U.S. patent application number 11/810254 was filed with the patent office on 2007-12-13 for manual crimp/press tool.
This patent application is currently assigned to Emerson Electric Co.. Invention is credited to Paul D. Bernstorf, Paul W. Gress, Jonathan M. Iwamasa, Steven K. Morris, Michael H. Putre.
Application Number | 20070283741 11/810254 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38702029 |
Filed Date | 2007-12-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070283741 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bernstorf; Paul D. ; et
al. |
December 13, 2007 |
Manual crimp/press tool
Abstract
A crimp or press tool is provided that includes two pivotally
connected jaw members that can be selectively drawn toward one
another in order to crimp or otherwise press a fitting onto a pipe
or other workpiece. The tool uses a tightening assembly that
enables the application of oppositely directed rotational forces to
thereby prevent or at least significantly reduce the potential for
imparting undesirable torque moments into the pipe or
workpiece.
Inventors: |
Bernstorf; Paul D.; (Olmsted
Township, OH) ; Morris; Steven K.; (Avon, OH)
; Iwamasa; Jonathan M.; (Olmsted Falls, OH) ;
Putre; Michael H.; (Parma, OH) ; Gress; Paul W.;
(Bay Village, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FAY SHARPE LLP
1100 SUPERIOR AVENUE, SEVENTH FLOOR
CLEVELAND
OH
44114
US
|
Assignee: |
Emerson Electric Co.
|
Family ID: |
38702029 |
Appl. No.: |
11/810254 |
Filed: |
June 5, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60812281 |
Jun 9, 2006 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
72/416 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B21D 39/048 20130101;
B25B 27/10 20130101; B21D 39/046 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
72/416 |
International
Class: |
B21D 41/04 20060101
B21D041/04 |
Claims
1. A manual crimp or press tool comprising: a first jaw member
having a hinge region, a tightening region, and a pressing surface
extending therebetween, the first jaw member including in the
tightening region, a first projection, a second projection spaced
from and parallel to the first projection and defining a receiving
slot between the first and second projections, the first jaw member
defining in the tightening region, a concave arcuate surface
oppositely directed from the pressing surface of the first jaw
member, the receiving slot accessible along a distal end of the
first jaw member, and at the concave arcuate surface; a second jaw
member having a hinge region, a tightening region, and a pressing
surface extending therebetween, the second jaw member pivotally
attached at the hinge region of the second jaw member, to the hinge
region of the first jaw member, the first and second jaw members
oriented such that the pressing surface of the first jaw member
faces the pressing surface of the second jaw member; a trunion
defining an outer surface that includes a partially cylindrical
region and an aperture extending through the trunion and accessible
at the cylindrical region, the trunion disposed in the concave
arcuate surface defined in the first jaw member; and a tightening
assembly including (i) an elongate threaded tightening member
disposed within the receiving slot defined in the first jaw member,
the tightening member extending through the aperture defined in the
trunion, and (ii) a threaded engagement member threadedly engaging
the tightening member along the tightening region of the second jaw
member.
2. The tool of claim 1 wherein the elongate threaded tightening
member includes a bolt head defined at one end, and the threaded
tightening member positioned relative to the first jaw member such
that the trunion disposed in the concave arcuate surface defined in
the first jaw member is positioned between the bolt head and the
first jaw member.
3. The tool of claim 2 further comprising: a friction reducing
washer disposed between the bolt head and the trunion.
4. The tool of claim 1 wherein the second jaw member defines in the
tightening region, a concave arcuate surface oppositely directed
from the pressing surface of the second jaw member, the threaded
engagement member is in the form of a second trunion, the second
trunion defining an outer surface that includes a partially
cylindrical region, the second trunion disposed in the concave
arcuate surface of the second jaw member.
5. The tool of claim 1 wherein the aperture defined in the trunion
is free from threads and is sized and adapted to loosely receive
the elongate threaded tightening member extending therethrough.
6. The tool of claim 1 wherein the second jaw includes, in the
tightening region of the second jaw, a first projection and a
second projection spaced from and parallel to the first projection
and defining a receiving slot between the first and second
projections.
7. The tool of claim 6 wherein the second jaw member defines in the
tightening region, a concave arcuate surface oppositely directed
from the pressing surface of the second jaw member, the receiving
slot defined in the second jaw member accessible along a distal end
of the second jaw member, and at the concave arcuate surface
defined in the second jaw member.
8. The tool of claim 7, wherein the threaded engagement member is
in the form of a second trunion, the second trunion defining an
outer surface that includes a partially cylindrical region, the
second trunion disposed in the concave arcuate surface of the
second jaw member such that at least a portion of the cylindrical
region of the second trunion contacts the arcuate surface of the
second jaw member.
9. The tool of claim 1 wherein the second jaw includes a first
projection, a second projection spaced from and parallel to the
first projection and defining a receiving slot between the first
and second projections, the second jaw defining an aperture
extending through both the first and second projections, the
aperture accessible from the receiving slot, the receiving slot
accessible along a distal end of the second jaw member, and the
threaded engagement member being in the form of a pin member
defining a threaded aperture extending through the pin member, the
pin member disposed in the aperture defined in the first and second
projections of the second jaw member and oriented in the first and
second projections such that the elongate threaded tightening
member extends within and through the aperture defined in the pin
member and is threadedly engaged with the pin member.
10. A manual crimp or press tool comprising: a first jaw member
having a hinge region, a tightening region, and a pressing surface
extending therebetween, the first jaw member including in the
tightening region, a first projection, a second projection spaced
from and parallel to the first projection and defining a receiving
slot between the first and second projections, the first jaw member
defining in the tightening region a concave arcuate surface
oppositely directed from the pressing surface of the first jaw
member, the receiving slot accessible along a distal end of the
first jaw member and at the concave arcuate surface; a second jaw
member having a hinge region, a tightening region, and a pressing
surface extending therebetween, the second jaw member including in
the tightening region, a first projection, a second projection
spaced from and parallel to the first projection and defining a
receiving slot between the first and second projections, the second
jaw member defining in the tightening region, a concave arcuate
surface oppositely directed from the pressing surface of the second
jaw member, the receiving slot accessible along a distal end of the
second jaw member and at the concave arcuate surface of the second
jaw member, the second jaw member pivotally attached at the hinge
region of the second jaw member, to the hinge region of the first
jaw member, the first and second jaw members oriented such that the
pressing surface of the first jaw member faces the pressing surface
of the second jaw member; a first trunion defining an outer surface
that includes a partially cylindrical region and an aperture
extending through the first trunion and accessible at the
cylindrical region, the first trunion disposed in the concave
arcuate surface defined in the first jaw member; a second trunion
defining an outer surface that includes a partially cylindrical
region and a threaded aperture extending through the trunion and
accessible at the cylindrical region, the second trunion disposed
in the concave arcuate surface defined in the second jaw member;
and an elongate threaded tightening member disposed within the
receiving slot defined in the first jaw member and also disposed
within the receiving slot defined in the second jaw member, the
tightening member extending through the aperture defined in the
first trunion and threadedly engaged with the threaded aperture of
the second trunion.
11. The tool of claim 10 wherein the second trunion includes an
integral hexagonal region adapted for engagement by a wrench or
socket.
12. The tool of claim 10 wherein the elongate threaded tightening
member includes a bolt head defined at one end, and the threaded
tightening member positioned relative to the first jaw member such
that the bolt head is proximate to the first trunion disposed in
the concave arcuate surface defined in the first jaw member.
13. The tool of claim 12 further comprising: a friction reducing
washer disposed between the bolt head and the first trunion.
14. A manual crimp or press tool comprising: a first jaw member
having a hinge region, a tightening region, and a pressing surface
extending therebetween, the first jaw member including in the
tightening region, a first projection, a second projection spaced
from and parallel to the first projection and defining a receiving
slot between the first and second projections, the receiving slot
accessible along a distal end of the first jaw member; a second jaw
member having a hinge region, a tightening region, and a pressing
surface extending therebetween, the second jaw member including in
the tightening region, a first projection, a second projection
spaced from and parallel to the first projection and defining a
receiving slot between the first and second projections, the second
jaw defining an aperture extending through both the first and
second projections, the aperture accessible from the receiving slot
of the second jaw member, the receiving slot accessible along a
distal end of the second jaw member, the second jaw member
pivotally attached at the hinge region of the second jaw member, to
the hinge region of the first jaw member, the first and second jaw
members oriented such that the pressing surface of the first jaw
member faces the pressing surface of the second jaw member; a
trunion defining an aperture extending through the trunion, the
trunion disposed along the tightening region of the first jaw
member; a pin member rotatably disposed in the aperture defined in
the first and second projections of the second jaw member, the pin
member defining a threaded aperture extending through the pin
member and in a direction generally transverse to the aperture
defined in the second jaw member extending through both the first
and second projections; and an elongate threaded tightening member
disposed within the receiving slot defined in the first jaw member
and also disposed within the receiving slot defined in the second
jaw member, the tightening member extending through the aperture
defined in the trunion and threadedly engaged with the aperture
defined in the pin member disposed in the second jaw member.
15. The tool of claim 14 wherein the first jaw member defines in
the tightening region, a concave arcuate surface oppositely
directed from the pressing surface of the first jaw member, the
trunion further defining an outer surface that includes a
cylindrical region, and the trunion disposed in the concave arcuate
surface of the first jaw member such that at least a portion of the
cylindrical region of the trunion contacts the arcuate surface of
the first jaw member.
16. The tool of claim 15 wherein the receiving slot of the first
jaw member is also accessible at the concave arcuate surface
defined in the first jaw member.
17. The tool of claim 15 wherein the aperture extending through the
trunion is accessible at the cylindrical region of the trunion.
18. The tool of claim 14 wherein the elongate threaded tightening
member includes a bolt head defined at one end, and the threaded
tightening member positioned relative to the first jaw member such
that the bolt head is proximate to the trunion disposed in the
concave arcuate surface defined in the first jaw member.
19. The tool of claim 18 further comprising: a friction reducing
washer disposed between the bolt head and the trunion.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority of U.S. provisional
application Ser. No. 60/812,281 filed on Jun. 9, 2006. Application
No. 60/812,281 is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to manual tools for use with
fittings, joints and couplings for pipes and tubes and, more
particularly, to a manual crimp/press tool for use in applying
fittings onto hollow tubes or pipes by pressing, crimping, or
otherwise swaging the fittings onto open ends of the tube. The
tools of the present invention are particularly useful and find
application in connection with crimp/press fittings commercially
available from a variety of sources. However, it is to be
appreciated that the subject tools can be adapted for use with
other types of fittings and in other applications beyond the hollow
tubes or pipes described herein without departing from the spirit
and scope of the description below.
[0003] One disadvantage of prior art manual crimp tools is that
they impart undesirable and sometimes destructive torque into the
target system during use as the fittings are connected onto the
pipes or tubes of the system. These prior art tools utilize upper
and lower hinged jaw members having, on one end, a hinge member
enabling pivotal movement of the jaw members relative to each other
and, on the other end, a bolt or other form of threaded member
adapted to rotate freely in one of the jaw members while the other
of the jaw members is drawn together by rotating the bolt member.
Typically, the bolt includes a nut head or the like adapted to
provide an interface for connecting with an associated tightening
tool such as a wrench. As the wrench is used to tighten the bolt, a
torque force is imparted into the tool which is in turn transferred
into the target tube or pipe through the fitting. The workpiece
itself thus provides the reactive force opposite the applied force.
The undesirable opposing torque moments tend to cock the fitting
relative to the tube and, ultimately, stress the tube at the work
area. Obviously, it is desirable for the fitting to be crimped onto
the tube while in alignment therewith and, thus, cocking is highly
undesirable. In addition, stress imparted into the workpiece
including the tube, pipe, and other components can cause other
damage to the system.
[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a manual crimp/press tool for
connecting fittings onto tubes or pipes without introducing
unnecessary and undesirable torque moments into the workpieces.
[0005] In U.S. patent application publication No. US 2003/0230132,
an embodiment of a crimping apparatus is depicted in FIGS. 23, 24A,
and 24B that provides for the application of two opposing torques.
The opposing torque forces are applied to the apparatus in such a
manner that an undesirable torque moment or other stress is avoided
and not introduced into the workpiece. Although this embodiment
offers a significant advance in the art, still further improvements
would be beneficial.
SUMMARY
[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a manual
crimp or press tool comprising a first jaw member having a hinge
region, a tightening region, and a pressing surface extending
therebetween. The first jaw member includes in the tightening
region, a first projection, a second projection spaced from and
parallel to the first projection and defines a receiving slot
between the first and second projections. The first jaw member
defines in the tightening region, a concave arcuate surface
oppositely directed from the pressing surface of the first jaw
member. The receiving slot is accessible along a distal end of the
first jaw member and at the concave arcuate surface. The tool also
comprises a second jaw member having a hinge region, a tightening
region, and a pressing surface extending therebetween. The second
jaw member is pivotally attached at the hinge region of the second
jaw member, to the hinge region of the first jaw member. The first
and second jaw members are oriented such that the pressing surface
of the first jaw member faces the pressing surface of the second
jaw member. The tool also comprises a trunion defining an outer
surface that includes a partially cylindrical region and an
aperture extending through the trunion and accessible at the
cylindrical region. The trunion is disposed in the concave arcuate
surface defined in the first jaw member. The tool also comprises a
tightening assembly including (i) an elongate threaded tightening
member disposed within the receiving slot defined in the first jaw
member. The tightening member extends through the aperture defined
in the trunion. The tightening assembly also includes (ii) a
threaded engagement member threadedly engaging the tightening
member along the tightening region of the second jaw member.
[0007] In another aspect, the present invention provides a manual
crimp or press tool comprising a first jaw member having a hinge
region, a tightening region, and a pressing surface extending
therebetween. The first jaw member includes in the tightening
region, a first projection, a second projection spaced from and
parallel to the first projection and defines a receiving slot
between the first and second projections. The first jaw member
defines in the tightening region, a concave arcuate surface
oppositely directed from the pressing surface of the first jaw
member. The receiving slot is accessible along a distal end of the
first jaw member and at the concave arcuate surface. The tool also
comprises a second jaw member having a hinge region, a tightening
region, and a pressing surface extending therebetween. The second
jaw member includes in the tightening region, a first projection, a
second projection spaced from and parallel to the first projection
and defines a receiving slot between the first and second
projections. The second jaw member defines in the tightening
region, a concave arcuate surface oppositely directed from the
pressing surface of the second jaw member. The receiving slot is
accessible along a distal end of the second jaw member and at the
concave arcuate surface of the second jaw member. The second jaw
member is pivotally attached at the hinge region of the second jaw
member to the hinge region of the first jaw member. The first and
second jaw members are oriented such that the pressing surface of
the first jaw member faces the pressing surface of the second jaw
member. The tool also comprises a first trunion defining an outer
surface that includes a partially cylindrical region and an
aperture extending through the first trunion and accessible at the
cylindrical region. The first trunion is disposed in the concave
arcuate surface defined in the first jaw member. The tool also
comprises a second trunion defining an outer surface that includes
a partially cylindrical region and a threaded aperture extending
through the trunion and accessible at the cylindrical region. The
second trunion is disposed in the concave arcuate surface defined
in the second jaw member. The tool also comprises an elongate
threaded tightening member disposed within the receiving slot
defined in the first jaw member and also disposed within the
receiving slot defined in the second jaw member. The tightening
member extends through the aperture defined in the first trunion
and threadedly engaged with the threaded aperture of the second
trunion.
[0008] In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a
manual crimp or press tool comprising a first jaw member having a
hinge region, a tightening region, and a pressing surface extending
therebetween. The first jaw member includes in the tightening
region, a first projection, a second projection spaced from and
parallel to the first projection and defines a receiving slot
between the first and second projections. The receiving slot is
accessible along a distal end of the first jaw member. The tool
further comprises a second jaw member having a hinge region, a
tightening region, and a pressing surface extending therebetween.
The second jaw member includes in the tightening region, a first
projection, a second projection spaced from and parallel to the
first projection and defines a receiving slot between the first and
second projections. The second jaw defines an aperture extending
through both the first and second projections. The aperture is
accessible from the receiving slot of the second jaw member. The
receiving slot is accessible along a distal end of the second jaw
member. The second jaw member is pivotally attached at the hinge
region of the second jaw member, to the hinge region of the first
jaw member. The first and second jaw members are oriented such that
the pressing surface of the first jaw member faces the pressing
surface of the second jaw member. The tool also comprises a trunion
defining an aperture extending through the trunion. The trunion is
disposed along the tightening region of the first jaw member. The
tool also comprises a pin member rotatably disposed in the aperture
defined in the first and second projections of the second jaw
member. The pin member defines a threaded aperture extending
through the pin member and in a direction generally transverse to
the aperture defined in the second jaw member extending through
both the first and second projections. The tool also comprises an
elongate threaded tightening member disposed within the receiving
slot defined in the first jaw member and also disposed within the
receiving slot defined in the second jaw member. The tightening
member extends through the aperture defined in the trunion and is
threadedly engaged with the aperture defined in the pin member
disposed in the second jaw member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first preferred embodiment
manual crimp/press tool in accordance with the present invention
illustrated together with an associated workpiece set.
[0010] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the first preferred embodiment
manual crimp/press tool depicted in FIG. 1.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the tool of FIG. 1
illustrated together with associated other standard tools showing a
preferred use of the subject tool.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a second preferred
embodiment manual crimp/press tool in accordance with the present
invention.
[0013] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the second preferred
embodiment manual crimp/press tool depicted in FIG. 4.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0014] With reference first to FIGS. 1 and 2, the first preferred
embodiment tool 10 includes upper and lower jaw members 12, 14
pivotally connected on one end at a hinge region 16 and adapted to
be drawn together at a tightening region 18. The upper jaw member
12 is preferably of a unitary construction and includes a hinge
portion 20, a force receiving portion 22, and a force transmitting
portion 24 extending therebetween. Similarly, the lower jaw 14
includes a hinge portion 26, a force receiving portion 28, and a
force transmitting portion 30 extending therebetween. The jaws and
other components of the preferred embodiment tool are preferably
made from hardened steel although other materials can be used as
desired. Alternately, in a more economical version of the tool, one
or more of the jaw members could be cast to further reduce
costs.
[0015] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, each of
the force transmitting portions 24, 30 of the upper and lower jaw
members 12, 14 defines a concave arcuate pressing surface 25, 31
adapted to engage a portion of the associated fitting 2 for
pressing the fitting 2 onto the associated tube or pipe 4. The
upper jaw 12 defines an upper face or upwardly directed outer face,
and an oppositely directed lower face. The lower face includes the
concave arcuate pressing surface. Similarly, the lower jaw 14
defines a lower face or downwardly directed outer face, and an
oppositely directed upper face. The upper face includes the concave
arcuate pressing surface. Preferably, the respective pressing
surfaces 25, 31 face each other. In particular, the pressing
surfaces 25, 31 have a profile of the type used in the art for
crimping fittings used to join pipe and tubing in a variety of
applications and sizes. Accordingly, no further detailed
description of the surfaces are necessary.
[0016] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the tool 10
includes a transverse pin member 40 extending through the hinge
portions 20, 26 of each of the upper and lower jaw members 12, 14
substantially as shown. Specifically, the pin member 40 extends
through an aperture 21 defined in the upper jaw member 12 and also
through an aperture 23 defined in the lower jaw member 14. In that
way, the upper and lower jaw members are selectively pivotable
relative to each other about an axis 42 defined by the pin member
40. As shown in the referenced figures, the axis 42 defined by the
pin member 40 is substantially parallel with the axis 6 of the
workpiece tube 4. In that way, when the subject tool 10 is placed
onto the workpiece fitting and tube 2, 4, the upper and lower jaw
members 12, 14 are pivotally movable in a plane 44 (FIG. 3) which
is substantially perpendicular to each of the axes 42, 6 defined by
the pin member 40 and tube workpiece 4, respectively.
[0017] The tightening region 18 of the assembled subject tool 10
includes an elongate threaded tightening member 50 having a bolt
head 52 on one end thereof and a threaded end 54 opposite from the
bolt head. As is clear from the drawing figures, the threaded
member 50 extends through each of the upper and lower jaw members
12,14 through their respective force receiving portions 22, 28,
respectively. The force receiving portion 22 of the upper jaw
member 12 includes an arcuate surface 60 adapted to receive a
trunion member 56 that carries the upper end of the threaded
tightening member 50. Similarly, the force receiving portion 28 of
the lower jaw member 14 defines a lower arcuate surface 62 adapted
to receive a portion of a lower trunion member 58 carried on the
lower end of the threaded tightening member 50. At least one and
preferably both of the trunions 56 and 58 are at least partially
cylindrical in shape and so, define an arcuate outer surface. The
diameter and shape of the outer surface of the trunions are such
that the respective trunion can be positioned in intimate contact
with the corresponding arcuate surface 60, 62 defined by each
respective jaw member 12, 14.
[0018] It is to be appreciated that the upper trunion member 56
defines an opening 55 that is preferably not threaded yet large
enough to loosely receive the threaded tightening member 50
therethrough. The lower trunion member 58 defines an opening 57
that is internally threaded for mated threaded engagement with the
tightening member 50. The lower trunion member 58 preferably
includes an integral hex head 59. As the threaded tightening member
50 is tightened, the lower trunion member 58 is drawn toward the
upper trunion member 56 thus imparting a force into the force
receiving portions 22, 28 of the upper and lower jaw members 12,
14, respectively. The force received into the jaw members is in
turn amplified into the workpiece fitting 2 by the force
transmitting portions 24, 30 of the upper and lower jaw members as
they pivot about the pin member 40. As illustrated in the drawing
figures, a friction reducing thrust washer 65 is preferably
provided at the underside of the bolt head 52 for added tool life
and to minimize unnecessary friction and wear between the bolt head
52 and the upper portion of the trunion member 56. Another benefit
provided by the friction reducing thrust washer 65 is a reduction
in the amount of force required by an end user to tighten the
threaded member 50 and in turn close the jaw members 12, 14 to
compress the fitting 2 onto the workpiece tube 4. Specifically, the
amount of active torque imparted into the bolt head 52 and the
amount of reactive torque required at the hex head 59 needed to
overcome friction between the components is minimized by use of the
washer 65. As described in greater detail herein, an optional
second washer 64 can be utilized between the washer 65 and the
bolt. This washer would create a smooth surface for the friction
reducing washer to ride against in the event that the underside of
the bolt head is not smooth (if the bolt is turned from bar stock,
it is possible that the surface finish may not be smooth enough.)
In the event that the underside of the bolt head is not smooth, the
plain washer will reduce friction between both surfaces and wear of
the mating friction reducing washer.
[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a significant feature of the preferred
embodiment tool. Preferably, both of the upper jaw 12 and the lower
jaw 14 include a forked region adapted for receiving the tightening
member 50 and a respective trunion, i.e. either the upper trunion
56 or the lower trunion 58. That is, the upper jaw member 12
includes a first outwardly extending projection 7, and a second
outwardly extending projection 8, generally spaced from and
parallel to the first projection 7 and thereby defining a receiving
slot 9. As shown in the drawings, the receiving slot 9 is
accessible along a distal end of the upper jaw 12. As shown in FIG.
2, preferably, the arcuate surface 60 defined along the upper
surface of the jaw member 12 extends along and includes or
constitutes the upper surfaces of the first and second projections
7 and 8. This unique configuration provided by the upper jaw member
12 facilitates easy positioning and placement of the trunion 56
within the arcuate surface 60 and engagement with the tightening
member 50.
[0020] Similarly, the lower jaw member 14 includes a first
outwardly extending projection 32, and a second outwardly extending
projection 33, generally spaced from and parallel to the first
projection 32 and thereby defining a receiving slot 34. The
receiving slot 34 is accessible along a distal end of the lower jaw
member 14. As shown in FIG. 2, preferably, the arcuate surface 62
defined along the lower surface of the jaw member 14 extends along
and includes or constitutes the lower surfaces of the first and
second projections 32 and 33. This unique configuration provided by
the lower jaw member 14 facilitates easy positioning and placement
of the trunion 58 within the arcuate surface 62 and engagement with
the tightening member 50.
[0021] FIG. 3 shows the subject tool 10 during use while crimping a
fitting 2 onto an associated tube 4 using first and second
associated wrench tools 70, 72. The subject tool 10 is preferably
used by placing it onto the target workpiece and then, through use
of the first and second wrench tools 70, 72, while holding the
lower hex head 59 of the trunion 58 stationary, tightening the
upper trunion member 56 such as illustrated in the figure by arrow
A. The hex head clamping surface 59 is preferably an integral hex
head formed on the lower trunion member 58 to enable the lower
trunion member 58 and, thus, lower jaw member 14 to be held
stationary relative to the fitting 2 and workpiece tube 4 while the
upper trunion member 56 is tightened using the first wrench tool 70
applied to the bolt head 52 of the threaded tightening member 50.
More particularly, the hex head 59 and integral trunion 58 provide
a means for applying a counter-rotating torque as shown by arrow B,
while tightening the upper bolt head 52 with the wrench tool 70 in
the direction of arrow A. The use of an integral lower trunion 58
and head 59 increases the amount of control the user has over the
tool 10. Furthermore, an integral trunion 58 and head 59 reduces
the amount of undesirable torque otherwise transmitted to the
workpiece.
[0022] Preferably, by holding the clamping surface 59 stationary,
both of the upper and lower jaw members 12, 14 are held stationary
and substantially within the plane 44 defined by the jaw members as
described above. The plane 44 is perpendicular to the axes 42, 6
defined by the pin member 40 and tube 4, respectively. In that way,
virtually none of the torque exerted between the first and second
wrench tools 70, 72 is imparted into the system comprising the tool
10, the fitting 2, and the tube 4. Rather, all of the force is used
productively for crimping the fitting onto the tube. Thus, the
undesirable effects of the cocking of the fitting 2 relative to the
tube as well as the effects of the strain developed in the tube
such as found in the prior art caused by torque induced tightening,
is avoided in the tool 10 of the present invention.
[0023] It is to be appreciated that other equivalent surfaces and
configurations can be used as well for providing a connection
between the second associated wrench 72 and the tightening region
18 of the subject tool 10. One example is to provide a hex shape on
the lower jaw itself. Other means such as a designated clamping
surface as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 are possible as well. To that
end, FIGS. 4 and 5 show a tool 10' in accordance with a second
preferred embodiment of the invention. In the description to
follow, like parts having similar function are designated with a
prime ("'") suffix.
[0024] The tool 10' in accordance with the second preferred
embodiment, includes upper and lower jaw members 12', 14' pivotally
connected on one end at a hinge region 16' and adapted to be drawn
together at a tightening region 18'. The upper jaw member 12' is
preferably of a unitary construction and includes a hinge portion
20', a force receiving portion 22', and a force transmitting
portion 24'. Similarly, the lower jaw 14' includes a hinge portion
26', a force receiving portion 28', and a force transmitting
portion 30'. The jaws and other components of the subject tool are
preferably made from hardened steel although other materials can be
used as desired.
[0025] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, each of
the force transmitting portions 24', 30' of the upper and lower jaw
members 12', 14' defines a concave arcuate pressing surface 25',
31' adapted to engage a portion of the associated fitting (not
shown) for pressing the fitting onto an associated tube, pipe, or
other item (not shown). In particular, as with the first embodiment
of the subject tool described above, the pressing surfaces 25', 31'
have a profile of the type used in the art for crimping fittings
used to join pipe and tubing in a variety of applications and in
standard and non-standard sizes. Accordingly, no further detailed
description of the surfaces are necessary.
[0026] With continued reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the tool 10'
includes a transverse pin member 40' extending through the hinge
portions 20', 26' of each of the upper and lower jaw members 12',
14', substantially as shown. Specifically, the pin member 40'
extends through an aperture 21' defined in the upper jaw member 12'
and also through an aperture 23' defined in the lower jaw member
14'. In that way, the upper and lower jaw members are selectively
pivotable relative to each other about an axis 42' defined by the
pin member 40'. As shown in the figures, the axis 42' defined by
the pin member 40' is substantially parallel with an axis 6'
extending along the length of the associated workpiece (not shown)
when received into a position between the upper and lower jaw
members. In that way, when the subject tool 10' is placed onto the
workpiece fitting and tube members, the upper and lower jaw members
12', 14' are pivotally movable in a plane which is substantially
perpendicular to each of the axes 42', 6' defined by the pin member
40' and the tube or associated workpiece.
[0027] The tightening region 18' of the subject tool 10' includes
an elongate threaded member 50' having a bolt head 52' on one end
thereof and a tapered end 54' opposite from the bolt head. As is
clear from the drawing figures, the threaded member 50' extends
through each of the upper and lower jaw members 12', 14' through
their respective force receiving portions 22', 28', respectively.
The force receiving portion 22' of the upper jaw member 12'
includes an arcuate surface 60' adapted to receive a trunion member
56' that carries the upper end of the threaded tightening member
50'. The upper trunion member 56' defines an opening 55' that is
preferably not threaded, yet large enough to loosely receive the
threaded tightening member 50' therethrough. A friction-reducing
thrust washer 64' can be utilized between the underside of the bolt
head 52' and the outer surface of the trunion member 56'. The force
receiving portion 28' of the lower jaw member 14' defines a fork
region 80 including a pair of spaced apart connection tab members
82, 84 defining a gap 86 therebetween. Each of the connection tab
members 82, 84 define circular openings 90, 92 aligned with one
another and adapted to receive a substantially cylindrical pin
member 66 extending parallel to the axes 6', 42' described above.
In its preferred form, the pin member 66 defines a threaded
aperture 67 and is adapted to threadedly receive the threaded
tightening member 50' and, further, is adapted to rotate within the
circular openings 90, 92. The threaded aperture 67 extends through
the pin member 66. And, upon incorporation of the pin member 66 in
the circular openings 90, 92 defined in the lower jaw member 14',
the aperture 67 is oriented such that its axis is transverse to
that of the pin member 40'.
[0028] FIG. 5 illustrates a significant feature of the preferred
embodiment tool 10'. Preferably, the upper jaw 12' includes a
forked region adapted for receiving the tightening member 50' and a
trunion, i.e. the upper trunion 56'. That is, the upper jaw member
12' includes a first outwardly extending projection 7', and a
second outwardly extending projection 8', generally spaced from and
parallel to the first projection 7' and thereby defining a
receiving slot 9'. The receiving slot 9' is accessible along a
distal end of the upper jaw 12'. As shown in FIG. 5, preferably,
the arcuate surface 60' defined along the upper surface of the jaw
member 12' extends along and includes or constitutes the upper
surfaces of the first and second projections 7' and 8'. This unique
configuration provided by the upper jaw member 12' facilitates easy
positioning and placement of the trunion 56' within the arcuate
surface 60' and engagement with the tightening member 50'. The
lower fork region 80 of the lower jaw member 14' also features a
slot or receiving channel, i.e. the gap 86 that is adapted to
receive the tightening member 50' when positioned between the
connection tab members 82 and 84.
[0029] In addition to the above, each of the connection tab members
82, 84 defines flat interface surfaces 102, 104 for connection with
an associated tightening tool such as an open end wrench, an
adjustable spanner or adjustable wrench, or the like. The first
connection tab member 82 includes spaced apart upper and lower
guide members 106, 108 useful in assisting locating the associated
tightening wrench (not shown) relative to the interface surface
102. Similarly, the second connection tab member 84 includes spaced
apart upper and lower guide members 110, 112 useful in aligning and
guiding an associated wrench relative to the flat interface surface
104.
[0030] Of particular relevance to the second preferred embodiment
tool, as with the first embodiment tool 10', the tool 10' shown in
FIGS. 4 and 5 helps resist twisting forces imparting into the
workpiece while the bolt head 52' is tightened relative to the
transverse pin member 66 and tool body components. The fork region
80 is adapted to receive an associated wrench or other tool onto
the interface surfaces 102, 104 for purposes of providing a
reactive torque against the clamping torque force exerted by a
tightening tool 70 such as shown in FIG. 3 exerted onto the bolt
head 52'. The tool 10' of the second embodiment is preferably used
by placing it onto the target workpiece and then, through use of
first and second wrench tools (not shown), tightening the upper
bolt head 52' in a clockwise rotation while holding the lower fork
region 80 stationary. Again, the lower tool (not shown) attached
with the fork region 80 provides a counter torque against the
tightening tool (not shown) applied to the elongate bolt head
52'.
[0031] Preferably, by holding the clamping surfaces 102, 104
stationary, both of the upper and lower jaw members 12', 14' are
held stationary and substantially within a plane defined by the jaw
members in a manner similar to the plane 44 in FIG. 3 as described
above. The plane (not shown in FIG. 4) is perpendicular to the axes
42', 6' defined by the pin member 40' and tube (not shown),
respectively. In that way, virtually none of the torque exerted
between the first and second wrench tools (not shown) is imparted
into the system comprising the tool 10', the fitting and the tube.
Rather, all of the force is used productively for crimping the
fitting onto the tube. Thus, the undesirable effects of the cocking
of the fitting relative to the tube as well as the effects of the
strain developed in the tube such as found in the prior art caused
by torque induced tightening, is avoided in the tool 10' of the
present invention.
[0032] The friction reducing washer, e.g. the thrust washer 65 and
65', is preferably coated with a friction reducing material such as
Teflon. In certain embodiments, it is preferred to only coat the
top face of the washer 65 or 65' with the friction reducing
coating, as that is the face of the washer that contacts the
underside of the bolt head 52 or 52'. Optionally, a second washer,
e.g. 64, 64', can also be utilized in the fastener assembly.
Preferably, the second washer is positioned between the underside
of the bolt head and friction reducing washer.
[0033] It is also preferred, that a biasing member 120, 120' be
utilized in the tools 10, 10' such that the upper and lower jaws
are urged toward one another. Preferably, the biasing member 120,
120' is in the form of a coiled torsional spring and can be
incorporated about the pin member 40, 40' which serves as a hinge
or pivot for the two jaw members. A retaining member 125, 125' is
preferably used, which engages a circumferential receiving
depression defined along the outer surface of the pin 40, 40'.
[0034] With reference to FIGS. 1-2 and 4-5, it is to be appreciated
that, preferably, each of the bolt head 52 as well as the hex head
59 have a tall aspect ratio of height to width relative to the
equivalent industry standard sized heads. In the preferred
embodiments shown in the drawings, the extra tall bolt head 52 and
extra tall integral hex head 59 of the first embodiment, and of the
extra tall head bolt 52' of the second embodiment (FIG. 3) are
provided to increase engagement and control by the user when
applying torque forces into the threaded tightening member 50.
[0035] The fastening member, e.g. 50, 50', and specifically the
threaded region thereof, and corresponding threaded aperture
regions described herein, preferably utilizes an ACME screw thread.
As known by those skilled in the art, ACME threads are generally
symmetrical V-profile threads. ACME threads are generally stronger
than other symmetrical V-profile threads.
[0036] The present invention also includes a variation of either of
the tools 10, 10' in which the upper trunion 56, 56' is loosely
retained with the upper jaw member 12, 12'. This version is
desirable in that it would preclude losing or otherwise misplacing
the upper trunion 56, 56' if that component were separated from the
tool 10, 10'.
[0037] The foregoing description is, at present, considered to be
the preferred embodiments of the present invention. However, it is
contemplated that various changes and modifications apparent to
those skilled in the art, may be made without departing from the
present invention. Therefore, the foregoing description is intended
to cover all such changes and modifications encompassed within the
spirit and scope of the present invention, including all equivalent
aspects.
* * * * *