SELF-ADJUSTING PLIERS

摘要

The present invention is directed to an improved hand tool (20') for using one hand to grasp a workpiece (22') between a first and a second jaw (24', 26') of the hand tool and adjust the force applied to the workpiece. The hand tool includes a first arm (28') and a second arm (52') , the second arm is operably linked to the first arm so as to cause relative motion of the first and second jaws upon motion of the arms. The hand tool further includes a control arm (58') having a first end (60') pivotably linked to the first: arm and a second end (62') pivotably linked to the second arm at a moveable pivot location (66') . The control arm is configured to control relative motion of the first and second arms into and out of an overcenter lock position. Movement of a force adjuster (84') located on the second arm in a first direction moves the moveable pivot location so as to increase the level of force required on the second arm to move the control arm into the overcenter lock position.