CN112975806A

CN112975806A - Basin wrench

Info

Publication number: CN112975806A
Application number: CN202110240636.3A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 普拉萨德·查图尔辛格·帕蒂尔; 萨钦·沙希坎特·达卡尔; 克里什那尔琼·巴格万·查特雷; 桑迪普·希达古达·帕蒂尔; 格伦·R·夏蒂埃; 劳伦斯·菲斯卡尼希
Original assignee: Ridge Tool Co
Current assignee: Ridge Tool Co
Priority date: 2016-08-24
Filing date: 2017-04-10
Publication date: 2021-06-18
Anticipated expiration: 2037-04-10
Also published as: CN112975806B; DE102017206237A1; DE102017012385B3; DE102017206237B4

Abstract

A basin wrench and multi-purpose hand tool system are described. The basin wrench includes a wrench body defining a longitudinal axis and an insert defining an interior region. The tool system includes a handle and one or more inserts releasably engaged with the handle. The tool system is useful for a variety of applications including use with basin and faucet hardware.

Description

Basin wrench

The application is a divisional application, and the original application is a Chinese patent application with the application number of 201710228603.0, the application date of 2017, 4 and 10 months and the invention name of 'tool system'.

Technical Field

The present subject matter relates to a multi-purpose tool system. The tool system is generally directed to hand tools, and is particularly useful for hand tools such as basin wrenches and faucet wrenches.

Background

Basin wrenches or special installation tools are used to secure various kitchen or bathroom faucets, hoses, spray hoses, and/or related components. Faucet mounting hardware is typically located in a confined area beneath a kitchen or bathroom sink. Thus, such hardware is difficult to access with conventional ordinary wrenches or wrenches.

A wide variety of mounting hardware is used in the field, such as plastic wing nuts, different sized hex nuts, cross screws, and flat head screws. Furthermore, the type of mounting hardware and method of mounting may vary between different faucet manufacturers.

To be effective, the basin wrench or faucet wrench should be relatively compact so that the wrench can be used in confined spaces and provide flexibility to accommodate obstructions, such as supply lines and drain pipes, that are typically located below the sink or basin.

Currently known basin and faucet wrenches include those that utilize a handle and one or more inserts to accommodate different mounting hardware, such as described in US 2008/0034927 and D560,986, both assigned to the present applicant.

Another known tool is described in US 6,701,807. The' 807 patent describes a sleeve device having an eccentric slot for loosening or tightening a connector.

While such tools are satisfactory in certain respects, there is a need for improved tool systems and tool systems that are particularly suited for use with basin or faucet hardware.

Disclosure of Invention

The difficulties and disadvantages associated with previous approaches are addressed in the present subject matter as follows.

In one aspect, the present subject matter provides a basin wrench comprising a handle defining a substantially hollow interior. The handle further defines a longitudinal slot configured to receive at least one end of the insert and extending from the at least one end of the handle and providing access to the hollow interior of the handle. The wrench also includes a faceted insert configured for selective positioning relative to an end of the handle. The insert is defined by: (i) a first face having a first engagement region sized and shaped to fittingly engage a first tap component, and (ii) a second face having a second engagement region sized and shaped to fittingly engage a second tap component different from the first tap component. The insert is selectively positionable with an end of the handle such that a first face or a second face of the insert is accessible for engagement with the first or second tap component.

In another aspect, the present subject matter provides a basin wrench comprising a handle defining a substantially hollow interior and at least one end configured to receive a removable cube-shaped insert. The basin wrench also includes a cube-shaped insert that is removable from and selectively engages an end of the handle. The insert defines a plurality of working surfaces, each working surface defining an engagement area sized and shaped to fittingly engage the faucet member.

As will be realized, the subject matter described herein is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modification in various respects, all without departing from the claimed subject matter. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is an elevational, partial cross-sectional view of a typical vanity faucet assembly depicting one of the faucet's basin nuts engaged by a known basin wrench (only a portion of which is shown in FIG. 1).

Fig. 2-4 are perspective views of embodiments of cube-shaped first inserts for use with the subject tool system.

Fig. 5-6 are perspective views of an embodiment of a tool system having a cube-shaped first insert engaged at one end of a handle and a cylindrical second insert engaged at the other end of the handle.

Fig. 7-8 are perspective views of a handle used in the tool system shown in fig. 5-6.

Fig. 9-12 are views of the cylindrical insert of the tool system shown in fig. 5-6.

Fig. 13-14 are views of a prior art tool and its engagement with a conventional four-bayonet filter basket.

Fig. 15-16 illustrate the engagement between the cylindrical insert depicted in fig. 9 and three and four bayonet filter baskets.

Fig. 17-19 illustrate another embodiment of a cylindrical insert for use with the tool system of the present subject matter.

Fig. 20 is a side view of the handle of the tool system of the present subject matter.

Fig. 21-22 illustrate another embodiment of the pivoting tool system of the present subject matter.

Fig. 23-25 illustrate additional aspects of a handle for use in the pivoting tool system of fig. 21-22.

26-28 illustrate an adapter that can be used in the subject tool system.

29-32 illustrate another embodiment of a cylindrical insert for use in the subject tool system.

Fig. 33-35 illustrate another embodiment of a tool system utilizing a handle with a pivotally attached insert according to the present subject matter.

Fig. 36 is a detailed end view showing different pivot positions of the first insert at the end of the handle of the tool system depicted in fig. 33-35.

Fig. 37 is a detailed end view showing different pivot positions of the second insert at the other end of the handle of the tool system depicted in fig. 33-35.

Fig. 38-39 illustrate an insert that can be used in the present tool system depicted in fig. 33-35.

40-43 illustrate another embodiment of a tooling system according to the present subject matter.

Detailed Description

The subject tool system is useful for engaging (e.g., loosening or tightening) various fixtures and hardware, and in particular for turning a basin nut (e.g., turning a basin nut to attach a faucet element to a countertop). The tool system is also useful in many other applications, such as tightening 7/8 inch supply line nuts, plastic wing supply nuts, 1 inch supply line nuts (and nuts having other, e.g., metric, dimensions), and supply line shut-off valves. Thus, the present subject matter should not be limited to a wrench for loosening basin nuts, but rather should be construed broadly.

FIG. 1 schematically depicts a typical vanity faucet assembly 10 attached to a countertop 22. The faucet assembly 10 includes faucets or

controls

12, 14 that generally control the flow of hot and cold water through supply lines, such as supply line 38. The faucet assembly 10 also includes threaded

members

16, 18 that extend through the deck.

Basin nuts

24, 26 engage threaded

members

16, 18. As is known, a conventional wrench or socket W is used to engage a basin nut (such as 24 in fig. 1) to loosen or tighten the basin nut 24 along the threaded member 16. Similarly, a conventional wrench or socket (not shown) is used to engage the fastener 42 for the supply line 38.

In general, the present subject matter provides a basin wrench comprising a handle or body and one or more selectively positionable inserts that are removably engageable with or removably attachable to the handle. The one or more inserts include a face having an engagement area sized and shaped to fittingly engage various faucet components, such as those depicted in fig. 1. In some versions of the basin wrench, the insert is a multi-faceted insert and includes two engagement regions that are distinct from one another. In a particular version, the faceted insert is cube-shaped. In many versions of basin wrenches, the handle includes a hollow interior and a longitudinal slot extending from the end of the handle where the insert is positioned or engaged. The slot provides access to the hollow interior of the handle. The basin wrench may also include a second insert that is removably engageable with or removably attachable to the handle. In many versions of the basin wrench, the second insert is cylindrical in shape and includes at least one engagement area sized and shaped to engage various faucet components.

According to the subject embodiment depicted in fig. 5-8, a basin wrench 50 generally includes an elongated wrench body or handle 52 having a generally hourglass configuration that is axisymmetric about a longitudinal axis 54 (shown in fig. 7-8), which longitudinal axis 54 is also the main axis of rotation of the basin wrench (described more fully below). The wrench body 52 can be described as generally hollow to define an open interior portion 56 that can receive a water supply line, such as the water supply line 38 depicted in fig. 1. The wrench body 52 includes a first end 58 and a second opposite end 62. In the depicted embodiment, the ends 58 and 62 of the wrench body 52 are adapted to operatively engage a number of different faucet components including, but not limited to, for example, a basin nut, a fill line shut-off valve, and a filter basket. A plurality of notches or grooves 64 extend from the first end 58 toward the second end 62 generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 54. Similarly, a second plurality of notches or grooves 66 extend from the second end 62 toward the first end 58 of the body 52 generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 54. The

slots

64 and 66 are configured to engage basin nuts, examples of which are the

basin nuts

24 and 26 depicted in FIG. 1. The

slots

64 and 66 are suitably spaced about the circumference, i.e., are angularly spaced from one another, such that the slots are capable of engaging two, three, four and six wing nuts depending on which end 58 or 62 of the wrench body 52 is used to engage the basin nut.

Referring to fig. 2-4, the first insert 120 is selectively received within the first opening 72 (seen more clearly in fig. 5 and 7) in the first end 58 of the wrench body 52. In many embodiments, the first insert 120 is in the form of a multi-faceted insert, and in particular a cube-shaped insert as described in more detail herein. Referring to fig. 9-12, the second insert 150 is received within the second opening 76 (more clearly seen in fig. 6 and 8) of the second end 62 of the wrench body 52. In many embodiments, the second insert 150 is in the form of an insert having a cylindrical shape as described in more detail herein. Each

insert

120 and 150 can be received by the wrench body 52 in various orientations, as will be described in more detail below.

Inserts

120 and 150 provide flexibility to wrench 50, allowing the wrench to be used to engage many different components commonly associated with plumbing in kitchens, bathrooms, and the like, collectively referred to herein as faucet components. Although in the present embodiment, the

inserts

120, 150 are described as being selectively received within respective ends of the wrench body 52, it should be understood that the present subject matter includes versions in which the inserts are not received within the interior of the ends. That is, other variations are contemplated in which one or both inserts are engaged with other areas of the wrench body or handle.

The wrench body 52 has a generally C-shaped configuration (or an inverted C-shaped configuration) in a cross-section taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 54. Referring to fig. 7-8, the wrench body 52 includes a first longitudinal edge 82 and a second longitudinal edge 84 spaced apart from one another to define a longitudinal slot 86 therebetween. The slot 86 provides access to the hollow interior of the wrench body 52. In many embodiments, edges 82 and 84 extend between

ends

58 and 62 of the wrench body or handle 52. The groove 86 can be described as a portion removed from the arcuate sidewall when viewed in a cross-section taken perpendicular to the axis of rotation 54. The distance d (fig. 7-8) between the first longitudinal edge 82 and the second longitudinal edge 84 is sufficiently large so that a water supply line, such as the water supply line 38 in fig. 1, can be received through the slot 86 so that the supply line is located in the hollow interior portion 56 of the wrench body 52 when the wrench 50 is used to tighten or loosen the basin nut (or other component).

Referring further to fig. 7-8, in the depicted embodiment, the wrench body 52 includes a first larger outer square portion 90 extending generally from the wrench body first end 58 toward the second end 62 and a second larger outer diameter portion 92 extending generally from the wrench body second end 62 toward the first end 58. Hand gripping portion 94 is disposed generally centrally between first enlarged portion 90 and second enlarged portion 92. First tapered portion 96 provides a transition between first enlarged portion 90 and hand gripping portion 94. The second tapered portion 98 provides a transition between the second enlarged portion 92 and the hand gripping portion 94. The

enlarged portions

90 and 92 are configured to engage a basin nut and/or receive a corresponding insert. The wrench body 52 narrows at the hand gripping portion 94 to provide a smaller outer diameter to facilitate easier gripping of the wrench 50 to tighten and/or loosen the basin nut (and other items) by simply rotating the wrench 50 about its axis of rotation 54. The hand gripping portion 94 is spaced from the respective end of the wrench body 52 along the longitudinal axis 54 so that the end of the wrench body can fit into the constricted area where basin nuts, kitchen spray hoses, toilet ball valves, etc. are typically located, while providing an area for the user of the wrench 50 to grip and turn the wrench. The hand gripping portion 94 in the depicted embodiment is also sufficiently long, as measured parallel to the longitudinal axis, that the hand gripping portion is capable of accommodating at least a majority of a human hand.

In certain embodiments, the body 52 may be thicker (taken along a cross-section parallel to the longitudinal axis 54) in the area of the hand gripping portion 94 than the

enlarged portions

90 and 92. Thus, the hand gripping portion 94 is able to accommodate the radially directed compressive force applied by the user's hand as the user rotates the wrench 50 about the wrench rotational axis 54. This configuration is desirable because the body 52 includes a longitudinal slot 86, whereby the compressive force applied by a human hand is not carried through the removed portion of the circular sidewall, i.e., the slot 86.

Referring again to fig. 5-8, a plurality of circumferential ribs 100 may be provided on the outer surface of the wrench body 52 to provide additional rigidity to the body 52 while reducing the amount of material from which the wrench body is manufactured. External ribs 100 are provided in one or more of the

larger diameter portions

90 and 92, the

tapered portions

96 and 98, and the hand gripping portion 94 of the wrench body 52 to strengthen the body when a compressive force is applied around the C-shaped wrench body. The ribs 100 are also capable of carrying torsional forces that may result from tightening or loosening nuts or the like. The external ribs 100 also limit the amount of surface area that can become dirty so that a person's hand does not slip when attempting to turn the wrench 50.

One or more internal ribs (not shown) can also be provided in the hand gripping portion 94 or other areas of the wrench body 52. Such internal ribs may be accessible or visible within the hollow interior 56. The internal ribs can intersect each other and extend at an angle to the longitudinal axis 54 of the wrench 50. The ribs can provide structural integrity to the hand gripping portion 94 as well as reduce the amount of material forming the hand gripping portion.

Referring to fig. 2-4, the first insert 120 is shown and depicted in the form of a cube. The first insert 120 is configured to engage an 7/8 inch hexagonal supply line nut, a plastic wing supply line nut, a one inch hexagonal basin nut, and an oval handle supply line shut-off valve. The first insert 120 can be configured to engage a nut or other component having metric dimensions, if desired. The insert 120 is configured to engage various faucet components. In the depicted embodiment, the first insert 120 is formed of a rigid material, such as metal and/or plastic. The first insert 120, when provided in a cubical shape, defines six working

faces

122, 124, 126, 128, 130 and 132. Each of the working surfaces defines an engagement area that is sized and/or shaped to fittingly engage a nut, fitting, or other hardware or ancillary component typically associated with the faucet assembly. In many embodiments, the engagement regions provided on the insert 120 are different from one another. More specifically, in the version of the insert 120 depicted in fig. 2-4, the working surface 126 defines an engagement area 127 sized and shaped to fittingly engage a faucet component that may be associated with a typical faucet assembly or other assembly. Similarly, the working surface 128 defines an engagement area 129 that is sized and shaped to fittingly engage another component. The working surface 130 defines an engagement area 131 that is sized and shaped to fittingly engage another component. The working surface 132 defines an engagement region 133 that is sized and shaped to fittingly engage another component. The working surface 122 may receive and/or engage a hexagonal bayonet as described in more detail herein. The working surface 124 is configured to engage a component such as a shut-off valve. When provided in a cube shape, the first insert 120 provides six faces, each of which can be used with different hexagonal sizes, such as shut-off valves, wing nuts, and the like. It should be understood that the present subject matter includes other cube-shaped inserts having less than six working faces.

In the present embodiment, the

bonding areas

127, 129, 131, and 133 have different sizes and/or shapes from each other. One or more of the

faces

126, 128, 130, and/or 132 may include a plurality of engagement regions. For example, the face 132 defines the aforementioned engagement region 133. The face 132 also defines another engagement region 134, and in the embodiment shown in fig. 2-4, the engagement region 134 is in the form of a recess 134. The recess 134 is sized and shaped to fittingly engage, for example, a wing nut. Another example of a joining region is shown as joining region 135 accessible from face 132. The engagement region 135 is similar to the engagement region 133 previously described, but is sized to fittingly engage a faucet member that is smaller in size than the faucet member used with the engagement region 133. In many embodiments, one or more engagement regions are configured to receive and fittingly engage a hex nut or other fastener. For such a joint region, the region typically includes four contiguous planar surfaces oriented at an angle of 60 ° to each other. As will be appreciated, this configuration enables the region to engage the hex nut radially or laterally. This manner of engagement is not feasible with a closed end wrench or socket. The configuration of the engagement region also enables axial engagement between the insert and the hex nut.

The first insert 120 is configured to be received in or along the first end 58 or opening 72 of the wrench body 52 inside the first end 58 or opening 72 of the wrench body 52. In many embodiments, the insert 120 is sized and shaped to fittingly engage an end of the wrench body 52, such as the end 58 or the opening 72. Upon positioning the insert 120 within the end 58, the insert 120 may be frictionally engaged therein. It is also contemplated that one or more stops, locking or engagement members, or other retaining devices can be used to facilitate retention of the insert 120 within the end 58 or opening 72 of the wrench 50.

The second insert 150 is configured to be received within the second end 62 or the second opening 76 of the wrench body 52. Referring to fig. 9-12, when provided in a cylindrical shape, the second insert 150 includes a plurality of radial projections 152 radiating or extending from the periphery of the cylindrical portion 154. The radial projection 152 is configured to be received within the slot 66 formed in the second end 62 of the wrench body 52. The slots 66 are angularly spaced apart from one another differently than the slots 64 in the first end 58 of the wrench body 52 so that the first insert 120 is not erroneously inserted into the second opening 76 of the body 50 and vice versa. The slots 64 are angularly spaced apart from one another differently than the slots 66 such that the slots at one end are configured to engage the basin nut having the first configuration and the slots at the other end are configured to engage the basin nut having the second configuration. The second insert 150 can be otherwise attached to the second end 62 of the wrench body 52, for example, the second end of the wrench body can have a polygonal or non-circular opening that matches a polygonal or non-circular configuration that can be formed on the second insert 150, or the second insert or adapter component can be connected to the wrench body 52 without being received in the second opening.

With continued reference to fig. 9-12, the second insert 150 further includes a plurality of axially extending projections 156 extending from a generally planar end surface 158 of a smaller diameter portion 160 (as compared to the cylindrical portion 154 described above). The insert 150 defines an engagement region 159 configured to receive a drive member (not shown) from a tool or other component. The smaller diameter portion 160 extends from and is coaxially aligned with a first circular face 162 of the cylindrical portion 154. In the depicted embodiment, two axially extending projections 156 extend from end surface 158 and are angularly spaced about 90 ° from each other at the center (see fig. 11). The tabs 156 are spaced from one another in such a manner that the second insertion tool 150 can engage a filter basket typically used in kitchen sinks.

The second insert 150 also includes an integral hexagonal boss 164 extending from a second circular face 166 located opposite the first circular face 162. The hexagonal boss 164 is configured to be received by an associated wrench so that the wrench body 52 (and inserts 120 and 150) can be turned using the wrench, if desired. The cylindrical boss 168 extends coaxially from the hexagonal boss 164 and includes a radial through bore 172. Radial through bore 172 can receive a rod that can be used as a tool to turn a basin wrench. If the insert 150 is used to provide additional torque via a wrench or lever, the second insert 150 is inserted into the wrench body 52 in a first orientation with the hexagonal boss 164 and the cylindrical boss 168 extending axially from the second end of the body. The cylindrical boss 168 also defines an end face 169, the end face 169 generally further including an engagement region 170 configured to receive and engage a basin nut or other component. In many embodiments, the engagement region 170 is in the form of a hexagon. The second insert 150 can be inserted in a second orientation (see fig. 15-16) wherein the tab 156 extends from the second end 62 of the wrench body 52 in applications where the wrench 50 is used to engage a filter basket. In the particular embodiment of the second insert 150 described herein, the axially extending projection 156 is another form of engagement region that is sized and shaped to fittingly engage a faucet member.

The second insert 150 can also be used independently of the basin wrench 50. In this case, the second insert 150 will be removed from the wrench body 52 and the axially extending projections 156 will be inserted into the openings in the filter basket. The hexagonal boss 164 and/or the radial through hole 172 will be engaged by a tool (e.g., a conventional wrench or lever) to rotate the second insert 150 and, in turn, the filter basket. Additionally or alternatively, the insert 150 can be used by engaging a nut with the engagement region 170 and then rotating the insert 150 about the longitudinal axis of the insert 150 using a wrench or other tool engaged at the square region 159.

As shown in fig. 13-14, it is known to use four protrusions P of a tool T to engage a filter basket SB. The projections P are identical in size and shape and are equally spaced from one another around the circumference of the end of the tool T. The projections P are configured to be inserted into openings of a conventional four-bayonet filter basket SB. While satisfactory in many respects, the tool T cannot be used with filter baskets having configurations other than four-bayonet filter baskets.

Referring to fig. 15-16, a second insert 150 having two axially extending projections 156 can be used to engage both a three bayonet style filter basket SB' as shown in fig. 15 and a four bayonet style filter basket SB as shown in fig. 16. Further, it is contemplated that the second insert 150 may be used to engage filter baskets having other configurations than those depicted in fig. 15-16.

Fig. 17-19 illustrate another embodiment of a cylindrical insert 250 for use with the tool system of the present subject matter. The insert 250 includes many aspects and features as generally described in connection with the insert 150 in fig. 9-12, and therefore, for the sake of brevity, will not be described again. However, the insert 250 includes a different configuration of a plurality of axially extending projections. Specifically, the insert 250 includes a first pair of projections 256a and a second pair of projections 256 b. Each projection 256a is larger than the projection 256b, i.e., has a longer arc length. However, in many embodiments, the

projections

256a and 256b have equal height or axial dimensions to each other. The

projections

256a and 256b are configured to engage both the four and three bayonet filter baskets SB', SB as shown. Although the insert 250 has been described in connection with two pairs of identical projections, it should be understood that the present subject matter encompasses a wide variety of other configurations and combinations of projections.

Fig. 20 is a side view of the handle 52 of the embodiment of the tool system previously described in connection with fig. 5-8. The handle 52 may be sized and/or configured such that one or more of (i) the overall length of the handle, (ii) a portion of the length of the handle and/or the length of a region or component of the handle corresponds or is equivalent to, for example, a known dimension S or sub-dimension S1 or S2. For example, the length or depth of the

slots

64 or 66 may correspond to a particular dimension. Alternatively, the spacing between the ribs 100 may correspond to a known dimension. The user of the tool can then use the handle 52 as a measurement tool to quickly estimate the dimensions associated with the fixture or pipe application.

Another embodiment of a tool system or basin wrench 350 according to the present subject matter is shown in fig. 21-25. The basin wrench 350 includes many of the aspects and features generally described in connection with the basin wrench 50 in fig. 5-8, and therefore, will not be described again for the sake of brevity. The basin wrench 350 includes an elongated wrench body 352 having a pivot assembly 500, the pivot assembly 500 being generally located at a middle portion or within a hand gripping portion 394, the hand gripping portion 394 being generally centrally disposed between

enlarged portions

390 and 392. The body or handle 352 defines opposite ends 358 and 362. As generally described with respect to

notches

64 and 66, each end defines a plurality of

notches

364 and 366. As similarly described with respect to

edges

82 and 84 and slot 86, handle 352 defines

longitudinal edges

382 and 384, with

longitudinal edges

382 and 384 being spaced apart to define a receiving slot 386. The

longitudinal edges

382, 384 and the slot 386 are provided on two handle portions, i.e., on opposite sides of the pivot assembly 500. The wrench 350 further includes a first insert 420 and a second insert 450. Either or both of the

inserts

420, 450 can be the same as or different from the

inserts

120 and 150 previously described. Although the embodiment of wrench 350 depicted in the referenced figures uses two

cylindrical inserts

420, 450, it should be understood that the present subject matter includes using the aforementioned cube-shaped inserts 120 for either or both of inserts 420 and/or 450. For this version of basin wrench, one or both ends 358 and/or 362 will include or be in the form of a square cross-section, such as the enlarged portion 90 of basin wrench 50 of fig. 5-8 previously described.

The pivot assembly 500 generally includes a pivot pin 502, with the pivot pin 502 extending through a receiving area defined in a corresponding area of the hand gripping portion 394. The pivot assembly 500 may also include one or more retaining members, such as a retaining washer 504 for retaining the engagement of the pin 502 with the handle portion. As best shown in fig. 25, the pivot assembly 500 is configured to enable the handle 352 to pivot or position about the pivot axis Y such that the longitudinal axis 354a of the enlarged portion 390 extends from the longitudinal axis 354b of the enlarged portion 392 at an angle X. Generally, the pivot assembly 500 enables a portion of the handle to pivot relative to a second portion of the handle. In many versions of the present subject matter, angle X is from about 30 ° to about 150 °, typically 90 °. A locking device and/or a selectively releasable device can be provided in association with pivot assembly 500 such that when handle 352 is positioned at a desired angle, such as 90 °, the handle configuration can be selectively locked in place until a user desires to place handle 352 in a longitudinal configuration, such as shown in any of fig. 21, 23, and/or 24. The present subject matter includes the use of a wide variety of locking devices that enable the pivot assembly to be secured in a desired angular orientation. As shown in fig. 25, handle end 390 can be used to provide additional torque or leverage to end 362 without the use of an external wrench or lever.

26-28 illustrate an adapter 550, such as associated with the insert 600, that can be used with the subject tool system or components thereof. The insert 600 is similar to the

inserts

120, 150, 250, 420, and 450 previously described. The insert 600 may include one or more radially extending projections 652. In the illustrated embodiment, the insert 600 includes three such projections 652 equally spaced about the outer periphery or circumference of the insert 600. The insert 600 further defines at least one face 626 having an engagement region 627 defined therein, the engagement region 627 being sized and shaped to fittingly engage the faucet assembly.

Adapter 550 defines an outer periphery 552 and an inner periphery 554. The peripheral rim 552 is configured to matingly engage the engagement region 627 of an insert, such as insert 600. The inner periphery 554 of the adapter is sized and shaped to fittingly engage a faucet component or other hardware or fitting. Adapter 550 is used in applications where the engagement region 627 of insert 600 is too large or does not correspond to the target faucet component. By selecting an adapter having an inner periphery 554 corresponding to the target faucet component, and then positioning adapter 550 within engagement region 627 of insert 600, the user is then able to engage the faucet component using insert 600 and adapter 550.

In a particular version of the adapter 550, the inner periphery 554 is formed to provide a first hexagonal profile 570 and a second hexagonal profile 574. The two

hexagonal profiles

570 and 574 are separated by a step or shoulder 572 that extends partially around the inner perimeter 554. As shown, the span of the first hexagonal profile 570 is greater than the span of the second hexagonal profile 574. Although the adapter 550 is shown as providing two hexagonal profiles, it should be understood that the present subject matter includes adapters having profiles other than hexagonal profiles, having a different number of profiles, and/or having a combination of different profiles. However, it should be understood by reference to fig. 35 that the insert 950 can be used to apply additional torque or leverage to the tool system, and in particular the insert 920, without the need for any additional or external drive mechanisms (such as external wrenches or levers). Because both

inserts

920 and 950 are integral with the end of the handle by means of a pivot, the potential for inadvertent removal from or separation from the handle is avoided.

Fig. 29-32 depict another version of an insert 750 for use with the subject tool system, such as either of the basin wrenches 50, 350. The insert 750 is similar to the inserts previously described, but includes two radially extending tabs 752 and two axially extending tabs 756. In this particular insert version, the radially extending projections 752 are located on opposite sides of the insert, i.e., 180 ° apart. Also, axially extending tabs 756 are located along one side or region of the insert and are 90 ° apart from one another.

One or more pivot assemblies can be provided at one or both ends of the wrench and configured such that the pivot assemblies allow pivoting or selectively orienting the insert relative to the wrench and movably attach the insert to the wrench, rather than incorporating the pivot assemblies into the handle or body of the wrench (such as wrench 350 shown in fig. 21-25). Fig. 33-37 illustrate a basin wrench 850 having a first pivot assembly 900 located generally near a first end 858 of the wrench and a second pivot assembly 960 located generally near a second end 862 of the wrench. Pivot assembly 900 includes a pivot pin 902 that engages insert 920 such that insert 920 can pivot about an axis W as shown by arrow a in fig. 36. The pivot assembly 960 includes a pivot pin 962 that engages the insert 950 such that the insert 950 can pivot about an axis Z as shown by arrow B in fig. 37. The remaining aspects of basin wrench 850 are generally the same as or similar to those of wrenches 50 and/or 350. However, it should be understood that with reference to fig. 35, the insert 950 can be used to apply additional torque or leverage to the tool system, and in particular the insert 920, without the need for any additional or external drive mechanisms (such as external wrenches or levers). Because both

inserts

Fig. 38-39 illustrate an insert 920 shown in use with the tool system 850 of fig. 33-37. The insert 920 defines a pair of aligned holes 940 to receive a pivot pin 902 such as shown in fig. 34. The insert 920 also defines a plurality of engagement regions, such as a first engagement region 933, a second engagement region 935, a third engagement region 934 in the form of a plurality of recesses along an end of the insert, and a fourth engagement region 936 in the form of a plurality of recesses along an opposite end of the insert. As will be appreciated, a user can selectively position the insert 920 to expose a desired engagement area by pivoting the insert about a pivot pin 902 extending through the hole 940. For example, the insert 920 can be positioned to expose one or more hexagonal profiles in the form of

engagement regions

933, 935. Alternatively, the insert 920 can be positioned to expose the engagement region 936 in the form of a recess or slot. The insert 920 can also be provided with an engagement surface 937 configured to engage a number of shut-off valves. Thus, the tool can be used to engage many shut-off valves while positioning the insert 920 to expose the surface 937.

Fig. 40-43 illustrate another embodiment of a basin wrench 1050 according to the present subject matter. Basin wrench 1050 utilizes a single pivot assembly 1100 to removably attach the previously described insert 920 to the end of wrench body or handle 1052. The insert 920 is pivotally attached to the handle 1052 via a pivot pin 1102, enabling the insert to be selectively positioned about an axis X as shown in fig. 40. Wrench 1050 has its other end configured for removably engaging another insert, such as insert 1250. Insert 1250 is an

insert

150, 250, 450, 750, and 950 generally as previously described, but using a single axially extending tab 1256 in combination with a single radially extending tab 1252. As will be appreciated, the projections 1252 are configured to engage in notches or slots defined along an end or other region of the handle 1052 such that upon engagement between the insert 1250 and the handle 1052 as shown in fig. 43, the insert 1250 can be rotated about the longitudinal axis of the insert by rotating the handle 1052 about the longitudinal axis of the handle 1052.

Many other benefits will no doubt become apparent from future applications and developments of the present technology.

All patents, applications, standards, and articles mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

The present subject matter includes all operable combinations of features and aspects described herein. Thus, for example, if a feature is described in connection with one embodiment and another feature is described in connection with another embodiment, it is to be understood that the present subject matter includes embodiments having combinations of these features.

As described above, the present subject matter addresses many of the problems associated with previous policies, systems, and/or devices. It will be understood, however, that various changes in the details, materials, and arrangements of the parts which have been herein described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of this subject matter may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the principle and scope of the claimed subject matter, as expressed in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A basin wrench for a faucet assembly component, comprising:

a wrench body (52) defining a longitudinal axis (54); and

a first insert (120) defining an interior region;

wherein the wrench body (52) includes a sidewall portion (90) defining an open end (58), and wherein the open end (58) of the wrench body (52) is sized and configured to receive a first insert (120) axially disposed therein;

wherein the first insert (120) defines a plurality of working faces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132) and an associated plurality of joining regions (127; 129; 131; 133 or 135), each of the plurality of joining regions being arranged transverse to an associated one of the plurality of working faces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132), wherein each joining region (127; 129; 131; 133 or 135) is sized and configured differently from each other joining region (127; 129; 131; 133 or 135);

wherein any of the plurality of working surfaces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132) is sized and configured as a guide surface (122) for inserting the first insert (120) into the open end (58) of the wrench body (52) along the axis (54), and wherein a second surface (124) of the plurality of working surfaces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132) that is spaced opposite the guide surface (122) is apertured when the guide surface (122) of the first insert (120) is disposed in the open end (58) of the wrench body (52) to enable any of the plurality of engagement regions (127; 129; 129; 129; 131; 133 or 135) to engage a faucet assembly component disposed in the open end (58) of the wrench body (52).

2. The basin wrench of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of working faces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132) defines an associated engagement area (133, 135) comprising at least two steps (133, 135), wherein one step (135) is further from its associated face (132) than the other step (133), and wherein one of the two steps (133 or 135) is configured to differ in size from the other of the two steps (133 or 135).

3. The basin wrench of claim 1, wherein portions of the plurality of work surfaces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132) each define an associated one of the plurality of engagement regions (127; 129; 131; 133, or 135).

4. The basin wrench of claim 1, wherein the first insert (120) has a cubic shape.

5. The basin wrench of claim 1, wherein the wrench body (52) is sized and configured to operatively engage the first insert (120) with a faucet assembly component, wherein at least one face (132) of the plurality of faces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132) has an associated engagement region (133 or 135) configured to enable the first insert (120) to operatively engage the faucet assembly component.

6. A basin wrench as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wrench body (52) is elongate and hand-holdable and has a substantially hourglass configuration.

7. A basin wrench according to claim 6, wherein the hourglass-shaped configuration is substantially symmetrical about an axis (54).

8. A basin wrench according to claim 1, wherein the wrench body (52) has a generally C-shaped configuration in a cross-section perpendicular to the axis (54).

9. A basin wrench according to claim 6, wherein the hourglass-shaped configuration also defines a substantially C-shaped configuration in a cross-section taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (54).

10. The basin wrench of claim 1, wherein the wrench body (52) is elongated along an axis (54) and defines a generally hollow interior.

11. The basin wrench of claim 10, wherein the side wall portion (90) is generally rectangular, and wherein the first insert (120) has a generally cubic shape.

12. The basin wrench of claim 11, wherein an inner surface of the side wall portion (90) is configured such that the inner surface fittingly engages four (126, 128, 130, 132) of the plurality of working surfaces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132) of the first insert (120) when the first insert (120) is axially disposed in the open end (58) of the wrench body (52).

13. The basin wrench of claim 10, wherein the wrench body (52) includes a first longitudinal edge (82) and a second longitudinal edge (84), wherein the edges (82, 84) are spaced apart from one another to define a longitudinal slot (86), wherein the slot (86) is aligned with the axis (54).

14. A basin wrench as claimed in claim 13, wherein said longitudinal slot (86) is sized to enable a water supply line (38) to be received in the hollow interior of the wrench body (52).

15. The basin wrench of claim 10, further comprising a second insert (150), wherein the wrench body (52) includes a second open end (62) configured to axially receive the second insert (150) and positioned opposite the open end (58).

16. The basin wrench of claim 15, wherein the second insert (150) is elongated and defines a cylindrical portion (154), wherein a peripheral sidewall of the second open end (62) defines a plurality of axially-disposed slots (66), and wherein the cylindrical portion (154) of the second insert (150) defines a plurality of projections (152) extending radially outward from the cylindrical portion (154), each of the plurality of projections (152) being received by an associated one of the plurality of slots (66).

17. The basin wrench of claim 10, wherein the wrench body (52) defines a handle (352) having a first portion (390) and a second portion (392) coupled to the first portion (390).

18. The basin wrench of claim 17, wherein the handle (352) includes a pivot assembly (500) for pivotally positioning one of the first and second portions (390, 392) of the handle (352) relative to the other of the first and second portions (390, 392) of the handle (352) about a pivot axis (Y).

19. A basin wrench according to claim 18, wherein the pivot axis (Y) is arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis (54).

20. The basin wrench of claim 19, wherein one of the first portion (390) and the second portion (392) of the handle (352) is pivotable relative to the other of the first portion (390) and the second portion (392) about a pivot axis (Y) at an angle (X), and the angle (X) is about 30 ° to about 150 °.

21. A basin wrench, comprising:

a wrench body (52) defining a longitudinal axis (54); and

a first insert (120) defining an interior region;

wherein the wrench body (52) includes a sidewall portion (90) defining an open end (58), and wherein the open end (58) is sized and configured to receive a first insert (120) axially disposed therein;

wherein the first insert (120) defines a plurality of working faces (126; 128; 132) and an associated plurality of engagement regions (127; 129; 133 and 135), each of the plurality of engagement regions oriented and disposed transverse to an associated one of the plurality of working faces (126; 128; 132), wherein the plurality of engagement regions (127; 129; 133 and 135) are sized and configured to be different from each other of the plurality of engagement regions (127; 129; 133 and 135); and

wherein at least one working face (132) of the plurality of working faces (126; 128; 132) defines an associated engagement region (133, 135) comprising at least two steps (133, 135), wherein one step (135) is further from its associated face (132) than the other step (133), and wherein one step (133 or 135) of the at least two steps (133 and 135) is configured to be dimensionally different from the other of the at least two steps (133, 135).