EP1050378B1 - Single-handed actuated pliers - Google Patents

Single-handed actuated pliers Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1050378B1
EP1050378B1 EP00107618A EP00107618A EP1050378B1 EP 1050378 B1 EP1050378 B1 EP 1050378B1 EP 00107618 A EP00107618 A EP 00107618A EP 00107618 A EP00107618 A EP 00107618A EP 1050378 B1 EP1050378 B1 EP 1050378B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
self
pincer
pliers according
spring
adjusting pliers
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP00107618A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1050378A2 (en
EP1050378A3 (en
Inventor
Günther Schulz
Bodo Nilles
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Serenco Nederland AV
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Serenco Nederland AV
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Publication of EP1050378A2 publication Critical patent/EP1050378A2/en
Publication of EP1050378A3 publication Critical patent/EP1050378A3/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
    • B25G—HANDLES FOR HAND IMPLEMENTS
    • B25G1/00—Handle constructions
    • B25G1/10—Handle constructions characterised by material or shape
    • B25G1/105—Handle constructions characterised by material or shape for screwdrivers, wrenches or spanners
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
    • B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
    • B25B7/00—Pliers; Other hand-held gripping tools with jaws on pivoted limbs; Details applicable generally to pivoted-limb hand tools
    • B25B7/06—Joints
    • B25B7/10—Joints with adjustable fulcrum
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
    • B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
    • B25B7/00—Pliers; Other hand-held gripping tools with jaws on pivoted limbs; Details applicable generally to pivoted-limb hand tools
    • B25B7/18—Adjusting means for the operating arms

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a water pump pliers, consisting of two intersecting in a connecting area Zangenen kind, each of a handle part and a pliers jaw, with the pliers parts in the Connection area are movably connected, that on the one hand for adjusting a respectively necessary for gripping or optimal jaw opening width the first pliers part is displaceable relative to the second pliers part and on the other hand, the pliers parts for gripping with the pliers jaws are mutually pivotable, with blocking means are provided so that when plant the jaws on a workpiece to be gripped a further shift of the first tong part is blocked, and wherein between the handle parts of the pliers parts a one-piece spring element is arranged such that the pliers parts with a in Opening pivoting direction of the pliers jaws acting Lissefederkraft are charged.
  • Such a water pump pliers is known from DE-AS 2,031 661 known.
  • This pliers should be easy and with only one Hand operated, but only incomplete was achieved. Starting from a completely open opening width the jaws can do this by one-hand operation, d. H. by simply squeezing the Handle parts with one hand, automatically in the cheapest Clamping position in contact with the object to be clamped or workpiece are brought, and in this clamping position blocking is also automatically carried out as a blocking means provided within a slot opening displaceable and pivotally arranged pawl. However, if the manual pressure is released, this will result only to allow the jaws to release the item and the locking means are released.
  • the present invention is based on the object, starting from the above state of the art, such a water pump pliers with "real" To create a one-handed function, characterized by a particularly simple design and low production costs, especially few items and simple Mountability, excels.
  • the spring element is designed as a one-piece bent band spring and connected to the handle parts of the two pliers parts in such a way that the Spring element in addition to the generation of the release spring force and the first Pliers to a arranged at this spring attachment point with a so directed torque applied that after a manual release (Release the handle parts to complete a gripping operation) the jaws automatically by corresponding displacement of the first pliers part relative to the second pliers part are moved to a fully open opening width.
  • the two grip parts are made exclusively by a simple, one-piece spring element connected, but by his inventive design and its special Mounting connection with the handle parts advantageously receives a multiple function.
  • the spring element as a one-piece bent strip spring trained and rigid with its first end of the spring on the Handle part of the second pliers part and with a second Spring end of a spiral for generating the torque bent spring portion on the handle portion of the first Zangenteils rigid, d. H. on the one hand torque-locking and on the other hand also seen in the longitudinal direction of the handle part immovable, fixed.
  • the spiral creates Spring section in the manner of a clock spring to reach the fully opened position provided torque, the remainder extending between the handle portions Spring section mainly generates the solvent spring force.
  • the spring element according to the invention in total so elastically deformable that all functionally significant relative movements of the pliers parts be effected thereby or at least possible.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 there is a Water pump pliers 1 according to the invention from a first Pliers part 2 and a second pliers part 4. These two Pliers 2, 4 intersect in a connection area 6.
  • Each pliers part 2, 4 consists of one to one side From the connecting portion 6 outgoing handle 8 and 10 and one from the connection area 6 to the other side pointing pliers jaw 12 and 14.
  • the pliers parts 2, 4 are in the connection region 6 so movably connected that on the one hand for adjusting a jaw opening width the first pliers part 2 relative to the second pliers part 4 is displaceable. This displacement movement is shown in FIGS. 4a - 4c each illustrated by a double arrow 16.
  • a spring element 24 arranged such that the pliers parts 2, 4 with one for releasing the clamping action in the opening pivoting direction the pliers jaws 12, 14 acting Lensefederkraft F applied are.
  • This release spring force F triggers after a Grasping the locking means 22.
  • the release spring force F is in the drawing figures respectively between the handle parts 8 and 10 located, with their effective direction for Separating the handle parts 8 and 10.
  • the spring element 24 is now designed in this way and with the handle parts 8, 10 of the two pliers parts 2, 4 connected such that the spring element not only the Solder spring force F generated, but according to the invention also first pliers part 2 with such a directed torque M acted upon by a spring attachment point 26, that after a manual release, d. H. Release the handle parts 8, 10 for ending a gripping operation, the jaws 12, 14 by appropriate displacement of the pliers parts in Double arrow 16 automatically into a fully open Opening width to be moved. This spring-conditioned basic position is shown in Fig. 4c.
  • the spring element 24 as one-piece curved band spring formed from spring steel and with its first spring end 24a rigidly on the handle part 10 of the second pliers part 4 attached. At this first Spring end 24a joins a substantially straighter, free between the handle parts 8, 10 approximately in the direction the connecting portion 6 of the pliers parts 2, 4 extending Spring section 36 at.
  • This spring section 36 goes in one piece in one for generating the Drehmonentes M spirally bent spring portion 38 over, whose the second spring end 24b of the spring element 24 forming end rigidly attached to the handle part 8 of the first pliers part 2 is, in the attachment point 26.
  • a kink 40 formed such that in one certain range of movement of the spring section 36 to the Knick 40 rests against the handle part 10 and that mainly in the compressed state of the handle parts 8, 10.
  • the Section of the spring element 24 between the attachment end 24 a and the kink 40 only rises in the area shortly before the opening position of the handle 10 something from. This embodiment serves on the one hand to increase the Spring force as well as for controlling the kinematics.
  • spiral spring portion 38 extends from the rigid, torque-locking with the handle part 8 of the first Zangenteils 2 connected, second spring end 24b with increasing Radius of curvature and with in particular about one to two spiral turns around the spring attachment point 26 around and then goes steadily and in one piece into the approximately straight spring section 36 over.
  • the spring attachment point 26 is formed by a bolt 42, in a for receiving the spiral spring portion 38 provided free space 44 of the handle part. 8 is attached.
  • This bolt 42 has one of the circular shape deviating, in particular polygonal (as shown square) cross section, with the second Spring end 24 b the bolt 42 positively and thereby tightly tight.
  • the first spring end 24a can bolted to the handle portion 10 of the second pliers part 4 or rigidly secured in any other suitable manner be, in particular in a connection point 46, in the area of the free end of the handle facing half the length of the handle part 10 is located. Especially useful it when the connection point 46 is approximately in the transition region between the middle and last third of the length of the Handle part 10 is located.
  • connection point 46 is located closer to the free end of the handle, while the attachment point 26 closer to the connection region 6 is located.
  • This Offset of the connection points of the spring ends 24a, b is for the kinematics of pliers 2, 4 of importance.
  • the completely open opening width limited by stop means 48 (see Fig. 4c).
  • the second pliers part 4 a preferably cam-like stop element 50, which with a stop surface 52 in the region of the jaw 12 the first pliers part 2 cooperates opening limiting.
  • the pliers parts 2, 4 mainly made stamped sheet metal parts, in each case from two the basic pincers form defining, congruent Sheet metal parts 54 and 56. It is also on the cut pointed in Fig. 3.
  • the Belchteile are preferably bolted together, by screw members 57 perpendicular through the parts extend through. But it can also rivet connections be provided.
  • the sheet metal part design allows a especially inexpensive production.
  • the blocking means 22 preferably on the one hand from a toothing 60th on the side edge leading away from the forceps jaws 12, 14 of the guided through the passage opening 58 second pliers part 4 and on the other hand, one with the teeth 60th cooperating blocking element 62 of the first pliers part 2.
  • the blocking element 62 is advantageously rigid, d. H. immovable relative to the first pliers part 2, between the sheet metal parts 54, 56 of the first pliers part 2 are arranged. It is advantageous if the blocking element as filler in the area between the teeth 60 and the to Housing the spiral spring portion 38 remaining Free space 44 is attached.
  • the blocking element 62 on its the free space 44 facing side one the course of the spiral Spring section 38 adapted, curved edge 62a (see for example Fig. 2).
  • the blocking element 62 has on its opposite, the gearing 60's second pliers part 4 facing side with advantage a corresponding, complementary counter teeth 64.
  • the Cooperation of these counter teeth 64 with the teeth 60 is particularly easy to understand with reference to FIGS. 5a-c.
  • the guide element 68 moves over the guideway 66, preferably very smoothly with rolling friction (or alternatively with sliding friction).
  • the form of the Guideway 66 is in adaptation to the desired kinematics designed.
  • Connection area 6 is a "reverse" crossing of the pliers parts 2, 4 provided.
  • the Sheet metal parts 54, 56 of the second pliers part 4 for formation a passage opening 58 are spaced apart, in which case the first pliers part 2 through this passage opening 58th extends. Accordingly, the two sheet metal parts 54, 56 of the first pliers part 2 in the connecting region 6 tight together.
  • FIG. 6 also differs from the Fig. 1-5 by another embodiment of the locking means 22.
  • the second pliers part 4 in the connection area 6 in each sheet metal part a congruent slot opening 70 on, in the (at least) one with the first Pliers part 2 connected guide member 72 accordingly the sliding movement for adjusting the jaw opening width is guided.
  • Fig. 6 - 9b in this case consist of the blocking means 22nd on the one hand from a toothing 74 of the jaws 12, 14 nearest hole edge of the slot opening 70 of second pliers part 4 and on the other hand also as the Blocking acting and this with the teeth 74th cooperating guide element 72.
  • the guide element 72 for its function as a blocking element corresponding, complementary counter teeth 76 have.
  • the opposite, away from the jaws 12, 14 lying hole edge of the slot opening 70 forms with advantage a guide track 78 for the guide element 72.
  • the guide element 72 slides during the adjustment movements of the Jaw opening width on the guideway 78.
  • the guide element 72 formed as a pivotally mounted pawl, in this case also preferably with a cam-like Approach 80, which on the opposite teeth 76 opposite Side is formed, with a ribbing 81 of the Guideway 78 cooperates such that when clamping a Intervention of the pawl in the toothing 74 is supported becomes.
  • Fig. 7a and 7b is the Guide member 72 rigid, immovable with the first pliers part 2 connected.
  • the engagement in the toothing 74 takes place exclusively by the pivoting movement of Pliers parts when planting the pliers jaws 12, 14 at one Workpiece.
  • the guide element 72 stored so floating that it is mainly in the transverse direction the slot opening 70 relative to the first Zangenteil 2 is movable. Also in the execution after Fig. 9a and 9b is a floating storage of the guide member 72, but here such that it is in Transverse and longitudinal direction of the slot opening 70 relative to the pliers part 2 is movable.
  • the blocking means 22 are similar to Embodiment of Fig. 1-5 formed.
  • a toothing 82 is provided at the of the jaws 12, 14 destructive side edge of the passage opening forming second pliers part 4, a toothing 82 is provided.
  • the first pliers part 2 has in its outside the Connecting region 6 and the passage opening of the second Zangenteils 4 lying area a rigidly connected Locking element 84, which in particular via a complementary Counter-toothing 86 cooperates with the toothing 82.
  • the guide element 72 exclusively a guide function within the slot opening 70th in particular in cooperation with the guideway 78.
  • the guide element 72 is preferably pin-shaped. or bolt-shaped.
  • FIG. 11 corresponds to FIG essential to Figs. 1 and 2. Different is only the Type of rigid attachment of the first spring end 24a the handle portion 10.
  • the Handle part 10 one inside, in the direction of the other Handle part 8 open recess 87 into which the spring end 24a intervenes.
  • the spring end 24a is bent like a loop and with a perpendicular to the pivoting movement plane through openings of the handle part 10 and through the eyelet spring end 10 extending pin or pin 88 attached.
  • the above-mentioned kink 40 is unnecessary.
  • the spring portion 36 is located in the edge region of Recess 87 on the handle part 10, so that basically this Touch point 89 - what the above-defined position relative to the length of the handle part 10 - the actual Connection point 46 forms.
  • the advantage of this design especially in the easier assembly compared to the execution z. B. according to Fig. 2 or 6.
  • As a bolt -or Pin member 88 may use a resilient collet which only needs to be pressed in.
  • Fig. 1 is for impact damping between the at a grip operation possibly colliding handle parts 8, 10 at least one of the two handle parts - as shown preferably on the handle part 10 - at the the other handle part 8 facing inside a rubber-elastic Buffer element 90 is arranged.
  • the Pliers also in the area of the handle parts 8, 10 off each two spaced sheet metal parts 54, 56, wherein preferably for each handle an additional filler 92 is provided of plastic. Every filler 92 has a substantially H-shaped cross-section such that each sheet metal part 54 and 56 flush in one corresponding recess of the filling body 92 is located.
  • the Packing 92 can be ergonomically shaped with advantage be, resulting in a good and convenient handling of the pliers 1 according to the invention contributes.
  • adjustable slings be provided so that the fully open or maximum possible opening width (see Fig. 4c) presettable or is limited. This can be a sticky hold be advantageous from smaller objects, because the pliers 1 then not always from their largest possible opening width needs to be squeezed out.
  • the invention is not limited to the illustrated and described Embodiments limited, but also includes all the same in the context of the invention embodiments. Furthermore, the invention is not yet on the im Claim 1 defined feature combination limited, but can also be done by any other combination of certain characteristics of all individual features disclosed be defined. This means that basically virtually every feature of claim 1 omitted or by at least one elsewhere in the application disclosed individual feature can be replaced. insofar claim 1 is only as a first formulation attempt to understand for an invention.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Gripping Jigs, Holding Jigs, And Positioning Jigs (AREA)
  • Surgical Instruments (AREA)
  • Massaging Devices (AREA)

Abstract

The pliers consist of two crossed parts (2, 4) each with a handle part (8, 10) and a jaw (12, 14) There is a spring element between the parts providing a release force to return the parts to the open position. The spring element is so made and attached the handle parts that it also applies torque to the first part about the spring fixing point (26), so that after a manual releas the jaws automatically move to the fully open position.

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft eine Wasserpumpenzange, bestehend aus zwei sich in einem Verbindungsbereich kreuzenden Zangenteilen, die jeweils aus einem Griff teil und einer Zangenbacke bestehen, wobei die Zangenteile in dem Verbindungsbereich derart beweglich verbunden sind, daß einerseits zum Verstellen einer jeweils zum Greifen notwendigen bzw. optimalen Backen-Öffnungsweite das erste Zangenteil relativ zu dem zweiten Zangenteil verschiebbar ist und andererseits die Zangenteile zum Greifen mit den Zangenbacken gegeneinander verschwenkbar sind, wobei Sperrmittel derart vorgesehen sind, daß bei Anlage der Zangenbacken an einem zu greifenden Werkstück eine weitergehende Verschiebung des ersten Zangenteils blockiert wird, und wobei zwischen den Griffteilen der Zangenteile ein einteiliges Federelement derart angeordnet ist, daß die Zangenteile mit einer in Öffnungsschwenkrichtung der Zangenbacken wirkenden Lösefederkraft beaufschlagt sind.The present invention relates to a water pump pliers, consisting of two intersecting in a connecting area Zangenenteilen, each of a handle part and a pliers jaw, with the pliers parts in the Connection area are movably connected, that on the one hand for adjusting a respectively necessary for gripping or optimal jaw opening width the first pliers part is displaceable relative to the second pliers part and on the other hand, the pliers parts for gripping with the pliers jaws are mutually pivotable, with blocking means are provided so that when plant the jaws on a workpiece to be gripped a further shift of the first tong part is blocked, and wherein between the handle parts of the pliers parts a one-piece spring element is arranged such that the pliers parts with a in Opening pivoting direction of the pliers jaws acting Lösefederkraft are charged.

Eine derartige Wasserpumpenzange ist aus der DE-AS 2 031 661 bekannt. Diese Zange soll einfach und mit nur einer Hand bedienbar sein, was allerdings nur unvollständig erreicht wurde. Ausgehend von einer ganz geöffneten Öffnungsweite der Zangenbacken können diese zwar durch Einhandbetätigung, d. h. durch einfaches Zusammendrücken der Griffteile mit einer Hand, automatisch in die günstigste Klemmstellung in Kontakt mit dem zu klemmenden Gegenstand bzw. Werkstück gebracht werden, und in dieser Klemmstellung erfolgt auch automatisch ein Blockieren einer als Sperrmittel vorgesehenen, innerhalb einer Langlochöffnung verschiebbar und schwenkbeweglich angeordneten Sperrklinke. Wird allerdings der manuelle Druck gelöst, so führt dies lediglich dazu, daß die Klemmbacken den Gegenstand freigeben und die Sperrmittel gelöst werden. Die Zangenteile bleiben dann aber in dieser Stellung stehen, so daß sie manuell in die größte Öffnungsweite der Backen durch Relativverschiebung bewegt werden müssen, was nur mit zwei Händen möglich sein dürfte. Konstruktiv liegt dies daran, daß das zwischen den Griffteilen angeordnete Federelement als eine haarnadelartige Federklemme bzw. gewundene Schenkelfeder ausgebildet ist, deren eines Ende starr, unbeweglich mit dem einen Griffteil verbunden ist. Das andere Federende liegt aber nur derart lose an dem anderen Griffteil an, daß dieses Zangenteil relativ zu dem anliegenden Federende verschiebbar ist, wobei das Zangenteil um den Federanlagepunkt wippenartig schwenkbar ist. Hierdurch kann die Feder zwar die Griffteile zum Freigeben des geklemmten Gegenstandes und auch zum Lösen der Sperrmittel auseinanderdrücken, jedoch nicht eine Bewegung in die ganz geöffnete Backenstellung bewirken.Such a water pump pliers is known from DE-AS 2,031 661 known. This pliers should be easy and with only one Hand operated, but only incomplete was achieved. Starting from a completely open opening width the jaws can do this by one-hand operation, d. H. by simply squeezing the Handle parts with one hand, automatically in the cheapest Clamping position in contact with the object to be clamped or workpiece are brought, and in this clamping position blocking is also automatically carried out as a blocking means provided within a slot opening displaceable and pivotally arranged pawl. However, if the manual pressure is released, this will result only to allow the jaws to release the item and the locking means are released. The pliers parts but then stay in this position, so that they manually in the largest opening width of the jaws Relative displacement must be moved, only with two Hands should be possible. Constructively, this is because that arranged between the handle parts spring element as a hairpin spring clamp or tortuous leg spring is formed, one end of which is rigid, immovable is connected to the one handle part. The other But spring end is only so loose on the other handle part on that this pliers part relative to the adjacent Federende is displaceable, with the pliers part to the Spring attachment point is rocker-like swivel. This can the spring while the handle parts to release the clamped Push the object apart and also to release the locking means, but not a move in the whole effect open jaw position.

Nun ist weiterhin zwar aus der US-PS 4,651,598 bzw. der parallelen EP 0 218 760 B1 eine insofern "echte" Einhand-Wasserpumpenzange bekannt, als diese nach einem Klemmvorgang auch automatisch wieder in eine voll geöffnete Position zurückkehrt. Dies wird allerdings durch konstruktiv außerordentlich aufwendige Mittel erreicht. Anstatt eines einfachen Federelementes (wie bei der obigen, gattungsbildenden Druckschrift) ist bei dieser bekannten Einhand-Zange zwischen den Griffteilen ein spezieller, starrer Steuerarm angeordnet. Dieser Steuerarm ist an dem einen Griffteil schwenkbar angelenkt und mit dem anderen Griffteil verschiebbar verbunden. Für die automatischen Bewegungsabläufe ist zudem eine spezielle Federeinrichtung mit mehreren einzelnen Federelementen vorgesehen. Diese Konstruktion führt somit zu einem sehr großen Aufwand für Bauteile und deren Montage, wodurch in der Folge insgesamt recht hohe Herstellungskosten verursacht werden, zumal die Federelemente zum Teil innerhalb der Griffe untergebracht sind.Now is still from the US-PS 4,651,598 or parallel EP 0 218 760 B1 so far a "true" one-hand water pump pliers known as this after a clamping operation also automatically returns to a fully open position returns. However, this is by constructive reached extremely expensive means. Instead of one simple spring element (as in the above, generic Document) is in this known one-handed pliers arranged between the handle parts a special, rigid control arm. This Control arm is pivotally hinged to one handle and with the other Slidably connected grip. For the automatic movements is also a special spring device provided with a plurality of individual spring elements. This construction thus leads to a very large expenditure for components and their Assembly, which causes a total of very high production costs in the episode are, especially since the spring elements are housed partly within the handles.

Das Dokument WO 00/13856 A1 bildet älteren, nachveröffentlichten Stand der Technik gemäß Art. 54 (3) EPÜ. Darin sind zahlreiche Ausführungsformen einer Wasserpumpenzange beschrieben, wobei in einigen Ausführungen ebenfalls nur ein einteiliges Federelement zwischen den Griffteilen der beiden Zangenschenkel angeordnet ist. Konkret handelt es sich bei der Feder um eine Schenkelfeder, wobei die Enden der Federschenkel jeweils drehgelenkig an den Zangenschenkeln angelenkt sind. Im Bereich des relativ zu dem beweglichen Zangenschenkel feststehenden Zangenschenkels ist eine Drehabstützung der Feder ausgebildet, und die Feder liegt in unbetätigtem Zustand an diesem Drehanschlag an, wobei bei Verlagerung des beweglichen Zangenschenkels in eine ein Werkstück erfassende Maulschließanlage die Feder erst nach Kraftbetätigung bei Anlage der Zangenmaulbacken an dem Werkstück von dem Drehanschlag freikommt. Beim Lösen erfolgt durch die Anlage der Feder an dem Drehanschlag um diesen Punkt eine Drehung des anderen, beweglichen Zangenschenkels in der Weise, dass dadurch die größte Maulöffnungslage erreicht wird.The document WO 00/13856 A1 forms older, post-published prior art according to Art. 54 (3) EPC. Therein are numerous embodiments of one Water pump pliers described, in some versions also only one one-piece spring element between the handle parts of the two pliers legs is arranged. Specifically, it is the spring to a leg spring, wherein the ends of the spring legs are pivotally articulated to the forceps arms are. In the area of the relative to the movable pliers leg fixed Zangenschenkels is designed a Drehabstützung of the spring, and the spring lies in unactuated state of this rotation stop, wherein when relocating the movable pliers leg in a workpiece detecting mouth closure the spring only after power operation when the forceps jaws on the Workpiece is released from the rotation stop. When releasing done by the system of Spring on the rotation stop around this point a rotation of the other, movable pliers leg in such a way that thereby the largest Mouth opening position is reached.

Das Dokument US 5 887 495 beschreibt eine weitere ähnliche Zange, bei der aber zwischen den Zangenschenkeln drei einzelne Federelemente mit unterschiedlichen Funktionen angeordnet sind.The document US 5 887 495 describes another similar pliers, but in which between the pliers legs three individual spring elements with different Functions are arranged.

Der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, ausgehend von dem eingangs beschriebenen Stand der Technik eine solche Wasserpumpenzange mit "echter" Einhandfunktion zu schaffen, die sich durch eine besonders einfache Konstruktion und geringen Herstellungsaufwand, insbesondere wenige Einzelteile und einfache Montierbarkeit, auszeichnet. The present invention is based on the object, starting from the above state of the art, such a water pump pliers with "real" To create a one-handed function, characterized by a particularly simple design and low production costs, especially few items and simple Mountability, excels.

Erfindungsgemäß wird dies durch die Merkmale des Patentanspruchs 1 erreicht. Demnach ist das Federelement derart als einteilige gebogene Bandfeder ausgebildet und mit den Griffteilen der beiden Zangenteile derart verbunden, daß das Federelement zusätzlich zu der Erzeugung der Lösefederkraft auch das erste Zangenteil um einen an diesem angeordneten Feder-Befestigungspunkt mit einem derart gerichteten Drehmoment beaufschlagt, daß nach einem manuellen Lösen (Loslassen der Griffteile zum Beenden eines Greifvorgangs) die Zangenbacken selbsttätig durch entsprechendes Verschieben des ersten Zangenteils relativ zu dem zweiten Zangenteil in eine völlig geöffnete Öffnungsweite bewegt werden. Erfindungsgemäß sind somit die beiden Griffteile ausschließlich durch ein einfaches, einteiliges Federelement verbunden, welches aber durch seine erfindungsgemäße Ausgestaltung und seine besondere Befestigungsverbindung mit den Griffteilen vorteilhafterweise eine Mehrfachfunktion erhält. So erzeugt das Federelement weiterhin die Lösekraft, die nach einem manuellen Lösen bzw. Loslassen die Griffteile zum Öffnen der Zangenbacken auseinanderdrückt, jedoch beaufschlagt das Federelement erfindungsgemäß zusätzlich das erste Zangenteil derart mit einem Drehmoment, daß dadurch im Verbindungsbereich eine Verschiebung der Teile bis in die ganz geöffnete, größtmögliche Öffnungsweite der Zangenbacken bewirkt wird.This is achieved by the features of claim 1 according to the invention. Accordingly, the spring element is designed as a one-piece bent band spring and connected to the handle parts of the two pliers parts in such a way that the Spring element in addition to the generation of the release spring force and the first Pliers to a arranged at this spring attachment point with a so directed torque applied that after a manual release (Release the handle parts to complete a gripping operation) the jaws automatically by corresponding displacement of the first pliers part relative to the second pliers part are moved to a fully open opening width. According to the invention, therefore, the two grip parts are made exclusively by a simple, one-piece spring element connected, but by his inventive design and its special Mounting connection with the handle parts advantageously receives a multiple function. This produces the spring element continue the release force, after a manual Release or release the handle parts to open the jaws apart, but acts on the spring element According to the invention additionally the first pliers part such with a torque that thereby in the connection area a shift of the parts to the very open, largest possible opening width of the jaws causes becomes.

Eine besonders einfache und preiswerte Konstruktion besteht darin, daß das Federelement als einteilige gebogene Bandfeder ausgebildet und mit ihrem ersten Federende starr an dem Griffteil des zweiten Zangenteils sowie mit einem zweiten Federende eines zur Erzeugung des Drehmomentes spiralförmig gebogenen Federabschnittes an dem Griffteil des ersten Zangenteils starr, d. h. einerseits drehmomentschlüssig und andererseits auch in Längsrichtung des Griffteils gesehen unbeweglich, befestigt ist. Dabei erzeugt der spiralförmige Federabschnitt nach Art einer Uhrenfeder das zum Erreichen der vollständig geöffneten Position vorgesehene Drehmoment, wobei der übrige, sich zwischen den Griffteilen erstreckende Federabschnitt hauptsächlich die Lösefederkraft erzeugt. Vorteilhafterweise ist das erfindungsgemäße Federelement dabei insgesamt derart elastisch verformbar, daß alle funktionswesentlichen Relativbewegungen der Zangenteile hierdurch bewirkt werden oder zumindest möglich sind.A particularly simple and inexpensive construction exists in that the spring element as a one-piece bent strip spring trained and rigid with its first end of the spring on the Handle part of the second pliers part and with a second Spring end of a spiral for generating the torque bent spring portion on the handle portion of the first Zangenteils rigid, d. H. on the one hand torque-locking and on the other hand also seen in the longitudinal direction of the handle part immovable, fixed. The spiral creates Spring section in the manner of a clock spring to reach the fully opened position provided torque, the remainder extending between the handle portions Spring section mainly generates the solvent spring force. Advantageously, the spring element according to the invention in total so elastically deformable that all functionally significant relative movements of the pliers parts be effected thereby or at least possible.

Weitere vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungsmerkmale der Erfindung sind in den Unteransprüchen sowie der folgenden Beschreibung enthalten. Further advantageous embodiment features of the invention are in the subclaims and the following description contain.

Anhand von mehreren, in der Zeichnung dargestellten Ausführungsbeispielen soll die Erfindung genauer erläutert werden. Dabei zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine Ansicht einer ersten, bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Wasserpumpenzange in einer gänzlich zusammengedrückten, kleinstmöglichen Greifposition,
Fig. 2
die Ansicht nach Fig. 1 mit teilweise weggebrochenen Bestandteilen zur besseren Einsicht auf funktionswesentliche Elemente,
Fig. 3
einen Querschnitt eines Griffteils in der Ebene III-III gemäß Fig. 2,
Fig. 4a - c
verkleinerte Darstellungen analog zu Fig. 2 in unterschiedlichen Verstellpositionen der Backen-Öffnungsweite,
Fig. 5a - c
Darstellungen ähnlich Fig. 4a - c in unterschiedlichen Greifpositionen,
Fig. 6
eine Darstellung analog zu Fig. 1 einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Wasserpumpenzange mit einer Ausführungsvariante im Bereich der Sperrmittel,
Fig. 7a - 10b
Teildarstellungen der Wasserpumpenzange mit weiteren Ausführungsvarianten im Bereich der Sperrmittel und
Fig. 11
eine Darstellung analog zu Fig. 2 in einer Ausführungsvariante.
On the basis of several exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings, the invention will be explained in more detail. Showing:
Fig. 1
a view of a first, preferred embodiment of the invention Wasserpumpenzange in a fully compressed, smallest possible gripping position,
Fig. 2
1 with partially broken away components for a better insight into essential functional elements,
Fig. 3
a cross section of a handle portion in the plane III-III of FIG. 2,
Fig. 4a - c
reduced representations analogous to FIG. 2 in different adjustment positions of the jaw opening width,
Fig. 5a - c
Representations similar to Fig. 4a - c in different gripping positions,
Fig. 6
1 shows a representation analogous to FIG. 1 of a further embodiment of the water pump pliers with a variant embodiment in the area of the blocking means,
Fig. 7a - 10b
Partial representations of the water pump pliers with further embodiments in the field of locking means and
Fig. 11
a representation analogous to FIG. 2 in a variant embodiment.

In den verschiedenen Figuren der Zeichnungen sind gleiche bzw. sich funktionell entsprechende Teile stets mit den gleichen Bezugszeichen versehen und brauchen daher in der Regel auch jeweils nur einmal beschrieben zu werden.In the different figures of the drawings are the same or functionally corresponding parts always with the provided with the same reference numerals and therefore need in the Usually also to be described only once.

Wie sich zunächst aus Fig. 1 und 2 ergibt, besteht eine erfindungsgemäße Wasserpumpenzange 1 aus einem ersten Zangenteil 2 und einem zweiten Zangenteil 4. Diese beiden Zangenteile 2, 4 kreuzen sich in einem Verbindungsbereich 6. Jedes Zangenteil 2, 4 besteht aus einem zu einer Seite von dem Verbindungsbereich 6 ausgehenden Griffteil 8 bzw. 10 sowie einer vom Verbindungsbereich 6 zur anderen Seite weisenden Zangenbacke 12 bzw. 14. Die Zangenteile 2, 4 sind in dem Verbindungsbereich 6 derart beweglich verbunden, daß einerseits zum Verstellen einer Backen-Öffnungsweite das erste Zangenteil 2 relativ zu dem zweiten Zangenteil 4 verschiebbar ist. Diese Verschiebebewegung ist in den Fig. 4a - 4c jeweils durch einen Doppelpfeil 16 veranschaulicht. Daraus ist auch gut erkennbar, daß durch diese Verschiebung die lichte Öffnungsweite zwischen den Zangenbacken 12 und 14 variierbar ist. Andererseits sind die Zangenteile 2, 4 zum Greifen mit den Zangenbacken 12, 14 gegeneinander verschwenkbar. Dieser Greifvorgang ist in den Fig. 5a - 5c veranschaulicht, wobei das zum klemmenden Halten eines Werkstückes 18 bzw. zu dessen Loslassen erforderliche Verschwenken der Zangenbacken 12 und 14 in Fig. 5 c durch Doppelpfeile 20 veranschaulicht ist. Dabei sind für den Greifvorgang Sperrmittel 22 derart vorgesehen, daß bei Anlage der Zangenbacken 12, 14 an dem zu greifenden Werkstück 18 eine weitergehende Verschiebung des ersten Zangenteils 2 relativ zu dem zweiten Zangenteil 4 blockiert wird. Weiterhin ist zwischen den Zangenteilen 2, 4 ein Federelement 24 derart angeordnet, daß die Zangenteile 2, 4 mit einer zum Lösen der Klemmwirkung in Öffnungsschwenkrichtung der Zangenbacken 12, 14 wirkenden Lösefederkraft F beaufschlagt sind. Diese Lösefederkraft F löst auch nach einem Greifvorgang die Sperrmittel 22. Die Lösefederkraft F ist in den Zeichnungsfiguren jeweils zwischen den Griffteilen 8 und 10 eingezeichnet, und zwar mit ihrer Wirkrichtung zum Auseinanderdrücken der Griffteile 8 und 10.As is first apparent from FIGS. 1 and 2, there is a Water pump pliers 1 according to the invention from a first Pliers part 2 and a second pliers part 4. These two Pliers 2, 4 intersect in a connection area 6. Each pliers part 2, 4 consists of one to one side From the connecting portion 6 outgoing handle 8 and 10 and one from the connection area 6 to the other side pointing pliers jaw 12 and 14. The pliers parts 2, 4 are in the connection region 6 so movably connected that on the one hand for adjusting a jaw opening width the first pliers part 2 relative to the second pliers part 4 is displaceable. This displacement movement is shown in FIGS. 4a - 4c each illustrated by a double arrow 16. It is also clear from this that this shift the clear opening width between the jaws 12 and 14 is variable. On the other hand, the pliers parts 2, 4 for gripping with the jaws 12, 14 against each other pivotally. This gripping operation is shown in Figs. 5a - 5c illustrated, wherein the clamped holding a Workpiece 18 or required to release it Pivoting the jaws 12 and 14 in Fig. 5 c by Double arrows 20 is illustrated. Here are for the Gripping operation blocking means 22 provided such that at Placement of the jaws 12, 14 on the workpiece to be gripped 18 a further displacement of the first pliers part 2 is blocked relative to the second pliers part 4. Furthermore, between the pliers parts 2, 4 is a spring element 24 arranged such that the pliers parts 2, 4 with one for releasing the clamping action in the opening pivoting direction the pliers jaws 12, 14 acting Lösefederkraft F applied are. This release spring force F triggers after a Grasping the locking means 22. The release spring force F is in the drawing figures respectively between the handle parts 8 and 10 located, with their effective direction for Separating the handle parts 8 and 10.

Erfindungsgemäß ist das Federelement 24 nun derart ausgebildet und mit den Griffteilen 8, 10 der beiden Zangenteile 2, 4 derart verbunden, daß das Federelement nicht nur die Lösefederkraft F erzeugt, sondern erfindungsgemäß auch das erste Zangenteil 2 mit einem derart gerichteten Drehmoment M um einen Feder-Befestigungspunkt 26 beaufschlagt, daß nach einem manuellen Lösen, d. h. Loslassen der Griffteile 8, 10 zum Beenden eines Greifvorgangs, die Zangenbacken 12, 14 durch entsprechendes Verschieben der Zangenteile in Doppelpfeilrichtung 16 selbsttätig in eine völlig geöffnete Öffnungsweite bewegt werden. Diese federbedingte Grundstellung ist in Fig. 4c dargestellt. Ausgehend von dieser vollständig geöffneten, durch die erfindungsgemäße Ausgestaltung und Anordnung des Federelementes 24 jedenfalls automatisch erreichten Grundstellung wird durch eine übliche manuelle Druckbetätigung der Griffteile 8 und 10 in Richtung der in Fig. 4 c eingezeichneten Pfeile 28 erreicht, daß das erste Zangenteil 2 nach Art einer Wippe um einen vom Befestigungspunkt 26 des Federelementes 24 gebildeten Drehpunkt gedreht bzw. verschwenkt wird. Diese durch einen Pfeil 30 veranschaulichte Drehbewegung ist dem erfindungsgemäßen Drehmoment M entgegengerichtet. Da in diesem Zustand die Sperrmittel 22 nicht blockiert sind, wird eine Verschiebebewegung im Verbindungsbereich 6 in Doppelpfeilrichtung 16 bewirkt, wodurch sich die Öffnungsweite der Zangenbacken 12, 14 verkleinert. Die Öffnungsweite wird solange verkleinert, bis die Zangenbacken 12, 14 an einem Werkstück zur Anlage gelangen. Ab diesem Moment erfolgt eine weitere Verschwenkung der Zangenteile 2, 4 nur noch um den jeweiligen Anlagepunkt der Zangenbacken 12, 14 an dem Werkstück 18. Dies hat dann ein Eingreifen bzw. Blockieren der Sperrmittel 22 zur Folge; siehe hierzu den in Fig. 5a - c sowie auch in Fig. 7b, 8b, 9b und 10b jeweils eingezeichneten Pfeil 32. Die Sperrmittel 22 bilden dann ein Widerlager derart, daß durch verstärkten Druck auf die Griffteile 8, 10 in Pfeilrichtung 28 das Werkstück 18 fest zwischen den Zangenbacken 12, 14 geklemmt werden kann.According to the invention, the spring element 24 is now designed in this way and with the handle parts 8, 10 of the two pliers parts 2, 4 connected such that the spring element not only the Solder spring force F generated, but according to the invention also first pliers part 2 with such a directed torque M acted upon by a spring attachment point 26, that after a manual release, d. H. Release the handle parts 8, 10 for ending a gripping operation, the jaws 12, 14 by appropriate displacement of the pliers parts in Double arrow 16 automatically into a fully open Opening width to be moved. This spring-conditioned basic position is shown in Fig. 4c. Starting from this completely open, by the inventive design and arrangement of the spring element 24 in any case automatically reached basic position is by a usual manual pressure actuation of the handle parts 8 and 10th reached in the direction of the in Fig. 4 c drawn arrows 28, that the first pliers part 2 in the manner of a rocker to one formed by the attachment point 26 of the spring element 24 Fulcrum is rotated or pivoted. These by an arrow 30 illustrated rotational movement is the Torque M according to the invention opposite directions. Because in this state, the blocking means 22 are not blocked, is a sliding movement in the connection area 6 in Double arrow 16 causes, thereby increasing the opening width the jaws 12, 14 reduced. The opening width is reduced until the jaws 12, 14 get to a workpiece to the plant. From this moment a further pivoting of the pliers parts 2, 4 only nor to the respective investment point of the jaws 12, 14th on the workpiece 18. This then has an intervention or Blocking the blocking means 22 to the sequence; see the in Fig. 5a - c and also in Fig. 7b, 8b, 9b and 10b, respectively drawn arrow 32. The blocking means 22 form then an abutment such that by increased pressure on the handle parts 8, 10 in the direction of arrow 28, the workpiece 18th firmly between the jaws 12, 14 can be clamped.

Ein nachfolgendes Lösen, d. h. Loslassen der Griffteile 8, 10 bewirkt durch die Lösefederkraft F eine Rückverschwenkung in Pfeilrichtung 34 (Fig. 5b) zum Lösen der Sperrmittel 22, so daß dann durch die Wirkung des erfindungsgemäßen Federelementes 24 das erste Zangenteil 2 sich drehmomentbedingt wieder um den Feder-Befestigungspunkt 26 zurückdreht, was im Verbindungsbereich 6 eine entsprechende Rückverschiebung bewirkt, bis die vollständig geöffnete Stellung der Zangenbacken 12, 14 wieder erreicht ist.A subsequent release, d. H. Releasing the handle parts 8, 10 causes by the release spring force F Rückverschwenkung in the direction of arrow 34 (Figure 5b) for releasing the locking means 22, so that then by the action of the invention Spring element 24, the first pliers part 2 itself Due to torque again around the spring attachment point 26th turns back, which in the connection area 6 a corresponding Backshift effects until the fully opened Position of the jaws 12, 14 is reached again.

In bevorzugter Ausgestaltung ist das Federelement 24 als einteilige gebogene Bandfeder aus Federstahl ausgebildet und mit ihrem ersten Federende 24a starr an dem Griffteil 10 des zweiten Zangenteils 4 befestigt. An dieses erste Federende 24a schließt sich ein im wesentlichen gerader, sich frei zwischen den Griffteilen 8, 10 etwa in Richtung des Verbindungsbereichs 6 der Zangenteile 2, 4 erstreckender Federabschnitt 36 an. Dieser Federabschnitt 36 geht einstückig in einen zur Erzeugung des Drehmonentes M spiralförmig gebogenen Federabschnitt 38 über, dessen das zweite Federende 24b des Federelementes 24 bildendes Ende an dem Griffteil 8 des ersten Zangenteils 2 starr befestigt ist, und zwar in dem Befestigungspunkt 26. Vorzugsweise ist etwa in der Mitte des im wesentlichen geraden Federabschnittes 36 ein Knick 40 derart gebildet, daß in einem bestimmten Bewegungsbereich der Federabschnitt 36 bis zum Knick 40 an dem Griffteil 10 anliegt und zwar hauptsächlich im zusammengedrückten Zustand der Griffteile 8, 10. Der Abschnitt des Federelementes 24 zwischen dem Befestigungsende 24 a und dem Knick 40 hebt sich erst im Bereich kurz vor der Öffnungsstellung von dem Griffteil 10 etwas ab. Diese Ausgestaltung dient einerseits zur Erhöhung der Federkraft sowie auch zur Steuerung der Kinematik. Der spiralförmige Federabschnitt 38 verläuft ausgehend von dem starr, drehmomentschlüssig mit dem Griffteil 8 des ersten Zangenteils 2 verbundenen, zweiten Federende 24b mit zunehmendem Krümmungsradius und mit insbesondere etwa ein bis zwei Sprialwindungen um den Feder-Befestigungspunkt 26 herum und geht dann stetig und einstückig in den etwa geraden Federabschnitt 36 über.In a preferred embodiment, the spring element 24 as one-piece curved band spring formed from spring steel and with its first spring end 24a rigidly on the handle part 10 of the second pliers part 4 attached. At this first Spring end 24a joins a substantially straighter, free between the handle parts 8, 10 approximately in the direction the connecting portion 6 of the pliers parts 2, 4 extending Spring section 36 at. This spring section 36 goes in one piece in one for generating the Drehmonentes M spirally bent spring portion 38 over, whose the second spring end 24b of the spring element 24 forming end rigidly attached to the handle part 8 of the first pliers part 2 is, in the attachment point 26. Preferably approximately in the middle of the substantially straight spring section 36 a kink 40 formed such that in one certain range of movement of the spring section 36 to the Knick 40 rests against the handle part 10 and that mainly in the compressed state of the handle parts 8, 10. The Section of the spring element 24 between the attachment end 24 a and the kink 40 only rises in the area shortly before the opening position of the handle 10 something from. This embodiment serves on the one hand to increase the Spring force as well as for controlling the kinematics. Of the spiral spring portion 38 extends from the rigid, torque-locking with the handle part 8 of the first Zangenteils 2 connected, second spring end 24b with increasing Radius of curvature and with in particular about one to two spiral turns around the spring attachment point 26 around and then goes steadily and in one piece into the approximately straight spring section 36 over.

In den dargestellten, bevorzugten Ausführungsbeispielen ist der Feder-Befestigungspunkt 26 von einem Bolzen 42 gebildet, der in einem zur Aufnahme des spiralförmigen Federabschnittes 38 vorgesehenen Freiraum 44 des Griffteils 8 befestigt ist. Dieser Bolzen 42 weist einen von der Kreisform abweichenden, insbesondere polygonalen (wie dargestellt quadratischen) Querschnitt auf, wobei das zweite Federende 24 b den Bolzen 42 formschlüssig und dadurch drehmomentfest eng umschließt. Das erste Federende 24a kann mit dem Griffteil 10 des zweiten Zangenteils 4 verschraubt oder auf andere geeignete Weise starr befestigt sein, und zwar insbesondere in einem Verbindungspunkt 46, der im Bereich der dem freien Griffende zugekehrten Hälfte der Länge des Griffteils 10 liegt. Besonders zweckmäßig ist es, wenn der Verbindungspunkt 46 etwa im Übergangsbereich zwischen dem mittleren und letzten Drittel der Länge des Griffteils 10 liegt. Demgegenüber ist der Feder-Befestigungspunkt 26 des ersten Zangenteils 2 im Bereich der dem Verbindungsbereich 6 zugekehrten Hälfte der Länge des Griffteils 8 angeordnet, insbesondere im Bereich des dem Verbindungsbereich 6 zugekehrten Drittels der Länge des Griffteils 8 und hier vorzugsweise nahe am Übergang zum mittleren Drittel. Somit liegt der Verbindungspunkt 46 näher am freien Griffende, während der Befestigungspunkt 26 näher in Richtung des Verbindungsbereichs 6 liegt. Dieser Versatz der Anbindungspunkte der Federenden 24a, b ist für die Kinematik der Zangenteile 2, 4 von Bedeutung.In the illustrated preferred embodiments the spring attachment point 26 is formed by a bolt 42, in a for receiving the spiral spring portion 38 provided free space 44 of the handle part. 8 is attached. This bolt 42 has one of the circular shape deviating, in particular polygonal (as shown square) cross section, with the second Spring end 24 b the bolt 42 positively and thereby tightly tight. The first spring end 24a can bolted to the handle portion 10 of the second pliers part 4 or rigidly secured in any other suitable manner be, in particular in a connection point 46, in the area of the free end of the handle facing half the length of the handle part 10 is located. Especially useful it when the connection point 46 is approximately in the transition region between the middle and last third of the length of the Handle part 10 is located. In contrast, the spring attachment point 26 of the first pliers part 2 in the area the connecting portion 6 facing half of the length arranged the handle part 8, in particular in the region of the connecting portion 6 facing third of the length of the Handle 8 and here preferably close to the transition to middle third. Thus, the connection point 46 is located closer to the free end of the handle, while the attachment point 26 closer to the connection region 6 is located. This Offset of the connection points of the spring ends 24a, b is for the kinematics of pliers 2, 4 of importance.

In weiterer vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung wird die völlig geöffnete Öffnungsweite durch Anschlagmittel 48 begrenzt (siehe Fig. 4c). Hierzu weist das zweite Zangenteil 4 ein vorzugsweise nockenartiges Anschlagelement 50 auf, welches mit einer Anschlagfläche 52 im Bereich der Zangenbacke 12 des ersten Zangenteils 2 öffnungsbegrenzend zusammenwirkt.In a further advantageous embodiment, the completely open opening width limited by stop means 48 (see Fig. 4c). For this purpose, the second pliers part 4 a preferably cam-like stop element 50, which with a stop surface 52 in the region of the jaw 12 the first pliers part 2 cooperates opening limiting.

Mit Vorteil bestehen die Zangenteile 2, 4 hauptsächlich aus gestanzten Blechteilen, und zwar jeweils aus zwei die grundsätzliche Zangenteilform definierenden, kongruenten Blechteilen 54 und 56. Es wird hierzu auch auf den Schnitt in Fig. 3 hingewiesen. Im Bereich der Zangenbacken 12, 14 sind zwischen diesen beiden Blechteilen 54, 56 weitere Blechteile entsprechend der Form der Backen angeordnet, so daß sich hier jeweils ein solides Blechpaket ergibt. Dabei werden die Belchteile bevorzugt miteinander verschraubt, indem sich Schraubenelemente 57 senkrecht durch die Teile hindurch erstrecken. Es können aber auch Niet-Verbindungen vorgesehen sein. Die Blechteil-Ausführung ermöglicht eine besonders preiswerte Herstellung.Advantageously, the pliers parts 2, 4 mainly made stamped sheet metal parts, in each case from two the basic pincers form defining, congruent Sheet metal parts 54 and 56. It is also on the cut pointed in Fig. 3. In the area of pliers jaws 12, 14 are between these two sheet metal parts 54, 56 more Sheet metal parts arranged according to the shape of the jaws, so that here each results in a solid laminated core. there The Belchteile are preferably bolted together, by screw members 57 perpendicular through the parts extend through. But it can also rivet connections be provided. The sheet metal part design allows a especially inexpensive production.

Was nun speziell die erste, bevorzugte Ausführungsform nach Fig. 1 - 5c betrifft, so sind hierbei die beiden Blechteile 54, 56 des ersten Zangenteils 2 in dem Verbindungsbereich 6 derart voneinander beabstandet, daß eine Durchführöffnung 58 für das kreuzende zweite Zangenteil 4 gebildet ist. In diesem Bereich liegen die beiden Blechteile 54, 56 des zweiten Zangenteils 4 bevorzugt direkt aufeinander, wodurch sich eine reduzierte Dicke ergibt, so daß das zweite Zangenteil 4 sich durch die Durchführöffnung 58 erstrecken kann. Bei dieser Ausführungsform bestehen nun die Sperrmittel 22 vorzugsweise einerseits aus einer Verzahnung 60 an dem von den Zangenbacken 12, 14 wegweisenden Seitenrand des durch die Durchführöffnung 58 geführten zweiten Zangenteils 4 sowie andererseits aus einem mit der Verzahnung 60 zusammenwirkenden Sperrelement 62 des ersten Zangenteils 2. Dabei ist das Sperrelement 62 vorteilhafterweise starr, d. h. relativ zu dem ersten Zangenteil 2 unbeweglich, zwischen den Blechteilen 54, 56 des ersten Zangenteils 2 angeordnet. Es ist hierbei vorteilhaft, wenn das Sperrelement als Füllstück im Bereich zwischen der Verzahnung 60 und dem zur Unterbringung des spiralförmigen Federabschnittes 38 verbleibenden Freiraum 44 befestigt ist. Sinnvollerweise besitzt hierbei das Sperrelement 62 auf seiner dem Freiraum 44 zugekehrten Seite eine dem Verlauf des spiralförmigen Federabschnittes 38 angepaßte, gekrümmte Randkante 62a (siehe beispielsweise Fig. 2). Das Sperrelement 62 weist auf seiner gegenüberliegenden, der Verzahnung 60 des zweiten Zangenteils 4 zugekehrten Seite mit Vorteil eine entsprechende, komplementäre Gegenverzahnung 64 auf. Das Zusammenwirken dieser Gegenverzahnung 64 mit der Verzahung 60 ist insbesondere anhand der Fig. 5a - c leicht nachvollziehbar.What now especially the first, preferred embodiment Fig. 1 - 5c, so here are the two sheet metal parts 54, 56 of the first pliers part 2 in the connection area 6 spaced apart such that a passage opening 58 is formed for the crossing second pliers part 4. In this area are the two sheet metal parts 54, 56 of the second pliers part 4 preferably directly to each other, which resulting in a reduced thickness, so that the second pliers part 4 extend through the passage opening 58 can. In this embodiment, there are now the blocking means 22 preferably on the one hand from a toothing 60th on the side edge leading away from the forceps jaws 12, 14 of the guided through the passage opening 58 second pliers part 4 and on the other hand, one with the teeth 60th cooperating blocking element 62 of the first pliers part 2. In this case, the blocking element 62 is advantageously rigid, d. H. immovable relative to the first pliers part 2, between the sheet metal parts 54, 56 of the first pliers part 2 are arranged. It is advantageous if the blocking element as filler in the area between the teeth 60 and the to Housing the spiral spring portion 38 remaining Free space 44 is attached. Logically, in this case has the blocking element 62 on its the free space 44 facing side one the course of the spiral Spring section 38 adapted, curved edge 62a (see for example Fig. 2). The blocking element 62 has on its opposite, the gearing 60's second pliers part 4 facing side with advantage a corresponding, complementary counter teeth 64. The Cooperation of these counter teeth 64 with the teeth 60 is particularly easy to understand with reference to FIGS. 5a-c.

Gemäß Fig. 2 bildet ein von der Verzahnung 60 wegweisender, also in Richtung der Zangenbacken 12, 14 weisender Seitenrand des zweiten Zangenteils 4 eine Führungsbahn 66 für ein Führungselement 68 des ersten Zangenteils 2. Vorzugsweise ist das Führungselement 68 - wie dargestellt - als Rollkörper ausgebildet, es kann alternativ aber auch ein Gleitkörper vorgesehen sein. Bei den sich aus Fig. 4a - c ergebenden Verstellbewegungen der Backen-Öffnungsweite bewegt sich das Führungselement 68 über die Führungsbahn 66, und zwar bevorzugt sehr leichtgängig mit Rollreibung (oder alternativ mit Gleitreibung). Die Verlaufsform der Führungsbahn 66 ist in Anpassung an die gewünschte Kinematik gestaltet.According to FIG. 2, one of the teeth 60 leading the way, ie in the direction of the jaws 12, 14 facing side edge of the second pliers part 4, a guide track 66 for a Guide element 68 of the first pliers part 2. Preferably is the guide member 68 - as shown - as a rolling body trained, it may alternatively but also Slider be provided. In the from Fig. 4a - c resulting adjustment movements of the jaw opening width the guide element 68 moves over the guideway 66, preferably very smoothly with rolling friction (or alternatively with sliding friction). The form of the Guideway 66 is in adaptation to the desired kinematics designed.

Was nun die weiteren Ausführungsvarianten gemäß Fig. 6 - 11 betrifft, so sind hier zunächst gleiche Teile mit gleichen Bezugszeichen wie in Fig. 1 - 5 versehen. Es werden deshalb im folgenden nur noch die wesentlichen Unterschiede erläutert.What now the other embodiments of FIG. 6 - 11, the same parts are the same here Reference numerals as in FIGS. 1-5 provided. It will Therefore in the following only the essential differences explained.

Bei den Ausführungen nach Fig. 6 bis 10b ist zunächst im Verbindungsbereich 6 eine "umgekehrte" Kreuzung der Zangenteile 2, 4 vorgesehen. Dies bedeutet, daß hierbei die Blechteile 54, 56 des zweiten Zangenteils 4 zur Bildung einer Durchführöffnung 58 beabstandet sind, wobei sich dann das erste Zangenteil 2 durch diese Durchführöffnung 58 erstreckt. Dementsprechend liegen die beiden Blechteile 54, 56 des ersten Zangenteils 2 im Verbindungsbereich 6 dicht aneinander.In the embodiments according to FIGS. 6 to 10 b is first in Connection area 6 is a "reverse" crossing of the pliers parts 2, 4 provided. This means that here the Sheet metal parts 54, 56 of the second pliers part 4 for formation a passage opening 58 are spaced apart, in which case the first pliers part 2 through this passage opening 58th extends. Accordingly, the two sheet metal parts 54, 56 of the first pliers part 2 in the connecting region 6 tight together.

Die Ausführung nach Fig. 6 unterscheidet sich zudem von den Fig. 1 - 5 durch eine andere Ausgestaltung der Sperrmittel 22. Hierbei weist das zweite Zangenteil 4 im Verbindungsbereich 6 in jedem Blechteil eine kongruente Langlochöffnung 70 auf, in der (mindestens) ein mit dem ersten Zangenteil 2 verbundenes Führungselement 72 entsprechend der Verschiebebewegung zum Verstellen der Backen-Öffnungsweite geführt ist.The embodiment of FIG. 6 also differs from the Fig. 1-5 by another embodiment of the locking means 22. In this case, the second pliers part 4 in the connection area 6 in each sheet metal part a congruent slot opening 70 on, in the (at least) one with the first Pliers part 2 connected guide member 72 accordingly the sliding movement for adjusting the jaw opening width is guided.

Gemäß Fig. 6 - 9b bestehen hierbei die Sperrmittel 22 einerseits aus einer Verzahnung 74 des den Zangenbacken 12, 14 nächstliegenden Lochrandes der Langlochöffnung 70 des zweiten Zangenteils 4 sowie andererseits aus dem auch als Sperrelement fungierenden und hierzu mit der Verzahnung 74 zusammenwirkenden Führungselement 72. Dazu kann das Führungselement 72 für seine Funktion als Sperrelement eine entsprechende, komplementäre Gegenverzahnung 76 aufweisen. Der gegenüberliegende, von den Zangenbacken 12, 14 entfernt liegende Lochrand der Langlochöffnung 70 bildet mit Vorteil eine Führungsbahn 78 für das Führungselement 72. Das Führungselement 72 gleitet bei den Verstellbewegungen der Backen-Öffnungsweite auf der Führungsbahn 78.According to Fig. 6 - 9b in this case consist of the blocking means 22nd on the one hand from a toothing 74 of the jaws 12, 14 nearest hole edge of the slot opening 70 of second pliers part 4 and on the other hand also as the Blocking acting and this with the teeth 74th cooperating guide element 72. For this purpose, the guide element 72 for its function as a blocking element corresponding, complementary counter teeth 76 have. The opposite, away from the jaws 12, 14 lying hole edge of the slot opening 70 forms with advantage a guide track 78 for the guide element 72. The guide element 72 slides during the adjustment movements of the Jaw opening width on the guideway 78.

In der Ausführungsform nach Fig. 6 ist das Führungselement 72 als schwenkbeweglich gelagerte Sperrklinke ausgebildet, die hierbei vorzugsweise auch mit einem nockenartigen Ansatz 80, der auf der der Gegenverzahnung 76 gegenüberliegenden Seite gebildet ist, mit einer Riffelung 81 der Führungsbahn 78 derart zusammenwirkt, daß beim Klemmen ein Eingreifen der Sperrklinke in die Verzahnung 74 unterstützt wird.In the embodiment of Fig. 6, the guide element 72 formed as a pivotally mounted pawl, in this case also preferably with a cam-like Approach 80, which on the opposite teeth 76 opposite Side is formed, with a ribbing 81 of the Guideway 78 cooperates such that when clamping a Intervention of the pawl in the toothing 74 is supported becomes.

Bei der Ausführungsvariante nach Fig. 7a und 7b ist das Führungselement 72 starr, unbeweglich mit dem ersten Zangenteil 2 verbunden. Das Eingreifen in die Verzahnung 74 erfolgt ausschließlich durch die Schwenkbewegung der Zangenteile bei Anlage der Zangenbacken 12, 14 an einem Werkstück.In the embodiment of Fig. 7a and 7b is the Guide member 72 rigid, immovable with the first pliers part 2 connected. The engagement in the toothing 74 takes place exclusively by the pivoting movement of Pliers parts when planting the pliers jaws 12, 14 at one Workpiece.

Im Falle der Fig. 8a und 8b ist das Führungselement 72 derart schwimmend gelagert, daß es hauptsächlich in Querrichtung der Langlochöffnung 70 relativ zu dem ersten Zangenteil 2 beweglich ist. Auch bei der Ausführung nach Fig. 9a und 9b handelt es sich um eine schwimmende Lagerung des Führungselementes 72, hier allerdings derart, daß es in Quer- und Längsrichtung der Langlochöffnung 70 relativ zu dem Zangenteil 2 beweglich ist. Durch diese Maßnahmen wird erreicht, daß sich das Führungselement 72 für seine Funktion als Sperrelement selbsttätig so ausrichten kann, daß ein optimales Eingreifen in die Verzahnung 74 erfolgt.In the case of FIGS. 8a and 8b, the guide element 72 stored so floating that it is mainly in the transverse direction the slot opening 70 relative to the first Zangenteil 2 is movable. Also in the execution after Fig. 9a and 9b is a floating storage of the guide member 72, but here such that it is in Transverse and longitudinal direction of the slot opening 70 relative to the pliers part 2 is movable. These measures will achieved that the guide member 72 for its function as a blocking element can automatically align so that an optimal intervention in the toothing 74 takes place.

Was nun noch die Ausführungsform nach Fig. 10a und 10b betrifft, so sind hierbei die Sperrmittel 22 ähnlich zur Ausführung nach Fig. 1 - 5 ausgebildet. Dies bedeutet, daß die Sperrmittel 22 im Grunde außerhalb des Verbindungsbereichs 6 liegen. An dem von den Zangenbacken 12, 14 wegweisenden Seitenrand des die Durchführöffnung bildenden zweiten Zangenteils 4 ist eine Verzahnung 82 vorgesehen. Das erste Zangenteil 2 weist in seinem außerhalb des Verbindungsbereich 6 bzw. der Durchführöffnung des zweiten Zangenteils 4 liegenden Bereich ein starr verbundenes Sperrelement 84 auf, welches insbesondere über eine komplementäre Gegenverzahnung 86 mit der Verzahnung 82 zusammenwirkt. Hierbei hat das Führungselement 72 ausschließlich eine Führungsfunktion innerhalb der Langlochöffnung 70 insbesondere im Zusammenwirken mit der Führungsbahn 78. Dazu ist das Führungselement 72 hierbei vorzugsweise stift- oder bolzenförmig ausgebildet.What still the embodiment of Fig. 10a and 10b relates, so in this case the blocking means 22 are similar to Embodiment of Fig. 1-5 formed. This means that the blocking means 22 basically outside the connection area 6 lie. At the of the jaws 12, 14 groundbreaking side edge of the passage opening forming second pliers part 4, a toothing 82 is provided. The first pliers part 2 has in its outside the Connecting region 6 and the passage opening of the second Zangenteils 4 lying area a rigidly connected Locking element 84, which in particular via a complementary Counter-toothing 86 cooperates with the toothing 82. Here, the guide element 72 exclusively a guide function within the slot opening 70th in particular in cooperation with the guideway 78. For this purpose, the guide element 72 is preferably pin-shaped. or bolt-shaped.

Abschließend sollen noch einige vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungsmerkmale erläutert werden, die für alle Ausführungsformen gleichermaßen anwendbar sind.Finally, some advantageous design features which are explained for all embodiments are equally applicable.

Die in Fig. 11 veranschaulichte Ausführung entspricht im wesentlichen den Fig. 1 und 2. Unterschiedlich ist nur die Art der starren Befestigung des ersten Federendes 24a an dem Griffteil 10. Bei dieser Ausführungsvariante weist der Griffteil 10 eine nach innen, in Richtung des anderen Griffteils 8 offene Ausnehmung 87 auf, in die das Federende 24a eingreift. Dabei ist das Federende 24a ösenartig gebogen und mit einem sich senkrecht zur Schwenk-Bewegungsebene durch Öffnungen des Griffteils 10 und durch das ösenartige Federdende 10 erstreckenden Bolzen oder Stift 88 befestigt.The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11 corresponds to FIG essential to Figs. 1 and 2. Different is only the Type of rigid attachment of the first spring end 24a the handle portion 10. In this embodiment, the Handle part 10 one inside, in the direction of the other Handle part 8 open recess 87 into which the spring end 24a intervenes. The spring end 24a is bent like a loop and with a perpendicular to the pivoting movement plane through openings of the handle part 10 and through the eyelet spring end 10 extending pin or pin 88 attached.

Dabei kann sich auch der oben erwähnte Knick 40 erübrigen. Vorzugsweise liegt der Federabschnitt 36 im Randbereich der Ausnehmung 87 am Griffteil 10 an, so daß im Grunde dieser Berührungspunkt 89 - was die oben definierte Lage relativ zur Länge des Griffteils 10 betrifft - den eigentlichen Verbindungspunkt 46 bildet. Der Vorteil dieser Ausführung liegt vor allem in der einfacheren Montage im Vergleich zu der Ausführung z. B. nach Fig. 2 oder 6. Als Bolzen -oder Stiftelement 88 kann eine federnde Spannhülse verwendet werden, die lediglich eingepreßt zu werden braucht. In this case, the above-mentioned kink 40 is unnecessary. Preferably, the spring portion 36 is located in the edge region of Recess 87 on the handle part 10, so that basically this Touch point 89 - what the above-defined position relative to the length of the handle part 10 - the actual Connection point 46 forms. The advantage of this design especially in the easier assembly compared to the execution z. B. according to Fig. 2 or 6. As a bolt -or Pin member 88 may use a resilient collet which only needs to be pressed in.

Gemäß Fig. 1 ist zur Anschlagdämpfung zwischen den bei einem Greifvorgang eventuell kollidierenden Griffteilen 8, 10 an mindestens einem der beiden Griffteile - wie dargestellt bevorzugt an dem Griffteil 10 - an dessen dem anderen Griffteil 8 zugekehrter Innenseite ein gummielastisches Pufferelement 90 angeordnet. Vorzugsweise ist dieses Pufferelement 90 derart an dem Griffteil 10 des zweiten Zangenteils 4 befestigt, daß es gleichzeitig auch ein Befestigungselement (insbesondere eine Schraube) des ersten Federendes 24 a des Federelementes 24 abdeckt.According to Fig. 1 is for impact damping between the at a grip operation possibly colliding handle parts 8, 10 at least one of the two handle parts - as shown preferably on the handle part 10 - at the the other handle part 8 facing inside a rubber-elastic Buffer element 90 is arranged. Preferably this buffer element 90 on the handle part 10 of the second pliers part 4 attached that at the same time a fastening element (in particular a screw) of the first spring end 24 a of the spring element 24 covers.

Wie sich insbesondere aus Fig. 3 ergibt, bestehen die Zangenteile auch im Bereich der Griffteile 8, 10 aus jeweils zwei beabstandeten Blechteilen 54, 56, wobei vorzugsweise für jedes Griffteil ein zusätzlicher Füllkörper 92 aus Kunststoff vorgesehen ist. Jeder Füllkörper 92 weist einen im wesentlichen H-förmigen Querschnitt derart auf, daß jedes Blechteil 54 bzw. 56 bündig in einer entsprechenden Ausnehmung des Füllkörpers 92 liegt. Die Füllkörper 92 können dabei mit Vorteil ergonomisch geformt sein, was zu einer guten und bequemen Handhabbarkeit der erfindungsgemäßen Zange 1 beiträgt.As can be seen in particular from FIG. 3, the Pliers also in the area of the handle parts 8, 10 off each two spaced sheet metal parts 54, 56, wherein preferably for each handle an additional filler 92 is provided of plastic. Every filler 92 has a substantially H-shaped cross-section such that each sheet metal part 54 and 56 flush in one corresponding recess of the filling body 92 is located. The Packing 92 can be ergonomically shaped with advantage be, resulting in a good and convenient handling of the pliers 1 according to the invention contributes.

In einer nicht dargestellten Weiterbildung der Erfindung können im Verbindungsbereich 6 verstellbare Anschlagmittel derart vorgesehen sein, daß die völlig geöffnete bzw. maximal mögliche Öffnungsweite (vgl. Fig. 4c) voreinstellbar bzw. begrenzbar ist. Dies kann zum klemmenden Halten von kleineren Gegenständen vorteilhaft sein, weil die Zange 1 dann nicht immer aus ihrer größtmöglichen Öffnungsweite heraus zusammengedrückt zu werden braucht. In a not shown embodiment of the invention can in the connection area 6 adjustable slings be provided so that the fully open or maximum possible opening width (see Fig. 4c) presettable or is limited. This can be a sticky hold be advantageous from smaller objects, because the pliers 1 then not always from their largest possible opening width needs to be squeezed out.

Die Erfindung ist nicht auf die dargestellten und beschriebenen Ausführungsbeispiele beschränkt, sondern umfaßt auch alle im Sinne der Erfindung gleichwirkenden Ausführungen. Ferner ist die Erfindung bislang auch noch nicht auf die im Anspruch 1 definierte Merkmalskombination beschränkt, sondern kann auch durch jede beliebige andere Kombination von bestimmten Merkmalen aller insgesamt offenbarten Einzelmerkmalen definiert sein. Dies bedeutet, daß grundsätzlich praktisch jedes Einzelmerkmal des Anspruchs 1 weggelassen bzw. durch mindestens ein an anderer Stelle der Anmeldung offenbartes Einzelmerkmal ersetzt werden kann. Insofern ist der Anspruch 1 lediglich als ein erster Formulierungsversuch für eine Erfindung zu verstehen.The invention is not limited to the illustrated and described Embodiments limited, but also includes all the same in the context of the invention embodiments. Furthermore, the invention is not yet on the im Claim 1 defined feature combination limited, but can also be done by any other combination of certain characteristics of all individual features disclosed be defined. This means that basically virtually every feature of claim 1 omitted or by at least one elsewhere in the application disclosed individual feature can be replaced. insofar claim 1 is only as a first formulation attempt to understand for an invention.

Claims (29)

  1. Self-adjusting pliers (1), comprising two pincer parts (2, 4) crossing one another within a connecting region (6), each consisting of a handle part (8, 10) and a jaw (12, 14), wherein the pincer parts (2, 4) are movably connected within the connecting region (6) in such a way that, on the one hand, the first pincer (2) is displaceable relative to the second pincer (4) to adjust a jaw-opening width and that, on the other, the pincer parts (2, 4) with the jaws (12, 14) are reciprocally pivotable, wherein blocking means (22) are provided in such a manner that further shifting of the first pincer part (2) is blocked when the jaws (12, 14) stop against a workpiece to be gripped, and wherein a one-piece spring element (24) is arranged between the pincer parts (2, 4) in such a way that the pincer parts are acted upon with a releasing force (F) acting in the pivot-open direction of the jaws (12, 14), characterised in that the spring element (24) is designed as a one-piece, curved flat spiral spring and rigidly connected, with a first spring end, to the handle part (10) of the second pincer part (4) and, with a second spring end (24b) of a spring portion (38) curved in the form of a spiral so as to generate a torque (M), to the handle part (8) of the first pincer part (2) in such a way that the spring element (24), in addition to generating the releasing force (F), also acts upon the first pincer part (2) with a torque (M) directed in such a way around a spring fastening point (26) arranged thereon that, following a manual release, the jaws (12, 14) automatically move into a fully opened opening width.
  2. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 1,
    characterised in that a substantially straight spring portion (36) extending freely between the handle parts (8, 10) approximately in the direction of the connecting region (6) of the pincer parts (2, 4) adjoins the first spring end (24a) of the spring member (24), which spring end (24a) is rigidly connected to the second pincer part (4), and in that this approximately straight or slightly curved spring portion (36) merges as one piece into the spiral spring portion (38) attached, at its end, to the first pincer part (2) by means of the second spring end (24b).
  3. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claims 1 or 2,
    characterised in that, proceeding from the second spring end (24b), which is rigidly attached torque-positively to the handle portion (8) of the first pincer part (2), the spiral spring portion (38) extends with increasing radius of curvature and in particular makes approximately one or two spiral windings around the spring fastening point (26).
  4. Self-adjusting pliers according to any one of the Claims 1 to 3,
    characterized in that the spring fastening point (26) is formed by a stud (42) fastened within a free space (44) of the handle (8), which stud has a cross section that departs from circularity and is in particular polygonal, wherein the second spring end (24b) tightly encloses the stud (42), preferably with positive fit and thereby with positive torque.
  5. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 1 to 4,
    characterised in that the first spring end (24a) is screwed, riveted, or pinned to the handle (10) of the second pincer part (4) in a connection point (46), and preferably in the region of the half-length of the handle (10) turned toward the free end of the handle.
  6. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 5,
    characterised in that the connection point (46) is located approximately in the transition between the middle and final third of the length of the handle (10).
  7. Self-adjusting pliers according to any one of the Claims 1 to 6,
    characterised in that the spring fastening point (26) of the first pincer part (2) is arranged within the region of the half of the handle (8) this is turned toward the connecting region (6), in particular in the region of the third of the handle (8) that is turned toward the connecting region (6).
  8. Self-adjusting pliers according to any one of Claims 1 to 7,
    characterised in that the fully opened opening width is limited by stopping means (48).
  9. Self-adjusting pliers according to any one of Claims 1 to 8,
    characterised in that the second pincer part (4) has a preferably cam-like stop member (50), which cooperates with a stop face (52) in the region of the jaw (12) of the first pincer part (2) so as to limit opening.
  10. Self-adjusting pliers according to any one of Claims 1 to 9,
    characterised in that the pincer parts (2, 4) primarily comprise sheet metal parts.
  11. Self-adjusting pliers according to any one of Claims 1 to 10,
    characterised in that, within the connecting region (6), the first pincer part (2) comprises two sheet metal parts (54, 56) separated to form a passageway (58), the second pincer part (4) extending through the passageway (58).
  12. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 11,
    characterised in that the blocking means (22) comprise on the one hand a gear-tooth system (60) on the lateral margin of the second pincer part (4) guided through the passageway (58), which lateral margin points away from the jaws (12, 14), and on the other hand a blocking member (62) on the first pincer part (2), which blocking member cooperates with the gear-tooth system (60).
  13. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 12,
    characterised in that the blocking member (62) is rigidly arranged between the metal parts (54, 56) of the first pincer part (2), in particular as a filler piece in the region between the gear-tooth system (60) and the or a free space (44) remaining to accom modate the spiral spring portion (38).
  14. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 12 or 13,
    characterised in that the blocking member (62) has a corresponding, complementary matching gear-tooth system (64) on its side that is turned toward the gear-tooth system (60) of the second pincer part (4).
  15. Self-adjusting pliers according to any one of Claims 11 to 14,
    characterised in that a lateral margin of the second pincer part (4), which lateral margin points in the direction of the jaws (12, 14), forms a guideway (66) for a guide member (68) of the first pincer part (2).
  16. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 15,
    characterised in that the guide member (68) is preferably designed as a rolling body or alternatively as a sliding body.
  17. Self-adjusting pliers according to any one of Claims 1 to 10,
    characterised in that, within the connecting region (6), the second pincer part (4) comprises two sheet metal parts (54, 56) separated to form a passageway, the first pincer part (2) extending through the passageway.
  18. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 17,
    characterised in that the second pincer part (4) has an elongated hole (70) within the connecting region (6), within which a guide member (72) connected to the first pincer part (2) is guided in correspondence with the shifting movement to adjust the jaw-opening width.
  19. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 18,
    characterised in that the blocking means (22) comprises on the one hand a gear-tooth system (74) on the margin of the elongated hole (70) of the second pincer part (4), which margin is nearest the jaws (12, 14), and on the other hand the guide member (72) functioning as a blocking member and to this end cooperating with the gear-tooth system (74).
  20. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 18 or 19,
    characterised in that the margin of the elongated hole (70) that is located distally of the jaws (12, 14) forms a guideway (78) for the guide member (72).
  21. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 20,
    characterised in that the guide member (72) is designed as a pivotally-mounted detent pawl, which preferably cooperates with a fluting of the guideway (78) by means of a cam-like catch (80) in such a way that engagement of the pawl with the gear-tooth system (74) is supported during clamping.
  22. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 20,
    characterised in that the guide member (72) is rigidly attached to the first pincer part (2).
  23. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 20,
    characterised in that the guide member (72) is float-mounted in such a way that it is movable relative to the first pincer part (2) in the transverse and/or longitudinal directions of the elongated hole (70).
  24. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 18,
    characterised in that the blocking means (22) comprise on the one hand a gear-tooth system (82) on the lateral margin of the second pincer part (4) forming the passageway, which lateral margin points away from the jaws (12, 14), and on the other hand a blocking member (84) which cooperates with the gear-tooth system (82) and is in particular rigidly connected to the first pincer part (2) in its region outside the passageway.
  25. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 18 or 24,
    characterised in that the guide member (72) has a guide function exclusively inside the elongated hole (70) and for this purpose is preferably designed in the form of a pin or a stud.
  26. Self-adjusting pliers according to any one of the Claims 1 to 25,
    characterised in that, to attenuate the impact between the handles (8, 10), which collide during gripping, a rubber-like cushioning member (90) is arranged on at least one of the two handles (8,10) on its inner surface facing the other handle (10, 8).
  27. Self-adjusting pliers according to Claim 26,
    characterised in that the cushioning element (90) is fastened to the handle (10) of the second pincer part (4) in such a way that it also simultaneously covers a fastening member on the first spring end (24a) of the spring member (24).
  28. Self-adjusting pliers according to any one of Claims 1 to 27,
    characterised in that each handle (8, 10) comprises two separated metal parts (54, 56) and a filler (92) of plastics material, the filler (92) preferably having a substantially H-shaped cross-section, in such a manner that each metal part (54, 56) lies flush in a corresponding recess of the filler (92).
  29. Self-adjusting pliers according to any one of Claims 1 to 28,
    characterised in that adjustable stopping means are provided within the connecting region (6) in such a way that the opening width (of the jaws (12, 14) may be preset or restricted.
EP00107618A 1999-05-03 2000-04-08 Single-handed actuated pliers Expired - Lifetime EP1050378B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE29907864U DE29907864U1 (en) 1999-05-03 1999-05-03 Water pump pliers with one-hand operation
DE29907864U 1999-05-03

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1050378A2 EP1050378A2 (en) 2000-11-08
EP1050378A3 EP1050378A3 (en) 2003-03-26
EP1050378B1 true EP1050378B1 (en) 2005-06-22

Family

ID=8073063

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP00107618A Expired - Lifetime EP1050378B1 (en) 1999-05-03 2000-04-08 Single-handed actuated pliers

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (2) US6497165B1 (en)
EP (1) EP1050378B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE298276T1 (en)
DE (2) DE29907864U1 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ATE298276T1 (en) 2005-07-15
EP1050378A2 (en) 2000-11-08
US20030075026A1 (en) 2003-04-24
US6895840B2 (en) 2005-05-24
DE29907864U1 (en) 1999-07-29
EP1050378A3 (en) 2003-03-26
DE50010586D1 (en) 2005-07-28
US6497165B1 (en) 2002-12-24

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