Patent Publication Number: US-8978226-B2

Title: Hand tool for use in the quick disconnection of quick connect/disconnect couplings

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention relates to a hand tool, and more particularly, a hand tool for use in the quick disconnect of a quick connect/disconnect coupling. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Quick connect/disconnect couplings are commonly used to connect pipes and tubing in many fields from automobiles and trucks to waterlines. Although easy to connect, the disconnection requires that the release ring on the connector be recessed simultaneously with the removal of the conduit in the opposite direction. This can be a problem when the connectors are placed in inaccessible areas. 
     Although many devices have been patented for stripping the ends of electrical wires, such as U.S. Pat. No. 4,951,529, to Andre Laurencot; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,475,418 to Isamu Tani none have addressed the issue of removing a quick connector from a conduit. U.S. Pat. No. 6,314,629 to Darren Kady, disclosed a tool for the easy removal of quick disconnect connectors from conduits however these tools are unable to handle over five eights (⅝″) and above diameters. Also, they are unable to handle many of the new slim line style quick connect/disconnect couplings for the plumbing industry. 
     The disclosed hand tool grasps and moves the conduit in the opposite direction from the release ring on the connector, easily removing the large connectors from the conduit. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A tool for the removal of connectors from pipes is disclosed that, in one embodiment, enables the removal of connectors from large pipes and in another embodiment from a size range of pipes. The body of the tool has a body divided into a gripping portion, having a first and second end, and a pusher portion, having a first and a second end. A pair of handles, a first connected to the second end of the gripping portion and a second to the second end of the pusher portion. In some embodiments the second handle, and connected pusher element, is stationary, while in others both handles, as well as the pusher and gripper elements, are movable. 
     At the first end of the gripping portion is the gripping element which consists of an arced movable gripping jaw and an optionally arced stationary gripping jaw. Both the stationary gripping jaw and the movable gripping jaw have gripping surfaces that are parallel to the circumference of the pipe. The gripping surface of the movable gripping jaw, and optionally the stationary gripping jaw, preferably have surfaces that have been roughened by at least one of undulations, pointed rows, multiple randomly placed pyramids, pointed columns, natural or synthetic coatings. The movable gripping jaw is connected to a linkage, connecting the jaw to the first handle. 
     In some embodiments the gripping portion and pusher portion are connected through a pivot connection for rotatability. A spring connected to the handles maintains the handles at a maximum separation distance thereby maintaining the first ends of the gripping portion and pusher portion adjacent one another. 
     The pusher portion has at its first end a pusher element that consists of an arced stationary pusher jaw and arced movable pusher jaw. Both the stationary pusher jaw and the movable pusher jaw have holding surfaces that are flat and parallel to the circumference of the pipe. The outer face surface of both the stationary pusher jaw and the movable pusher jaw are on the same plane in order to contact the connector ring, or connector, evenly and simultaneously. The holding surface of the stationary pusher jaw is on the same plane with the stationary gripper jaw to prevent angling of the pipe during connector removal. To facilitate removal of the movable pusher jaw from the pipe, the tip of the pusher jaw is preferably angled with respect to the pipe. The angle should be such that the pipe does not catch on the edge of the tip. 
     The holding surface and the gripping surface have a hardness greater than the hardness of said pipe. 
     To limit the rotation of the movable pusher jaw a stop a-step is used with a spring being used between the rotating pusher jaw and the pusher portion to return the rotating pusher jaw to a closed position. The connection point between the movable pusher jaw and the pusher element is dimensioned to avoid contact with the connector sealing ring and ensure even pressure is applied. 
     In the tool designed for a range of smaller size pipes, from ⅛ to ⅜, the arced holding surface of said movable pusher jaw is dimensioned to have at least 10% of the arced holding surface in contact with the pipe adjacent to the connector. Similarly, the arced gripping surface of said movable gripping jaw is dimensioned to have at least 10% of its gripping surface in contact with the pipe. 
     When the handles are initially compressed, the movable pusher jaw and movable gripper jaw clamp the pipe between the movable jaws and the stationary jaws. Further compression of the handles causes the gripping element to move away from the pusher element. 
     An example linkage is an E plate secured within the gripping portion to slide upon compression of the handles. The first end of the E plate receives a gripper tab at one end of the movable gripper jaw and a second end of said E plate receives a connector to the first handle. A guide member, such as a roller or tab, affixed to the gripping portion prevents the E plate from twisting. 
     In the tool that removes connectors from the large pipes, one inch and above, it is preferable to have a release mechanism on the movable gripper jaw. The release mechanism interacts with a release mechanism receiving area to release the movable gripper jaw from a closed position and relock the jaw in the closed position. An example release mechanism would consist of a release button, a release block and a spring to maintain the release block in a position to lock the movable gripper jaw. Movement of the release button compresses the spring and releases the movable gripper jaw to the open position. 
     On the tool for larger pipes the arced holding surface of the movable pusher jaw has a width in the range of about 27 mm to about 30.5 mm and preferably in the range of 28 mm to 29.5 mm and a depth in the range of about 13.5 mm to about 16.5 mm and preferably in the range of 14.5 mm to 15.5 mm. The arced gripping surface of the movable gripping jaw has a width in the range of about 20 mm to about 23 mm and preferably in the range of 21.5 mm to 22.5 mm and a depth in the range of about 2 mm to about 6 mm and preferably in the range of about 4 mm. In this size tool at least 23% of the arced gripping surface of the movable pusher jaw and the arced holding surface of the movable gripper jaw contact said pipe. 
     In some embodiments the gripping portion and the pusher portion can be connected by a bar with at least the gripping portion movable along the bar. The tool can further comprise a bar connection, the bar connection maintaining the gripping portion and said pusher portion slidably connected. In this embodiment at least one of the handles has a compression member to move one handle toward the other along the bar connection and a release member to move the handle away from the other handle. 
     In an additional embodiment, the pusher and/or gripper portions have a receiving area in the first end that includes a securing member to secure removable pusher and/or gripper elements. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The advantages of the instant disclosure will become more apparent when read with the specification and the drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a front view of the quick release tool in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a back view of the quick release tool in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of the gripper jaws of the large quick release tool, in accordance with the present invention 
         FIG. 4  is a side view of the pusher jaws of large quick release tool, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  is a side view of the large quick release tool with the gripper jaw in the open position, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective side view of the release tool gripping a pipe and coupling prior to separation, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective side view of the release tool gripping a pipe and coupling during separation, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective side view of the gripping portion of the quick release tool having ridges for gripping, in accordance with the presentation invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective side view of the gripping portion of the quick release tool having teeth for gripping, in accordance with the presentation invention; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective side view of the movable pusher jaw in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective side view of the gripping portion of the quick release tool in accordance with the presentation invention; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective side view of the movable gripper jaw in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective side view of the interior of the locking mechanism in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective breakaway side view of the quick release tool in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective side view of the E plate in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective breakaway side view of the quick release tool showing the gripper jaw in the closed position, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective breakaway side view of the quick release tool showing the gripper jaw in the open position, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 18  is a breakaway side perspective of the movable gripper jaw placed within the E bracket of the tool, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of the movable pusher jaw in accordance with the present invention 
         FIG. 20  is a top breakaway view of the E bracket placed within the tool in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective side view of an alternate embodiment of the tool incorporating a removable gripper jaw, illustrated without the removable gripper jaw accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective side view of the removable jaw to be used with the tool of  FIG. 21 , in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 23  is a perspective side view of the too of  FIG. 21  with the removable jaw inserted in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective side view of an alternate removable jaw in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 25  is a side view of an alternate embodiment of the tool for use with mid-sized pipes in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 26A  is a perspective side view of the pusher section of an alternate tool have two moving jaws, in accordance with the invention; 
         FIG. 26B  is a perspective side view of the gripper section of an alternate tool have two moving jaws, in accordance with the invention; 
         FIG. 27  is a side view of another embodiment of the tool for use with smaller pipes in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of the interior of the gripper portion of the tool in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 29  is a cutaway perspective view of the interior of the movable pusher jaw element of the tool in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 30  is an alternate embodiment of the tool showing the stationary gripper and pusher jaws in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 31  is the alternate view of the tool of  FIG. 30  showing the movable gripper and pusher jaws in accordance with the present invention; and 
         FIG. 32  is an alternate embodiment illustrating the pusher jaw having an extension to contact recessed rings in accordance with the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The disclosed hand tool is used to remove couplings from tubing, piping or other conduits. These quick connect/disconnect couplings are commercially used to connect tubing in all areas of industry, where the tubing is for air, chemicals or liquids. The structure, method of operation, and methods of connecting to various conduit materials, is well known in the art. The quick connect/disconnect coupling maintains the two conduits securely, and in fluid, and/or air, tight engagement with one another. The fluid can be a liquid such as water, oil, a combustion fuel such as gasoline, or a gas such as air, natural gas, propane, hydraulic fluids or the like. In the manual embodiment, the handle members are hand actuated and through a linkage, such as described in the U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,951,529, 4,475,418 and 2,523,936, actuate the gripping and release members. The tool can be built on the framework of wire strippers, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,951,529, 4,475,418 or 2,523,936, the disclosures of each patent being incorporated herein by reference, as though recited in full. 
     DEFINITIONS 
     The phrase “maximum separation distance” as used herein means the fully open position at which the pair of handles are maintained by some form of spring means. At the maximum separation distance the gripping portion first end and the pusher portion first end are maintained adjacent to each other. 
     The term “arc” as used herein refers to the peripheral contour of a component which is a part of a circle or other curved line, such as an oval. 
     The term “spring” as used herein means an elastic contrivance or body, as a strip or wire of steel that recovers its shape after being compressed, as for example a leaf spring and a coil spring. 
     Quick release couplings are made for easy removal, and have expanded from the smaller size hones to larger diameter pipes, such as PVC, Pex, copper and conduits. As the diameter of the pipe increases, so does the difficulty in grasping the pipe and releasing the connector. Further, these larger couplings are frequently used in tight spaces, such as under sinks and within large equipment. The disclosed device enables a user to reach into tight spaces, grip the tubing, and separate the coupling with an easy to use hand tool. 
     The material of manufacture of the gripping tool should be steel or other durable material as there is a substantial amount of stress placed on the parts. Of specific issue is the movable gripper jaw as the teeth that actually grip the pipe to be removed are formed from this jaw. In order to grip the pipe, the material forming teeth and ridges must be harder that the material being gripped. The determination of the hardness of the materials needed for manufacture for use on a specific material can be through any of the known hardness testing methods. For example, copper pipe will range between 8.0 and 12.0 HS on the Schore&#39;s Scleroscope scale and can easily be gripped by any steel used for the tool manufacture. However, if steel pipes are used, the hardness of the tool must exceed the hardness of the pipe. In most applications a D2, heat treated iron alloy metal, such as an amorphous metal, zinc alloy or stainless steel with the appropriate heat treatment process can be used. For materials that are more difficult to grip and therefore prone to slippage, such as copper pipes, a hardened steel 440 heat treated to the heat spec of 50RWC or equivalent provides optimum results. Further, the greater the tension created by the compression spring  112 , as noted herein, the faster the contact with the pipe and the greater the gripping pressure prior to separating. The choice of the appropriate metal for the end use will be evident to those skilled in the art. 
     In all embodiments herein the surfaces of the jaws contacting the pipe must be on the same plane in order for the entire curvature of the jaw to contact the surface of the pipe with equal pressure. The washers used on the conduits has a thickness of about 1/16 of an inch and any areas of uneven contact between the pipe and the jaw can result in increased difficulty in removing the connector or failure to remove pipe from the coupling. 
     In all designs the arc of movement of the gripper jaws and pusher jaws needs to be on the same plane, thereby causing the two stationary jaws and the two movable jaws to contact the pipe simultaneously. This is especially important on the tool removing the ¾ inch and the 1 inch pipe, however the performance of all sized tools can be affected. 
     The outer and inner surface of the stationary and movable jaws should be on the same plane in all embodiments. In other words, the outer surface of the movable gripper jaw must be flush, or on the same plane, with the outer surface of the stationary gripper jaw. In turn the inner surface of the stationary gripper (side with teeth) must be on the same plane with the inner surface of the stationary pusher in order not to cause a ratcheting effect of the pipe or conduit. This ratcheting effect will cause the pusher to override the release ring of the coupling resulting in failure to disconnect. The inner surface of the movable and stationary gripper jaws must also be flush with one another, as are the pusher jaws. This enables even pressure on the pipe at all contact surfaces. 
     The disclosed tool can be used on ⅛-1 inch pipes depending upon the jaw design. The basic body of the tool remains basically and therefore, the body of the tools will only be described in  FIGS. 1 and 2  with the jaws and any alternate embodiments being described individually. 
     It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that if the body of the tool is made larger or smaller, the dimensions of all interacting parts must be resized accordingly. 
     The primary description herein is the removal of the connectors from the pipe. However, the tool can also be used to place pipe into the connector in hard to reach areas. By simply reversing the tool the gripper portion moves the pipe to toward the connector when compressed. This is extremely valuable when the pipes are in difficult to reach places as the design of the handles provides an extension to the user&#39;s hand. 
       FIG. 1  is a front view of the quick release tool  100  while  FIG. 2  illustrates the back of the tool  100 . The tool  100  includes a pair of handles  102  and  104  that at least one handle is movable relative to the other, and are biased by the spring  106 , maintaining them in the spread a part position during non-use. 
     The upper section of the tool  100  is divided into a gripping portion  121  and a pusher portion  131  and form the upper portion of the frame elements  120  and  130 . The frame elements  120  and  130  are maintained in a rotational relationship with one another through the use of a pivot, or hinge,  108 . 
     The gripping portion  121  comprises moveable gripper jaw  122  and stationary gripper jaw  124 . The movement of the moveable gripper jaw  122  must be sufficient to securely grip the pipe (not shown), without creating damage, and prevent movement along the length of the pipe. 
     The pusher portion  131  carries the movable pusher jaw  132  and stationary pusher jaw  134 . The movable pusher jaw  132  must securely contact the pipe and ring (as disclosed hereinafter) while still enabling the pusher jaws  132  and  134  to move laterally along the pipe. 
     The stationary pusher jaw  134  and stationary gripper jaw  124  are affixed to the pusher plate  136  and gripper plate  126  respectively that provide support and structural strength to the tool  100 . Preferably they are affixed through welding or molding, however the stationary pusher jaw  134  and stationary gripper jaw  124  can be affixed to their respective plates through other means known in the art such as screws, rivets, etc. 
     As the handles  102  and  104  are compressed, in what could be referred to as a first stage, the movable pusher jaw  132  and movable gripper jaw  122  are closed to grip the pipe between the movable gripper jaw  122  and stationary gripper jaw  124  and the movable pusher jaw  132  and the stationary pusher jaw  134 . The compression spring  112  is tensioned to maintain the pusher portion  130  and the gripper portion  120  adjacent one another with the compression of the spring  112  first translating into the gripping of the jaws as stated above. Additional compression of the handles  102  and  104 , or a second stage of compression, against the resistive force of the compression spring  112 , tightly grips the pipe and the pusher portion  130  moves away from the gripping portion  120 , separating the connector from the pipe. 
     The compression spring  112  provides the pressure that translates to the functioning of the gripping portion  120  and the pusher portion  130 , with the greater the tension, the faster the opening and more powerful the grip. In order to accommodate the larger diameter pipes, the tensioning spring  112  should have a minimum gauge of about 0.05 mm with about 2 mm maximum. As the tensioning spring  112  affects the strength required to close the handles  102  and  104 , and too great a gauge for the spring would make the tool difficult to operate. 
     Although handles are illustrated in conjunction with the embodiments herein, it should be noted that other means for activating the jaws, as well as other handle designs, can be used. Additionally, the springs that apply pressure to any portion of the tool can be replaced with pneumatics when or other device to apply pressure. 
     In  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the 1 inch gripping tool  300  is illustrated, more clearly showing relationship between the moveable gripper jaw  334  and stationary gripper jaw  332 . In order to firmly grip the pipe  380 , both the movable gripper jaw  334  and stationary gripper jaw  332  are provided with a gripping surface  336  and  338 . As can be seen in  FIG. 3 , the stationary gripper jaw  332  is affixed to the gripper plate  126  that provides the rigidity and support. The release button  352  is approximate the movable gripper jaw  334  and serves to release the movable gripper jaw  334  from its closed, or storage, position in order to receive the pipe. The release button  352  and its mechanism are described in more detail hereinafter. 
     The teeth  330  of the stationary gripper jaw  332  must not extend beyond the arc  340  of the stationary pusher jaw  342 . An unevenness between the two causes the stationary pusher jaw  342  to jump the thin connector ring  384  ( FIG. 5 ), thereby either making the removal of the connector more difficult or impossible. The variance between the outer most point of the teeth  338  and the arch  340  has a tolerance of about 1/16 inch, and preferably less. 
     In these figures the gripping surface  336  is slight rounded. This is one embodiment of gripping surface and will work with softer pipe, such as PVC. However, if the tool is being used with metal pipe, a sharper surface, such as multiple pyramids or pointed ridges, such as illustrated with the stationary gripper jaw  332 , is preferred. 
     The movable pusher jaw  344  and stationary pusher jaw  342  are also illustrated with the stationary pusher jaw  342  attached to, or extending from the pusher plate  136  The movable pusher jaw  344  is dimensioned to receive the pipe adjacent the connector. In order to facilitate receiving the pipe, the tip  350  of the movable pusher jaw  344  is angled, thereby preventing the pipe  380  from catching on the pusher jaw  344 . 
     The stationary pusher jaw  342  and the stationary gripper jaw  332  are illustrated herein as having an arc, however it should be noted that the stationary gripper jaw  332  can be flat, convex or concave as long as it has a biting point that will grip the pipe that does not extend beyond the surface of the stationary pusher jaw  342 . As stated heretofore the body of the tool, handle and opening mechanism, is described in conjunction with  FIGS. 1 and 2 . 
     In  FIG. 5  the release button  352  has been moved to release the movable gripper jaw  334  to receive the pipe  380  ( FIGS. 6 and 7 ). The movable pusher jaw  344  is maintained in position by a spring (as described hereinafter) and will move to receive the pipe  380  upon contact pressure. 
     Many connectors  382 , especially at the larger diameters, are provided with a ring  384  adjacent to the pipe  380  to provide a better seal. This ring  384  must be contacted with even pressure in order enable the removal of the connector  382 . 
     In  FIG. 6  the stationary gripping jaw  334  and stationary pusher jaw  332  (both not shown) are placed in contact with the pipe  380 , connector  382  and ring  384  that lies adjacent to the connector  382 . In this in initial position the stationary gripping jaw  332  and movable gripping jaw  334  are adjacent to the movable pusher jaw  344  and the stationary pusher jaw  342 . In  FIG. 7 , the user has squeezed the handles  102  and  104 , thereby causing the stationary pusher jaw  342  and movable pusher jaw  344  to move away from the stationary gripper jaw  332  and movable gripper jaw  334 . As the pipe  380  cannot move due to the gripping surface  336 , the pressure being applied to the connector ring  384  and connector  382 , forces the connector  382  and ring  384  off the end of the pipe. 
     The release button connector  354  can be seen in this figure extending from the release button  352  through the gripper plate  126 . The release button  352  mechanism is described in detail hereinafter. 
     In  FIGS. 8 and 9  two example of gripping surfaces are illustrated. In  FIG. 8  the movable gripper jaw  834  and stationary gripper jaw  850  each have three ridges  840 ,  842  and  844  and  850 ,  852  and  854  respectively. These ridges  840 ,  842 ,  844 ,  850 ,  852  and  854  can be any shape that will enable the ridges  840 ,  842  and  844  to grip and bite into the pipe. The shape of the ridges  840 ,  842  and  844  and  850 ,  852  and  854  as well as their material of manufacture will be determined by the material of the pipe. In  FIG. 9 , the gripping surface  912  of the movable gripper jaw  910  and gripping surface  920  of the stationary gripper jaw  922  have multiple diamond or pyramid shaped teeth  914  and  924  respectively. For optimal grip, the teeth should be in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 1.25 mm and have a width in the range of about 5 mm to about 1.25 mm, although the ratios can vary. It is preferred that the teeth  914  and  924  be alternated in a diamond pattern, staggered along the gripping surface  912  and  920  of the movable gripper jaw  910  and stationary gripper jaw  922 . Alternatively the teeth can be placed in two or more columns, generally with a maximum of six (6) teeth in each column. As with the ridges, the teeth must be able to firmly grip the surface of the pipe to prevent movement. Additionally, it should be noted that the ridges and teeth can be mixed, for example the stationary gripper jaw can have ridges while the movable gripper jaw has teeth, or vise versa. 
     In some applications, the gripping surface can be a natural or synthetic substance, for example rubber, epoxy, or polyurethane, that can prevent the gripper jaws from slipping on the pipe. It will be known to those skilled in the art the appropriate gripping surface based upon the end use. 
     In  FIG. 10 , the arc  1000  of the movable gripper jaw  1002  must be such that at least 10%, and preferably at least 50%, of the gripping surface  1004  makes contact with the pipe. To achieve this, the arc  1000  extends from the proximal point F to the distal point E. The distance between proximal point F to the distal point E is about 20 mm to 23 mm and preferably in the about 21.5-22.5 mm range. When a line B is drawn between the proximal point F and the distal point E, the minimum depth A from line B to the nadir of the arc  1000  is in the range of about 2 mm to about 6 mm and preferably 4 mm. The placement of the minimum depth A along the arc  1000  is determined by measuring 14 mm along inset line C from the distal end G of the gripper jaw  1002  or 10.5 to 11 from distal E to A. The foregoing optimal measurements can be varied by up to about 50%, but preferably 25% or less as the greater the deviation from preferred dimensions, the greater the reduction of reliability. 
     While it is preferable that the width of the gripping surface  1004  fully contacts the pipe in order to provide the appropriate grip on the pipe, it is not necessary. It is important that a sufficient portion of the gripping surface  1004  contact the pipe to hold the pipe surface firmly and prevent slippage. For optimum gripping, the minimum depth A is the same on gripper side M as it is on the opposing gripper side N (not shown). In other words, each side of the movable gripper jaw is preferably the same as the opposing side so that both edges between the gripper side M and gripper side N and the gripping surface  1004 , or arc to side transition points, contact the surface of the pipe simultaneously. 
     To prevent torquing and to obtain the optimal results, the sides of the movable gripper jaw, stationary gripper jaw, movable pusher jaw and stationary pusher jaw are, as described above. 
     In most uses, the arc  1000  between distal point E and minimum depth A and minimum depth A and proximal point F will be generally equal, however it is not necessary that they be mirror images. In some applications, having distinctly different arcs can be advantageous and will be known to those skilled in the art. The arc  1000  preferably has sufficient contact to enable the contact surface  1004  to firmly grip the pipe. 
     In order to ensure that the connectors  382  are removed reliably and to eliminate damage to the ring  384 , the brace  360  of the movable pusher jaw  344 , as illustrated in  FIG. 11 , has an arc or cutback area  364  that is dimensioned to clear the ring  384 . The arc  370  of the movable pusher jaw  344  applies an even pressure to the ring  384  in order to facilitate smooth removal. If the brace  360  is not cut back a sufficient amount of avoid contact with the pipe, uneven pressure will be applied, potentially causing the movable pusher jaw  344  to jump over the ring  384  and the connector  382  may not be removed. The brace  360  can be angled or arced to avoid any contact the with ring  384  and the design preference would be dependent upon the manufacturer. 
     In addition to the movable pusher jaw  344  having an arc  370  that enables at least 10%, and preferably at least 50%, of the movable pusher jaw  344  to contact the pipe while lying adjacent to the ring  384 , the outer face  390  of the movable pusher jaw  344  must be on the same plane as the outer face  392  of the stationary pusher jaw  342 . If the two faces  390  and  392  are out of alignment, the ring  384  will be contacted unevenly and the connector  382  may not be removed. 
     As with the movable gripper jaw  1002 , it is preferable the both the leading and the trailing side of the movable pusher jaw  344  contact the pipe simultaneously. However, the connector will still be easily removed as long as the outer face  390  contacts the connector ring evenly. However, if the inner edge (not illustrated) of the movable pusher jaw  344  contacts the pipe prior to the outer face  390  contacting the pipe, the outer face will not contact the connector ring at the edge and therefore will most likely be unable to remove the connector. 
     To apply the required even pressure to the connector ring, the arc  370  of the moveable pusher jaw  344  width, between proximal point G and distal point H, is in the range of about 27 mm to about 30.5 mm and preferably in the range of 28 mm to 29.5 mm with a depth D in the range of about 13.5 to about 16.5 and preferably in the range of about 14.5 mm to about 15.5 mm, as illustrated in  FIG. 12 . It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that if the size of the pipe is increased or decreased to the point where the arc  370  movable pusher jaw  344  does not contact the pipe in a manner that permits even pressure to be applied to the connector ring, the arc dimensions must be altered accordingly. The movable pusher jaw  344 , moves back freely to receive the pipe, however it is prevented from continuing backward through use of a pin  902  of  FIG. 18 . 
     As illustrated heretofore, a release button  352  is used to release the movable gripper jaw  334  to enable it to extend around the pipe. The release button  352  is connected to a shaft  824  that extends through the plate  822  via a slot (not illustrated) to engage the release block  826  as illustrated in  FIG. 13 . The release block  826  is engaged with a spring  828  that is, at rest, pushing the block upward in the locked position. The spring  828  needs to be dimensioned to place sufficient pressure on the release block  826  to maintain the locking tab  830  in the movable gripper jaw receiving notch  840  ( FIGS. 16 and 17 ). The spring  828  has a length in the range of about 7 mm to about 12 mm and a diameter of about 1.5 to 3 mm. Once the release button  352  is pressed down, the spring  828  is compressed, enabling the locking tab  830  to be moved from the notch  840 . 
     The exact dimensions, both length and diameter, as well as the tensile strength, are dependent upon the size and type of the pipe being used and will be known to those skilled in the art. 
     In order for the plate  822  to remain solidly attached to the brace plate  860 , only separated by the depth of the E plate  880 , a recessed portion  862  of the brace plate  860  is provided with a depth sufficient to receive the spring  828  and release block  826 . Additionally, a receiving hole  864  is placed in the brace plate  860  to receive the end of the spring  828 . It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that the depth of the recessed portion  828  must accommodate the release block  826  and that varying the depth of the release block  826  will require a variance in the depth of the recessed portion  828 . 
     It should be noted that although a spring mechanism is used to release the movable gripper jaw, any type of release and relock mechanism can be used and alternate designs will be known to those skilled in the art. 
     The E plate  880 , illustrated within the tool in  FIGS. 14 ,  18 ,  20  and  28  and individually in  FIG. 15 , is dimensioned to receive the gripper tab  870 . The gripper tab  870  fits within the E plate  880  between the upper extension  884  and the middle extension  886 . The bottom bar extension  888  is connected to the handle  104  through connector  1730  as illustrated in  FIG. 28 . In  FIG. 20 , the connector  1780  is connected to a plate  1782  that is connected to the bottom bar extension (not illustrated in  FIG. 20 ). As the handles  102  and  104  are angles, the connection members  1730  and  1780  would, without a guide, pull the bottom bar extension  888  at an angle. In order to enable the E plate  880  to be pulled directly down, a guide is incorporated to place the connection in direct line with the E plate  880 . The placement of the guide  1732  is best seen in  FIGS. 20 and 28 . Although only one handle  104  is described herein as moving, it should be noted that both handles can move. However, the E plate  880  would continue to interact with whatever handle is controlling the movable gripper jaw. 
     The guide can be a channel, ball bearing, tab or other means to prevent the E plate  880  from twisting. The connection member  1002  can be a wire or bar and will be known to those skilled in the art. 
     The top bar  882  of the E plate  880  has a length in the range of about 10 mm to 17 mm, although the preferred length is about 14 mm. The top bar extension  884 , as well as the mid bar extension  886  are in the range of about 8 mm to about 12 mm, with a preferred length of 9 mm. The distance between the top bar extension  884  and the mid bar extension  886  is in the range of about 8 mm to about 18 mm with a preferred distance of about 10 mm. The length of the spine  889  of the E plate  880  is in the range of about 42 to about 48 preferably 46 mm with the bottom extension  888  being at least 6 mm, and preferably about 10 mm. The bottom extension  888  serves as the attachment point for the connection between the handles  102  and  104  and the gripper and pusher jaws. 
     To close the movable gripper jaw  889  once the connector has been removed, the user squeezes the handles  102  and  104 , thereby locking the movable gripper jaw  889  in the closed position. 
     The movable pusher jaw  900 , as illustrated in  FIG. 19 , as stated heretofore, free to rotate within the pusher portion  130 . To prevent the movable pusher jaw  900  from rotating until it comes in contact with the body of the pusher portion  130 , a stop pin  902  is used. The stop pin  902  as illustrated contacts a stop within the tool that can be through any design that will engage the stop pin  902 . In other embodiments, the stop pin  902  could be positioned so that it contacts a stop on the outside of the tool. An example of another stop that would be a lip or ledge on the movable pusher that would contact the stationary pusher at a certain point and serve to stop rotation. Other methods of stopping the movable pusher will be evident to those skilled in the mechanical arts The arc  904  of the movable pusher jaw  900  is, as with the movable gripper jaw, a factor in removing the connector. Preferably the arc  904  has a width M, end to end, of about 14.5 to 15.5 mm and a depth N of about 15 mm. The overall length O of the movable pusher jaw  900  is about 28 to 29.5 mm. 
     In  FIGS. 21-24 , the pusher unit  2000  has removable jaws  2030  ( FIG. 22) and 2050  ( FIG. 24 ). The gripper unit  2020  comprises a movable gripper jaw and a stationary gripper jaw as described heretofore. The pusher receiving unit  2000  has a back wall  2008  that is a continuation of the back wall of the tool. A knob  2006  is located on the outside of the side plate  2004  and connected to a shaft that extends through the side plate  2004  into the receiving area  2010 . The receiving area  2010  is spaced from the gripper side plate  2014  by shelf  2012 . 
     The removable jaw  2030  has a rotating jaw  2032  that rotates at pivot  2040  to separate the rotating pusher  2034  from the stationary pusher  2036 . The stationary pusher  2036  is part of the stationary base  2038  that is configured to fit within the pusher unit  2000 . The periphery of the removable jaw  2030  should be such that it forms a close fit within the interior of the receiving area  2010 , shelf  2012  and back wall  2008 . The leg  2042  of the removable jaw  2030  should be dimensioned to be a friction fit within the receiving area  2010  to enable the shaft to engage force the leg  2042  tightly against the shelf  2012  when the knob  2006  is tightened. 
     In this embodiment, stationary pusher  2036  has an extension  2048  and the rotating pusher  2034  has a mirror extension  2049 . The extensions  2048  and  2049  can be dimensioned fit the appropriate end use. One examples of use for the aforenoted embodiment would be to access the release spring in a fuel filter in designs where the fuel line is locked in position on the fuel filter by a recessed retaining spring. This design is known in the fuel filter art. Another use would be to access the recessed release ring connector design as used in Europe. Europe has two types of connectors being used, one with prongs along the outer rim and one with the recessed release ring. In both designs, releasing the connector requires pressure to be applied to a recessed portion of the connection that is readily accessible through use of the disclosed tool. 
     It should also be noted that the extension can be incorporated on the tool as described in  FIGS. 1-20  and illustrated in  FIG. 32  wherein the tool  3100  is illustrated with the movable gripper jaw  3134  and movable pusher jaw  3142  gripping the pipe  3180 . The extension  3164  is dimensioned to contact the recessed ring  3184  within the connector  3182 . 
     The removable jaw  2050  is the same design as removable jaw  2030 , with the variation being in the diameter of the extension  2056  of the movable pusher jaw  2052  and extension  2058  of the stationary pusher jaw  2054 . As with the other embodiments, and described heretofore, the surfaces of the pusher jaws must have full, flat surface contact with the line or pipe and the teeth of the gripper jaws must not extend beyond the pusher jaws. 
     As noted above, the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 22-24  have the extensions to access recessed rings, however the removable jaws  2050  and  2030  can be designed without the extensions as noted in prior embodiments. 
     As stated heretofore, the handles and body of the tool can remain the same, with the jaws changing. As illustrated in  FIG. 25  in tool  1500  the pipe removal portion is comprised of the movable gripper jaw  1504 , stationary gripper jaw  1506 , movable pusher jaw  1508  and pusher stationary jaw (not illustrated). The tool  1500  has the basic construction of the above described tool, however, as the arc  1510  is grip pipes between ⅜ to ¾ inch to remove the couplings and, due to the smaller size, the release button is not required. The depth arc  1510  on movable gripper jaw  1504  is required to enable the single tool to be use on such a large range of pipe sizes and should have a depth of about 2 mm to about 6 mm, and preferably about 4 mm. The length of the arc  1510 , distance between R and S, needs to be sufficient to extend on either side of the largest pipe within the applicable range of use. For example, in the tool  1500 , the size range of use is between ⅜ and ¾ of an inch with the approximate contact between the movable gripper jaw  1504  and the pipe being 10% for use with ⅜ inch; ½ and ¾ inch. 
     The depth dimension on the embodiment in  FIG. 25  can be varied up to about 30%, however too much variation negates the ability to handle the larger range of pipe sizes. 
     SV 
     In  FIG. 27 , the smallest of the disclosed embodiments, the tool  1550  again comprises the movable gripper jaw  1554 , stationary gripper jaw  1556 , movable pusher jaw  1558  and stationary pusher jaw (not illustrated). As seen herein, the arc  1560  of the movable gripper arm  1554  and arc  1562  of the movable pusher jaw  1558  are much shallower than in prior embodiments. The tool  1550  is used in conduits having a diameter of between ⅛ and ⅜ inch. The arc  1560  of the movable gripper jaw  1554  can have a depth from flat to about 3 mm; a depth greater than 3 mm will prevent the movable gripper jaw  1554  from contacting the ⅛ in pipe. As discussed with respect to the arch  1510  must be sufficient to span the largest pipe in the applicable range of use, in this embodiment ⅜ inch. 
     In  FIG. 28  the interior of the gripper side of the tool  1700  capable of handling the 1 inch pipe is illustrated. It should be noted that although some elements, such as the release mechanism  826  and spring  828 , are not required in all sizes, the basic construction and transfer of force. 
     In this figure the movable gripper jaw  334  is in the closed position. As can be seen, the spring  828  is pushing the release block  826  upward to maintain the tab  842  in the tab receiving notch  840 . Upon release of the locking button the movable gripper jaw  334  swings backward until the tab  870  comes in contact with the top bar extension  884 . 
     As noted heretofore, the E plate  889  used in all size tools is subjected to force at about a 45 degree angle through connector rod  1730  as the handles are squeezed. Due to the angle, the bottom extension  888  of the E plate  889  is pulled outward at the angle matching that of the connector rod  1730 . This can eventually bend the E plate  889  and cause the tool to be inoperable. In order to prevent the E plate  889  from bending, a guide  1732  is placed approximate the base bottom extension  888 . As the handles are compressed, pulling the connector rod  1730  downward, the E plate  889  is slid downward between the guide  1732  and the back plate  1712 , thereby prevent the E plate  889  from buckling. 
     Although the guide  1732  as illustrated in this embodiment is a roller, any alternate member can be used to retain the E plate  889 . The important feature is for the guide  1732  to be spaced from the back plate  1712  slightly more than the thickness of the E plate  889 . This prevents any bending of the E plate  889  as it is fully supported on both sides while still enabling the E plate  889  to slide. Alternatively a channel can be used in the body to prevent the E plate from twisting. Other retaining members and methods will be evident as long as the E plate is prevented from twisting while being permitted to slide. 
     The rotating pusher jaw  1652 , as mentioned heretofore, rotates freely in all embodiments. As with the E plate described in  FIG. 28 , the rotating pusher jaw  1652  described in  FIG. 29 , can eliminate some elements in the smaller sizes. 
     The rotating pusher jaw  1652  has a disc  1660  that extends from the interior surface of the rotating pusher jaw  1652 . Extending from the disc  1660  is a pivot  1658  at approximately the center point. At one edge of the disc  1660  is a pusher receiving hole  1656  to receive the end of the spring  1672 . 
     In the tool  1650  an arc  1678  is either molded or milled and is dimensioned to receive the disc  1660  of the rotating pusher jaw  1652 . The back plate  1670  of the tool  1650  contains a receiving hole  1674  dimensioned to receive the pivot  1658 . The spring  1672 , has one end secured in the spring receiving hole  1676  while the other end is placed in the pusher receiving hole  1656 . The spring  1672  is, at rest, maintaining the rotating pusher jaw  1652  in the closed position. The tension must, however, not be so great as to make it difficult for the rotating pusher jaw  1652  to open when placed against the pipe. 
     To limit the swing of the rotating pusher jaw  1652  a stop pin  1654  is positioned to contact the body of the tool  1650 . The placement of the stop pin  1654  can vary, depending upon the size of the tool, and will be known to those skilled in the art. Alternatively, other types of stops mechanisms can be used, for example a tab that extends from the bottom of the pusher jaw to interact with the back of the pusher portion, or a tab on the pusher portion that will prevent rotation of the movable pusher jaw. 
     Relative movement between the upper and lower gripping jaws in all embodiments enables the tool to clamp onto the pipe or conduit, whether one or both jaws move, or whether it is the upper or lower jaw that is movable. The movement of either or both jaws can be achieved in any of the methods well known in the art. 
     An example of tools  1600  and  1650  having both jaws moving is illustrated in  FIGS. 26A and 26B . In  FIG. 26A  the pusher first jaw  1602  rotates around pivot point  1606  and second pusher jaw  1604  rotates around pivot  1608 , both pivots  1606  and  1608  being affixed to the body  1620 . In  FIG. 26B  the gripper first jaw  1651  rotates around pivot point  1656  and second pusher jaw  1654  rotates around pivot  1658 , both pivots  1656  and  1658  being affixed to the body  1670 . The dual jaw rotation can be used on either the pusher or gripper or both. 
     In  FIGS. 30 and 31  an alternate embodiment of a connector release tool  3000  is illustrated. The tool  3000  is an example of how the body and handles can be altered. Other changes to the body design will be evident to those skilled in the art after reading the disclosed. 
       FIG. 30  illustrates the back of the tool  3000  showing the stationary pusher jaw  3002  and stationary gripper jaw  3014 . The stationary pusher jaw  3002  is, as was the prior embodiments, attached to the pusher body  3004  in a rigid manner. Similarly the stationary gripper jaw  3014  is attached to the gripper body  3018 . The pusher body  3004  and the gripper body  3018  are separate units that are connected through the slide bar  3030 . The pusher body  3004  remains stationary on the slide bar  3030  while the gripper body  3018  moves along the slide bar  3030  away the pusher body  3004  by squeezing the handles  3042  and  3040 . The release bar  3032  releases the tension and enables the gripper body to be moved back toward the pusher body  3004 . 
     In  FIG. 31 , the movable gripper jaw  3016  and the movable pusher jaw  3006  are seen in the closed position. The movable pusher jaw  3006  and the movable gripper jaw  3016  are released from and locked into a closed position through use of slide buttons  3008  and  3020 . These buttons  3008  and  3020  have an interior tab that interacts with the movable pusher jaw  3006  and movable gripper jaw  3016 . Alternatively the movable gripper jaw  3016  can be locked into placed upon compression of the handles  3040  and  3042  and released through use of the release bar  3032 . 
     This stationary body on a rod also containing a movable body is known in the clamp art and covered under U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,009,134, 4,926,722, 5,222,420 and 5,022,137. The clamps however have inward facing pads and when the handles are squeezed, the two pads come together to make contact. If the portion of the claim is reversed, the stationary and movable bodies move apart, however the pad on the movable body is facing away from the pad on the stationary body. Therefore internal modification of the design must be made in order to adapt the movable gripper. The basic interior design of how the movable body moves and is locked in place, however, can be seen in the forgoing patents. Alternate means of moving and locking the movable gripper jaw can be used, such as a toothed bar and gears, and will be known in the art. 
     Although the foregoing illustrates represent the preferred embodiments, it should be noted that arcs as used in both the release elements and the gripping members are optional. Any of the embodiments can use all arced surfaces, all flat surfaces or a combination thereof. It is preferable that the foregoing gripping members have either teeth, such as pliers, or some type of non-slide coating that prevents the conduit from slipping. In some instances, it may be beneficial to use both the teeth and a rubber coating and the obvious use of one or the other, or a combination thereof will be obvious to those skilled in the art. 
     It should be noted that although the description of the action of the hand tool is described as three specific stages, in actual use the motion is smooth and sufficiently rapid to eliminate any separate, specific stages. The mechanism used to translate the movement of the handles to the gripping head, as illustrated herein, is an example of one method and different mechanical methods of translating the movement of the handles to the movement of the head will be obvious. The novelty lies in the gripping and pusher action, rather than how this action is achieved and the motion exchange from handles to air tool will be obvious to those skilled in the mechanical arts.