Article handling tool

Abstract

A tool for gripping a remotely located article includes an elongated tubular housing, a tool actuating assembly connected to one end of the housing, and a jaw support member connected to the other end of the housing. A first jaw member having a gripping surface is supported on the jaw support member by a first pair of arms, and a second jaw member having a gripping surface is supported on the jaw support member by a second pair of arms so that the gripping surfaces of the jaw members are disposed in parallel, confronting relation. The two pairs of arms are slidingly and pivotably connected to the jaw support member so that the gripping surfaces of the jaw members may be moved between a first, open position and a second, closed position for gripping an article. When moving between the first and second positions the gripping surfaces move in parallel relation to one another. The tool actuating assembly includes an over-center toggle mechanism so that the jaws are held locked when in the gripping position. An adjustment mechanism for adjusting the distance between the gripping surfaces of the jaw members is provided for accommodating articles of varying size and shape. In an additional embodiment, a plurality of tubular housing sections are provided. A lever arm for operating the tool actuating assembly is formed so that it lies against the elongated tubular housing when the jaw members are moved into the gripping position.