WO2025248211A1

WO2025248211A1 - Self adjusting locking pliers

Info

Publication number: WO2025248211A1
Application number: PCT/GB2025/000024
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nigel Buchanan
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2024-05-31
Filing date: 2025-06-02
Publication date: 2025-12-04
Anticipated expiration: 2026-11-30
Also published as: GB202407775D0

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

Self Adjusting Locking Pliers

Field of Invention

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.

Background to the Invention

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 in 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.

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 (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 pre-adjusted 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.

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.

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 is 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.

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.

Summary of the Invention

The invention provides self adjusting locking pliers as specified in claims 1 to 17.

Embodiments of the invention may be designed to not only clamp or grip 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 which allows the majority of construction be of a stamped flat metal laminate type, slotted into or locked upon interchangeable rigid plastic moulded handle clenching grips. Embodiments of the invention may be designed so that they can be manufactured at low cost with minimal environmental and logistical impact within every industrialized nation worldwide while still being commercially viable.

Embodiments of the invention may provide self adjusting 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 further incorporates 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 characterised by incorporating an integral pivotal strut toothed slot with an incumbent pivotal strut toothed latch.

Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised wherein a 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

The locking mechanism utilized, may be specific to an over cam design, wherein the force triangle apex is urged into an over-cam locked position, just outwith the force triangle interior and outside the force triangle base line.

Embodiments of the invention may be further specifically characterised wherein during use, as the operator clenches the moving handle grip towards the opposing fixed handle, the moving handle apex pivot pin is propelled towards the force multiplying triangle base line, forcefully elongating said 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 clenching grip, such that as an initial clenching force is applied between the fixed and moving handle clenching grips against the resilient extension of the fixed handle main spring, this first, rotational force action rotates the moving handle distil end around the moving handle apex 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 rotational force action enables the fixed and pivotal jaw gripping profiles to promptly initially grip the workpiece.

Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised wherein the pivotal strut incorporates a pivotal strut toothed slot wherein resides a corresponding pivotal strut toothed latch, pivotal around incorporated pivotal strut toothed latch axles. The pivotal strut toothed latch is capable of engaging or disengaging within the corresponding pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth according to the angle of the operated pivotal strut relative to that of the fixed handle. The pivotal strut toothed latch locking teeth, by means of the toothed latch actuation pin abutting the pivotal strut toothed latch actuation face, remain disengaged from the pivotal strut toothed slot locking teeth until the force triangle apex approaches that of the force triangle base line.

Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised wherein the interaction between the toothed latch actuation pin rigidly held within the fixed handle metal framework and the pivotal strut toothed latch actuation face provides an automatically adjustable, then locked length force triangle first side span of the pivotal strut, pivotally affixed between the moving handle apex pin and the pivotal strut toothed latch axles. The combination of rotational force and force multiplying triangle forces employed during use, provides a 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.

Embodiments of the invention may be characterised wherein, the pivotal strut incorporates 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 a 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 initially 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 strut 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.

Embodiments of the invention may be even further characterised wherein, the force triangle apex is formed within the pivotal strut apex end pin bore and corresponding moving handle apex pin bore and further incumbent moving handle apex pin. During use, as the operator clenches the moving handle towards the fixed handle portion, the force triangle apex is propelled towards the triangle base line, forcefully elongating said triangle base line. The moving handle apex pin bore is positioned as near as practical to the moving handle proximal end within the moving handle clenching grip such that, as an initial clenching force is applied between the fixed and moving handle clenching grips, the moving handle clenching grip distil end firstly rotates around the force triangle apex towards the fixed handle distil end, simultaneously rotating the moving handle actuation arm, comprising the force multiplying triangle second side 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, because of the now greatly reduced distance between the fixed and moving handle clenching grips, can now be easily operated by one hand, even small hands. Typical prior art “vice grip” pliers with for example, with an overall length of 10 inches (25.4 cm), have an operable handle grip opening of approximately 17.5cm. Whereas the present invention, with a similar jaw opening dimension and overall length, has an operable handle grip opening of less than 7.5cm.

Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised, wherein, the locked, self adjusting locking pliers are operated in the release mode by a novel release switch, pivotal around its release switch axles located within the fixed handle release switch bores, opposite the force triangle apex, comprising a release switch levering portion, in best practice operated by the operator’s thumb. With its opposing leverage, the release switch levered portion, further comprising of a release switch abutment protrusion, or alternately a release switch roller portion, rotatable within a release switch roller pocket, forces the moving handle inner face and therefore the crucial, force triangle apex, into the force triangle interior, whereby unlocking and opening the self adjusting locking pliers fixed and moving handles.

Embodiments of the invention may be even further characterised by the release switch levered portion being capable of acting against or adjacent to the most efficient release point: the force triangle apex.

Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised by the release switch mechanical leverage ratio pivotal around the release switch axles being improved from the prior art standard two and a half to one to, if required, over five to one. Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised whereby the fixed and moving handle clenching grips are, during the operation of the release switch, retained between the operator’s thumb web and fingers, to allow a more controlled release of any stored elastic energy within the force triangle resilient segment induced during the clenching force and gripping force procedures. The self adjusting locking pliers, fixed and moving handles and release switch, automatically regain their open position when the release switch is unlocked, releasing any potential energy retained within the force triangle resilient segment.

Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised by the incorporation of a single extension spring, the fixed handle main spring, situated between the pivotal strut main spring hole and the release switch spring location hole, which acts to induce both the fixed and moving handles and release switch to automatically regain their open position as required.

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 be further 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 manufacturer’s 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 less any small losses incurred during the over-cam locking procedure; the jaw fulcrum being the pivotal jaw pin.

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 the 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 operator during the clenching procedure. The amount of elastic energy the pivotal strut resilient bowed portion can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

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, 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 operator during the clenching procedure. 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.

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 a workpiece gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws to be subjected to a gripping force. This strong resilient, gripping force being relative to the potential energy imparted to the pivotal strut curved reduced width portion by the operator during the clenching procedure. The amount of elastic energy the pivotal strut curved reduced width portion can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised in that they incorporate specifically a construction method whereby the chosen size and gripping profile of a particular type of fixed and moving jaw, 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 is made by assembly fasteners, in best practice using threaded pins and screws pre-coated with locking chemicals.

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.

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 retain the correct distance between the release switch levered portion and the force triangle apex at all times during locking procedure, wherein the pivotal strut toothed latch traverses the pivotal strut toothed slot.

Embodiments of the invention may be further characterised wherein the force triangle resilient segment utilized, comprises of a known compression spring located using known methods.

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. Brief Description of the Drawings

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

Figure 1 is a perspective view of the self adjusting locking pliers at rest in their open position. Figure 2 is a side view of the self adjusting locking pliers at rest in their open position with the top moving and fixed handle outer plates are removed for illustration purposes (not shown).

Figure 3 is a side view of the self adjusting locking pliers at rest in their open position with the top moving and fixed handle outer plates are removed (not shown) for illustration purposes. The force triangle is clearly shown, a workpiece placed within the jaws.

Figure 4 is a side view of the self adjusting locking pliers in their part operated position with the top moving and fixed handle outer plates are removed (not shown) for illustration purposes. The force triangle clearly shown; the force triangle first side span shortening.

Figure 5 is a side view of the self adjusting 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 apex positioned outwith the force triangle base line.

Figure 6 is a side view of the self adjusting 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 outwith the force triangle base line.

Figure 7 is a side view of the self adjusting locking pliers in their locked 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 outwith the force triangle base line.

Figure 8 is a side view of the self adjusting locking pliers in their unlocking position, the top moving and fixed handle outer plates removed (not shown) for illustration purposes. The force triangle clearly shown; the release switch fully operated with its roller portion forcing the force triangle apex into the force triangle interior, opening the pliers.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of the self adjusting 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 moulded or forged sequence partitions are fitted. Figure 10 is a perspective view of the self adjusting 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, toothed sequence partition grooves are fitted.

Figure 11 is a perspective view of the self adjusting locking pliers, shown dismantled into their constituent parts for display purposes.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of the self adjusting locking pliers, shown dismantled into their constituent handle portion operating mechanism and fixed handle interchangeable and pivotal jaw portions.

Among those benefits and improvements that have been disclosed, other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Reference to the Drawings

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.

Detailed Description

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.

Figs 1 to 11 illustrate self adjusting 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 further characterised by having an integral pivotal strut toothed slot 505 with an incumbent pivotal strut toothed latch 507. 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.

The locking mechanism utilized is specific to an over-cam design wherein the force triangle apex 802 is urged into an over-cam locked position just outwith the force triangle interior 807 and outwith the force triangle base line 801.

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 the force multiplying triangle base line 801. The moving handle apex pin bore 403 is 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.

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 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 resiliency 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.

The interaction between the toothed latch actuation pin 602, rigidly held within the fixed handle metal framework 212 and the pivotal strut toothed latch actuation face 510, provides an automatically adjustable, then locked length, force triangle first side span 804 of the pivotal strut 500, pivotally affixed between the moving handle apex pin 603 and the pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508. The combination of rotational force RF and force multiplying triangle 800 forces employed during use, provide a closure function that, because of the now greatly reduced distance between the said fixed and moving handle 200, 400 clenching grips 213, 409, can be expediently operated by one hand or smaller hands.

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

Characterised wherein the force triangle’s first side 803, comprising the pivotal strut 500, specifically incorporates a force triangle resilient segment 806 within the pivotal strut moving handle end 501, further specified as a pivotal strut resilient bowed portion 511.

Figure 4 in particular is a side view of the self adjusting locking pliers 1, in their part operated position, whereby 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 whereby 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; 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 19, 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 first grip the workpiece W.

Further characterised wherein the force triangle’s 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 further characterised as an actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406, providing during use, sufficient flexing within the actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406 to allow a workpiece W, gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300, to be subjected to resilient, gripping force GF. This imparted strong resilient, gripping force GF is relative to the potential energy imparted to the actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406 by the operator during the clenching force CF procedure. The maximum amount of elastic energy the actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc. The fixed and moving handles metal frameworks 212, 407 are further denoted.

Figures 5, 6 and 7 in particular are side views 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 are removed for illustration purposes (not shown). The force multiplying triangle 800 is clearly shown, whereby 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 outwith the force triangle base line 801. The fixed and moving handle spacers 214, 412 are further shown. Further characterised wherein the force triangle apex 802 has been urged just over-cam, then retained in relation to the force triangle base line 801, by in one example, the force triangle apex 802 finally abutting the release switch levered portion 702. When the force triangle apex 802 centre-point goes further than the force triangle base line 801 (over-cam), it is prevented from returning to the force triangle’s interior 807, thereby locking closed the pivotal jaw 300 upon any incumbent workpiece W. The pivotal jaw 300 remains closed until the moving handle 400 is forced open from the fixed handle 200.

Figure 5 in particular is characterised 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 specified as a pivotal strut resilient bowed section 511, in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within the pivotal strut 500 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 is relative to the potential energy imparted to the pivotal strut resilient bowed section 511 by the operator during the clenching force CF procedure. The maximum amount of elastic energy the pivotal strut resilient bowed section 511 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc. Figure 6 in particular is characterised wherein the force multiplying triangle’s first side 803, comprising the pivotal strut 500, specifically incorporates a force triangle resilient segment 806 within the pivotal strut 500. Further characterised as a pivotal strut curved reduced width portion 512, in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within the pivotal strut 500 to allow a workpiece W, gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300, to be subjected to a gripping force GF. This imparted strong resilient, gripping force GF is relative to the potential energy imparted to the pivotal strut curved reduced width portion 512 by the operator during the clenching force CF procedure. The maximum amount of elastic energy the pivotal strut curved reduced width portion 512 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

Figure 7 in particular is characterised 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 the moving handle 400. In this iteration, the force triangle resilient segment 806 is further characterised as the moving handle 400, actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406 in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within said actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406, to allow a workpiece W, gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300, to be subjected to resilient gripping force GF. This imparted strong resilient, gripping force GF is relative to the potential energy imparted to the actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406 by the operator during the clenching force CF procedure. The maximum amount of elastic energy the actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc. Figure 8 in particular is a side view of the self adjusting locking pliers 1, the fixed jaw and pivotal jaw gripping profiles 209, 301 still in their locked position upon a workpiece W. 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. This operation is specifically characterised by a novel, pivotal, release switch 700 located within the fixed handle 200. The release switch 700 pivotally located by release switch axles 705 within the fixed handle release switch axle bores 220, opposite the force triangle apex 802, comprises a release switch levering portion 701, which is in best practice, operated by the operator’s thumb, and an opposing release switch levered portion 702 further comprising of a release switch abutment protrusion 706 or alternately a release switch roller portion 703 rotatable within a release switch roller pocket 704. When the self adjusting locking pliers 1, fixed and pivotal jaw gripping profiles 209, 301, are locked upon a workpiece W and the workpiece W requires to be released, the release switch levered portion 702 forces the moving handle inner face 408 and therefore the crucial, force triangle apex 802 into the force triangle interior 807, therefore unlocking and opening the self adjusting locking pliers 1, fixed and moving handles 200, 400. Even further characterised by the release switch levered portion 702 being capable of acting against or adjacent to the most efficient release point the force triangle apex 802. Even further characterised by the release switch 700 activation mechanical leverage ratio, pivotal around the release switch axles 705 now being improved from the prior art standard two and a half to one, to over five to one if required.

Even further characterized whereby the fixed and moving handle clenching grips 213, 409 are, during the operation of the release switch 700, retained between the operator’s thumb web and fingers, allowing a controlled release of any stored elastic energy within the force triangle resilient segment 806 induced during the previous clenching force CF and gripping force GF procedures.

Even further characterized whereby the self adjusting locking pliers 1, fixed and moving handles 200, 400 and release switch 700, automatically regain their open position when the release switch 700 is unlocked, releasing any potential energy retained within the force triangle resilient segment 806. Further characterised by the incorporation of an extension spring, the fixed handle main spring 219, situated between the pivotal strut main spring hole 504 and the release switch spring location hole 707 acting to induce both the fixed and moving handles and release switch to automatically regain their open position as required.

Figure 9, 10 and 12 in particular are perspective views of the self adjusting locking pliers 1, fixed handle interchangeable jaw 217 and jaw stub 218 and the handle portion operating mechanism 607.

Wherein, the fixed jaw gripping profile 209, fixed jaw teeth 221 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 206, 207 are specifically separated by fixed jaw toothed sequence partition grooves 208 employed so as to allow these fixed jaw first and second toothed sequences 206, 207 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 or forged 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.

Figure 11 shows the self adjusting locking pliers, illustrated dismantled into their constituent parts for display purposes.

Figure 12 in particular illustrates the pivotal jaw pivot bore and actuation pin bore 302, 307 and fixed j aw stub retainer bores 211. The fixed handle interchangeable j aw 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 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, 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.

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

1. Self adjusting 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 said 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 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 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, and wherein in a locked condition of said fixed and pivoting handles said third pivot connection has passed over said baseline to a locking position to form an over centre lock with said at least one tooth of said latch engaged with at least one tooth of said plurality of slot teeth.

2. Self adjusting locking pliers as claimed in claim 1, 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.

3 Self adjusting locking pliers as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein said strut is disposed at a first angle to said fixed handle when said fixed and pivoting handles are in said fully open condition and is configured such that said at least one tooth of said latch engages at least one tooth of said slot teeth when said strut is at a predetermined second angle relative to said fixed handle that is less than said first angle.

4. Self-adjusting locking pliers as claimed in claim 1 , 2 or 3, 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.

5. Self-adjusting 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.

6. Self-adjusting locking pliers as claimed in claim 5, wherein said actuating arm comprises two elongate members disposed in opposed spaced apart relation and each comprising a said curved segment.

7. Self-adjusting 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.

8. Self adjusting 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.

9. Self adjusting locking pliers as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a release switch, wherein said release switch is configured to be movable to a release position in which said release switch pushes against said pivoting handle connection to cause said third pivot connection to move from said locking position back over said baseline to release said over centre lock.

10. Self adjusting locking pliers as claimed in claim 9, wherein said release switch is configured such that when said third pivot connection is in said locking position, said release switch abuts said pivoting handle.

11. Self adjusting locking pliers as claimed in claim 9 or 10, wherein said slot is provided at a first end of said strut and said third pivot connection is disposed at a second end of said strut and a spring element is connected to said release switch and said second end of said strut, said spring element configured to provide a biasing force that biases said fixed and pivoting handles towards said fully open condition.

12. Self-adjusting locking pliers as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein when said third pivot connection is in said locking position, respective longitudinal axes of said fixed and pivoting handles and said strut are disposed in at least substantially parallel relation.

13. Self adjusting 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 further characterised by having an integral pivotal strut toothed slot 505 with an incumbent pivotal strut toothed latch 507; 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 arm 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 arm 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; the locking mechanism utilized is specific to an over-cam design wherein the force triangle apex 802 is urged into an over-cam locked position just outwith the force triangle interior 807 external to the force triangle base line 801 ; 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 when 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 first grip the workpiece W.

14. Self adjusting 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 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.

15. Self adjusting locking pliers 1 as claimed in claim 14, wherein the pivotal strut 500 pivotal length, comprising the force triangle 800 first side 803 span 804, is automatically adjustable between the pivotal strut toothed latch axle 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 bores 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. Self Adjusting Locking Pliers 1 as claimed in claim 14 or 15, 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 specified as a pivotal strut resilient bowed section 511, in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within the pivotal strut 500 to allow a workpiece W to be gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300 by a strong resilient, gripping force GF; this gripping force GF being relative to the potential energy imparted to the pivotal strut resilient bowed section 511 by the operator during the clenching force CF procedure; the maximum amount of elastic energy the pivotal strut resilient bowed section 511 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

17. Self Adjusting Locking Pliers 1 as claimed in claim 14, 15 or 16, wherein the force multiplying triangle’s first side 803 comprising the pivotal strut 500 specifically incorporates a force triangle resilient segment 806 within the pivotal strut 500; further characterised as a pivotal strut curved reduced width portion 512, in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within the pivotal strut 500 to allow a workpiece W to be gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300 by a strong resilient gripping force GF; this imparted strong resilient, gripping force GF being relative to the potential energy imparted to the pivotal strut curved reduced width portion 512 by the operator during the clenching force CF procedure; the maximum amount of elastic energy the pivotal strut curved reduced width portion 512 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

18. Self Adjusting Locking Pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 17, characterised 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 the moving handle 400; in this iteration, the force triangle resilient segment 806 is further characterised as the moving handle 400 actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406, in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within said actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406, to allow a workpiece W to be gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300 by a gripping force GF; this imparted strong resilient, gripping force GF being relative to the potential energy imparted to the actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406 by the operator; the amount of elastic energy the actuation arm curved reduced width portion 406 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

19. Self Adjusting Locking Pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 18, characterised 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 arm 404; further specified as an actuation arm resilient bowed section 413, in order to provide during use, sufficient flexing within the moving handle actuation arm 404 to allow a workpiece W to be gripped between the fixed and pivotal jaws 205, 300 by a strong resilient, gripping force GF; this gripping force GF being relative to the potential energy imparted to the actuation arm resilient bowed section 413 by the operator during the clenching force CF procedure; the maximum amount of elastic energy the actuation arm resilient bowed section 413 can provide being preset by the manufacturer’s choice of metal thickness, width, hardness etc.

20. Self adjusting locking pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein the force triangle apex 802 can be urged just over-cam in relation to the force triangle base line 801 , by in one example, the force triangle apex 802 finally abutting the release switch levered portion 702; when the force triangle apex 802 centre-point goes outwith the force triangle base line 801 (over-cam), it is prevented from returning to the force triangle’s interior 807, thereby locking closed the pivotal jaw 300 upon any incumbent workpiece W; the pivotal jaw 300 remains closed until the moving handle 400 is forced open from the fixed handle 200.

21. Self adjusting locking pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 20, wherein, when the self adjusting locking pliers 1, fixed and pivotal jaw gripping profiles 209, 301, are locked upon a workpiece W and the workpiece W requires to be released, this operation is characterised by a novel, pivotal, release switch 700 pivotally located by the release switch axles 705 within the fixed handle release switch bores 220, opposite the force triangle apex 802; comprising a release switch levering portion 701 which in best practice is operated by the operator’s thumb with its opposing, release switch levered portion 702 further comprising of a release switch abutment protrusion 706 or alternately a release switch roller portion 703 rotatable within a release switch roller pocket 704, forcing the moving handle inner face 408 and therefore the crucial, force triangle apex 802 into the force triangle interior 807, thereby unlocking and opening the self adjusting locking pliers 1, fixed and moving handles 200, 400; further characterised by the release switch levered portion 702 being capable of acting against or adjacent to the most efficient release point; the force triangle apex 802; even further characterised by the release switch 700 mechanical leverage ratio, pivotal around the release switch axles 705, being improved from the prior art standard two and a half to one, to over five to one if required.

22. Self adjusting locking pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 21, wherein, when locked upon a workpiece W and the workpiece W requires to be released, this operation is characterised by a pivotal, release switch 700 located within the fixed handle 200, opposite the force triangle apex 802, comprising levering and levered portions 701 , 702, in best practice operated by the operator’s thumb; further characterized whereby the fixed and moving handle clenching grips 213, 409, are during the operation of the release switch 700, also gripped between the operator’s thumb web and fingers allowing a controlled release of any stored elastic energy within the force triangle resilient segment 806 induced during the clenching force CF procedure.

23. Self adjusting locking pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 22, wherein the employed, force triangle resilient segment 806 can impart an extremely practical strong sprung gripping force GF, robustly clamping the workpiece W; therefore incurring very little or no surface damage upon the workpiece W.

24. Self adjusting locking pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the self adjusting locking pliers 1 fixed and moving handles 200, 400 and release switch 700, automatically regain their open position when the release switch 700 is unlocked, releasing any potential energy retained within the force triangle resilient segment 806; further characterised by the incorporation of an extension spring, the fixed handle main spring 219, situated between the pivotal strut main spring hole 504 and the release switch spring location hole 707 acting to induce both the fixed and moving handles 200, 400 and release switch 700 to automatically regain their open position as required.

25. Self adjusting locking pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 24, wherein the fixed jaw teeth 221 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 206, 207 are specifically separated by fixed jaw toothed sequence partition grooves 208 employed so as to allow these fixed jaw first and second toothed sequences 206, 207 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 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.

26. Self adjusting locking pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 25, wherein a construction method 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 corresponding standard sized, handle portion operating mechanism 607 and corresponding pivotal jaw 300 prior to delivery to the customer in order to drastically reduce inventory costs; the attachment being made in best practice, using assembly fasteners 604 comprising in one iteration, of known threaded pins and screws 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.

27. Self adjusting locking Pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 26, whereby the pivotal strut toothed slot 505 is at an angle relative to the force triangle base line 801 between the moving handle apex pin 403 and the pivotal strut toothed latch axles 508, in order to retain the correct distance between the release switch levered portion 702 and the force triangle apex 802 at all times during locking procedure, as the pivotal strut toothed latch 507 traverses the pivotal strut toothed slot 505.

28. Self adjusting locking pliers 1, as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 27, 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 operator’s 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.

29. Self adjusting locking Pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 28, wherein the force triangle resilient segment 806 utilized, comprises of a known compression spring located using known methods.

30. Self adjusting locking Pliers 1 as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 29, wherein there are no force triangle resilient segments 806 incorporated.