T-shaped reversible ratchet tool
US5461950A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 25, 1994 |
| Grant date | Oct 31, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 25, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB25B13/463
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A generally T-shaped ratchet tool includes an oblong handle containing ratchet mechanism and a shaft engageable with the ratchet mechanism and extending axially therefrom transversely of the handle for coupling to a driven member. The handle housing is formed of two identical plastic halves ultrasonically welded together for cooperation to define therein a cavity formation in which is disposed a ratchet wheel and a pawl, with the ratchet wheel being rotatable relative to the housing in only one direction about an axis. In a first embodiment a shaft is matingly engaged in a passage through the ratchet wheel and is retained therein for axial movement between first and second use positions, respectively projecting through openings at opposite sides of the housing. Detent means holds the shaft in each of its use positions and retains the shaft in engagement with the driven member. In a second embodiment a removable shaft has an engagement portion engageable in the passage of the ratchet wheel from either side of the housing, being held in place by detent structure. The ratchet wheel passage and mating shaft may be either square or hexagonal in transverse cross section, and the shaft ma…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.