Locking assembly for a handheld tool

Abstract

A locking assembly for a handheld tool comprising a first tool member mounted to pivot with respect to a second tool member about a pivot axis, the locking assembly being configured to secure an angular position of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member, and the locking assembly comprising: a locking member; and a locking arrangement comprising: a securing member mountable to the second tool member for urging the second tool member towards the first tool member; wherein the securing member is arranged to extend along the pivot axis between the second tool member and the locking member for engagement with the locking member. The locking member is engageable with the securing member such that movement of the locking member acts on the securing member to urge the first and second tool members towards one another. The locking member is moveable to switch the locking assembly between: a first configuration in which the first tool member may be pivoted with respect to the second tool member; and a second configuration in which the securing member urges the first and second tool members towards one another such that frictional engagement between the second tool member and the first tool member or between the second tool member and the locking arrangement, resists pivoting of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member, thereby to secure an angular position of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member.

Description

[0001] LOCKING ASSEMBLY FOR A HANDHELD TOOL

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to tools such as handheld measuring or marking tools. In particular the present invention relates to a locking assembly for releasably securing a relative angular position of parts of a handheld tool, and to a handheld tool comprising the locking assembly.

[0004] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0005] A handheld tool known as a square, try square, or carpenter’s square comprises a first part which may be referred to as a stock, and a second part comprising a blade or tongue fixed to the stock so that a straight edge of the blade extends perpendicular to a straight edge of the stock. A square is used to check and mark 90-degree angles during construction tasks such as carpentry work, by placing the edges of the stock and / or blade against surfaces of a workpiece.

[0006] To measure or mark a range of different angles, it is known to use a tool which may be known as an angle finder, comprising a first part having a straight edge and a second part having a straight edge and being pivotally mounted to the first part. In use, the first part is pivoted with respect to the second part to set a desired angle between the straight edges of the first and second parts. The angle may be indicated by a gauge provided on one of the parts.

[0007] To secure an angular position of the first part with respect to the second part, a simple clamping mechanism may be used. In particular, the first and second parts may be mounted to pivot on the shank of a bolt, and a nut may be used to clamp the first and second parts together between the nut and a head of the bolt, to fix the relative angular position of the first and second parts. A problem with this arrangement is that tightening of the nut may result in relative movement of the parts, causing an unwanted change in the angle between the edges of the parts. Also, friction between the nut or bolt and one of the parts can cause unwanted tightening of the nut and bolt whilst pivoting the first and second parts to set a desired angle, causing the first and second parts to seize at an arbitrary angle. Accordingly, such tools may be inconvenient to use and / or inaccurate.

[0008] It is against this background that the present invention is devised. It is an object of the present invention to overcome at least one problem associated with the prior art, whether referred to herein or otherwise.

[0009] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a locking assembly for a handheld tool, the handheld tool comprising a first tool member mounted to pivot with respect to a second tool member about a pivot axis, the locking assembly being configured to secure an angular position of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member, and the locking assembly comprising: a locking member; a locking arrangement comprising: a securing member mountable to the second tool member for urging the second tool member towards the first tool member; wherein the securing member is arranged to extend along the pivot axis between the second tool member and the locking member for engagement with the locking member; wherein the locking member is engageable with the securing member such that movement of the locking member acts on the securing member to urge the first and second tool members towards one another; and wherein the locking member is moveable to switch the locking assembly between: a first configuration in which the first tool member may be pivoted with respect to the second tool member; and a second configuration in which the locking assembly urges the first and second tool members towards one another or the securing member urges the second tool member towards the first tool member, such that frictional engagement between the second tool member and the first tool member or between the second tool member and the locking arrangement, resists pivoting of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member, thereby to secure an angular position of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member.

[0011] Also provided is a locking assembly for a handheld tool, the handheld tool comprising a first tool member mounted to pivot with respect to a second tool member about a pivot axis, the locking assembly being configured to secure an angular position of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member, and the locking assembly comprising: a locking member; a locking arrangement comprising: a securing member mountable to the second tool member for urging the second tool member towards the first tool member; wherein the securing member is mounted to turn with the first tool member about the pivot axis and the securing member is arranged to extend along the pivot axis between the second tool member and the locking member for engagement with the locking member; wherein the locking member is engageable with the securing member such that movement of the locking member acts on the securing member to urge the first and second tool members towards one another; and wherein the locking member is moveable to switch the locking assembly between: a first configuration in which the first tool member may be pivoted with respect to the second tool member; and a second configuration in which the securing member urges the second tool member towards the first tool member such that frictional engagement between the second tool member and the first tool member or between the second tool member and the locking arrangement, resists pivoting of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member, thereby to secure an angular position of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member.

[0012] With this arrangement, the present invention provides a convenient and reliable mechanism for locking respective angular positions of parts of a handheld tool. The locking assembly may be arranged to urge the first and second tool members towards each other in a direction parallel to the pivot axis. The securing member may be arranged for movement along the pivot axis. The securing member may be mounted for axial movement with respect to the first tool member and / or with respect to the second tool member. The securing member may be arranged to extend through an opening in the first tool member.

[0013] Preferably the locking assembly comprises at least one frictional element disposed between the second tool member and the first tool member and / or between the second tool member and the locking arrangement, wherein, preferably, in the second configuration, the at least one frictional element is clamped between the second tool member and the first tool member and / or between the second tool member and the locking arrangement.

[0014] In this way the at least one frictional element is arranged to provide frictional engagement between the first tool member and the second tool member and / or between the second tool member and the locking arrangement.

[0015] Preferably, in the first configuration, the at least one frictional element is engaged with the first tool member, and / or with the locking arrangement.

[0016] In this way, friction between the at least one frictional element and the first tool member, and / or with the locking arrangement, partially resists pivoting of the first tool member when the locking assembly is in the second configuration, which helps to allow the angular position of the first tool member to be adjusted accurately, and helps to the prevent the angular position of the first tool member from slipping in the first configuration.

[0017] The locking assembly may comprise biasing means arranged to generate tension in the securing member to maintain frictional engagement between the first tool member and the second tool member or between the second tool member and the locking arrangement. The biasing means may comprise a resilient element or a resiliently deformable element. The at least one frictional element may comprise a resiliency deformable frictional element disposed between the first tool member and the second tool member.

[0018] The at least one frictional element may comprise a resiliently deformable frictional element disposed between the securing member and the second tool member.

[0019] In this case the resiliently deformable frictional element may provide the frictional element and the biasing means.

[0020] The or each frictional element may be substantially annular. The or each resilient frictional element may comprise a resilient 0-ring. The or each resilient frictional element may be arranged to extend around the pivot axis.

[0021] Preferably the at least one frictional element comprises a first resiliently deformable frictional element disposed between the first tool member and the second tool member and a second resiliently deformable frictional element disposed between the securing member and the second tool member. A diameter of the first resiliently deformable frictional element may be greater than a diameter of the second resiliently deformable frictional element.

[0022] Preferably the or each at least one frictional element is arranged to be secured to the second tool member.

[0023] The locking assembly may comprise a hub member arranged to be disposed between the locking member and the second tool member and arranged to turn with the first tool member about the pivot axis. The locking arrangement may comprise the hub member. The hub member may define an opening extending along the pivot axis. The securing member may be engaged with the hub member to turn with the first tool member about the pivot axis. The securing member may be arranged for axial movement in the opening.

[0024] The locking arrangement may comprise a hub member arranged to be disposed between the locking member and the second tool member and arranged to turn with the first tool member about the pivot axis, the hub member defining an opening extending along the pivot axis through which the securing member extends, and the hub member being arranged for axial movement relative to the securing member.

[0025] The securing member may be rotationally fixed with respect to the second tool member, such that the first tool member is arranged to pivot with respect to the securing member.

[0026] With this arrangement the securing member does not rotate with respect to the second tool member. The securing member may be axially moveable with respect to the second tool member.

[0027] The locking assembly may comprise a bearing member rotationally fixed on the securing member and arranged for axial movement on the securing member. The bearing member may be arranged between the locking member and the hub member. The bearing member may be arranged between the locking member and the first tool member. Preferably the bearing member comprises a washer or spacer member. Preferably an opening in the bearing member and a part of the securing member have a common cross section.

[0028] The securing member may be mounted to turn with the first tool member about the pivot axis.

[0029] The hub member may be mountable (or mounted) to the first tool member. For example, the hub member may be securable to the first tool member, for instance by one or more fasteners.

[0030] Alternatively, the hub member may be provided by a portion of the first tool member. The first tool member may comprise the hub member. In such cases the hub member need not be a separate component but may be a portion of the first tool member. The first tool member and the hub member may be a unitary body. With such arrangements, the securing member may be (directly) engaged with the first tool member to turn with the first tool member. In this way the hub member may be pivotally coupled with the first tool member. The hub member need not protrude axially from the first tool member. The hub member or the first tool member may comprise at least one locating feature arranged to engage with the second tool member to guide pivoting movement of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member. The at least one locating feature may be provided by fasteners which secure the hub member to the first tool member and the fasteners may be arranged to engage with a groove provided in the second tool member. The hub member may be arranged to move axially with respect to the second tool member.

[0031] The hub member may comprise a keying arrangement for coupling the securing member to turn with the hub member. For example, the securing member and the opening in the hub member may have a common cross-sectional profile.

[0032] The securing member may be mounted to turn in a bore in the second tool member. An engagement portion (head) of the securing member may be mounted in a recess in second tool member. The engagement portion may be flush with (e.g., may not protrude beyond) a surface of the second tool member.

[0033] The securing member may comprise a head portion for engagement with the second tool member and a shank portion arranged to extend along the axis (e.g., through the opening) for engagement with the locking member.

[0034] The securing member may comprise an engagement surface arranged to face towards part of the first tool member and the at least one frictional element may be arranged to locate between the engagement surface and the second tool member.

[0035] The head portion may comprise an engagement surface arranged to face towards part of the first tool member and the at least one frictional element may be arranged to locate between the engagement surface and the second tool member.

[0036] The engagement surface may be provided by an annular surface of the securing member.

[0037] The engagement surface may be arranged to abut a surface of the second tool member. The engagement surface may face towards the hub member. The first tool member may be arranged to pivot in a pivot plane, and the securing member may extend perpendicular to the pivot plane. The pivot plane may be substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis.

[0038] The locking member may be arranged to bear against the hub member. The hub member may be arranged to engage with the second tool member for mounting the hub member to turn with respect to the second tool member. The hub member may be engaged with the second tool member thereby to mount the first tool member for pivoting with respect to the second tool member. Part of the hub member may be arranged to extend through an opening in the first tool member to engage with the second tool member. The second tool member may comprise a bearing surface for pivoting of the hub member with respect to the second tool member.

[0039] Preferably the securing member is threadably engageable with the locking member. In this case movement of the locking member to switch the locking assembly between the first and second configurations comprises turning of the locking member. In other embodiments, the locking member may be of any suitable form to create tension in the securing member. For example the locking member may comprise a cam lever.

[0040] In the second configuration, the locking assembly may be arranged to clamp a portion of the second tool member between the first tool member and part of the securing member.

[0041] The locking assembly may comprise a detent arrangement for (releasably) securing the first tool member in at least one angular position or, a plurality of discrete angular positions, with respect to the second tool member. The detent arrangement may comprise at least one detent formation and at least one detent element engageable with the detent formation.

[0042] When the locking assembly is in the first configuration, the detent arrangement may be configured to releasably secure the first tool member in a plurality of angular positions. The detent arrangement may be configured to secure the first tool member at a plurality of discrete angular positions separated by 1 , 5, 10, 15, 20, 22.5, 25, 30, 40, 45, 60, or 90, degrees, or any other suitable increment. The detent arrangement may comprise a ball plunger. The ball plunger may be arranged to engage with a plurality of detent formations.

[0043] The detent element may comprise at least one biasing element disposed to bias a retaining element of the detent element towards a retaining configuration. When the detent element is in alignment with the detent formation, the retaining element may be disposed in the retaining configuration and may intrudes into / engage with the detent formation, and, when the detent element is non-aligned with the detent formation, the retaining element may be urged away from the retaining configuration. The detent arrangement may comprise between two and thirty-two detent formations. For example sixteen detent formations. The hub member or the first tool member or the second tool member may comprise the detent formations. The hub member or the first tool member or the second tool member may comprise the detent element(s). The detent formations may comprise grooves, which may be provided on the hub member.

[0044] The locking assembly may comprise the first tool member and / or the second tool member. The present invention also provides a handheld tool assembly comprising a locking assembly according to the first aspect of the invention and comprising the first tool member and / or the second tool member.

[0045] The first tool member may be disposed between the locking member and the second tool member. The first tool member may be mounted for limited axial movement with respect to the second tool member.

[0046] The handheld tool assembly may comprise a third tool member connected to the second tool member, and the first tool member may be disposed between the second and third tool members. The hub member may be mounted to turn in a bore in the third tool member. In this case the bore in the third tool member may have a greater diameter than a bore in the second tool member in which part of the first tool member or part of the hub member is mounted to turn. With this arrangement, during assembly of the handheld tool, parts of the locking assembly can be inserted through the bore in the third tool member for engagement with the bore in the second tool member. The first tool member may comprise a straight edge and the second tool member may comprises a straight edge. The locking assembly may be configured to secure an angular position of the straight edge of the first tool member with respect to the straight edge of the second tool member. The first tool member and / or the second tool member may comprise a ruler. In some embodiments the handheld tool assembly may comprise a deployable support member pivotally mounted to the second tool member distal to the first tool member. In this case, the support member may be used to support the weight of the second tool member on a surface. For instance, when the first tool member comprises a blade or ruler, and the second tool member comprises a handle, the support member may be used to prevent the weight of the handle from tipping the tool assembly when the first tool assembly is placed on a surface and the second tool member abuts an edge of the surface.

[0047] Part of the locking arrangement may comprise at least one indicator marking for indicating an angle of the straight edge of the first tool member with respect to the straight edge of the second tool member.

[0048] The tool member may comprise a stop for limiting pivoting movement of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member. The stop may be provided by a connecting portion which connects the second tool member and the third tool member. The stop may be configured to block pivoting of the first tool member when the straight edges of the first and second tool members are substantially perpendicular to one another.

[0049] The second tool member may comprise a handle of the handheld tool to enable a user to hold the handheld tool. The handheld tool may be suitable for use as a carpenter’s square tool. The first tool member may be substantially planar. The first tool member may comprise a substantially rectangular plate.

[0050] The locking assembly may comprise a cap member mounted to the hub member. The cap member may comprise at least one indicator marking for indicating an angular position of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate like features and in which:

[0052] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a handheld tool assembly comprising a locking assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 2 is perspective exploded view of the handheld tool assembly of Figure 1 , showing parts of the locking assembly;

[0054] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a body of the tool assembly of Figure 1 ;

[0055] Figure 3B is a perspective view of the body of the tool assembly of Figure 1 ;

[0056] Figure 4 is a perspective cutaway view of the body of the tool assembly shown in Figure 3;

[0057] Figure 5 is cross sectional view of part of the body shown in Figures 3A, 3B and 4;

[0058] Figures 6A and 6B are front and rear side views, respectively, of the body of the tool assembly of Figure 1 ;

[0059] Figures 7A, 7B, 7C, and 7D are views of a hub member of the locking assembly shown in Figure 2;

[0060] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a fastener member of the locking assembly shown in Figure 2;

[0061] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a locking member of the locking assembly shown in Figure 2; Figures 10A and 10B are perspective views of a cap member of the locking assembly shown in Figure 2;

[0062] Figure 11 A is a cross sectional view of the tool assembly of Figure 1 , showing the locking assembly in a first configuration;

[0063] Figure 11 B is a cross sectional view of the tool assembly of Figure 1 , showing the locking assembly in a second configuration;

[0064] Figure 12 is a perspective exploded view of handheld tool assembly comprising a locking assembly according to a second preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0065] Figure 13 is an alternative perspective exploded view of the handheld tool assembly of Figure 12;

[0066] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the handheld tool assembly of Figure 12; and

[0067] Figure 15 is an alternative cross-sectional view of the handheld tool assembly of Figure 12.

[0068] DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0069] The present invention relates to a locking assembly for securing, and permitting the adjustment of, a relative angular position of parts of a handheld tool. In the following example, the locking assembly forms part of a handheld tool which may be used in the manner of a carpenter’s square tool or angle finder tool for measuring and / or marking angles.

[0070] Figures 1 and 2 shows a handheld tool or handheld tool assembly 100 comprising a body or stock 102 and a tongue or blade 104. The blade 104 is pivotally mounted to the body 102 so that an angle of the blade 104 with respect to the body 102 may be adjusted. In Figure 1 an outline of an alternative angular position of the blade 104 is shown in dashed lines. The blade 104 is constrained to pivot with respect to the body 102 about a pivot axis A, such that the blade 104 is arranged to pivot in a pivot plane. The tool 100 comprises a locking assembly 106 according to a first embodiment of the invention. The locking assembly 106 is arranged to lock an angular position of the blade 104 with respect to the body 102. The locking assembly 106 comprises a hub member 108, a securing member in the form of a fastener member 110, a locking member 112, first and second resilient frictional elements 114, 116, and a cap member 118, as described in more detail below.

[0071] Referring in particular to Figure 2, the blade 104 comprises an elongate substantially rectangular plate, having substantially planar opposite side surfaces. The blade extends between a first, proximal end 120 and a second distal end 122. A proximal end portion 124 of the blade 104 nearest the proximal end 120 is arranged to be mounted to the body 102. The distal end 122 is disposed furthest from the pivot axis A. A mounting aperture 126 extends through the blade 104 proximate the proximal end 120. In this embodiment the mounting aperture 126 is generally D shaped, having a part circular (e.g., major segment) edge portion and a straight edge portion. The mounting aperture 126 is shaped to receive part of the fastener member 110. A plurality of mounting holes 128 are angularly spaced around the mounting aperture 126. The holes 128 are arranged to receive fasteners 130 for securing the blade 104 to the hub member 108 as described further below. In this embodiment the blade 104 provides a first tool member of the handheld tool 100.

[0072] The body 102 is elongate to extend between a first end or handle end 132, and a second end or blade end 134 opposite the first end 132. The blade 104 is mounted to the body 102 proximate the second end 134. The body 102 comprises a first, front side 136, and a second, rear side 138 opposite the front side 136. Opposite left and right sides 137, 139 extend between the front and rear sides 136, 138.

[0073] Referring also to Figures 3A, 3B and 4, the body 102 comprises a first (front) body portion 140 and a second (rear) body portion 142 which extends parallel to and aligned with the first body portion 140. The first and second body portions 140, 142 are each elongate to extend between the first and second ends 132, 134 of the body. The body portions 104, 142 extend parallel to the pivot plane. The second body portion 142 is spaced apart from the first body portion 140 to define an elongate slot 144 between the first and second body portions 140, 142. In this embodiment the second body portion 142 provides a second tool member of the handheld tool 100.

[0074] The first and second body portions 140, 142 are joined by a connecting portion 146 of the body 102 which extends between the first and second body portions 140, 142 proximate the left side 145 of the body 102. The connecting portion 146 extends from the lower, handle end 132 part way towards the upper, blade end 134. Preferably the body 102 is formed from a single block of material (e.g., metal) which is machined to provide the slot 144, leaving the connecting portion 146 to join the two body portions 140, 142.

[0075] With this arrangement the slot 144 extends fully along the length of the body 102 and opens at the first and second ends 132, 134 and along the right side 139 of the body 102. The slot 144 opens on the left side 137 of the body 102 between an upper end 148 of the connecting portion 146 and the blade end 134. The slot 144 extends on the pivot plane. The slot 144 is sized to receive a thickness of the blade 104, to allow the blade 104 to pivot in the slot 144, as described further below. An upper end surface 148 of the connecting portion 146 is arranged to provide a stop to abut part of the blade 104.

[0076] The first body portion 140 comprises a first mounting bore 152 which extends through the first body portion 140 between the first side 136 of the body 102 and the slot 144. The first mounting bore 152 is coaxial with the pivot axis A. The first mounting bore 152 is sized to receive part of the hub member 108 and cap member 118, as described further below.

[0077] Referring additionally to Figures 5, 6A and 6B, the second body portion 142 comprises a second mounting bore 154 which extends through the second body portion 142 between the second, rear side 138 of the body 102 and the slot 144. The second mounting bore 154 is coaxial with the pivot axis A. The second mounting bore 154 comprises a first portion 156, a second portion 158, and a third portion 160. The first portion 156 extends into the second body portion 142 from the slot 144. The second portion 158 extends from the second side 138 of the body 102 towards the slot 144. The third portion 160 extends between the first and second portions 156, 158. The second mounting bore 154 has a smaller diameter than the first mounting bore 152. In this way the second mounting bore 154 can be accessed through the first mounting bore 152 for assembly of the tool 100.

[0078] The third portion 160 of the second mounting bore 152 has a smaller diameter than the first and second portions 156, 158. In this way, a first annular shoulder 162 is defined between the first and third portions 156, 160. The first annular shoulder 162 faces towards the slot 144. A second annular shoulder 164 is defined between the second and third portions 158, 160. The second annular shoulder 164 faces towards the second side of the body 138, away from the slot 144.

[0079] An annular locating groove 166 is provided in the second body portion 142. The locating groove 166 is recessed into a first side surface 168 of the second body portion 142 which faces the first body portion 140. The locating grove 166 therefore opens into the slot 144. The locating groove 166 extends around the first portion 156 of the second mounting bore 154. A width of the locating groove 166 is sized to receive part of the locking assembly 106 with clearance for movement. The second body portion 142 further comprises an annular first retaining groove 170 recessed into the first side surface 168 and which opens into the slot 144. The first retaining groove 170 extends around the locating groove 166. The first retaining groove 170 is arranged to retain the first resilient frictional member 114.

[0080] An annular second retaining groove 172 is provided in the second shoulder 164 and extends around the third portion 160 of the second mounting bore 154. The second retaining groove 172 opens on the second side 138 of the body 102. The second retaining groove 172 is arranged to retain the second resilient frictional member 116.

[0081] Referring again to Figure 2, and additionally to Figures 7A to 11 B, as mentioned above the locking assembly 106 comprises the hub member 108, the fastener member 110, the locking member 112, first and second resilient frictional elements 114, 116, and the cap member 118. The hub member 108 and the fastener member 110 comprise a locking arrangement or locking subassembly arranged to be mounted to the second body portion 142, as described further below. With reference to Figures 7A, 7B, 7C and 7D, the hub body or hub member 108 comprises a generally disc-shaped mounting portion or flange portion 174 and a central boss member 176 arranged coaxially with the flange portion 174. A central bore 178 passes axially through the boss member 176. The central bore 178 has a generally D-shaped cross- sectional profile, having a part-cylindrical wall section and a substantially planar wall section.

[0082] The boss member 176 comprises a first boss portion 180 which protrudes from a first side of the hub member 108 and a second boss portion 182 which protrudes from an opposite second side of the hub member 108. The first boss portion 180 is generally tubular and extends around the central bore 178. The first boss portion 180 has a cylindrical outer surface. An external diameter of the first boss portion 180 is sized to engage with part of the cap member 118.

[0083] The second boss portion 182 protrudes axially from the second side of the hub member 108. The second boss portion 182 comprises a generally tubular bearing portion 184 having a circular cross section and a part-annular keying portion 186 which extends around the bearing portion 184. The keying portion 186 is disposed between the flange portion 174 and an end of the bearing portion 184 furthest from the flange portion 174. The keying portion 186 has a greater external diameter than the bearing portion 184. A periphery of the keying portion 186 has a generally D-shaped cross-sectional profile, having a curved portion and straight edge portion. The cross section of the keying portion 186 is shaped to engage with the D-shaped mounting aperture 126 of the blade 104.

[0084] A plurality of mounting holes 188 extend through the flange portion 174. The mounting holes 188 are angularly spaced around the boss member 176. The mounting holes 188 are arranged to align with the mounting holes 128 in the blade 104 when the keying portion 184 is engaged with the mounting aperture 126. The mounting holes 188 are arranged to receive the fasteners 130 for securing the blade 104 to the flange member 176. In this way, the hub member 108 is arranged to be secured to the blade 104, so as to pivot with the blade 104. In this embodiment, the fastener member 110 comprises a head 190 and an elongate threaded shank 192, as can be seen most clearly in Figure 8. The head 190 is substantially disc shaped. A diameter of the head 190 is sized to fit in the second portion 158 of the bore 154, with clearance for rotation. The shank 192 has a generally D shaped cross section, having an elongate planar side surface which is not threaded. The cross-sectional shape of the shank 192 corresponds to the cross section of the central bore 178 of the hub member 108, and the shank 192 is thus arranged to engage with the hub member 108 to pivot with the hub member 108.

[0085] The locking member or locking knob 112 comprises a generally cylindrical body, as can be seen most clearly in Figure 9. The locking member comprises a threaded blind bore 194 which extends axially into the locking member 112 from a first end 196 of the locking member 112. The threads in the bore 194 are configured to engage with the threaded shank 192 of the fastener member 110. An annular bearing formation 198 extends around the bore 194 and protrudes from the first end 196 of the locking member 112. A radially outer surface of the locking member comprises a plurality of axially extending grip formations or knurling 200 to help a user of the tool 100 to grip and rotate the locking member 112.

[0086] Referring to Figures 10A and 10B, the cap member 118 comprises a substantially annular body. The cap member 118 comprises a first side 202 having a substantially annular surface and a second side 204 opposite the first side 202. A pointer or indicator mark 206 is provided on the first side surface 202. A central aperture 208 of the cap member 118 is sized to receive the first boss portion 176. The cap member 118 comprises an annular rim 210 which projects from the second side 204 of the cap member 118 to define a recessed portion of the cap member 118 which extends between the rim 210 and the central aperture 208.

[0087] Referring again to Figure 2, in this embodiment the first resilient frictional element 114 comprises a first elastomeric O-ring 114 which is sized to be retained in the first retaining groove 170. The second resilient frictional element 116 comprises a second elastomeric O-ring 116 which is sized to be retained in the second retaining groove 172. As described in more detail below, the first O-ring 114 is arranged to engage with the blade 104 and the second O-ring 116 is arranged to engage with the head 190 of the fastener 110, thereby to restrict movement of the blade 104 with respect to the body 102.

[0088] Figures 11A and 11 B are cross sectional views of the tool 100, in which the parts of the locking assembly 106 can be seen. In the assembled tool 100, the proximal end portion 124 of the blade 104 is disposed in the slot 144 and the mounting aperture 126 is aligned with the bores 152, 154 in the first and second body portions 140, 142. The mounting aperture 126 is therefore aligned with the pivot axis A. With this arrangement, part of the blade 104 is disposed between the first and second body portions 140, 142. In this embodiment, a surface of the blade 104 is engaged with the first side surface 168 of the second body portion 142.

[0089] The bearing portion 184 of the hub member 108 is received in the first portion 156 of the second mounting bore 154. The bearing portion 184 is arranged to turn in the first portion 156. In this way the hub member 108 is mounted to pivot about the pivot axis A with respect to the body 102. The keying portion 186 is engaged with the correspondingly shaped mounting aperture 126 of the blade 104, thereby to key or secure the hub member 108 for movement with the blade 104. The blade 104 is secured to the hub member 108 by the fasteners 130 which pass through the mounting holes in the flange portion 176 and into the corresponding aligned mounting holes in the blade 104. Ends of the fasteners 130 may project beyond the blade 104 into the locating groove 166. In this way the locating groove 166 provides clearance for turning of the fasteners 130 as the blade 104 is pivoted. In some embodiments the fasteners 130 may contact a surface of the locating groove 166 to guide or constrain movement of the blade 104. In other embodiments, the hub member 108 may be integrally formed with the blade 104, or may be provided by a protruding boss provided on the blade.

[0090] In the present embodiment, the first O-ring 114 is retained in the first retaining groove 170. In this way the first O-ring 114 is disposed between the second body portion 142 and the blade 104. A thickness of the first O-ring 114 is greater than a depth of the first retaining groove 170, so that the first O-ring 114 is arranged to protrude beyond the first side surface 168, into the slot 144. Accordingly, the first O-ring 114 is f rictiona I ly engaged with a surface of the blade 104. The first O-ring 114 is compressed between the blade 104 and the second body portion 142. In other embodiments, the first O-ring 114 may be arranged to engage with part of the hub member 108.

[0091] The fastener member 110 is inserted into the tool 100 from the second side 138 of the body 102, such that the head 190 locates in the second portion of the bore 158 and the shank 192 extends through the body 102 along the axis A. The second O-ring 116 is retained in the second retaining grove 172 such that that second O-ring 116 is disposed between the second body portion 142 and the head 190. A thickness of the second 0-116 ring is greater than a depth of the second retaining groove 172, so that the first O-ring 116 is arranged to protrude from the second annular shoulder 164. In this way the second O- ring 116 is arranged to engage with a surface of the head 190 of the fastener member 110.

[0092] The shank 192 extends through the central bore 178 of the hub member 108. The cross- sectional profile of the shank 192 engages with the corresponding cross-sectional profile of the central bore 178 so as to mount the fastener 110 for rotation with the hub member 180 and thus with the blade 104. The central bore 178 is sized to allow axial movement of the fastener 110 with respect to the hub member 108. Since the head 190 is pivotally coupled to the blade 104 by engagement of the shank 192 with the hub member 108, pivoting of the blade 104 about the pivot axis acts to turn the head 190 in the second portion of the bore 158.

[0093] The shank 192 extends fully through the central bore 178 so that an end portion of the shank 192 furthest from the head 190 protrudes beyond the hub member 108 and away from the body 102. The threads of the end portion of the shank 192 are engaged with the threaded bore 194 of the locking member 112. In this way the locking member 112 is engaged with the shank 192. The bearing formation 198 of the locking member 112 bears against an end surface of the first boss portion 180. In some embodiments, the hub member 108 may be absent, and a hub member of the locking assembly may instead be provided by a portion of the blade. In this case the shank may engage with a complementarity shaped aperture in the blade, and the locking member may be arranged to bear directly against the blade. The locking member may therefore extend into the first mounting bore to engage with the blade.

[0094] In the present embodiment, the first boss portion 180 is received in the central aperture 210 of the cap member 118 to mount the cap member 118 on the first boss portion 180. The first boss portion 180 is an interference fit in the central aperture 210 so that the cap member 118 is fixed for movement with the hub member 108. In other embodiments the cap member may be secured to the hub member by other suitable means, or may be integrally formed with the hub member.

[0095] With the arrangements described above, turning of the locking member 112 about the pivot axis A with respect to the hub member 108 urges the locking member 112 and the fastener member 110 to move axially relative to one another, to permit or resist pivoting of the blade 104 with respect to the body 102, as described further below.

[0096] In particular, when the locking member 112 is turned in a first direction, the threaded engagement of the locking member 112 with the shank 192 causes the locking member 112 and the head 190 to be urged axially towards one another. Movement of the locking member 112 axially in this direction urges the hub member 108 towards the head 190 by abutment of the bearing formation 198 of the locking member against the first boss portion 180 of the hub member 108. The hub member 108 is therefore urged towards the second body portion 142, which causes the blade 104 to be urged towards the second body portion 142.

[0097] Movement of the hub member 108 and blade 104 axially towards the second side 138 of the body 102 is limited by abutment of the hub member 108 and blade 104 with the second body portion 142. Turning of the locking member 112 in the first direction therefore pulls the shank 192 axially and causes the head 190 to be urged towards the second annular shoulder 164.

[0098] In a first, unlocked configuration of the locking assembly, shown in Figure 11 A, there is a clearance gap 212 between the head 190 and the second shoulder 164. A frictional force between the second O-ring 116 and the head 190, and between the first 0-ring 114 and the blade 104, partially resists pivoting of the blade 104 with respect to the body 102, but may be overcome by manually pivoting the blade 104 with respect to the body 102 with sufficient force to overcome the frictional force. In this way an angular position of the blade 104 with respect to the body 102 may be adjusted, whilst resisting against the blade 104 pivoting freely when released by the user, for example due to gravity.

[0099] To lock an angular position of the blade 104 with respect to the body 102, the locking member 112 is turned further in the first direction, to urge the head 190 towards the second annular shoulder 164 with greater force, moving the locking assembly 106 to a second, locked configuration. In this second configuration, shown in Figure 1 1 B, the resilient second O-ring 116 is compressed between the head 190 and the second annular shoulder 164. The second O-ring 116 is deformed and / or clamped with greater force than in the first configuration. The hub member 108 and blade 104 are also urged against the second body portion 142 with greater force than in the first configuration. In effect the second body portion 142 is clamped between the head 190 on one side and the hub member 108 and blade 104 on the other side. Accordingly, the frictional engagement of the second O-ring 116 with the head 190 and the frictional engagement of the hub 108 and blade 104 with the second body portion 142 provides a greater frictional force than in the first configuration, and acts to secure an angular position of the blade 104 with respect to the body 102.

[0100] To return the locking assembly 106 to the first configuration, so that the angular position of the blade 104 may be easily adjusted with respect to the body 102, the locking member 112 is turned in an opposite, second direction. As the locking member 112 is turned in the second direction, the fastener 110 moves axially to allow the head 190 to move axially away from the second annular shoulder 164. The fastener 110 is moved axially by a biasing force produced by the compressed second O-ring 116. The biasing force provided by the second O-ring 116 also acts to maintain frictional engagement of the blade 104 with the first O-ring 114 in the first configuration. It will be appreciated that with the arrangements described above, because the fastener member and locking member are arranged to turn with the blade, unwanted tightening or loosening of the locking assembly whilst pivoting the blade with respect to the body is avoided.

[0101] In use, as the blade 104 is pivoted with respect to the body, the cap member 118 turns with the hub member 108, and therefore the cap member 118 turns with respect to the body 102. Accordingly, an angular position of the pointer 206 corresponds to an angular position of the blade 104, and the pointer 206 may be used to indicate an angular position of the blade 104 by reference to angle markings or indicia (for example degree markings; not shown) provided on the first body portion 140 around an edge of the first mounting bore 152.

[0102] In the embodiment described above, a width of the blade 104 is a close fit in the slot 144, such that there is negligible axial movement of the blade 104 with respect to the body 102. In this way, and as mentioned above, a surface of the blade 104 remains engaged with the first O-ring 114 in both the first and second configurations. This arrangement helps to prevent the blade 104 from feeling loose in the first (unlocked) configuration, and facilitates accurate, fine adjustment of the angle of the blade 104 when the locking assembly 106 is in this first configuration. In other embodiments, the blade may be arranged for limited axial movement in the slot. In this case a degree of friction between the blade and the first O- ring and / or second body portion may be adjustable between the first and second configurations to a greater extent than in the embodiment described above.

[0103] It will be appreciated that either of the first or second resilient frictional elements may be omitted and a single frictional element may be used to provide a suitable frictional force to resist movement of the blade with respect to the body. It will also be appreciated that the resilient frictional elements need not be O-rings, and other suitable means may be used. The or each frictional element need not be a resilient element. For example, a frictional element may be provided by one or more gripping surfaces or textured surfaces of the body, blade and / or parts of the locking assembly.

[0104] It will also be appreciated that the arrangement of the or each frictional element may be different to the arrangement in the embodiment described above. For example, a frictional element may be arranged to engage with the second body portion and part of the hub member, additionally or alternatively to engagement with the blade. The or each frictional element may be mounted to the second body portion, the blade, and or the fastener member.

[0105] In the example described above, a biasing force provided by the resilient O-rings acts axially on the fastener member to urge the hub and blade against the second body portion and to urge the head of the fastener member against the second body member. This helps to maintain some frictional force which must be overcome to adjust the angle of the blade even when the locking assembly is in the unlocked configuration. In other embodiments, a biasing force may be provided by means other than the frictional elements. For example, a spring or other resilient element may be disposed between the second body portion and the head of the fastener member, and / or between the second body portion and the hub member or blade. Preferably however, a resilient frictional element such as an elastomeric O-ring, gasket, or other element (which may be of any suitable shape) is used to provide a frictional force and an axial biasing force with the same element, which helps to keep the locking assembly particularly compact.

[0106] Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the locking assembly may comprise a detent arrangement or other means for securing the blade at discrete angles with respect to the body. With such arrangements the locking assembly may be configured to set the blade such that an edge of the blade extends at a desired angle to an edge of the body. For instance, the detent arrangement may be arranged to secure the blade at angular positions at any suitable increments (e.g., 1 , 5, 10, 15, 20, 22.5, 25, 30, or 45 degrees). For example, the locking assembly may comprise complementary inter-engaging elements such as intermeshing teeth. For instance, teeth provided on the second body portion may be arranged to engage with complementary teeth provided on the fastener member, hub, or blade. In some embodiments, the locking assembly or the body may comprise a detent element or follower such as a ball plunger or other suitable element which is arranged to engage with detent formations provided on the other of the locking assembly and the body, or on the blade, thereby to resist movement of the blade with respect to the body for setting the blade at one or more discrete angles with respect to the body. In some examples, the detent arrangement may comprise a track comprising the detent formations.

[0107] A handheld tool assembly 1100 comprising a locking assembly 1106 according to a second embodiment of the invention is shown in Figures 12 to 15. The tool assembly 1100 and locking assembly 1106 of this second embodiment are generally similar to the tool assembly 1100 and locking assembly 1106 described above, and only differences will be described in detail here. Features of the tool assembly 1100 corresponding to features of the tool assembly 100 described above are indicated by corresponding reference numerals incremented by 1000. With reference to Figures 12 and 13, in this second embodiment, the securing member 1110 comprises a generally square head 1190 shaped to fit in a corresponding square recess 1158 on a rear side of the second body portion 1142. Accordingly, in contrast to the locking assembly 1106 of the first embodiment, in this second embodiment the securing member 1110 is fixed against axial rotation with respect to the body 102. Therefore the securing member 1110 is not arranged to turn with the blade 1104 and hub member 1108 as the blade 1104 is pivoted with respect to the body 1102. Instead, the hub member 1108 and blade 1104 are arranged to turn with respect to the securing member 1110. To this end, the central bore 1178 of the hub member has a circular cross section to allow the hub member 1108 to turn on the shank 1192 of the securing member 1110. The hub member 1108 and blade 1104 are coupled (keyed) for rotation together in a manner substantially as described above in the first embodiment, by fasteners (not shown) and by the keying portion 1186 of the hub member 1108 and mounting aperture 1126 in the blade 1104.

[0108] In this second embodiment, the shank 1192 has a truncated circular cross section, with opposing straight edges. A generally annular washer or spacer 1195 has an aperture having a complementary truncated circular cross-section, such that the washer 1195 is fixed against rotation with respect to the shank 1192 when the washer is mounted on the shank 1192. The washer 1195 is arranged to move axially on the shank 1192. Referring additionally to Figure 14, the washer 1195 is arranged to locate between the hub member 1108 and the locking member 1112. With this arrangement, the washer 1195 does not turn on the shank 1192 as the blade 1104 and hub member 1108 are turned with respect to the body 1102. In this way, pivoting of the blade 1104 with respect to the body 1102 is prevented from acting to tighten or loosen the locking member 1112 which might otherwise occur by friction between the hub 1108 and locking member 1112 acting to turn the locking member 1112. Instead, as the washer 1195 is disposed between the hub 1108 and the locking member 1112, the hub 1108 slides against the washer 1195 and does not act to turn the locking member 1112 on the shank 1192. Similarly, turning of the locking member 1112 to secure or release the blade 1104 does not cause turning of the hub 1108 and blade 1104, as the washer 1195 transmits only axial force from the locking member 1112 to the hub 1108, In a similar manner to that described above in relation to the first embodiment, in this second embodiment, turning of the locking member 1112 about the pivot axis in a first direction acts to urge the securing member 1110 against the rear side of the body 1102, and causes the locking member 1112 to bear against the washer 1195, thus urging the hub 1108 and blade 1104 against the second body portion 1142. Friction between the blade 1104 and the frictional element (in this example O-ring 1114) and / or second body portion 1142 resists pivoting of the blade 1104 with respect to the body 1102. With these arrangements, the washer 1195 acts as a bearing member between the locking member and hub member.

[0109] Referring again to Figure 14, and additionally to Figure 15, in this embodiment the locking assembly 1106 comprises a detent arrangement for securing the blade 1104 at discrete angular positions with respect to the body 1102. In this example, a pair of ball plungers 1300 are mounted in bores in the first body portion 1140. Each ball plunger 1300 may be of a kind known in the art per se, comprising a ball 1304 slidably mounted in a tube and biased towards an open end of the tube by a spring (not shown) mounted in the tube. In this variant, the ball plungers 1300 are arranged on radially opposite sides of the first mounting bore 1152. The ball plungers 1300 are arranged to protrude into the first mounting bore 1152a, with each ball being biased radially inward. The ball plungers 1300 are arranged to engage with the hub member 1108. Referring back to Figures 12 and 13, the hub member 1108 is provided with a plurality of angularly spaced detent formations in the form of grooves 1302. The grooves 1302 extend axially in an outer circumferential surface of the hub member 1108. The balls of the ball plungers 1300 are arranged to bear against the hub member 1108. The balls 1304 are arranged to engage with the grooves as the blade 1104 is pivoted and the hub member 1 108 is turned in the bore 1152 with respect to the body 1102. In the present example, the grooves 1302 are angularly spaced by increments of 22.5 degrees. It will be appreciated that any suitable angular increments may be used, and / or any suitable number of ball plungers or other detent elements. Also, the angular position of the blade is still continuously adjustable and may be secured at other angles in between the angular increments defined by the detent mechanism. It will also be appreciated that the detent arrangement described in this second embodiment, or another suitable detent arrangement, may also be used in combination with the locking assembly of the first embodiment described above. The detent arrangement allows the user to secure the blade at predetermined angles with respect to the body and also provides tactile feedback to the user as the blade is pivoted, as the ball plungers click in and out of the grooves.

[0110] In other examples, the hub member may comprise one or more ball plungers or other detent elements arranged to engage with detent formations provided on an inner surface of the bore. In some examples, a plurality of detent formations such as holes or recesses may be provided in the blade, for example angularly spaced around the mounting aperture in the blade. In this case a follower or detent element such as a ball plunger may be mounted in the first or second body portions for engagement with the detent formations. The detent element may be biased against the blade and may be arranged to move parallel to the pivot axis for engaging with the detent formations.

[0111] With the arrangements described above, the present invention provides a convenient, reliable and compact means to lock an angular position of parts a handheld tool. Further modifications and variations not explicitly described above are also possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A locking assembly for a handheld tool, the handheld tool comprising a first tool member mounted to pivot with respect to a second tool member about a pivot axis, the locking assembly being configured to secure an angular position of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member, and the locking assembly comprising: a locking member; a locking arrangement comprising: a securing member mountable to the second tool member for urging the second tool member towards the first tool member; wherein the securing member is arranged to extend along the pivot axis between the second tool member and the locking member for engagement with the locking member; wherein the locking member is engageable with the securing member such that movement of the locking member acts on the securing member to urge the first and second tool members towards one another; and wherein the locking member is moveable to switch the locking assembly between: a first configuration in which the first tool member may be pivoted with respect to the second tool member; and a second configuration in which the locking assembly urges the first and second tool members towards one another such that frictional engagement between the second tool member and the first tool member or between the second tool member and the locking arrangement, resists pivoting of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member, thereby to secure an angular position of the first tool member with respect to the second tool member.

2. A locking assembly according to Claim 1 , comprising at least one frictional element disposed between the second tool member and the first tool member or between the second tool member and the locking arrangement, wherein, in the second configuration, the at least one frictional element is clamped between the second tool member and the first tool member or between the second tool member and the locking arrangement.

3. A locking assembly according to Claim 1 or Claim 2, in which, in the first configuration, the at least one frictional element is engaged with the first tool member or with the locking arrangement.

4. A locking assembly according to any preceding claim, comprising biasing means arranged to generate tension in the securing member to maintain frictional engagement between the first tool member and the second tool member or between the second tool member and the locking arrangement.

5. A locking assembly according to any of Claims 2 to 4, in which the at least one frictional element comprises a resiliently deformable frictional element disposed between the first tool member and the second tool member.

6. A locking assembly according to any of Claims 2 to 5, in which the or each frictional element is substantially annular.

7. A locking assembly according to any of Claims 2 to 6, in which the at least one frictional element comprises a resiliently deformable frictional element disposed between the securing member and the second tool member.

8. A locking assembly according to any of Claims 2 to 7, in which the at least one frictional element is arranged to be secured to the second tool member.

9. A locking assembly according to any preceding claim, in which the locking arrangement comprises a hub member arranged to be disposed between the locking member and the second tool member and arranged to turn with the first tool member about the pivot axis, the hub member defining an opening extending along the pivot axis through which the securing member extends, and the hub member being arranged for axial movement relative to the securing member.

10. A locking assembly according to any preceding claim, in which the securing member is rotationally fixed with respect to the second tool member, such that the first tool memberis arranged to pivot with respect to the securing member.

11. A locking assembly according to Claim 10, comprising a bearing member rotationally fixed on the securing member and arranged for axial movement on the securing member, and wherein the bearing member is arranged between the locking member and the hub member.

12. A locking assembly according to Claim 11 , in which the bearing member comprises a washer.

13. A locking assembly according to any of Claims 1 to 9, in which the securing member is mounted to turn with the first tool member about the pivot axis.

14. A locking assembly according to Claim 13 when dependent on any of Claims 2 to 9, in which the at least one frictional element comprises a first resiliently deformable frictional element disposed between the first tool member and the second tool member and a second resiliently deformable frictional element disposed between the securing member and the second tool member.

15. A locking assembly according to Claim 13 or Claim 14, in which the locking arrangement comprises a hub member arranged to be disposed between the locking member and the second tool member and arranged to turn with the first tool member about the pivot axis, the hub member defining an opening extending along the pivot axis, wherein the securing member is engaged with the hub member to turn with the first tool member about the pivot axis and the securing member is arranged for axial movement in the opening.

16. A locking assembly according to Claim 9 or Claim 15, in which the hub member is mounted to the first tool member.

17. A locking assembly according to Claim 9 or Claim 15, in which the hub member is provided by a portion of the first tool member.

18. A locking assembly according to Claim 15, in which the hub member comprises a keying arrangement for coupling the securing member to turn with the hub member.

19. A locking assembly according to Claim 18, in which the securing member and the opening in the hub member have a common cross-sectional profile.

20. A locking assembly according to Claim 13 or any claim dependent on Claim 13, in which the securing member is mounted to turn in a bore in the second tool member.21 . A locking assembly according to Claim 15 or any of Claims 16 to 20 when dependent on Claim 15, in which the locking member is arranged to bear against the hub member.

22. A locking assembly according to any preceding claim dependent on Claim 9 or Claim 15, in which the hub member is arranged to engage with the second tool member for mounting the hub member to turn with respect to the second tool member.

23. A locking assembly according to any preceding claim, in which the securing member comprises a head portion for engagement with the second tool member and a shank portion arranged to extend along the axis for engagement with the locking member.

24. A locking assembly according to Claim 23 when dependent on Claim 13 or any claim dependent on Claim 13, in which the head portion comprises an engagement surface arranged to face towards part of the first tool member and at least one frictional element is arranged to locate between the engagement surface and the second tool member.

25. A locking assembly according to any preceding claim, in which the securing member is threadably engageable with the locking member.

26. A locking assembly according to any preceding claim, in which, in the second configuration, the locking assembly is arranged to clamp a portion of the second tool member between the first tool member and part of the securing member.

27. A locking assembly according to any preceding claim, comprising a detent arrangement for securing the first tool member in a plurality of discrete angular positions with respect to the second tool member.

28. A locking assembly according to Claim 27, in which the detent arrangement comprises at least one detent formation and at least one detent element engageable with the detent formation.

29. A locking assembly according to Claim 27 or Claim 28, in which, when the locking assembly is in the first configuration, the detent arrangement is configured to releasably secure the first tool member in a plurality of angular positions.

30. A locking assembly according to any of Claims 27 to 29, in which the detent arrangement is configured to secure the first tool member at a plurality of discrete angular positions separated by 22.5 degrees.

31. A locking assembly according to any of Claims 27 to 30, in which the detent arrangement comprises a ball plunger arranged to engage with a plurality of detent formations.

32. A handheld tool assembly comprising a locking assembly according to any preceding claim and comprising the first tool member and the second tool member.

33. A handheld tool assembly according to Claim 9 when dependent on Claim 9, Claim 15 or any preceding claim dependent on Claim 9 or Claim 15, comprising a third tool member connected to the second tool member, wherein the first tool member is disposed between the second and third tool members and wherein the hub member is mounted to turn in a bore in the third tool member.

34. A handheld tool assembly according to Claim 32 or 33, in which the first tool member comprises a straight edge and the second tool member comprises a straight edge, suchthat the locking assembly is configured to secure an angular position of the straight edge of the first tool member with respect to the straight edge of the second tool member.

35. A handheld tool assembly according to Claim 34, in which part of the locking arrangement comprises at least one indicator marking for indicating an angle of the straight edge of the first tool member with respect to the straight edge of the second tool member.

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