shaft 22 between the reaction washer 58 and the free end 56a of the threaded portion 56 to engage the confined space hydraulic tool 10, as will be described in more detail below.

[0016] The reaction washer 58 is slidably and coaxially received on the threaded portion 56, and the nut 62 is threadably and coaxially received on the threaded portion 56, both of which move along the ratchet shaft 22 when the confined space hydraulic tool 10 acts on an associated threaded fastening assembly 12. As previously mentioned, the confined space hydraulic tool 10 can be used to tighten or loosen an associated threaded fastening assembly 12. When the associated threaded fastening assembly 12 is loosened, the nut 62 moves along the threaded portion 56 toward the free end 56 a and can be removed from the threaded portion 56, whereas when the associated threaded fastening assembly 12 is tightened, the nut 62 moves along the threaded portion 56 away from the free end 56 a of the threaded portion 56 and cannot be removed from the threaded portion 56. Although not shown, a member (e.g., the machine housing 14) that is stationary relative to the nut 62 can receive or be connected to the threaded portion 56 on the side opposite the free end 56a to provide a surface for fastening the reaction washer 58 and the nut 62 (i.e., to prevent linear movement of the reaction washer 58 and the nut 62 along the ratchet shaft 22 in a direction away from the free end 56a).

[0017] Additionally, the reaction washer 58 can be configured in various ways to prevent rotation about the threads 56 relative to the object. This configuration can include, for example, protrusions, raised patterns, or serrations to provide a high-friction element on the engagement surface 58c of the reaction washer 58 that faces the object, as opposed to the free end 56a. The high-friction element on the engagement surface 58c of the reaction washer 58 thereby engages the object and prevents the reaction washer 58 from rotating relative to the threads 56 or the nut 62. As described in more detail below, the confined space hydraulic tool 10 engages the reaction washer 58, so that the tool housing 14 of the reaction washer 58 remains stationary relative to the reaction washer 58 and, therefore, the object.

[0018] As shown in Figures 3-5, the housing 14 of the confined space hydraulic tool 10 defines a piston cylinder 19 that receives hydraulic fluid. The hydraulic fluid flows into and out of the confined space hydraulic tool 10 via an associated first main line 44 and an associated second main line 46. The piston cylinder 64 may further define a cylinder axis 66. The end cap 20a of the end cap assembly 20 may be disposed on the cylinder axis 66.

[0019] The housing 14 may at least partially enclose the piston 16, the ratchet wheel 18, the drive plate 26, and the piston rod 32. The housing 14 may be a monoblock structure including an integral receiver 68 configured to engage an associated reaction washer 58 of an associated threaded fastener assembly 12, as described below. The integral receiver 68 may include a pair of hoops 68 a, 68 a. The hoops 68 a, 68 a may be at least partially spaced apart from one another to receive the ratchet wheel 18. Further, each hoop 68 a, 68 a may define a hoop inner diameter 68 b, 68 b. As shown, the hoop inner diameter 68 b, 68 b is splined for engagement with the castle splined hub 30, as described below. As will be appreciated, the symmetrical layout of the confined space hydraulic tool 10 (i.e., with respect to the plane formed by the pivot head axis 52 and the pivot body axis 54) allows the confined space hydraulic tool 10 to engage the reaction washer 58 and nut 62 from either side of the plane formed by the pivot head axis 52 and the pivot body axis 54, thereby changing the direction of rotation of the ratchet 18 (i.e., tightening or loosening the nut 62).

[0020] These improvements result in a lighter-weight confined-space hydraulic tool 10 compared to conventional tools and an improved profile for use in confined spaces. Furthermore, as shown, the confined-space hydraulic tool 10 can include an end cap assembly 20 attached to the housing 14. The end cap assembly 20 can include various separate or integral elements that cooperate to seal the housing 14. For example, the end cap assembly 20 can include an end cap 20a. The end cap 20a can be removably attached to the housing 14 and can provide a smooth design surface for the confined-space hydraulic tool 10. Furthermore, the end cap 20a can help prevent unintended access to the confined-space hydraulic tool 10. Furthermore, the end cap assembly 20 can be removable from the housing 14.

[0021] As described above, the confined space hydraulic tool 10 may include a first overlay 40a and a second overlay 40b. As shown in FIG. 1 , the first overlay 40a and the second overlay 40b may be removably attached to the housing 14. The first overlay 40a and the second overlay 40b may be attached to the housing 14 by various methods and may be formed from the same or different materials as the housing 14. Furthermore, the confined space hydraulic tool 10 may include a cover 50. The cover 50 may be removably attached to the housing 14 on the side of the confined space hydraulic tool 10 opposite the end cap 20a. The cover 50 may provide a smooth design surface for the confined space hydraulic tool 10. Furthermore, the cover 50 may help prevent unintended access to the confined space hydraulic tool 10.

[0022] Rotation of the ratchet wheel 18 causes the nut 62 to rotate. However, because the integral receiver 68 engages the stationary reaction washer 58, the confined space hydraulic tool 10 is prevented from rotating about the nut 62. Instead, the nut 62 rotates about the ratchet shaft 22 of the confined space hydraulic tool 10. Thus, the housing 14 of the confined space hydraulic tool 10 remains stationary as the nut 62 rotates. As shown in FIG. 2 , the confined space hydraulic tool 10 can include a pair of castle spline hubs 30. The pair of castle spline hubs 30 are coaxially disposed along the ratchet shaft 22 with the ratchet wheel 18 disposed therebetween.

[0023] Each castle splined hub 30 may define an inner diameter 30a for engaging the outer diameter 58b of a reaction washer 58 and an outer diameter 30b for engaging the hoop inner diameter 68b of a respective hoop 68a of an integral receiver 68. In particular, the inner diameter 30a of each splined hub 30 is castellated for selectively engaging the outer diameter 58b of a reaction washer 58, and the outer diameter 30b of each splined hub 30 is splined for engaging the hoop inner diameter 68b of a corresponding hoop 68a. As will be appreciated, when an integral receiver 68 engages a reaction washer 58 via one of the splined hubs 30, rotation between the reaction washer 58 and the confined space hydraulic tool 10 is prevented.

[0024] The ratchet wheel 18 of the confined space hydraulic tool 10 is configured to receive the nut 62 of the fastener assembly 12 and at least partially radially surround the nut 62. Additionally, the integral receiver 68 engages the outer diameter 58b of the reaction washer 58 through one of the inner diameters 30a of the castle splined hub 30. Thereafter, as hydraulic oil is supplied to the confined space hydraulic tool 10, the ratchet wheel 18 rotates, as will be described in more detail below.

[0025] 3-5, the housing 14 may define a first housing line 74 in fluid communication with the piston cylinder 64 via a first port 76 and a second housing line 78 in fluid communication with the piston cylinder 64 via a second port 82. Furthermore, the first port 76 and the second port 82 are fluidly isolated from each other by the piston 16. Additionally, the first housing line 74 and the second housing line 78 may include a first housing portion 124 and a second housing portion 126, respectively, that are neither parallel nor perpendicular to the cylinder axis 66. With reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, additional fluid paths are shown for communicating fluid from the swivel head 42 to the housing 14. Notably, FIG. 6 illustrates a high-pressure fluid path 70, and FIG. 7 illustrates a low-pressure fluid path 80. The above-described arrangement allows for the use of a swivel head 42 and a swivel body 48, thereby improving the maneuverability of the confined space hydraulic tool 10.

[0026] As previously mentioned, the confined space hydraulic tool 10 may include the piston 16. The piston 16 may be cylindrical and may be formed from any material that provides sufficient strength and rigidity for proper operation of the piston 16. The piston 16 is slidably disposed within a piston cylinder 64 of the housing 14 and outputs a force to cause subsequent movement of the ratchet wheel 18. The piston 16 may move back and forth between an extended position (FIGS. 3-4) and a retracted position (FIG. 5). This movement of the piston 16 causes rotation of the ratchet wheel 18, thereby tightening or loosening the nut 62.

[0027] As shown, the connecting pin 34 may have a circular cross-section. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 2, the connecting pin 34 may be generally cylindrical. As will be appreciated, the connecting pin 34 may define various grooves, recesses, or other structural features without departing from the scope of this disclosure. When the connecting pin 34 is installed within the housing 14, the connecting pin 34 rests relative to the housing 14 when the confined space hydraulic tool 10 is in operation.

[0028] 2-5, the small space hydraulic tool 10 further includes a drive plate 26. The drive plate 26 is disposed within the housing 14 so as to at least partially radially surround the ratchet wheel 18. The drive plate 26 includes a contact surface 94 that defines a convex shape in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the ratchet shaft 22.

[0029] Further, the drive plate 26 defines a pin hole 96 that receives the connecting pin 34 and may include a contact surface 94 spaced apart from the pin hole 96. Additionally, the drive plate 26 defines a wheel cavity 102 that receives the ratchet wheel 18 and a pawl cavity 104 that receives the pawl 28. The pawl cavity 104 and the wheel cavity 102 are in fluid communication with each other.

[0030] The drive plate 26 may include a first ear 106 and a second ear 112 spaced apart from one another. The first ear 106 and the second ear 112 may be the same size and shape. The first ear 106 may define a first ear hole 108, and the second ear 112 may define a second ear hole 114. The second ear hole 114 and the first ear hole 108 are aligned with one another and cooperate to define the pin hole 96 that receives the connecting pin 34 to connect the piston rod 32 and the drive plate 26, and to define a first contact point.

[0031] With continued reference to the drawings, the confined space hydraulic tool 10 includes a pressure plate 38. The pressure plate 38 may include a contact surface 122 that defines a concave shape in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the ratchet axis 22. Further, the contact surface 122 of the pressure plate 38 may be complementary to the contact surface 94 of the drive plate 26, such that the contact surface 122 of the pressure plate 38 at least partially embraces the contact surface 94 of the drive plate 26. The pressure plate 38 may be separate from or integral with the piston rod 32 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 , the piston rod 32 extends between the drive plate 26 and the piston 16 to connect these components. The piston rod 32 includes a head end 116 and a tail end 118 disposed at opposite ends along the cylinder axis 66. Furthermore, the head end 116 of the piston rod 32 is received between the first ear 106 and the second ear 112 of the drive plate 26 along the cylinder axis 66. Thus, the head end 116 receives the connecting pin 34 to connect the drive plate 26 and the piston rod 32, and the tail end 118 connects the piston 16 and the piston rod 32. In addition, the pressure plate 38 is disposed between the head end 116 and the tail end 118.

[0033] It is noted that the piston rod 32 may be selectively offset from the cylinder axis 66 as the piston 16 moves between the extended position (FIGS. 3-4) and the retracted position (FIG. 5). However, this offset is limited by the engagement of the contact surface 122 of the pressure plate 38 with the contact surface 94 of the drive plate 26. In particular, this offset can be seen by comparing FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0034] 3 shows the confined space hydraulic tool 10 in an unloaded state. In particular, the unloaded state refers to a state in which the confined space hydraulic tool 10 is not subjected to rotational resistance from the nut 62. In contrast, the loaded state refers to a state in which the confined space hydraulic tool 10 is subjected to rotational resistance from the nut 62. The eccentricity described above can improve the operating efficiency of the confined space hydraulic tool 10 by appropriately transmitting force from the piston 16 to the drive plate 26 and ultimately to the ratchet wheel 18.

[0035] 1-5, the ratchet wheel 18 is rotatably received within the housing 14 and is configured to engage and rotate the associated fastener assembly 12, as previously described. The ratchet wheel 18 defines an inner circumferential surface 84 configured for contacting the associated fastener assembly 12 and an outer circumferential surface 86 including teeth 88 for engaging the pawl 28.

[0036] The inner peripheral surface 84 may define a hexagonal shape for full engagement with the nut 62. However, the inner peripheral surface 84 may have a different shape for engaging other shaped nuts or fasteners without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The outer peripheral surface 86 may define a grooved or toothed shape for engaging the pawl 28. The ratchet wheel 18 may be configured to rotate in only a single rotational direction.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 1-2 , the confined space hydraulic tool 10 can include a magnetic ring 24. The magnetic ring 24 can be circular in cross section and have a standard thickness. However, other shapes and thicknesses are possible and contemplated. Furthermore, the magnetic ring 24 can be formed from a variety of materials that provide a magnetic force. The magnetic ring 24 can be disposed outwardly of the ratchet wheel 18 along the ratchet shaft 22. Additionally, the magnetic ring 24 can include a stop surface 92 that faces outwardly from the ratchet wheel 18.

[0038] The stop surface 92 may be sized to contact the reaction washer 58 of the associated screw fastener assembly 12 and prevent over-insertion of the associated screw fastener assembly 12 along the ratchet shaft 22 into the confined space hydraulic tool 10. As will be appreciated, the magnetic properties of the magnetic ring 24 aid in the operation of the confined space hydraulic tool 10 by improving engagement of the associated screw fastener assembly 12 with the nut 62. Additionally, the stop surface 92 may improve the operation of the confined space hydraulic tool 10 by providing a uniform surface for proper engagement with the associated screw fastener assembly 12.

[0039] The confined space hydraulic tool 10 includes a pawl 28. The pawl 28 simultaneously contacts the drive plate 26 and the ratchet wheel 18. The pawl 28 is slidably received within a pawl cavity 104 in the drive plate 26 to selectively engage the ratchet wheel 18 and limit rotation of the ratchet wheel 18 about the ratchet shaft 22 to a single rotational direction. As shown in FIGS. 3-5 , a pawl spring 36 may bias the pawl 28 away from the connecting pin 34. This bias urges the pawl 28 to engage the ratchet wheel 18 and limits rotation of the ratchet wheel 18 to a single rotational direction.

[0040] The confined space hydraulic tool 10 is configured to provide a first torque output for rotating an associated fastener assembly 12 in a first mode and a second torque output for rotating an associated fastener assembly 12 in a second mode, the second torque output being greater than the first torque output. As previously mentioned, the connecting pin 34 may define a first contact point between the piston rod 32 and the drive plate 26.

[0041] 3-5, the connecting pin 34 continuously connects the piston rod 32 and the drive plate 26 to transmit force from the piston 16 to the drive plate 26, thereby constantly rotating the drive plate 26 forward and backward. Furthermore, the connecting pin 34 contacts the piston rod 32 and the drive plate 26 in both the first and second modes. However, in the second mode, the connecting pin 34 is configured to deflect along the cylinder axis 66 in a direction away from the piston 16, thereby allowing the pressure plate 38 to contact the drive plate 26.

[0042] 3-5, the pressure plate 38 may define a second contact point between the piston rod 32 and the drive plate 26. The contact surface 122 of the pressure plate 38 and the contact surface 94 of the drive plate 26 cooperate to define the second contact point, which selectively effects the transfer of power from the piston 16 to the drive plate 26.

[0043] As will be described below, the ability of the confined space hydraulic tool 10 to operate in the first and second modes without installing and removing components has numerous advantages. For example, when the confined space hydraulic tool 10 is operated in the first mode, less wear is caused to the components of the confined space hydraulic tool 10. Furthermore, when the confined space hydraulic tool 10 is operated in the second mode, more torque is output to the nut 62, improving the operating efficiency of the confined space hydraulic tool 10. Additionally, because force is transmitted through the first and second contact points in the second mode, less force is experienced by each component, thereby reducing the need for maintenance of the confined space hydraulic tool 10.

[0044] It is worth noting that in the first mode, the pressure plate 38 is always spaced apart from the drive plate 26. On the other hand, in the second mode, the pressure plate 38 contacts the drive plate 26. Note that the contact surface 122 is always spaced apart from the connecting pin 34. When the pressure plate 38 contacts and drives the drive plate 26, the connecting pin 34 transmits most of the force from the piston 16 to the drive plate 26, and the pressure plate 38 transmits a portion of the force from the piston 16 to the drive plate 26. However, when the pressure plate 38 does not drive the drive plate 26, the connecting pin 34 transmits all of the force from the piston 16 to the drive plate 26, and the pressure plate 38 does not transmit any of the force from the piston 16 to the drive plate 26. Note that the pressure plate 38 is separate and independent from the first contact point described above.

[0045] Thus, the pressure plate 38 selectively couples the piston rod 32 to the drive plate 26 for driving the drive plate 26 in response to deflection of the connecting pin 34. In particular, when low torque is applied to the ratchet wheel 18, the connecting pin 34 does not deflect (i.e., it remains perfectly straight in all planes and parallel to the ratchet axis 22) and the pressure plate 38 is spaced apart from the drive plate 26 (see FIG. 3).

[0046] In contrast, when high torque is applied to the ratchet wheel 18, the connecting pin 34 deflects (i.e., each point on the connecting pin 34 is no longer uniformly spaced from the piston 16) and the pressure plate 38 comes into direct contact with the drive plate 26 (see FIG. 4). It will be appreciated that this deflection of the connecting pin 34 (i.e., deflection away from the piston 16) is minimal. However, this deflection creates the aforementioned direct contact, resulting in a force distribution from the piston 16 to the drive plate 26.

[0047] It is noted that the first and second contact points share a common center and hold the piston rod 32 in place as the drive plate 26 moves. As shown, at least a portion of the pawl 28 shares a vertical axis with the second contact point. Furthermore, the pressure plate 38 may be formed of a first material having a first predetermined hardness level, and the connecting pin 34 may be formed of a second material having a second predetermined hardness level. The first and second materials may be different, with the first hardness level being higher than the second hardness level. This hardness level can be adjusted by various methods, such as heat treatment.

[0048] 1 , swivel head 42 is shown configured to be connected to an associated first main line 44 and an associated second main line 46 that are fluidly isolated from one another. Associated first main line 44 is in fluid communication with first housing line 74, and associated second main line 46 is in fluid communication with second housing line 78. As will be appreciated, associated first main line 44 and associated second main line 46 may be configured for a variety of industrial and commercial applications.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 3-5, the swivel body 48 is connected to the swivel head 42. The swivel head 42 is configured to rotate about the swivel body 48 to define a pivot head axis 52 that is perpendicular to the cylinder axis 66. Additionally, the housing 14 defines a swivel body opening 72 that receives the swivel body 48. The swivel body 48 is configured to rotate at least partially about the housing 14 to define a pivot body axis 54 that is generally parallel to the cylinder axis 66. Because the swivel body 48 is integral with the housing 14, it is more resistant to damage than conventional top-mounted swivel designs. Furthermore, this layout may provide a more compact footprint. Such a configuration also allows for the inclusion of additional axes to provide additional degrees of rotational freedom.

[0050] As previously described, the housing 14 may define a channel 14a. In particular, as shown in FIG. 8 , the housing 14 may further include a shelf 14b for slidably receiving a reaction pad 60. The reaction pad 60 includes a first end 60a and a second end 60b. The first end 60a and the second end 60b are located at opposite ends of the reaction pad 60. As shown in FIGS. 3-8 , the channel 14a of the housing 14 may be located on a side of the housing 14 opposite the swivel head 42 along the pivot head axis 52. Furthermore, the channel 14a may define a generally rectangular shape extending primarily in a direction generally parallel to the cylinder axis 66. In particular, the channel 14a may removably receive the reaction pad 60.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 2 , the reaction pad 60 may have a generally rectangular shape. This shape may be complementary to the channel 14a. As shown, the reaction pad 60 is removably attached to the housing 14. Notably, the shelf 14b of the housing 14 may retain the reaction pad 60 at least partially within the channel 14a. When the confined space hydraulic tool 10 is used to torque a nut without a reaction washer, the reaction pad 60 acts as a reaction arm, preventing the confined space hydraulic tool 10 from rotating about the ratchet shank 22. Thus, the reaction pad 60 serves as a contact point for the confined space hydraulic tool 10 against surrounding structure, preventing the confined space hydraulic tool 10, and particularly the housing 14, from rotating relative to the ratchet shank 22. As will be appreciated, the surrounding structure may include, for example, the nut and threads, flanges, or other nearby components that are not engaged with the ratchet wheel 18. Additionally, the reaction pad 60 transfers forces received from contact with surrounding structure to the housing 14 without unnecessarily increasing the overall weight of the confined space hydraulic tool 10.

[0052] As shown, the reaction pad 60 defines a dimension (i.e., a dimension parallel to the cylinder axis 66) that is greater than the dimension (i.e., a dimension parallel to the cylinder axis 66) of the channel 14a of the housing 14. This difference in dimension between the reaction pad 60 and the channel 14a results in the first end 60a of the reaction pad 60 being located at a distance from the pivot head axis 52 that is greater than the distance from the pivot head axis 52 to the end cap 14a. This length of the reaction pad 60 allows for better engagement with surrounding structure.

[0053] As will be appreciated, the reaction pad 60 may have different dimensions without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the reaction pad 60 may define a dimension equal to the dimension of the channel 14a of the housing 14. In this configuration, the first end 60a, i.e., the reaction pad 60, would protrude from the channel 14a, i.e., the housing 14. Alternatively, the reaction pad 60 may define a dimension greater than that shown, such that the first end 60a of the reaction pad 60 protrudes even further than shown. Finally, the reaction pad 60 may be formed from a variety of materials without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0054] A hydraulic tool for small spaces has been described in detail above. Modifications and variations may occur to those who read and understand the above detailed description. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Rather, the present invention is broadly defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. 1. A confined space hydraulic tool for applying torque to an associated fastening assembly, comprising: a housing defining a piston cylinder for receiving hydraulic fluid and defining a cylinder axis; a piston slidably disposed within a piston cylinder of the housing, the piston outputting a force and moving between a retracted position and an extended position; a ratchet wheel rotatably received within the housing, defining a ratchet axis and configured to engage the associated screw clamping assembly; a drive plate disposed within the housing and at least partially radially surrounding the ratchet wheel; a piston rod extending between the drive plate and the piston; a connecting pin that defines a first contact point between the piston rod and the drive plate and continuously connects the piston rod and the drive plate so as to transmit force from the piston to the drive plate, thereby constantly rotating the drive plate forward and backward; a pressure plate selectively connecting the piston rod and the drive plate to define a second contact point between the piston rod and the drive plate, the second contact point being separate and independent of the first contact point, for actuating the drive plate; Hydraulic tool for small spaces.

2. 2. The hydraulic tool for narrow spaces according to claim 1, wherein, when the pressure plate contacts and drives the drive plate, the connecting pin transmits most of the output from the piston to the drive plate and the pressure plate transmits a portion of the output from the piston to the drive plate, and when the pressure plate does not drive the drive plate, the connecting pin transmits all of the output from the piston to the drive plate and the pressure plate does not transmit any of the output from the piston to the drive plate.

3. 2. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 1, wherein the pressure plate includes a contact surface defining a concave shape in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the ratchet axis, the drive plate includes a contact surface defining a convex shape in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the ratchet axis, the piston rod selectively eccentric from the cylinder axis as the piston moves between a retracted position and an extended position, the eccentricity being limited by engagement of the contact surface of the pressure plate and the contact surface of the drive plate.

4. 2. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 1, wherein the first contact point and the second contact point share a common center to hold the piston rod in place as the drive plate moves.

5. 2. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 1, wherein the drive plate defines a pin hole that receives the connecting pin and includes a contact surface spaced from the pin hole, the pressure plate includes a contact surface spaced from the connecting pin, the contact surfaces of the pressure plate and the drive plate cooperating to define a second contact point, the second contact point selectively effecting the transfer of power from the piston to the drive plate.

6. 6. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 5, wherein the contact surface of the pressure plate is complementary to the contact surface of the drive plate, the contact surface of the pressure plate at least partially enveloping the contact surface of the drive plate.

7. 2. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 1, further comprising a pawl that simultaneously contacts the drive plate and the ratchet wheel, the drive plate defining a pawl cavity that receives the pawl and a wheel cavity that receives the ratchet wheel, the pawl cavity and the wheel cavity being in fluid communication with each other, the ratchet wheel defining an inner circumferential surface configured to contact the associated threaded fastener assembly and an outer circumferential surface having teeth that engage with the pawl, and at least a portion of the pawl sharing a vertical axis with the second contact point.

8. 8. The confined space hydraulic tool according to claim 7, further comprising a pawl spring that biases the pawl in a direction away from the connecting pin, the pawl being slidably received within a pawl cavity in the drive plate to selectively engage the ratchet wheel and limit rotation of the ratchet wheel about the ratchet axis to a single rotational direction.

9. 2. The hydraulic tool for narrow spaces according to claim 1, wherein the piston rod includes a head end and a tail end located at opposite ends along the cylinder axis, the head end receiving the connecting pin to connect the drive plate and the piston rod, the tail end connecting the piston and the piston rod, and the pressure plate being disposed between the head end and the tail end.

10. 10. The small space hydraulic tool of claim 9, wherein the drive plate includes first and second ears spaced apart from one another to receive the head end of the piston rod along a cylinder axis, the first ear defining a first ear hole, the second ear defining a second ear hole aligned with the first ear hole, and the first and second ear holes cooperating to define a pin hole that receives the connecting pin to connect the piston rod and the drive plate and define the first contact point.

11. 10. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 9, wherein the pressure plate is formed from a first material defining a first hardness level and the connecting pin is formed from a second material defining a second hardness level, the first and second materials being different from one another, and the first hardness level being greater than the second hardness level.

12. 2. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 1, wherein the confined space hydraulic tool is configured to provide a first torque output for rotating the associated fastener assembly in a first mode and a second torque output for rotating the associated fastener assembly in a second mode, the second torque output being greater than the first torque output, and wherein the pressure plate is always spaced from the drive plate during the first mode and contacts the drive plate during the second mode.

13. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 12 , wherein the connecting pin contacts the piston rod and the drive plate during the first and second modes.

14. 13. The confined space hydraulic tool according to claim 12, wherein the connecting pin is configured to bend along the cylinder axis in a direction away from the piston in the second mode, causing the pressure plate to contact the drive plate.

15. 10. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 1, wherein the housing is a monoblock construction including an integral receiver configured to engage a reaction washer of the associated screw fastener assembly.

16. 16. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 15, further comprising a pair of castle spline hubs disposed coaxially along the ratchet shaft with the ratchet wheel disposed therebetween.

17. 17. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 16, wherein the integral receiver includes a pair of hoops at least partially spaced apart from one another to receive the ratchet wheel therebetween, each hoop defining a hoop inner diameter selectively engaging a respective one of the castle splined hubs to prevent relative rotation between an associated reaction washer and the confined space hydraulic tool.

18. 2. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 1, further comprising a magnetic ring disposed along the ratchet shaft and positioned outwardly of the ratchet wheel, the magnetic ring including a stop surface facing outwardly from the ratchet wheel, the stop surface being dimensioned to contact a reaction washer of the associated screw-fastening assembly to prevent over-insertion of the associated screw-fastening assembly into the confined space hydraulic tool.

19. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 1 , wherein the piston, the ratchet wheel, the drive plate, and the piston rod are disposed within the housing.

20. 2. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 1, wherein the housing defines a first housing line in fluid communication with the piston cylinder through a first port and a second housing line in fluid communication with the piston cylinder through a second port, the first port and the second port being fluidly isolated from one another by the piston.

21. 21. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 20, wherein the first housing line and the second housing line each include a portion that is neither parallel nor perpendicular to the cylinder axis.

22. a swivel head configured to be connected to an associated first main line and an associated second main line that are fluidly isolated from one another, the associated first main line being in fluid communication with the first housing line, and the associated second main line being in fluid communication with the second housing line; 21. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 20, further comprising a swivel body connected to the swivel head, the swivel head configured to pivot about the swivel body and defining a pivot head axis perpendicular to the cylinder axis, the housing defining a swivel body opening to receive the swivel body, the swivel body configured to pivot at least partially about the housing and defining a pivot body axis generally parallel to the cylinder axis.

23. 10. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 1, further comprising a reaction pad having a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being disposed on opposite ends of the reaction pad, and the housing defining a channel that at least partially receives the reaction pad.

24. 24. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 23, wherein a distance between the first end and the second end defines a dimension of the reaction pad, the channel defines a channel dimension, and the channel slidably receives the reaction pad with the reaction pad dimension being greater than the channel dimension.

25. a swivel head configured to be connected to an associated first main line and an associated second main line that are fluidly isolated from one another; a swivel body connected to the swivel head, the swivel head configured to rotate about the swivel body, the swivel body defining a pivot head axis perpendicular to the cylinder axis; 24. The confined space hydraulic tool of claim 23, further comprising a removable end cap received in the housing and disposed on the cylinder shaft, wherein a distance between a first end of the reaction pad and the pivot head shaft is greater than a distance between the end cap and the pivot head shaft.

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