Non-crush locking pliers

Abstract

Self adjusting locking pliers (1) comprising fixed and pivotal jaws (205, 300) operated by fixed and moving handles (200, 400) with an automatically adjustable pivotal strut (500) between the handles. The pivotal strut incorporates a pivotal strut toothed slot (505) which contains a corresponding pivotal strut toothed latch (507), resiliently operated towards the closed position by the pivotal strut toothed latch spring (513). The pivotal strut toothed latch (509) engages or disengages within the pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth (506) according to the angle of the operated pivotal strut (500) relative to the toothed latch actuation pin (602) affixed within the fixed handle metal framework (212), thereby automatically adjusting the required leverage length of the pivotal strut (500) force triangle first side span (804) resulting in workpiece W clamping widths and pressures similar to existing vice grip pliers yet affording smaller widths between the operated fixed and moving handle (200, 400) clenching grips (213, 409).

Description

[0001] Non-Crush Locking Pliers

[0002] Field of Invention

[0003] The invention relates to hand operated gripping tools that are adjustable within the range of the jaws of the tool. One form of hand operated gripping tools, are pliers of the type generally referred to as locking pliers colloquially known as vice grip pliers.

[0004] Background to the Invention

[0005] Existing “vice grip” type pliers jaws are normally made by a method termed lost wax casting or investment casting whereby the sometimes intricate jaw shapes / gripping profiles are first made in wax which are then coated in a refractory shell by dipping or spraying. During the casting process the wax is burnt away and the resulting shell mould filled by the metal casting material. The smoke created is environmentally harmful. The particulate is sometimes filtered out but the gasses created are normally just vented to the atmosphere, as in China or India. Because of these environmental concerns this method is all but redundant in the USA or Europe for large scale manufacture, but because of costs, manufacture by investment casting continues elsewhere to support the worldwide demand for these tools with yearly sales well in excess of 10M. This remains a major environmental problem. The hand clenching part of vice grip pliers is part stamped then compression formed, the fixed jaw being welded or brazed within the folded metal fixed handle.

[0006] Existing locking pliers such as US9855642 (Wu) and US2015 / 273664 (Skodje, Calgar) comprise of two robust handles connected to two robust jaws and a locking mechanism connected to the two jaws. The handles can be squeezed together to close the jaws. The locking member is attached to an over centre linkage, hereinafter termed over-cam, which when utilized, prevents the moving handle from pivoting from its closed configuration until opened, retaining the jaws in a closed position. The clamping width of the jaws being typically preadjusted by an adjustment screw against the adjustable base of its strut within the fixed handle; the adjustment screw further determines the clamping pressure exerted upon the clamped workpiece. As the clamping pressure requires to be preordained, it can take several attempts to correctly adjust the screw to the required position in order to clamp the workpiece in the optimum way. The clamping width of the jaws, once set by the adjusting screw is finite, with any movement, vibration or relaxation of the clamped material normally resulting in the failure of the clamping action. This is most prevalent when the device is used to initially clamp vehicle bodywork parts during the panel-beating process prior to welding or bolting the panels being worked on, as inadvertent over pressure applied by the clamping jaws usually results in the damage or distortion of the clamped parts. The further fact that the over centre linkage locking mechanism requires to go over cam during the locking procedure, furthermore results in the clamping pressure being slightly released during the locking procedure. Due to the considerable initial width between the fixed and moving handles, the initial closure operation is normally a two handed affair. In addition, the two handed opening of the pliers, if the clamping pressure is anything other than low, can be likened to a mousetrap going off as the clamping pressure is released.

[0007] USD742194 (Engel, Albrecht) shows a set of pliers having a toothed strut with a locking mechanism attached to one operating arm. As the arms are closed, the teeth “ratchet” past the lock. Because the operating arms are not designed to resiliently deform during robust operation, the toothed arc of the strut remains in substantially the same locking angle relative to the locking mechanism; the true clenching force being totally dependent on the actual locking point of the corresponding locking teeth which have a pitch of several degrees.

[0008] EP2818280 (Buchanan) comprises pliers or clamps, the fixed handle of which has a bow or arcuate portion in order to permit limited flexing of the fixed handle. A set length pivotal strut is retained between the handles, the strut being slidably held in a channel within the fixed handle and pivotally held within the moveable handle. The pivotal end of the strut within the moveable jaw handle has a toothed arc which acts with a switch and further pawl to lock or unlock the handle positions relative to one another. The compression of the handles closes the gap between the fixed and moveable jaws. The moveable jaw slides up a wedge-shaped clamp bar portion until the jaws robustly contact the workpiece; the further operation of the handles resulting in the clamping of the workpiece. The resilient arcuate portion within the fixed handle acts to impose a limited sprung grip upon the workpiece. Further usefulness imported by the locking action of the pawl teeth upon the strut arc teeth when the pawl is switched into its ratchet locking position retaining the handles substantially in their closed position providing a limited sprung grip upon the workpiece. The arc of the toothed strut, in conjunction with the corresponding toothed arc of the pawl, being capable of compensating for the changes in angles of one handle relative to the other as the fixed handle resilient portion flexes due to differing pressures applied to the handles during use. The pawl is activated into either a locking or nonlocking position by a further separate “rocker” switch incorporating a spring and plunger mechanism which acts upon the pawl. This tool is quite complex to manufacture, giving it a relatively high manufacturing cost. Furthermore, the moving jaw and clamp bar movement requires to be kept very clean and lubricated to prevent the mechanism sticking. In order to make these pliers more ergonomic they can incorporate glued or moulded on nonslip grips which make the end of life tools difficult to recycle.

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to at least partially alleviate the above-mentioned disadvantages, or to provide a cost saving alternative to existing products.

[0010] Summary of the Invention

[0011] The invention provides non-crush locking pliers as specified in claims 1 to 26.

[0012] Embodiments of the invention may be designed to not only to automatically clamp or grip without adjustment, the workpiece without crushing, but to be far faster and simpler to use in particular by small hands with an improved ergonomic grip and with far less global environmental impact by the fundamental design change to allow the majority of construction be of a stamped flat metal laminate type, locked or slotted into interchangeable rigid plastic moulded handle clenching grips and be capable of being low cost manufactured with minimal environmental and logistical impact within every industrialized nation worldwide while still being commercially viable.

[0013] Embodiments of the invention may relate to non-crush locking pliers comprising, a fixed handle incorporating fixed handle clenching grips within its distil end and a fixed head portion incorporating the fixed jaw and fixed jaw gripping profile within its proximal end. The fixed head portion incorporating a pivotal jaw pin bore and a pivotal jaw pin around which the pivotal jaw incorporating the pivotal jaw gripping profile can swivel towards closure within the same plane, when operated by a clenching force, between the fixed and moving handle clenching grips. A pivotal strut is further mounted between the pivotal strut apex end pin bore and the moving handle apex pin bore by the moving handle apex pin and at the pivotal strut fixed handle end by pivotal strut toothed latch axles, pivotally engaged within the fixed handle toothed latch axle bores. The pivotal strut is specifically characterised in utilizing an integral pivotal strut toothed slot incorporating an incumbent pivotal strut toothed latch.

[0014] Embodiments of the invention may be configured such that an adjustable scalene or Isosceles type triangle hereinafter termed a force multiplying triangle, is formed with its force triangle base line situated between the pivotal strut toothed latch axles and the moving handle actuation arm pivot pin.

[0015] The force triangle apex formed within the pivotal strut apex end pivot bore and corresponding moving handle apex pivot bore by a further incumbent, moving handle apex pin.

[0016] The force triangle first side comprises the adjustable pivotal strut, mounted between the pivotal strut apex end pin bore and the moving handle apex pin bore by the moving handle apex pin and at the pivotal strut fixed handle end by pivotal strut toothed latch axles pivotally engaged within the fixed handle toothed latch axle bores.

[0017] The force triangle second side comprises the moving handle actuation arm, pivotal between the moving handle actuation pin bore and the moving handle apex pin bore.

[0018] A force triangle resilient segment can be fitted either or both the force triangle first or second sides.

[0019] During use as the operator clenches the moving handle clenching grip towards the opposing fixed handle clenching grip, the moving handle apex pin is propelled towards but specifically not traversing the force multiplying triangle base line forcefully elongating the force multiplying triangle base line. The moving handle apex pin bore being positioned as near as practical to the moving handle proximal end within the moving handle grip finger profiles such that as an initial clenching force is applied between the fixed and moving handle clenching grips, this first, rotational force action rotates the moving handle distil end around the moving handle apex pivot pin towards the fixed handle distil end, simultaneously rotating the moving handle actuation arm and pivotally attached pivotal jaw outwards from the fixed handle. This first procedure enables the fixed and pivotal jaw gripping profiles to promptly initially grip the workpiece, any further robust clenching force the second procedure, laterally compresses the ends of any force triangle resilient segment, not unlike the drawing of a longbow, this combination of rotational and elongation closure forces employed provides a very efficient heavy duty pliers closure function, that, can be because of the now greatly reduced distance between the fixed and moving handle clenching grips, easily operated by one hand, even small hands. A similar overall pliers length and jaw opening set of typical prior art (for example 10 inch and 25.4cm), “vice grip” pliers having an operable handle grip opening of up to 175mm. Whereas a similar useful jaw opening dimension pliers, according to the present invention having an operable handle grip opening of less than 75mm.

[0020] Embodiments of the invention may be characterisedby the pivotal strut incorporating a pivotal strut toothed slot, incorporating a corresponding pivotal strut toothed latch, pivotal around incorporated pivotal strut toothed latch axles, within corresponding fixed handle toothed latch axle bores and pivotal at its opposite, pivotal strut apex end, around the moving handle apex pin. The pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth are capable of engaging or disengaging within the corresponding pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth, according to the predetermined angle of the operated pivotal strut, relative to that of the fixed handle. Wherein, the pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth, are resiliently biased towards the pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth, by the pivotal strut toothed latch spring. The pivotal strut toothed latch is pivotally positioned by means of the toothed latch actuation pin secured within corresponding, fixed handle toothed latch actuation pin bores, initially abutting the pivotal strut toothed latch actuation face. Whereas when at the outset operated, the pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth, remain disengaged from the corresponding, pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth thereby enabling the pivotal strut toothed latch to traverse inwards towards the moving handle apex pin within the confines of its corresponding pivotal strut toothed slot until such times the pivotal strut approaches a predetermined angle in regards to the fixed handle. When further operated, the toothed latch actuation face disengages from the pivotal strut toothed latch actuation pin allowing the resiliently urged pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth to then engage and lock within the corresponding pivotal strut toothed strut locking teeth. The pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth are therefore capable of engaging or disengaging within the pivotal stmt toothed slot locking teeth according to the size of the workpiece clamped between the fixed and pivotal jaws gripping profiles. Thereby providing an automatic means wherein, the true pivotal length (the force triangle first side span) of the pivotal strut is automatically adjustable according to the size of said workpiece clamped between the fixed and pivotal jaws gripping profiles. Thereby providing an automatically adjustable locking pliers closure function, that because of the now greatly reduced distance between the said fixed and moving handles clenching grips can be expediently operated by one hand or smaller hands.

[0021] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised in that they incorporate clamping widths within its specification that are automatically adjusted, the locking pressure can also be usefully determined by the operator by the straightforward gripping pressure of the handles, The gripping force of the operated jaws can be further determined by the manufacturers chosen resilient level of the force triangle resilient segment, the elastic potential energy. The resultant jaw resilient gripping force is largely proportional to the clenching force applied to the fixed and moving handles and the pivotal dimension ratio between the handles and jaws without any losses incurred during the rocker switch locking procedure, the jaw fulcrum being the pivotal jaw pin. The uncomplicated release of the fixed and moving handles, when the rocker switch is in the closed position initiating the locking as required of the fixed and pivotal gripping jaws upon the workpiece or clamped parts, the operator defining the options of utilizing the locking or unlocked mode, by the positioning of the said rocker switch actuator.

[0022] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised by automatically locking the fixed and pivotal jaws in any required clamping position at any chosen locking pressure level, upon the incumbent workpiece, by the pivotal strut apex end, specifically incorporating a pivotal strut toothed arc, pivotal around the moving handle apex pin, within the moving handle apex pin bore, being locked or unlocked according to the corresponding rocker switch actuator orientation within said moving handle. The pivotal strut retained within the opposing fixed handle by the pivotal strut toothed latch axles within the fixed handle toothed latch axle bores. The present invention in order to provide a commercially reassuring clicking action, further includes a rocker switch sprung plunger as part of the resiliently ratcheting locking mechanism, whereas the rocker switch incorporates a ratcheting or disengaged toothed mechanism according to its chosen orientation, when utilized in the locking position, the pivotal, rocker switch intermediate toothed arc resiliently engaging with the teeth of the toothed strut arc, in order to positionally lock as required the same, thereby locking the clamped workpiece within the jaw portions, or alternately disengaging the switch teeth from the strut toothed arc releasing the workpiece from the jaws, according to the pivotal rocker switch chosen orientation.

[0023] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised by the incorporation of an single extension spring situated between the, pivotal strut main spring hole and the moving handle, main spring retaining pin, therefore acting to induce the moving handle to automatically regain its open position as required when the rocker switch is operated to its unlocking position.

[0024] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised wherein the force triangles second side comprising the moving handle actuation arm, specifically incorporates the force triangle resilient segment, within said force triangles second side, moving handle actuation arm, further specified as the actuation arm resilient bowed portion. In order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within the moving handle actuation arm, to provide a strong resilient gripping force, to clamp the workpiece gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws. The operator’s clenching force being relative to the potential energy imparted to the force triangles second side resilient bowed portion. The amount of elastic potential energy the actuation arm resilient bowed portion can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

[0025] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised wherein, the force triangle resilient segment, can impart an extremely practical strong sprung clamping pressure robustly clamping the workpiece with little or no surface damage transmitted.

[0026] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised wherein the force triangle’s first side, comprising the pivotal strut, specifically incorporates a force triangle resilient segment within said pivotal strut, further specified as a pivotal strut resilient bowed portion, in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within the pivotal strut to provide a strong resilient gripping force to clamp the workpiece gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws. This imparted gripping force being relative to the potential energy imparted to the pivotal strut resilient bowed portion, by the operators clenching force. The amount of elastic potential energy the pivotal strut resilient bowed portion can provide, being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

[0027] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised wherein the force triangles second side, comprising the moving handle actuation arm, specifically incorporates a force triangle resilient segment within said moving handle actuation arm, further specified as a moving handle actuation arm curved reduced width portion, in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within said moving handle actuation arm curved reduced width portion, in order to provide a strong resilient gripping force to clamp the workpiece gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws. This imparted gripping force being relative to the potential energy imparted to the moving handle actuation arm curved reduced width portion, by the operators clenching force. The amount of elastic energy the moving handle actuation arm curved reduced width portion can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

[0028] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised wherein the force multiplying triangle’s first side comprising the pivotal strut specifically incorporates a force triangle resilient segment within the pivotal strut. Further characterised as a pivotal strut curved reduced width portion in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within the pivotal strut to allow when a workpiece W gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws is subjected to gripping force, this imparted strong resilient, gripping force being relative to the potential energy imparted to the pivotal strut curved reduced width portion by the operator.

[0029] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised whereas when the fixed and moving handle clenching grips are subject to a clenching force and the rocker switch actuator is operated into the open position from a locking position, with the fixed and moving handle clenching grips further retained between the operators thumb web and fingers, allows a more controlled release of any stored elastic potential energy induced within the force triangle resilient segment, during the previous clenching force and gripping force locking procedures. Thereby safely releasing any potential energy retained within the force triangle resilient segment. The fixed and moving handles automatically regaining their open position when the rocker switch is unlocked.

[0030] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised comprising a force triangle resilient segment acting as an extremely strong spring allowing the force triangle resilient segment to bow enough to allow the rocker switch intermediate toothed arc, to effectively lock onto as required, further teeth of the corresponding pivotal strut toothed arc. Whereas if the closure mechanism was rigid, the locking point between said pivotal strut toothed arc and the rocker switch intermediate arc would be rigidly set, leading in some circumstances to insufficient gripping force upon the clamped workpiece by the fixed and pivotal jaw gripping profiles.

[0031] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised in that they incorporate a specific construction method whereas the chosen size and gripping profile of fixed and moving jaw particular type is capable of being fitted or sold with one standard corresponding handle operating mechanism prior to delivery to the customer in order to drastically reduce inventory costs. The attachment being made using known, threaded pins and screws in best practice precoated with locking chemicals.

[0032] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised whereas the pivotal strut toothed slot is at an angle relative to the force triangle base line between the moving handle apex pin and the pivotal strut toothed latch axles. In order to insure the force triangle apex specifically remains at all times within the force triangle interior, preventing any incidence of over-cam locking as the pivotal strut toothed latch traverses the pivotal strut toothed slot.

[0033] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised in that the pivotal jaw and fixed handle jaw teeth are fitted with sequence partitions in order to allow them to be out of sequence one parallel section to the other, in order to further allow them to be economically manufactured.

[0034] Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised in that no force triangle resilient segment is employed within any part of the force multiplying triangle.

[0035] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0036] In order that the invention may be well understood, embodiments thereof, which are given by way of example, only, will now be described with reference to the drawings in which:

[0037] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the non-crush locking pliers in their at rest open position.

[0038] Figure 2 is a side view of the non-crush locking pliers in their at rest open position, with the top moving and fixed handle outer plates removed for illustration purposes (not shown).

[0039] Figure 3 is a side view of the non-crush locking pliers in their at rest, open position, with the top moving and fixed handle outer plates removed (not shown) for illustration purposes.

[0040] Figure 4 is a side view of the non-crush locking pliers in their part operated position with the top moving and fixed handle outer plates removed (not shown) for illustration purposes. The force multiplying triangle clearly shown.

[0041] Figure 5 is a side view of the non-crush locking pliers in their locked position upon a large diameter workpiece, the top moving and fixed handle outer plates removed (not shown) for illustration purposes. The force triangle clearly shown, the force triangle first side span shortening.

[0042] Figure 6 is a side view of the non-crush locking pliers in their locked position upon a medium width workpiece, the top moving and fixed handle outer plates removed (not shown) for illustration purposes. The force triangle clearly shown, the force triangle apex positioned within the force triangle base line and the pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth engaged within the pivotal stmt toothed slot locking teeth.

[0043] Figure 7 is a side view of the non-crush locking pliers in their initially unlocked position upon a small width workpiece, the top moving and fixed handle outer plates removed (not shown) for illustration purposes. The force triangle clearly shown, the force triangle apex positioned within the force triangle base line and the pivotal stmt toothed latch locking teeth disengaging from the pivotal stmt locking teeth. The rocker switch operated into the open position.

[0044] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the non-cmsh locking pliers, pivotal jaw and fixed handle interchangeable jaw, their teeth illustrated being out of sequence one parallel section to the other, in order to allow them to be economically manufactured, sequence partition grooves are integral.

[0045] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the non-cmsh locking pliers, pivotal jaw, the teeth illustrated being out of sequence one parallel section to the other, in order to allow them to be economically manufactured, sequence partition grooves are integral.

[0046] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the non-cmsh locking pliers, shown dismantled into their constituent parts for display purposes.

[0047] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the non-cmsh locking pliers, the handle portion operating mechanism shown dismantled from the fixed handle interchangeable jaw and pivotal jaw.

[0048] Reference to the Drawings

[0049] Following is a listing of the various components used in the best mode preferred embodiment and alternative embodiments. For the ready reference of the reader the reference numerals have been arranged in ascending numerical order.

[0050] Detailed Description

[0051] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, some features may be exaggerated to show details of particular components. Therefore specific structural and functional details disclosed herein, are not to be interpreted as being limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as one skilled in the art to variously employ the invention.

[0052] Figs 1 to 11 illustrate non-crush locking pliers 1 , comprising, a fixed handle 200, incorporating fixed handle clenching grips 213, within its distil end 202 and a fixed head portion 203 incorporating the fixed jaw 205 and fixed jaw gripping profile 209 within its proximal end 201. The fixed head portion 203 further incorporating a pivotal jaw pin bore 204 and a pivotal jaw pin 600 around which the pivotal jaw 300 incorporating the pivotal jaw gripping profile 301 can swivel towards closure within the same plane, when operated by a clenching force CF between the fixed and moving handle clenching grips 213, 409. A pivotal strut 500 is further mounted between the pivotal strut apex end pin bore 502 and the moving handle apex pin bore 403 by the moving handle apex pin 603 and at the pivotal strut fixed handle end 503 by pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508, pivotally engaged within the fixed handle toothed latch axle bores 210. The pivotal strut 500 is specifically characterised by incorporating an integral pivotal strut toothed slot 505 with an incumbent pivotal strut toothed latch 507.

[0053] The moving handle 400 further pivotally attached to the pivotal jaw 300 at its moving handle 400 proximal end 201 by the pivotal jaw actuation pin 601, whereby a scalene or Isosceles type triangle hereinafter termed a force multiplying triangle 800, is formed with its force triangle base line 801 situated between the pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508 and the pivotal jaw actuation pin 601. The force triangle apex 802 formed within the pivotal strut apex end pin bore 502 and corresponding moving handle apex pin bore 403 and further incumbent, moving handle apex pin 603.

[0054] The force triangle first side 803 comprises the pivotal strut 500, mounted between the pivotal strut apex end pin bore 502 and the moving handle apex pin bore 403 by the moving handle apex pin 603 and at the pivotal strut fixed handle end 503 by pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508 pivotally engaged within the fixed handle toothed latch axle bores 210.

[0055] The force triangle second side comprises the moving handle actuation arm, pivotal between the moving handle actuation pin bore and the moving handle apex pin bore.

[0056] A force triangle resilient segment can be fitted either or both, the force triangle first or second sides.

[0057] The locking mechanism utilized is specific to a non-over-cam design wherein the force triangle apex 802 is forced towards but never outwith the force triangle interior 807 or force triangle base line 801.

[0058] The non-crush locking pliers 1 are further characterised, wherein during use, as the operator clenches the moving handle clenching grip 409, towards the opposing fixed handle clenching grip 213, the moving handle apex pivot pin 603 is propelled towards but never outwith the force multiplying triangle base line 801, forcefully elongating the force multiplying triangle base line 801. The moving handle apex pin bore 403 being positioned as near as practical to the moving handle proximal end 401 within the moving handle clenching grip 409 such that as an initial clenching force CF is applied between the fixed and moving handle clenching grips 213, 409, against the resilient extension of the fixed handle main spring 219, this first, rotational force RF action rotates the moving handle distil end 402 around the moving handle apex pin 603 towards the fixed handle distil end 202, simultaneously rotating the moving handle actuation arm 404 and pivotally attached, pivotal jaw 300 outwards from the fixed handle 200. This first, rotational force RF, action enables the fixed and pivotal jaw gripping profiles 209, 301 to promptly initially grip the workpiece W.

[0059] The non-crush locking pliers 1 are specifically characterised wherein the pivotal strut 500 incorporates a pivotal strut toothed slot 505, wherein resides a corresponding pivotal strut toothed latch 507, pivotal around incorporated pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508 within the corresponding fixed handle toothed latch axle bores 210, and pivotal at its opposite, pivotal strut apex end 501, around the moving handle apex pin 603. The pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509 are capable of engaging or disengaging within the corresponding pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth 506, according to the predetermined angle of the operated pivotal strut 500, relative to that of the fixed handle 200. Wherein, the pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509, are resiliently biased towards the pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth 506, by the pivotal strut toothed latch spring 511. The pivotal strut toothed latch 507 is pivotally positioned by means of the toothed latch actuation pin 602 secured within corresponding, fixed handle toothed latch actuation pin bores 210, initially abutting the pivotal strut toothed latch actuation face 510. Whereas the pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509, remain disengaged from the corresponding, pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth 506 thereby enabling the pivotal strut toothed latch 507 to traverse inwards towards the moving handle apex pin 603 within the confines of its corresponding pivotal strut toothed slot 505 until such times the pivotal strut 500 approaches a predetermined angle in regards to the fixed handle 200. The toothed latch actuation face 510 as it disengages from the pivotal strut toothed latch actuation pin 602 allows the resiliently urged pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509 to then engage and lock within the corresponding pivotal strut toothed strut locking teeth 506. The pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509 are therefore capable of engaging or disengaging within the pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth 506 according to the size of the workpiece W clamped between the fixed and pivotal jaws gripping profiles 209, 301. Thereby providing an automatic means wherein, the true pivotal length (the force triangle first side span 804) of the pivotal strut 500 is automatically adjustable according to the size of said workpiece W clamped between the fixed and pivotal jaws gripping profiles 209, 301. Thereby providing an automatically adjustable locking pliers closure function, that because of the now greatly reduced distance between the said fixed and moving handles clenching grips 213, 409 can be expediently operated by one hand or smaller hands.

[0060] The non-crush locking pliers 1 are further characterised by automatically locking the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300 in any required clamping position at any chosen locking pressure level, upon the incumbent workpiece W, by the pivotal strut apex end 501, incorporating a pivotal strut toothed arc 512, pivotal around the moving handle apex pin 603, within the moving handle apex pin bore 403, being locked or unlocked according to the corresponding rocker switch actuator 701 orientation within the moving handle 400. The pivotal strut 500 retained within the opposing fixed handle by the pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508 within the fixed handle toothed latch axle bores 210. The present invention in order to provide a commercially reassuring clicking action, further includes a rocker switch sprung plunger 702 as part of the resiliently ratcheting, rocker switch mechanism 700, whereas the rocker switch mechanism 700, incorporates a ratcheting, locked or disengaged toothed mechanism according to its chosen orientation. When utilized in the locking position, the pivotal, rocker switch intermediate toothed arc 704 engaging with the teeth of the pivotal strut toothed arc 512 to positionally lock as required the same, thereby locking the clamped, workpiece W within the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300, or alternately disengaging the rocker switch intermediate toothed arc 704 from the pivotal strut toothed arc 512 releasing the workpiece W from the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300 , according to the rocker switch mechanism’s 700 chosen orientation.

[0061] Figure 2 and 3 show in particular a side view of the self adjusting locking pliers 1 in their open at rest positions, wherein the top moving and fixed handle outer plates 411, 216 are removed for illustration purposes, (not shown).

[0062] The non-crush locking pliers 1 , are specifically characterised wherein the force triangles second side 805, comprising the moving handle actuation arm 404, has specifically incorporated within the moving handle proximal end 401, a force triangle resilient segment 806 comprising a moving handle 400, actuation arm resilient bowed portion 406. In order to provide during use, sufficient robust flexing within said force triangle resilient segment 806 to allow a workpiece W gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300 to incur sufficient resilient, gripping force GF upon said workpiece W. This imparted gripping force GF being relative to the potential energy imparted to the force triangle resilient segment 806 by the operator during the clenching force CF procedure. The maximum amount of elastic energy the force triangle resilient segment 806 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

[0063] Figure 4 in particular is a side view of the self adjusting locking pliers 1 , in their part operated position, whereas the top moving and fixed handle outer plates 411, 216 are removed for illustration purposes (not shown). The force multiplying triangle 800 is clearly shown whereas the force triangle first side span 804 is shortening as the operator clenches the moving handle clenching grip 409 towards the opposing fixed handle clenching grip 213, the moving handle apex pivot pin 603 being propelled towards the force multiplying triangle base line 801 forcefully elongating said force multiplying triangle base line 801.

[0064] Figures 5, 6 and 7 in particular are a side view of the self adjusting locking pliers 1 in their locked position upon differing sizes of workpiece W, the top moving and fixed handle outer plates 411, 216 removed for illustration purposes (not shown). The force multiplying triangle 800 clearly shown, whereas the force triangle first side span 804 has shortened as the operator has clenched the moving handle 400 towards the opposing fixed handle 200, wherein the force triangle apex 802 is positioned just inside the force triangle base line 801. The fixed and moving handle spacers 214, 412 are further shown.

[0065] Figure 6 in particular is a side view of the self adjusting locking pliers 1 , characterised wherein the force triangles second side 805, comprising the moving handle actuation arm 404 specifically incorporates a force triangle resilient segment 806 within the moving handle actuation arm 404. In this iteration the force triangle resilient segment 806 is characterised as a moving handle 400, actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406, in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within the moving handle actuation arm 404 to provide resilient, gripping force GF to the workpiece W gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300, this imparted gripping force GF being relative to the potential energy imparted to the actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406 by the operator.

[0066] Figure 7 in particular is a side view of the self adjusting locking pliers 1 , wherein the fixed jaw and pivotal jaw gripping profiles 209, 301 are still in their locked position upon a workpiece. The top moving and fixed handle outer plates 411, 216 are removed for illustration purposes (not shown). The self adjusting locking pliers 1 are illustrated in the initial release mode, the operation is characterised wherein the rocker switch mechanism 700 is in the unlock position, disengaging the rocker switch intermediate toothed arc 704 from the pivotal strut toothed arc 512 in order to release the workpiece W from the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300. Even further characterized whereas when the fixed and moving handle clenching grips 213, 409 are during the operation of the release switch 700, retained between the operators thumb web and fingers, this now allows a controlled release of any stored elastic energy within the force triangle resilient segment 806, induced during the clenching force CF and gripping force GF procedures.

[0067] Even further characterized whereas the self adjusting locking pliers 1 , fixed and moving handles 200, 400 and pivotal strut 500 automatically regain their at rest open position when the release switch mechanism 700 is unlocked, releasing any potential energy retained within the force triangle resilient segment 806. Further aided by the incorporation of the moving handle main spring 413, extension spring situated between the pivotal strut main spring hole 504 and the main spring retaining pin 608. In this iteration a pivotal strut resilient bowed portion 513 is further illustrated.

[0068] Figure 8 and 9 in particular is a perspective view of the self adjusting locking pliers 1, fixed handle interchangeable jaw 217 and jaw stub 218. wherein, the fixed jaw first toothed sequence 206 is out of sequence relative to the fixed jaw second toothed sequence 207. Specifically characterised, wherein the fixed jaw first and second toothed sequences 207, 208 are separated by fixed jaw toothed sequence partition grooves 208 employed such as to allow these fixed jaw first and second toothed sequences 207, 208 to be manufactured economically. The pivotal jaw gripping profile 301 similarly arranged wherein the pivotal jaw first and second toothed sequences 303, 304 are characterised by the use of pivotal jaw toothed sequence partition grooves 305, likewise orientated as required allowing the fixed jaw 205 and pivotal jaw 300 teeth 221 , 306 to be deliberately cast, forged or otherwise cost effectively manufactured out of sequence by up to 50% of the chosen tooth pitch, in order to provide a far superior and effective fixed and or pivotal jaw 205, 300 teeth 221 , 306 gripping profile 209, 301.

[0069] Figure 10 illustrates the non-crush locking pliers, shown dismantled into their constituent parts for display purposes.

[0070] Figure 11 shows the non-crush locking pliers 1 , the handle portion operating mechanism 607 shown dismantled from the fixed handle interchangeable jaw 217 and pivotal jaw 300.

[0071] The pivotal jaw pivot bore and actuation pin bore 302, 307 and fixed jaw stub retainer bores 211, fixed handle interchangeable jaw and stub 217, 218 build method is further shown. Wherein several chosen sizes or particular types of specifically fixed jaws 205 (not shown) are capable of being fitted or sold along with a corresponding pivotal jaw 300 fitted to a standard corresponding self adjusting locking pliers 1, fixed and moving handle 200, 400, handle portion operating mechanism 607 prior to delivery to the customer in order to drastically reduce inventory costs. The attachment being made, using assembly fasteners 604 such as known threaded pins and screws in best practice pre-coated with locking chemicals, further characterized as fitment of differing fixed handle interchangeable jaws 217 with abbreviated fixed handle interchangeable stubs 218 into corresponding standard sized, handle portion operating mechanisms 607.

[0072] Although certain example methods and apparatus have been described herein, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all methods, apparatus and articles of manufacture fairly falling within scope of the appended claims either literally or under the doctrine of equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Locking pliers comprising: a fixed handle provided with a fixed jaw; a pivoting jaw pivotally connected with the fixed handle by a first pivot connection; an actuating arm pivotally connected with the pivoting jaw by a second pivot connection; a pivoting handle pivotally connected with said actuating arm by a third pivot connection; a strut pivotally connected with the pivoting handle by said third pivot connection, said strut comprising a slot and provided with a plurality of slot teeth; a latch pivotally connected with said fixed handle by a fourth pivot connection and disposed within said slot, said slot having a first end disposed relatively further from said third pivot connection, a second end disposed relatively closer to said third pivot connection and at least one tooth engageable with said slot teeth, wherein said second, third and fourth pivot connections are configured so that with said fixed and pivoting handles in a fully open condition an imaginary non-equilateral triangle is formed having a base line extending between said second and fourth pivot connections and an apex at said third pivot connection, wherein in said fully open condition said latch is disposed in a first position nearer to said first end of said slot than to said second end of said slot; wherein, in use, when fixed and pivoting handles are in said fully open condition and said pivoting handle is pivoted towards said fixed handle pivoting handle pivots around said third pivot connection and causes said actuating arm to pivot said second pivotal connection away from said fixed handle to close said fixed and pivoting jaws onto a workpiece disposed therebetween, wherein further pivoting movement of said pivoting handle towards said fixed handle causes said third pivot connection to move towards said base line so that relative movement of said latch and said slot causes said latch to be disposed in a second position nearer to said second end than said first position and at least one tooth of said latch to engage at least one tooth of said plurality of slot teeth.

2. Locking pliers as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said strut has a first end and a second end, said slot is disposed closer to said first end than said second end and a spring elementconnected between said second end and said pivoting handle to provide a biasing force that biases said third pivot connection away from said baseline.

3. Locking pliers as claimed in claim 2, wherein said second end of said strut is provided with a plurality of strut teeth and further comprising a pivoting latch mounted on said pivoting handle and having a least one tooth engageable with said plurality of strut teeth.

4. Locking pliers as claimed in claim 3, further comprising a switch movable between a first position in which said switch causes said at least one tooth of said pivoting latch to engage at least one tooth of said plurality of strut teeth and a second position in which said switch causes said at least one tooth of said pivoting latch to disengage said plurality of strut teeth.

5. Locking pliers as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a resilient member disposed in said slot between said strut and said latch, said resilient member configured to bias said at least one tooth of said latch towards said plurality of slot teeth.

6. Locking pliers as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an actuating pin fixed to said fixed handle and bearing against an actuating surface defined by said latch that faces said first end of said slot.

7. Locking pliers as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said actuating arm comprises a curved segment that bows away from said fixed handle and is configured to flex when said further movement of said pivoting handle towards said fixed handle causes said third pivot connection to move towards said base line.

8. Locking pliers as claimed in claim 7, wherein said actuating arm comprises two elongate members disposed in opposed spaced apart relation and each comprising a said curved segment.

9. Locking pliers as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said strut is provided with a curved segment that bows away from said fixed handle and is configured to flex when said further movement of said pivoting handle towards said fixed handle causes said third pivot connection to move towards said base line.

10. Locking pliers as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of said fixed and pivoting jaws is provided with a first series of workpiece gripping teeth disposed alongside a second series of workpiece gripping teeth that are arranged such that in a transverse direction of the jaw, the teeth of said first series of teeth are out of alignment with the teeth of said second series of teeth.

11. Locking pliers as claimed in claim 10, wherein said first series of teeth is separated from said second series of teeth by a groove.

12. Locking pliers as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said plurality of slot teeth project inwardly of said slot and are disposed closer to said second end of said slot than to said first end.

13. Non- crush locking pliers 1, comprising, a fixed handle 200 incorporating, fixed handle clenching grips 213 within their distil end 202 and a fixed head portion 203 incorporating the fixed jaw 205 and fixed jaw gripping profile 209 within its proximal end 201, the fixed head portion 203 further incorporating a pivotal jaw pin bore 204 and a pivotal jaw pin 600 around which the pivotal jaw 300 incorporating the pivotal jaw gripping profile 301 can swivel towards closure within the same plane, when operated by a clenching force CF between the fixed and moving handle clenching grips 213, 409; a pivotal strut 500 is further mounted between the pivotal strut apex end pin bore 502 and the moving handle apex pin bore 403 by the moving handle apex pin 603 and at the pivotal strut fixed handle end 503 by pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508 pivotally engaged within the fixed handle toothed latch axle bores 210; the moving handle 400 is further pivotally attached to the pivotal jaw 300 at its moving handle 400 proximal end 201 by the pivotal jaw actuation pin 601, whereby a scalene or Isosceles type triangle hereinafter termed a force multiplying triangle 800, is formed with its force triangle base line 801 situated between the pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508 and the pivotal jaw actuation pin 601 ; the force triangle apex 802 formed within the pivotal strut apex end pin bore 502 and corresponding moving handle apex pin bore 403 and further incumbent, moving handle apex pin 603, the force triangle first side formed between the pivotal strut apex end 501 pin bore 502 pin 603 and at the pivotal jaw fixed handle end 503 by the pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508 within the fixed handle toothed latch axle bores 210 and the force triangle second side 805 formed between the moving handle apex pin bore 403 and the pivotal jaw actuation arm pin bore 307;during use as the operator clenches the moving handle clenching grip 409 towards the opposing fixed handle clenching grip 213, the moving handle apex pivot pin 603 is propelled towards the force multiplying triangle base line 801 forcefully elongating said force multiplying triangle base line 801 ; the moving handle apex pin bore 403 being positioned as near as practical to the moving handle proximal end 401 within the moving handle clenching grip 409 such that as initial clenching force CF is applied between the fixed and moving handle clenching grips 213, 409, against the resilient extension of the fixed handle main spring 219, this first, rotational force RF action rotates the moving handle distil end 402 around the moving handle apex pin 603 towards the fixed handle distil end 202, simultaneously rotating the moving handle actuation arm 404 and pivotally attached, pivotal jaw 300 outwards from the fixed handle 200; this first, rotational force RF, action enables the fixed and pivotal jaw gripping profiles 209, 301 to promptly initially grip the workpiece W; specifically characterised wherein the pivotal strut 500, incorporates a pivotal strut toothed slot 505, wherein resides a corresponding pivotal strut toothed latch 507, pivotal around incorporated pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508; the pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509 are capable of engaging or disengaging within the corresponding pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth 506 according to the angle of the operated pivotal strut 500 relative to that of the fixed handle 200, the pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509, by means of the toothed latch actuation pin 602 abutting the pivotal strut toothed latch actuation face 510 remaining disengaged from the pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth 506 until the force triangle apex 802 approaches that of the force triangle base line 801, simultaneously rotating the moving handle actuation arm 404 and pivotally attached, pivotal jaw 300 outwards from the fixed handle 200. This first, rotational force RF, action enables the fixed and pivotal jaw gripping profiles 209, 301 to promptly initially grip the workpiece W.

14. Non- crush locking pliers 1 as claimed in claim 13, wherein the pivotal strut 500 incorporates a pivotal strut toothed slot 505, wherein resides a corresponding pivotal strut toothed latch 507, pivotal around incorporated pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508, within corresponding fixed handle toothed latch axle bores 210, and pivotal at its opposite, pivotal strut apex end 501, around the moving handle apex pin 603; the pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509 are capable of engaging or disengaging within the corresponding pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth 506, according to the predetermined angle of the operated pivotal strut 500, relative to that of the fixed handle 200; wherein, the pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509, are resiliently biased towards the pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth 506, by thepivotal strut toothed latch spring 511; the pivotal strut toothed latch 507 is pivotally positioned by means of the toothed latch actuation pin 602, secured within corresponding, fixed handle toothed latch actuation pin bores 210, initially abutting the pivotal strut toothed latch actuation face 510; whereas the pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509, remain disengaged from the corresponding, pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth 506 thereby enabling the pivotal strut toothed latch 507 to traverse inwards towards the moving handle apex pin 603 within the confines of its corresponding pivotal strut toothed slot 505 until such times the pivotal strut 500 approaches a predetermined angle in regards to the fixed handle 200; the toothed latch actuation face 510 as it disengages from the pivotal strut toothed latch actuation pin 602 allows the resiliently urged pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509 to then engage and lock within the corresponding pivotal strut toothed strut locking teeth 506; the pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509 are therefore capable of engaging or disengaging within the pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth 506 according to the size of the workpiece W clamped between the fixed and pivotal jaws gripping profiles 209, 301; thereby providing an automatic means, wherein the true pivotal length (the force triangle first side span 804) of the pivotal strut 500 is automatically adjustable according to the size of said workpiece W clamped between the fixed and pivotal jaws gripping profiles 209, 301; thereby providing an automatically adjustable locking pliers closure function, that because of the now greatly reduced distance between the said fixed and moving handles clenching grips 213, 409 can be expediently operated by one hand or smaller hands.

15. Non- crush locking pliers 1 as claimed in claim 14, wherein the strut 500 pivotal length which comprises the force triangle 800 first side 803 span 804 is automatically adjustable, between the pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508 situated within the fixed handle toothed latch axle bores 210 and the moving handle apex pin 603 pivotal around the moving handle apex pin bore 403, the pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth 509 only engaging or disengaging within the corresponding analogous, pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth 506 according to the angle of the operated pivotal strut 500 relative to that of the fixed handle 200 and the interaction between the toothed latch actuation pin 602 rigidly held within the fixed handle metal framework 212 and the toothed latch actuation face 510.

16. Non- crush Locking Pliers 1 as claimed in claim 15, wherein the force multiplying triangle’s second side 805 comprising the moving handle actuation arm 404 specifically incorporates a force triangle resilient segment 806 within said moving handle actuation arm404; further specified as a moving handle 400, actuation arm resilient bowed portion 406, in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within the force triangle resilient segment 806 to allow a workpiece W gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300 to be subjected to a strong resilient, gripping force GF, this imparted gripping force GF being relative to the potential energy imparted to the actuation arm resilient bowed portion 406 by the operator during the clenching force CF action; the maximum amount of elastic potential energy the actuation arm resilient bowed portion 406 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

17. Non- crush Locking Pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 16, characterised wherein the force multiplying triangle’s second side 805 comprising the moving handle actuation arm 404 specifically incorporates a force triangle resilient segment 808 within the moving handle 400; in this iteration the force triangle resilient segment 806 is further specifically characterised as a moving handle curved reduced width portion 413, in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within the moving handle actuation arm 404, to allow a workpiece W gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300 to be subjected to a strong resilient, gripping force GF which is relative to the potential energy imparted to the moving handle actuation arm 404 curved reduced width portion 413 by the operator during the clenching force CF action; the maximum amount of elastic energy the moving handle actuation arm 404 curved reduced width portion 413 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

18. Non- crush Locking Pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the force multiplying triangle’s first side comprising the pivotal strut 500, specifically incorporates a force triangle resilient segment 806 within said pivotal strut 500; further characterised as a pivotal strut curved reduced width portion 514 in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within said pivotal strut curved reduced width portion 514 to allow a workpiece W gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300 to be subjected to a strong resilient, gripping force GF which is relative to the potential energy imparted to the pivotal strut curved reduced width portion 514 by the operator during the clenching force CF action; the maximum amount of elastic energy the pivotal strut curved reduced width portion 514 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

19. Non- crush Locking Pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein the force multiplying triangle’s first side 803 comprising the pivotal strut 500 specifically incorporates a force triangle resilient segment 806 within said pivotal strut 500; further characterised as a pivotal stmt resilient bowed portion 513 in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within said pivotal stmt 500 force triangle resilient segment 806, to allow a workpiece W gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300 to be subjected to a strong resilient, gripping force GF which is relative to the potential energy imparted to the fixed and moving handle clenching grips 213, 409 by the operator during the clenching force CF action; the maximum amount of elastic energy the pivotal stmt resilient bowed portion 513 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

20. Non-cmsh locking pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein the fixed jaw teeth 219 are out of sequence; the fixed jaw first toothed sequence 206 is out of sequence relative to the fixed jaw second toothed sequence 207; characterised wherein the fixed jaw first and second toothed sequences 207, 208 are specifically separated by fixed jaw toothed sequence partition grooves 208; employed such as to allow these fixed jaw first and second toothed sequences 207, 208 to be manufactured economically; the pivotal jaw gripping profile 301 is similarly arranged wherein the pivotal jaw first and second toothed sequences 303, 304 are characterised by the use of pivotal jaw toothed sequence partition grooves 305, likewise orientated as required allowing the fixed jaw 205 and pivotal jaw 300 teeth 219, 306 to be deliberately cast or forged or otherwise manufactured out of sequence by up to 50% of the chosen tooth pitch in order to provide a far superior and effective fixed and or pivotal jaw 205, 300 teeth 219, 306 gripping profile 209, 301.

21. Non- cmsh locking pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 20, wherein, the employed, force triangle resilient segment 806 can impart an extremely practical strong sprang gripping force GF robustly clamping the workpiece W with little or no surface damage transmitted.

22. Non-crash locking pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 21, wherein a construction method, is characterised wherein several chosen sizes or particular types of specifically, fixed handle interchangeable jaws 217 with abbreviated fixed handle interchangeable stubs 218 are capable of being fitted or sold with a standard corresponding standard sized, handle portion operating mechanism 607 and corresponding pivotal jaw, prior to delivery to the customer in order to drastically reduce inventory costs; the assembly fastener604 atachment, being made in best practice using known threaded pins and screws pre-coated with locking chemicals; this iteration is further characterized as fitment of differing fixed handle interchangeable jaws 217 with abbreviated fixed handle interchangeable stubs 218 into corresponding standard sized, handle portion operating mechanisms 607.

23. Non-crush locking Pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 22, whereas the pivotal strut toothed slot 505 is at an angle relative to the line between the moving handle apex pin 403 and the pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508 in order to retain the correct abutment distance between the fixed handle inner profile 215 and the moving handle inner face 408 at all times during locking procedure, as the pivotal strut toothed latch 507 traverses the pivotal strut toothed slot 505 in order to prevent the force triangle apex 802 from exiting the force triangle interior 807 and going over-cam.

24. Non-crush locking pliers 1 , as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 23, wherein the fixed and moving handle clenching grips 213, 409 are specifically ergonomically shaped to provide one handed ease of use by smaller hands, characterized wherein the fixed handle grip 213 has a convex shape portion for contact with the operators web between the thumb and forefinger, the moving handle grip 409 having finger grip finger profiles 410 formed according to normal corresponding finger lengths from the fixed handle clenching grip 213 giving superior enablement of use by smaller hands.25.Non-crush locking Pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 24, wherein the force triangle resilient segment 806 utilized, comprises of a known compression spring located using known methods.

26. Non-crush locking Pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 25, whereas there are no force triangle resilient segments 806 incorporated.

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