CN112975806B - basin wrench - Google Patents

Abstract

A basin wrench and multi-purpose hand tool system is 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 sink and faucet hardware.

Description

Basin wrench

The present application is a divisional application, and the original application is a chinese patent application with application number 201710228603.0, application date 2017, 4 months and 10 days, and the name of the present application is "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 in particular hand tools for use with, for example, basin wrenches and tap wrenches.

Background

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

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

To be effective, the basin wrench or tap 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 tap 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 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 the tools are satisfactory in some respects, there remains a need for improved tool systems and tool systems that are particularly suited for use with sink or faucet hardware.

Disclosure of Invention

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

In one aspect, the present subject matter provides a basin wrench including a handle defining a generally hollow interior. The handle also defines a longitudinal slot configured to receive at least one end of the insert and extend from at least one end of the handle and provide access to the hollow interior of the handle. The wrench also includes a multi-faceted insert configured for selective positioning relative to an end of the handle. The insert defines the following: (i) A first face having a first engagement region sized and shaped to matingly engage a first faucet member, and (ii) a second face having a second engagement region sized and shaped to matingly engage a second faucet member different from the first faucet member. The insert is selectively positionable with the end of the handle such that either the first face or the second face of the insert is accessible for engagement with either the first or second faucet member.

In another aspect, the present subject matter provides a basin wrench including a handle defining a generally 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 engageable with the end of the handle. The insert defines a plurality of working surfaces, each defining an engagement region sized and shaped to matingly 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 a front partial cross-sectional view of a typical vanity faucet assembly depicting one of the basin nuts of the faucet 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 a cubical first insert for use in the subject tool systems.

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

Fig. 7-8 are perspective views of a handle for use 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 the three bayonet filter basket and the four bayonet filter basket.

Figures 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 a handle of the tool system of the present subject matter.

Fig. 21-22 illustrate another embodiment of the pivot 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.

Fig. 26-28 illustrate adapters that can be used in the subject tool system.

Fig. 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 locations 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 a different pivot location of the second insert at the other end of the handle of the tool system depicted in fig. 33-35.

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

40-43 illustrate another embodiment of a tool 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 rotating a sink nut (e.g., rotating a sink nut to attach a faucet element to a counter top). 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 (as well as nuts having other, e.g., metric, dimensions), and supply line shut-off valves. Thus, the present subject matter should not be limited to wrenches used to loosen 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 a faucet or control 12, 14 that generally controls the flow of hot and cold water through a supply line, 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 that includes 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 region sized and shaped to matingly engage various faucet components, such as those depicted in fig. 1. In some versions of the basin wrench, the insert is a multi-sided insert and includes two engagement regions that differ from one another. In a particular version, the multi-faceted insert is cube-shaped. In many versions of the basin wrench, the handle includes a hollow interior and a longitudinal slot extending from an 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 further include a second insert 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 that is sized and shaped to engage various faucet components.

According to the embodiment of the present subject matter depicted in fig. 5-8, the basin wrench 50 generally includes an elongated wrench body or handle 52 having a generally hourglass-shaped configuration that is axisymmetric about a longitudinal axis 54 (shown in fig. 7-8), the longitudinal axis 54 also being the primary rotational axis 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 capable of receiving a water supply line (e.g., 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 operably engage a number of different faucet components including, but not limited to, for example, basin nuts, water supply line shut-off valves, and filter baskets. 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 plurality of second notches or grooves 66 extend from the second end 62 of the body 52 toward the first end 58 generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 54. Slots 64 and 66 are configured to engage basin nuts, examples of which are basin nuts 24 and 26 depicted in FIG. 1. The slots 64 and 66 are suitably spaced about the circumference, i.e., angularly spaced from each other, so that the slots can engage two-winged, three-winged, four-winged and six-winged 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 a first opening 72 (more clearly seen 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. The inserts 120 and 150 provide flexibility to the 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 reverse 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 that are 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 slot 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 such that a water supply line, such as the water supply line 38 in fig. 1, can be received through the slot 86 such that the supply line is located in the hollow interior portion 56 of the wrench body 52 when the basin nut (or other component) is tightened or loosened using the wrench 50.

With further reference 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. The hand grip 94 is disposed generally centrally between the first and second enlarged portions 90, 92. The first tapered portion 96 provides a transition between the first enlarged portion 90 and the hand grip portion 94. The second tapered portion 98 provides a transition between the second enlarged portion 92 and the hand grip portion 94. The enlarged portions 90 and 92 are configured to engage the basin nut and/or to receive a corresponding insert. The wrench body 52 narrows at the hand grip portion 94 to provide a smaller outer diameter to facilitate tightening and/or loosening of basin nuts (and other items) by simply rotating the wrench 50 about its rotational axis 54 to more easily grip the wrench 50. The hand grip 94 is spaced from the corresponding end of the wrench body 52 along the longitudinal axis 54 so that the end of the wrench body can fit into the generally narrow area of a basin nut, kitchen spray hose, toilet ball valve, etc., while providing an area for a user of the wrench 50 to grip and turn the wrench. The hand grip 94 in the depicted embodiment is also long enough when measured parallel to the longitudinal axis that the hand grip is capable of receiving at least a majority of a person's hand.

In certain embodiments, the body 52 may be thicker (taken along a cross-section parallel to the longitudinal axis 54) in the region of the hand grip portion 94 as compared to the enlarged portions 90 and 92. Thus, the hand gripping portion 94 is able to accommodate radially directed compressive forces applied by a user's hand as the user rotates the wrench 50 about the wrench's rotational axis 54. This configuration is desirable because the body 52 includes a longitudinal slot 86, whereby the compressive force exerted by a person's hand is not carried by the removed portion of the circular sidewall, i.e., 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 made. External ribs 100 are provided in one or more of the larger diameter portions 90 and 92, tapered portions 96 and 98, and hand grip portion 94 of the wrench body 52 to strengthen the body when compressive forces are applied around the C-shaped wrench body. The ribs 100 can also carry torsional forces resulting from tightening or loosening nuts or similar components. 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 grip portion 94 or in 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 grip 94 and reduce the amount of material forming the hand grip.

Referring to fig. 2-4, the first insert 120 is shown and described as being in a cubic form. The first insert 120 is configured to engage a 7/8 inch hex feed line nut, plastic winged feed line nut, one inch hex basin nut, and oval handle feed line shut off valve. The first insert 120 can be configured to engage nuts or other components 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 disposed in a generally square shape, defines six working surfaces 122, 124, 126, 128, 130, and 132. Each working surface defines an engagement region sized and/or shaped to matingly engage a nut, fitting, or other hardware or auxiliary component typically associated with a faucet assembly. In many embodiments, the engagement areas provided on the insert 120 are different from one another. More specifically, in the version of the insert 120 depicted in FIGS. 2-4, the working surface 126 defines an engagement region 127 that is sized and shaped to matingly engage a faucet component that may be associated with a typical faucet assembly or other assembly. Similarly, the working surface 128 defines an engagement region 129 that is sized and shaped to matingly engage another component. The working surface 130 defines an engagement region 131 that is sized and shaped to matingly engage another component. The working surface 132 defines an engagement region 133 that is sized and shaped to matingly 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 for 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 surfaces.

In the present embodiment, the joining regions 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 previously mentioned 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 matingly engage, for example, a wingnut. Another example of a bonding area is shown as bonding area 135 accessible from face 132. The engagement region 135 is similar to the engagement region 133 previously described, but is sized to matingly engage a faucet component having a size smaller than the faucet component used in the engagement region 133. In many embodiments, the one or more engagement regions are configured to receive and matingly engage a hex nut or other fastener. For such a junction region, the region typically includes four adjoining planar surfaces oriented at 60 ° angles to each other. As will be appreciated, this configuration enables the region to engage the hex nut radially or laterally. This engagement is not feasible with closed end wrenches or sockets. The described arrangement of the engagement zone also enables axial engagement between the insert and the hexagonal nut.

The first insert 120 is configured to be received within the first end 58 or opening 72 of the wrench body 52 or along the first end 58 or opening 72 of the wrench body 52. In many embodiments, the insert 120 is sized and shaped to matingly engage an end of the wrench body 52, such as the end 58 or the opening 72. The insert 120 may be frictionally engaged therein when the insert 120 is positioned within the end 58. 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 configured in a cylindrical shape, the second insert 150 includes a plurality of radial projections 152 radiating or extending from the periphery of a 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 each other 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 each other differently than the slots 66 such that the slots at one end are configured to engage a basin nut having a first configuration and the slots at the other end are configured to engage a basin nut having a second configuration. The second insert 150 can be otherwise attached to the second end 62 of the wrench body 52, e.g., the second end of the wrench body can have a polygonal or non-circular opening that mates with a polygonal or non-circular configuration that can be formed on the second insert 150, or the second insert or adapter member 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 that is 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 protrusions 156 extend from end surface 158 and are angularly spaced apart from each other by about 90 ° at the center (see fig. 11). The tabs 156 are spaced apart from one another in such a way that the second insertion tool 150 can engage a filter basket commonly used in kitchen sinks.

The second insert 150 further 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 such that the wrench can be used to turn the wrench body 52 (and inserts 120 and 150) when desired. A cylindrical boss 168 extends coaxially from the hexagonal boss 164 and includes a radial through bore 172. The radial through hole 172 can receive a lever 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 a face 169, the face 169 also generally 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 is insertable 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 area that is sized and shaped to matingly engage a faucet component.

The second insert 150 can also be used independently of the Chi Pen wrench 50. In this case, the second insert 150 would be removed from the wrench body 52 and the axially extending tab 156 would be inserted into the opening 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 tool T to engage filter basket SB. The projections P are identical in size and shape and are equally spaced from each other around the circumference of the end of the tool T. The protrusion P is configured to be inserted into an opening of a conventional four-bayonet filter basket SB. While satisfactory in many respects, tool T cannot be used with filter baskets having a configuration other than a four bayonet filter basket.

Referring to fig. 15-16, a second insert 150 having two axially extending projections 156 can be used to engage both a three bayonet filter basket SB' as shown in fig. 15 and a four bayonet filter basket SB as shown in fig. 16. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the second insert 150 may be used to engage filter baskets having other configurations in addition to those depicted in FIGS. 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 thus will not be described again for the sake of brevity. However, the insert 250 includes a different configuration of a plurality of axially extending protrusions. Specifically, the insert 250 includes a first pair of protrusions 256a and a second pair of protrusions 256b. Each protrusion 256a is larger than protrusion 256b, i.e., has a longer arc length. However, in many embodiments, the protrusions 256a and 256b have equal heights or axial dimensions from each other. The protrusions 256a and 256b are configured to engage both the four bayonet filter basket SB and the three bayonet filter basket SB' as shown. While the insert 250 has been described in connection with two pairs of identical protrusions, it should be understood that the present subject matter encompasses a wide variety of other configurations and combinations of protrusions.

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 (i) a total length of the handle, (ii) one or more of a portion of the length of the handle and/or a region or a length of a component of the handle corresponds to or is equivalent to, for example, a known dimension S or a sub-dimension S1 or S2. For example, the length or depth of the slots 64 or 66 may correspond to a particular size. Alternatively, the spacing between ribs 100 may correspond to a known size. The user of the tool may then use the handle 52 as a measurement tool to quickly estimate the dimensions associated with the fixture or plumbing application.

Another embodiment of a tool system or basin wrench 350 according to the present subject matter is shown in fig. 21-25. Basin wrench 350 includes many of the aspects and features generally described in connection with basin wrench 50 of fig. 5-8, and thus will not be described again for the sake of brevity. Basin wrench 350 includes an elongated wrench body 352 having a pivot assembly 500, with pivot assembly 500 generally located at an intermediate portion or within a hand grip portion 394, with hand grip portion 394 generally centrally disposed between enlarged portions 390 and 392. The body or handle 352 defines opposite ends 358 and 362. As generally described for 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. Longitudinal edges 382, 384 and groove 386 are provided on both handle portions, i.e., on opposite sides of pivot assembly 500. The wrench 350 also includes a first insert 420 and a second insert 450. Either or both of the inserts 420, 450 can be the same or different from the inserts 120 and 150 previously described. Although the embodiment of the wrench 350 depicted in the referenced figures uses two cylindrical inserts 420, 450, it should be understood that the present subject matter includes the use of the aforementioned cube-shaped inserts 120 for either or both of the inserts 420 and/or 450. For this version of the basin wrench, one or both ends 358 and/or 362 would include or be in the form of a square cross section, such as the enlarged portion 90 of the basin wrench 50 of FIGS. 5-8 described above.

The pivot assembly 500 generally includes a pivot pin 502, the pivot pin 502 extending through a receiving area defined in a corresponding area of the hand grip portion 394. The pivot assembly 500 may also include one or more retaining members, such as a retaining washer 504 for retaining 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. Typically, 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 °. Locking means and/or selectively releasable means can be provided in association with the pivot assembly 500 such that when the handle 352 is positioned at a desired angle, such as 90, the handle configuration can be selectively locked in place until a user wishes to place the handle 352 in a longitudinal configuration such as shown in any of figures 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, the handle end 390 can be used to provide additional torque or leverage to the end 362 without the use of an external wrench or lever.

26-28 illustrate an adapter 550 that can be used with the subject tool system or components thereof, such as associated with insert 600. Insert 600 is similar to inserts 120, 150, 250, 420, and 450 previously described. The insert 600 may include one or more radially extending protrusions 652. In the illustrated embodiment, the insert 600 includes three such protrusions 652 equally spaced about the outer periphery or circumference of the insert 600. Insert 600 also defines at least one face 626 having an engagement region 627 that is sized and shaped to matingly engage a faucet component.

The adapter 550 defines an outer periphery 552 and an inner periphery 554. The outer peripheral edge 552 is configured to matingly engage an engagement region 627 of an insert, such as insert 600. The inner periphery 554 of the adapter is sized and shaped to matingly engage a faucet member or other hardware or fitting. The adapter 550 is used in applications where the engagement area 627 of the insert 600 is too large or does not correspond to a target faucet assembly. By selecting an adapter having an inner periphery 554 corresponding to the target faucet component, and then positioning adapter 550 within engagement area 627 of insert 600, a user can then 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 periphery 554. As shown, the span of the first hexagonal profile 570 is greater than the span of the second hexagonal profile 574. Although 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 appreciated that by referring 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 mechanism (such as an external wrench or lever). Because both inserts 920 and 950 are integral with the end of the handle by means of the pivot, the potential for unintended 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 any of the basin wrenches 50, 350). The insert 750 is similar to the inserts previously described, but includes two radially extending projections 752 and two axially extending projections 756. In this particular insert version, the radially extending projections 752 are located on opposite sides of the insert, i.e., 180 ° apart. Also, the axially extending protrusions 756 are located along one side or region of the insert and are spaced 90 ° apart from each other.

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 selective orientation of the insert relative to the wrench and moveably 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). 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. The pivot assembly 900 includes a pivot pin 902 that engages an insert 920 such that the insert 920 can pivot about an axis W as indicated 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 is pivotable about an axis Z as indicated 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 appreciated that referring 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 mechanism (such as an external wrench or lever). Because both inserts 920 and 950 are integral with the end of the handle by means of the pivot, the potential for unintended removal from or separation from the handle is avoided.

Fig. 38-39 illustrate an insert 920 shown for 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 in the form of a plurality of recesses along an end of the insert, a second engagement region 935, a third engagement region 934, 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 aperture 940. For example, the insert 920 can be positioned to expose one or more hexagonal contours in the form of the engagement regions 933, 935. Alternatively, the insert 920 can be positioned to expose the engagement region 936 as a recess or groove. 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 a number of shut-off valves when positioning the insert 920 to expose the surface 937.

Fig. 40-43 illustrate another embodiment of basin wrench 1050 in accordance with 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 a wrench body or handle 1052. The insert 920 is pivotally attached to the handle 1052 via a pivot pin 1102 so that the insert can be selectively positioned about an axis X as shown in fig. 40. Wrench 1050 has another end thereof configured for removable engagement with another insert, such as insert 1250. Insert 1250 is an insert 150, 250, 450, 750, and 950 generally as previously described, but uses a single axially extending protrusion 1256 in combination with a single radially extending protrusion 1252. As will be appreciated, the protrusions 1252 are configured to engage in notches or grooves 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 certainly 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 one feature is described in connection with one embodiment and another feature is described in connection with another embodiment, it should be understood that the 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, to one skilled in the art that various changes in the details, materials and arrangements of parts which have been herein described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of this subject matter may be made without departing from the principle and scope of the claimed subject matter as expressed in the appended claims.

Claims (18)

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

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

a first insert (120);

wherein the wrench body (52) includes a sidewall portion, a first end (58) having a first opening (72), and wherein the first end (58) of the wrench body (52) is sized and configured to receive a first insert (120) disposed therein;

wherein the first insert (120) defines six working surfaces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132) and defines at least five engagement regions sized and shaped to matingly engage a corresponding faucet component, and wherein the engagement regions disposed on the first insert (120) are each different from one another;

wherein the first insert (120) is sized and shaped to be received within a first opening (72) in the first end (58) of the wrench body (52),

wherein the sidewall portion is substantially rectangular, and wherein the first insert (120) has a substantially cuboid shape.

2. The basin wrench of claim 1, wherein at least one of the six working surfaces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132) defines an associated engagement region and another engagement region sized and shaped to matingly engage a faucet component of a faucet component that is smaller in size than the engagement region.

3. Basin wrench according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first insert (120) has the shape of a cube.

4. The basin wrench of claim 1 or 2, wherein the wrench body (52) is sized and configured to operably engage the first insert (120) with a faucet assembly component.

5. Basin wrench according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wrench body (52) is elongated and hand-holdable and has a substantially hourglass-shaped configuration.

6. The basin wrench of claim 5, wherein the hourglass-shaped configuration is generally axially symmetric about a longitudinal axis (54).

7. Basin wrench according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wrench body (52) has a substantially C-shaped configuration in a cross section taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (54).

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

9. The basin wrench of claim 1, wherein the inner surface of the sidewall portion is configured such that when the first insert (120) is axially disposed in the first opening (72) of the first end (58) of the wrench body (52), the inner surface matingly engages four (126, 128, 130, 132) of the six working surfaces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132) of the first insert (120).

10. The basin wrench of claim 1, wherein the wrench body (52) includes a first longitudinal edge (82) and a second longitudinal edge (84), wherein the first longitudinal edge (82) and the second longitudinal edge (84) are spaced apart from one another to define a longitudinal slot (86), wherein the longitudinal slot (86) is aligned with the longitudinal axis (54).

11. Basin wrench according to claim 10, wherein the longitudinal slot (86) is dimensioned such that the water supply line (38) can be accommodated in the hollow interior of the wrench body (52).

12. The basin wrench of claim 1, further comprising a second insert (150), wherein the wrench body (52) includes a second end (62) having a second opening (76) configured to axially receive the second insert (150), and wherein the second end (62) is positioned opposite the first end (58).

13. The basin wrench of claim 12, wherein the second insert (150) includes a cylindrical portion (154), wherein the second 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 protrusions (152) extending radially outward from the cylindrical portion (154), each of the plurality of protrusions (152) being received by an associated one of the plurality of slots (66).

14. The basin wrench of claim 1, wherein the wrench body (52) defines a handle (352) having a first enlarged portion (390) and a second enlarged portion (392) coupled to the first enlarged portion (390).

15. The basin wrench of claim 14, wherein the handle (352) includes a pivot assembly (500) for pivotally positioning one of the first and second enlarged portions (390, 392) of the handle (352) relative to the other of the first and second enlarged portions (390, 392) of the handle (352) about a pivot axis (Y).

16. Basin wrench according to claim 15, wherein the pivot axis (Y) is arranged transverse to the longitudinal axis (54).

17. The basin wrench of claim 16, wherein one of the first and second enlarged portions (390, 392) of the handle (352) is pivotable relative to the other of the first and second enlarged portions (390, 392) about a pivot axis (Y) at an angle (X) and the angle (X) is 30 ° to 150 °.

18. A basin wrench, comprising:

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

a first insert (120);

wherein the wrench body (52) includes a sidewall portion and a first end (58) having a first opening (72), and wherein the first end (58) is sized and configured to receive a first insert (120) disposed therein;

wherein the first insert (120) defines six working surfaces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132) and defines at least six engagement regions sized and shaped to matingly engage a faucet component,

wherein each engagement region is sized and shaped to matingly engage a corresponding faucet member, and wherein the engagement regions provided on the first insert (120) are different from each other,

wherein at least one of the six working surfaces (122, 124, 126, 128, 130, 132) defines an associated engagement region and another engagement region sized and shaped to matingly engage a faucet component of a size smaller than the faucet component used in the engagement region,

wherein the sidewall portion is substantially rectangular, and wherein the first insert (120) has a substantially cuboid shape.