Patent Publication Number: US-9833882-B2

Title: Adjustable wrench

Description:
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The disclosure relates to an adjustable wrench, and in particular to a wrench which engages at least three faces of a bolt or nut with pressure. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     A wrench is a hand or machine operated tool to apply mechanical advantage to increase torque while rotating fasteners for tightening or loosening. A closed-ended wrench may be engaged with a nut or bolt when the wrench can be passed over an end of the nut or bolt. An open-ended wrench is used where the nut or bolt can only be accessed from a side approach. Adjustable wrenches include the monkey, pipe, or crescent wrench, as well self-adjusting wrenches. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     In an embodiment of the disclosure, a device for rotating a hex head fastener comprises a frame; a first jaw face connected to the frame; a movable jaw including two faces forming an angle of about 120 degrees relative to each other; and a guide connected to the frame and the movable jaw to control movement of the jaw along a line forming an angle of about 40.9 degrees with respect to a position of the first jaw face. 
     In variations thereof, the device further includes a second jaw face connected to the frame and forming an angle of about 60 degrees with respect to the first jaw face; the guide controls movement of the movable jaw along a line forming an angle of about 19.1 degrees with respect to the second jaw face; a face of the movable jaw remains parallel to the first jaw face as the movable jaw is moved; the device forms one of an open end, closed end, and partially closed end hex head wrench; and/or the device forms a hex wrench socket. 
     In other variations thereof, the device further includes a shaft threadably engaged with the frame and rotatably engaged with the movable jaw; the threaded shaft forms a part of the guide; the threaded shaft forms a wrench handle; the handle causes a length of the wrench to elongate as relatively larger hex head fasteners are engaged; the threaded shaft is positioned adjacent to a wrench handle connected to the frame; the device further includes a notch between the two movable jaw faces; the guide includes a channel formed in at least one of the frame and movable jaw, and a projection formed upon the other of the frame and movable jaw, the guide and channel forming a mating slideable connection; and/or the first jaw face is movably attached to the frame to be selectively releasable to be positioned at an angle greater than 40.9 degrees with respect to the line along which the movable jaw moves. 
     In another embodiment of the disclosure, a wrench comprises a frame forming a fixed jaw of two fastener engaging faces forming an angle of about 60 degrees relative to each other; a movable jaw including two faces forming an angle of about 120 degrees relative to each other; and a guide connected to the frame and the movable jaw to control movement of the jaw along a line forming an angle of about 19.1 degrees with respect to one of the two fixed jaw faces, one of the two movable jaw faces remaining parallel to one of the fixed jaw faces as the movable jaw is moved along the line. 
     In a further embodiment of the disclosure, a device for rotating a hex head fastener comprises a frame forming a fixed jaw of two fastener engaging faces forming an angle of about 60 degrees relative to each other; a movable jaw including two faces forming an angle of about 120 degrees relative to each other; and a guide connected to the frame and the movable jaw to control movement of the jaw to maintain one of the two movable jaw faces parallel to one of the fixed jaw faces as the movable jaw is moved. 
     In variations thereof, the frame includes a pivot connecting the fixed jaw, whereby an angular relationship between the fixed jaw and the movable jaw is selectively changeable; the moveable jaw is connected to a shaft threadably connected to the frame, the shaft positioned at least one of alongside or in-line with the movable jaw; the device forms a wrench, and where the shaft forms a wrench handle; and the guide includes a slot within the frame within which the movable jaw is slideably retained. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A more complete understanding of the present disclosure, and the attendant advantages and features thereof, will be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein: 
         FIG. 1  depicts an open end wrench of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  depicts the wrench of  FIG. 1 , engaging a smaller bolt than in  FIG. 1 , and illustrating internal structures; 
         FIG. 3  depicts a wrench as in  FIG. 1 , with an elongated adjustment shaft; 
         FIG. 4  depicts an exploded view of the wrench of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  depicts a cross section of the frame of  FIG. 4 , taken along line A-A; 
         FIG. 6  depicts a cross section of the movable jaw of  FIG. 4 , taken along line B-B; 
         FIG. 7  depicts the wrench of  FIG. 1 , including a frame brace structure; 
         FIG. 8  depicts a top view of the movable jaw of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  depicts the wrench of  FIG. 1 , including an alternative frame brace structure; 
         FIG. 10  depicts the wrench of  FIG. 1 , including an extended frame which forms a handle; 
         FIG. 11  is a top view of the wrench of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a wrench of  FIG. 1 , including a handle connected to the frame, the handle forming a rounded profile, including access to an adjusting grip within the handle; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of an alternative handle and adjusting grip positioned at an end of the wrench; 
         FIG. 14  depicts a closed end wrench of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 15  depicts the wrench of  FIG. 14 , engaging a larger bolt; 
         FIG. 16  depicts a partially closed end wrench of the disclosure, with an alternate approach angle; 
         FIG. 17  depicts a reinforced, wider version of the wrench of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 18  depicts a top view of the wrench of  FIG. 17 ; 
         FIG. 19  depicts an alternative wrench of the disclosure, including a handle connected to the frame at an offset angle, and a reduced size adjusting shaft; 
         FIG. 20  depicts the wrench of  FIG. 20 , in a two sided form, the second side sized smaller than the first; 
         FIG. 21A  illustrates a geometric arrangement of the fixed and movable faces of wrenches of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 21B  illustrates the geometric arrangement of  FIG. 21 , when a relatively smaller bolt is engaged 
         FIG. 21C  illustrates a relative alignment of the movable faces when engaging different size bolts; 
         FIG. 21D  illustrates a mathematical relationship of fixed and movable faces of a wrench of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 22  depicts a ‘ratcheting’ or auto-releasing embodiment of a closed end wrench of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 23  is a top view of the wrench of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 24  depicts the wrench of  FIG. 22 , in a releasing position, enabling repositioning of the wrench with respect to the bolt, while the wrench is engaged with the bolt; 
         FIG. 25A  is a perspective view of a sliding latch portion of the wrench of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 25B  is a perspective view of a handle of the wrench of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 26  depicts a ‘ratcheting’ or auto-releasing open ended wrench of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 27  is a top view of the wrench of  FIG. 26 ; 
         FIG. 28  is a cross sectional view of the wrench of  FIG. 27 , taken along line A-A of  FIG. 27 ; 
         FIG. 29  depicts the wrench of  FIG. 26 , showing hidden lines; 
         FIG. 30  is a hex head socket of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 31  is a bottom view of the socket of  FIG. 30 ; 
         FIG. 32  is a bottom view of the socket of  FIG. 30 , illustrating engagement of a smaller bolt than is shown in  FIG. 31 ; 
         FIG. 33  is a side view of the socket of  FIG. 30 ; 
         FIG. 34  is a bottom view of the socket of  FIG. 30 , with hidden lines removed; 
         FIG. 35  is a perspective view of the movable jaw of the socket of  FIG. 30 ; 
         FIG. 36  depicts an adjusting shaft of the socket of  FIG. 30 ; and 
         FIG. 37  is a perspective view of the socket of  FIG. 30 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     As required, detailed embodiments are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples and that the systems and methods described below can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present subject matter in virtually any appropriately detailed structure and function. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather, to provide an understandable description of the concepts. 
     The terms “a” or “an”, as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term plurality, as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term another, as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “coupled,” as used herein, is defined as “connected,” although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. 
     The disclosure relates to wrenches which grasp and turn the head of a nut, bolt, other fastener, or any other object graspable by the various embodiments herein, hereinafter simply fastener  300 . The wrenches being referred to herein generally as  100 , and in variations distinguished with a letter suffix. While the various embodiments are designated with a letter suffix for clarity, it should be understood that among the various embodiments, like numbers refer to like elements, and that the various embodiments of wrench  100  contain common features, as will be understood with reference to the drawings and the accompanying description. 
     With reference to  FIG. 1 , an open-ended embodiment of a wrench  100 A of the disclosure grasps three flat sides and one corner of a hex sided nut, bolt, or fastener head  302 , with pressure. More particularly, a corner and adjacent sides of head  302  are contacted by a movable jaw  120  which drives the head into contact with a fixed jaw  162 , formed as an extension of frame  140 . As can be seen in the exploded view of  FIG. 4 , frame  160  forms a U-shaped channel  144  sized to admit passage of movable jaw  120 . A guide rail  146  extends along at least one side of U-shaped channel  144 , and cooperates with at least one corresponding mating channel  126  to maintain movable jaw  120  within channel  144 , and aligned with fixed jaw  120 . As such, moveable jaw  120  moves along a linear movement axis “A”, as indicated by arrow “A” in  FIG. 3 . 
     Movable jaw  120  includes two faces  122 ,  124  forming an angle of about 120 degrees between them, when wrench  100 A is configured for a hex head bolt, as illustrated. The term ‘about’ is used to indicate that manufacturing tolerances can produce variations in angle, and in consideration that variances of plus or minus a few degrees will still produce a working result, although a substantial deviation from 120 degrees will result in a less satisfactory device in terms of fit and performance. It should be understood that this angle will differ for a five or eight sided head, for example. In this embodiment, as movable jaw  120  slides within channel  144 , face  122  maintains a parallel disposition with respect to face  148  of fixed jaw  142 . To do so, an angular disposition of faces  122  and  124  with respect to axis “A” is defined by an angular disposition of face  148  with respect to such axis. In the embodiment shown, the angle is about 48 degrees, although this angle can be different. For example, a steeper angle which is more perpendicular to the movement axis, or a shallower angle can be used. Each has potential trade-offs in terms of the size and shape of frame  140 , and the bending forces exerted upon frame  140 , and thus a compromise or particular angle can be established for the intended purpose of the wrench, which is determinable by one skilled in the art. 
     As can be seen in the figures, movable jaw  120  and fixed jaw  142  maintain a contact along three sides of a six sided wrench when adjusted to grip a fastener head  302 . A first ‘flat’ of the fastener head  302  (or any other object with engagement faces, such as a nut or plate) is engaged by face  148  of fixed jaw  142 , and a second flat, directly opposite the first flat is engaged by face  122  of movable jaw  120 . The third flat, adjacent to the second flat, is contacted by face  124  of movable jaw  120 , and a shared corner of the fastener head  302  is engaged at an intersection of faces  122  and  124 . 
     As can be seen in  FIGS. 1-3 , an entirety of the first flat is engaged by face  148 , and all or substantially all of the second and third flats are engaged by faces  122  and  124 , through a wide range of bolt sizes. 
     Movement of movable jaw  120  is carried out by an engagement between threads  182  of an adjusting shaft  180  and corresponding threads  150  of a bore  152  passing through frame  140 . A distal end of shaft  180  passes into a bore  128  within moveable jaw  120 , and is rotatably secured by an engagement  184  of shaft  180  and movable jaw  120 , which permits rotation of shaft  180  with respect to movable jaw  120 . In this embodiment, engagement  184  includes a pin  186  passing through movable jaw  120 , pin  186  slideably retained within a groove  188 . It should be understood, however, that engagement  184  can be accomplished by any other known or hereinafter developed method, such as a press fit, or axial screw. In an embodiment, dimensional tolerances of pin  186 , groove  188 , and shaft  180  enable a leading end  194  of shaft  180  to bear upon an interior blind end of bore  128  of moveable jaw  120 , as shaft  180  is rotated and moveable jaw  120  is tightened against nut or fastener  300 . In this manner, tightening stress is not transferred to pin  186 . The pitch of threads  182  can be selected to balance precision and accuracy for a fine pitch against, for example, considerations of manufacturing tolerance and speed of adjustment for a courser/steeper pitch. 
     In the embodiment of  FIGS. 1-9 and 14-18 , shaft  180  forms a lever or handle  190 , and is provided with an enlarged end grip  192 , in this embodiment grip  192  is knurled to improve a grip of a user&#39;s hand, although other styles of grip shapes can be employed, including padded or ergonomic shaped grips. In the embodiment of  FIGS. 17-18 , it can be seen that shaft  180 A is enlarged, to provide greater strength for high torque applications. Accordingly, bore  152 A of frame  140  is larger, and bore  128 A of movable jaw  120  are correspondingly larger. 
     In an embodiment, grip  192  is affixed to shaft  180 , whereby rotation of grip  192  causes a corresponding rotation of shaft  180 , and a corresponding movement along axis “A”. In this manner, as handle  190  is moved radially with respect to a rotational axis of nut or fastener  300 , grip  192  can be simultaneously rotated about axis “B” to maintain a firm and secure engagement with the nut or bolt head by maintaining pressure of an engagement of movable jaw  120  against the first, second, and third flats and the shared corner. Moreover, the tightening force exerted by rotation of the grip drives the distal end of shaft  180  directly and linearly towards fastener  300 , in turn driving the nut or bolt head directly and linearly into fixed jaw  142 , resulting in an efficient transfer of tightening energy. Accordingly, a smooth coordinated motion can both tighten or loosen a nut or bolt, while at the same time maintaining pressure on a grip of the fastener  300 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , a frame bolt  154  passes through a first extending frame portion  156 , then through a slot  130  within moveable jaw  120 , and then is threaded into a second extending frame portion  158  which is opposite the first extending portion  156 . Bolt  154  includes a head or enlarged portion  154 A, whereby when bolt  154  is threaded into the second extending portion  158 , extending portions  156  and  158  are prevented from moving away from each other during the application of high amounts of torque during use of the wrench. This substantially reduces a potential distortion or spreading of frame  140 , which could result in an imprecise grip of fastener head  302 . Instead of a threaded connection to the second extending frame portion  158 , bolt  154  or a pin can be inserted by a press fit, or can be attached between frame portions  156 ,  158  by any known manner. Slot  130  is shown in dashed lines in  FIG. 7 , and can be seen in  FIG. 8 , in an embodiment of movable jaw  120  as viewed from below. 
     In an alternative embodiment, shown in  FIG. 9 , a frame brace  162  can join first and second extending frame portions  156 ,  158 , thereby eliminating a requirement of bolt  154  passing through movable jaw  120 . Brace  162  can be formed together with a remainder of frame  140 , or can be attached later by any known means, including for example welding, brazing, stamping, rivets, or threaded connection. Frame brace  162  can be placed on one or both sides of frame  140 , but in either case, operates in a similar manner to bolt  154 , with respect to preventing or reducing separation of extending frame portions  156 ,  158 . 
     It should be understood that a configuration providing for bolt  154  or frame brace  162  is not needed in all applications, and that sufficient strength can be obtained by a choice of sufficiently strong materials and part thickness. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS. 3-4 and 7-8 , and particularly with reference to  FIG. 4 , guide rail  146 A is shorter than guide rail  146 . In this manner, there is sufficient space within frame  140  to insert movable jaw  120 . More particularly, a lower mating channel  126 , as viewed in  FIG. 4 , is engaged with guide  146  by inserting movable jaw  120  at an angle. Next, movable jaw  120  can be rotated about this connection to align an upper mating channel  126  with guide rail  146 A, and then movable jaw  120  can be moved rearwards towards grip  192  to fully engage guide rails  146 ,  146 A. In an embodiment, guide rail  146 A is not used, and guide rail  146  and shaft  180  maintains movable jaw  120  in position throughout a range of motion of movable jaw  120 . In another embodiment, frame bolt  154 , and/or frame brace  162  provides further stabilization, together with frame guide  146 . Finally, neither guide rail is used, and stabilization throughout the range of motion is provided by shaft  180  and frame bolt  154  and/or brace  162 . 
     With respect to installing movable jaw  120  within frame  140 , it should be understood that movable jaw can be installed prior to, or during formation of frame  140 , and therefore guide rail  146 A can be longer than illustrated. Additionally, brace elements can have a shape or location which would not be possible in a configuration where movable jaw  120  must be installed after formation of frame  140 . 
     In the embodiment of  FIGS. 10-12 , handle  190 A of wrench  100 B is formed from an extension of frame  140  forming a frame perimeter  164  which extends around shaft  180  and grip  192 , thereby serving to bear some or all of the bending force imparted by applying torque to the wrench to tighten or fastener  300 . In this manner, shaft  180  can have a smaller diameter, or can be made with lighter materials, or can generally be weaker than if it forms a load bearing part of handle  190 . Grip  192  can also be smaller, but is advantageously wider than handle  190 A so that it may be easily manipulated and rotated to adjust a position of moveable jaw  120 . In  FIG. 10 , it may be seen that a screw or pin  164  is connected to frame  190 A and rotatably supports grip  192 . Although pin  164  adds further strength and support to shaft  180  and grip  192 , it is not a requirement for proper operation of wrench  100 A. 
     In  FIG. 12 , frame perimeter  164 C of wrench  100 C functions in a similar manner to frame perimeter  164  of  FIGS. 10-11 , however frame perimeter  164 A forms a portion of a cylinder or other more ergonomic shape relative to the hand. Portions of the cylinder are removed to expose grip  192 C, which is enlarge relative to grip  192 , so that grip  192 C can be rotated to adjust movable jaw  120  as described herein. In this embodiment, torque can be applied to both frame perimeter  164 C and grip  192 C. 
     In  FIG. 13 , wrench  100 D includes an enlarged grip portion  192 D 1  that is fixed to frame  140  to not move with respect to frame  140 . In this manner, grip  192 D 1  provides a sturdy, ergonomic, non-rotating grip for applying large amounts of torque to wrench  100 D. In addition, a second grip portion  192 D 2  is connected to shaft  180  to rotate shaft  180  to adjust movable jaw  120  as described herein. A size and shape of grip portion  192 D 2  can be coordinated with grip portion  192 D 2 , so that they can be gripped together by a single hand comfortably. For example, they can each form part of a single handgrip profile, such as a palm shaped profile. 
       FIG. 13A  illustrates one possible way for grip portions  192 D 1  and  192 D 2  to be connected to transfer tightening and loosening torque from grip  192 D 2  to  192 D 1 , and ultimately to frame  140 , in this example a rotating dove-tail connection  196 . It can be seen that shaft  180  does not contact grip portion  192 D 1 , and is affixed to, or is unitary with, grip portion  192 D 2 . In the embodiment of  FIG. 13A , shaft  180  engages threads within movable jaw  120  to move jaw  120  along longitudinal axis “A”, and whereby shaft  180  does not move longitudinally along the length of wrench  100 D. In an alternative embodiment, grip portion  192 D 2  moves longitudinally in connection with shaft  180 , and thereby separates and moves away from grip portion  192 D 1 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 14 , frame  140 E forms a box wrench having a closed end  198 , which can result in a frame which is stronger than an open end, and which therefore has less of a requirement for frame bolt  154  or frame brace  162  in high stress applications. However, these elements can be combined with frame  140 E if desired. It should further be understood that a closed head configuration such as frame  140 E can be used with any other embodiment of the disclosure, and further that throughout this application, aspects of the various embodiments can be exchanged to form a wrench which has the desired attributes of each aspect. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates wrench  100 E with a larger fastener  300  relative to  FIG. 14 . As can be seen comparing  FIGS. 14 and 15 , wrench  100 E forms a longer handle when a larger bolt is engaged, due to shaft  180  threadably backing away from frame  140 E. This provides a user with progressively greater leverage as larger bolts are tightened or loosened, when greater leverage is typically needed or desired. 
       FIG. 16  illustrates an alternative partially closed wrench head shape in the form of flare nut driver frame  140 F, which includes an opening  200 , and a hooked frame end  202 . In this embodiment, movable jaw engages two flats of bolt head  302  as described with respect to other embodiments herein, and urges bolt head  302  against frame end  202  which engages the bolt head  302  upon an additional two bolt head  302  flats, against frame  140 F faces  148  and  204  of fixed jaw  142 F.  FIGS. 17-18  illustrate the wrench of  FIG. 15 , however have a larger shaft  180 , bore  152 A, and frame  140 , to better withstand bending forces applied to handle  190 . 
       FIG. 16  shows a nut being engaged, to illustrated that either a nut or a bolt type fastener  300  can be similarly engaged with any of the embodiments herein. A notch  178  at a junction of faces  122  and  124  of movable jaw  120  is illustrated in  FIGS. 14-16 , and can be provided with any movable jaw  120  of the disclosure. Notch  178  enables a wedging action of faces  122  and  124 , and additionally prevents a corner of bolt head  302  from landing against movable jaw  120 , which could stop advancement of faces  122  and  124  into wedged contact with mating faces of bolt head  302 . 
       FIG. 16  illustrates an additional alternative of the disclosure, in which the approach angle is inverse with respect to, for example, the wrench of  FIG. 17 . More particularly, as described in detail with respect to  FIGS. 21A-21D , movable jaw  120  can move along a line which defines an angle of either 19.1 or 40.9 degrees with respect to face  204 . In  FIG. 16 , the approach is 19.1 degrees with respect to face  204 , and 40.9 degrees with respect to face  148 , which is the opposite with respect to  FIG. 17 , and other illustrations herein. 
     While either approach can be used in a particular application, there is an advantage with respect to a flare style wrench, such as is shown in  FIG. 16 , to use the shallower angle with respect to face  204 . In so doing, during rotation, bolt or nut  300  engages face  122  at a greater angle with respect to face  204 , and is therefore less likely to migrate along face  122  in response to the generally greater possible flexure of face  204 , in this particular configuration. In addition, the engagement of face  122  drives bolt  300  deeper into head  140 , in a direction of face  148 , where there is greater material strength. 
     The approach angle chosen dictates other dimensions of frame  140  in order to meet the constraints described in  FIGS. 21A-21D , and therefore the selection of approach considers the relative stress weaknesses of various portions of a particular configuration and application for frame  140 . 
     In  FIG. 19 , frame  140 G functions as described with respect to frame  140 F, with the following distinctions. Particularly, shaft  180  has been reduced in size, and grip  192  has been reduced in size to form an adjusting knob  192 G which can be rotated to adjust movable jaw  120 . Knob  190 G is not intended to be pushed or pulled to rotate wrench  100 G about a fastener; instead, handle  190 G attaches to and extends away from frame  140 G and does not include either shaft  180  or grip  192 . Handle  190 G can have any known or hereinafter developed configuration for a wrench handle, which is sufficiently strong, and is advantageously ergonomic. A particular angular disposition of handle  190 G can be dependent upon an angular disposition of shaft  180 . In the embodiments shown, and as described elsewhere herein, shaft  180  has a particular longitudinal axis which relates to an optimal path for moveable jaw  120  with respect to faces  148 ,  204  of fixed jaw  142 , for a maximum range of bolt head  302  sizes which can be engaged by wrench  100 . However, other angular dispositions of these elements may be selected which may yield a more limited range of bolt sizes, but which provide other advantages, such as a reduced size of frame  140 , greater strength, an alternative geometry/outer shape of frame  140 , or an alternative angle between bolt head  302  and handle  190 G, as examples. Additionally, an angular orientation of shaft  180  can be selected which enables a different placement of handle  190 G than as shown. 
       FIG. 20  illustrates an alternative embodiment of the wrench  100  of  FIG. 19 , in which a frame  140 G and associated components is placed at each end of handle  190 H. In an embodiment, each of frames  140 G is a different size, and is therefore configured to engage a different range of bolt head  302  sizes. It should be understood that any frame  140  and associated parts which collectively form a wrench  100  head of the disclosure can be joined together in a common handle  190 H in the manner shown in  FIG. 20 , to form a combination wrench. 
     In the closed and partially closed end configurations of wrench  100 , the two faces  122 ,  124  of movable jaw  120  are positioned on an opposite side of bolt  300  with respect to engagement of faces  148 ,  204 . In all embodiments, including open ended wrenches  100  such as are shown in  FIGS. 1-11 , bolt head  302  is wedged against at least one fixed face. 
     More particularly, as can be seen in  FIGS. 14-25 and 30-36 , and with further reference to  FIG. 21A-D , bolt head  302  is driven into a progressively narrowing space  166 , thereby applying a pinching or wedging effect upon bolt head  302 , reducing a likelihood of relative rotation between wrench  100  and bolt head  302  during tightening or loosening, resulting in a reduced possibility of stripping head  302 . In order for movable jaw  120  to drive the widest range of bolt head  302  sizes directly into this narrowing space, while maintaining engagement between faces  148  and  204  of the fixed jaw (or only face  148  of an open end style wrench), and faces  122  and  124  of the movable jaw  120 , movable jaw moves along a path “A” which is at a defined angle θ with respect to a planar intersection of faces  148  and  204 , which is 19.1 degrees. 
     Thus, movable jaw is guided by shaft  180  and/or guide rails  146 , or is otherwise guided to follow a path along line “A” that lies at an angle of about 19 degrees with respect to a plane formed by either fixed face  148  or  204 . Thus, if the 19 degree angle is formed between fixed face  148  and line “A”, movable jaw face  124  will lie at an angle of 120 degrees relative to adjacent fixed face  148 . Likewise, if the 19 degree angle is formed between fixed face  204  and line “A”, movable jaw face  124  will lie at an angle of 120 degrees relative to adjacent fixed face  204 . Line “A” additionally intersects a corner formed by faces  122  and  124  of movable jaw  120 . 
     A model of movement of movable jaw  120  with respect to faces  148  and  204  is illustrated in  FIGS. 21A-21D , in which  FIGS. 21A-21B  illustrate a predetermined desired range of bolt head sizes. Movable jaw  120  engages two adjacent faces of bolt head  302 , and fixed faces  148  and  204  engage two opposite faces of bolt head  302 . Faces  148  and  204  form an angle of about 60 degrees between them, corresponding to the 120 degree internal angles formed by bolt head  302  faces. 
     It is desired that fixed jaw  142  and movable jaw  120  ‘land’ against and fully engage with pressure against the faces of bolt  300 , subjecting bolt head  302  to a pinching or wedging force. The wedging force is exerted along the entire surface of the contacted faces of bolt head  302  with continuously increasing pressure, as pressure applied by movable jaw  120  is increased, and as the wrench is rotated to tighten bolt  300 . 
     It should be understood that forming an angle between line “A” and either of the fixed jaw faces  148 ,  204  need not be exactly 19.1 degrees for wrench  100  to function. As a practical matter, to control costs, parts of wrench may be fabricated using manufacturing methods which may not produce movement along an angle of exactly 19.1 degrees, particularly in light of tolerance stack-up amount several parts. Provided there is an ability for movable jaw  120  to wobble or displace along its guide path, it may still be possible to fully engage bolt  300  if the angle is merely about 19 degrees, for example it may be varied to any extent plus or minus up to 6 or more degrees, for example by several tenths or several degrees, but the range of bolt  300  sizes that can be accommodated may be reduced, as well as the reliability and strength of wrench  100 , as the deviation from an angle of 19.1 degrees increases. 
     Likewise, the 60 degree angle formed between fixed faces  148  and  204  can vary, as can the 120 degree angle formed between the faces  122 ,  124  of movable jaw  120 . An angle of about 60 degrees or about 120 degrees, respectively, may be sufficient. For example these 60 and 120 degree angles could be increased or decreased to any extent up to 6 or more degrees, for example several tenths or several degrees, but with progressively diminished wrench performance as the angle deviates. 
     As shown in  FIG. 21B , a size of movable jaw  120  is maximized in accordance with its position when the smallest bolt head  302  is engaged. In this manner, the largest possible contact area of faces  122  and  124  are realized when engaging the largest bolt head  302 . The smallest and largest bolt head  302  sizes are therefore predetermined in accordance with considerations of a desired maximum frame  140  size, and minimum sizes for faces  122  and  124 , as well as other considerations, such as weight, overall size, cost, precision, and strength, for example. 
     Because wrench  100  does not engage opposite points of bolt head  302 , movement of movable jaw  120  along line “A” is not aligned through opposed points of bolt head  302 . The geometry of an optimized wrench of the disclosure is illustrated in  FIG. 21D . A right triangle  176 , shown with long dashes, is formed by the intersection of fixed faces  204  and  148 , a bolt  302  face, and an opposed point of bolt head  302 .  FIG. 21D  is flipped vertically with respect to  FIGS. 21A-21D , and other illustrations, to orient triangle  176  for ease of understanding. It should be understood, however, that the orientation of  FIG. 21D  could be employed in any of the embodiments herein, resulting in a changed orientation of frame  160  and handle  190 , but a like manner of operation and use. 
     For open ended wrenches, such as are shown in  FIGS. 1-3 , for example, the angle formed between fixed face  148  and arrow “A” is the complement of the 19.1 degree angle, or 60 degrees minus 19.1 degrees, or 40.9 degrees, as face  204  is not provided. 
     The angular orientation of jaw movement along line “A” with respect to faces  148  and  204  is governed by angle θ, which can be derived as follows. If a length of a face of bolt head  302  is taken to be x, then an adjacent side of triangle  176  is formed by an equilateral triangle having all sides equal to x, a side of bolt head  302  which is equal to x, and a side of a 30-60-90 degree right triangle. It is known that the relationship of the sides of a 30-60-90 right triangle are 1:sqrt(3):2, which gives us a length of 0.5x for the last portion of the adjacent leg of triangle  176 . Once we have the adjacent and opposite lengths of triangle  176 , we can calculate θ as:
 
tan(θ)=0.866/2.5, or θ=tan −1 (0.3464)=19.1 degrees.
 
     Alternatively, we can calculate the hypotenuse using the Pythagorean theorem and calculate θ as:
 
sin(θ)=0.866/2.64574, or θ=sin −1 (0.3273)=19.1 degrees.
 
     The particular engagement of bolt head  302  described above enables an open ended wrench, as compared with engaging opposing corners of bolt head  302 , in that an open ended wrench of the disclosure is practical and secure, and is particularly so with large bolts (e.g. as illustrated in  FIG. 3 ), where bending forces are greatest. Corner engaging wrenches of the prior art, which engage opposing corners of a bolt head, are not practical as open ended wrenches, as the bolt head, regardless of size, is always positioned at the very tip of the wrench, where it can easily be twisted out, particularly for large size bolts. Wrenches which perpendicularly engage a flat of a bolt head, cannot form an open ended wrench. Additionally, such prior art wrenches, as well as monkey/pipe wrenches of the prior art, do not provide the wedging action of the disclosure as shown and described herein. Wedging is superior to a mating landing face, because variations due to manufacturing tolerances can be taken up by small displacements in bolt head  302  within the wedge, until a maximal contact surface is obtained. Likewise, as opposed to a monkey wrench, in which the nut or bolt can move horizontally within the jaw, there is no such movement in a wrench  100  of the disclosure. Further, as the nut or bolt is moved as far forward as possible to an end of the wrench, a required clearance forward of the nut or bolt is minimized. 
       FIG. 22-25  illustrate a closed end ‘ratcheting’ or auto-releasing wrench  100 J of the disclosure, in which rotation of wrench  100 J in a first direction engages and rotates fastener  300 , and rotation of wrench  100 J in a second opposite direction enables rotation of wrench  100 J with respect to fastener  300 . Accordingly, a fastener  300  can be tightened without lifting wrench  100 J off of fastener  300 , and movement of wrench  100 J to tighten or loosen fastener  300  can be carried out solely by movement of wrench  100 J along a plane. 
     More particularly, frame  140 J includes a closed end  198 J including closed ended jaw  148 J which is connected to a U-shaped base portion  210  of frame  140 J at pivot  212 . A movable pivot  214  connects closed ended jaw  148 J, at an opposite end with respect to pivot  212 , to a sliding latch portion  216 . Movement of sliding latch portion  216  is confined to a path defined by a rail  218  extending from U-shaped base portion  210  which mates with a corresponding channel  220  within sliding latch portion  216 . Channel  220  can be formed on opposite sides of sliding latch portion  216 , and rail  218  can be formed on both inner sides of base portion  210 , which forms a channel within which sliding latch portion  216  moves. As with other rail/channel engagements herein, it should be understood that the relative locations of the rail and channel can be reversed; in this instance, for example, rail  218  can be formed in sliding latch portion  216  and channel  220  can be formed in base portion  210 . 
     A spring  224  connects sliding latch portion  216  and handle  190 J, urging sliding latch portion  216  into mating engagement with pivotable latch portion  232  which extends from handle  190 J. Spring  224  can alternatively be connected between sliding latch portion  216  and U-shaped base portion  210 . While spring  224  is illustrated as a tension spring, it should be understood that sliding latch portion  216  can be biased into mating engagement with pivotable latch portion  232  by other spring types as would be understood within the art. For example, a torsion or clock spring can be associated with pivot  212 . 
     Sliding latch portion  216  includes a catch  230 , and pivotable latch portion  226  includes a hook  234  which matingly engage when sliding latch portion  216  and pivotable latch portion are in mating contact. To disengage catch  230  and hook  234 , handle  190 J is pushed in an upwards direction as viewed in the figures, to rotate handle  190 J counter-clockwise about handle pivot  226 . A torsion or clock spring  228  can be connected to base portion  210  and handle  190 J to bias handle  190 J to rotate clockwise to engage catch  230  and hook  234 . A ledge  254  is formed within U-shaped frame portion  210  braces handle  190 J and forms a limit to clockwise rotation of handle  190 J with respect to frame  140 P. Ledge  254  cooperates with pivot  228  when tightening fastener  300  to brace handle  190 J when applying torque to frame  140 P. A stop  256  formed as a protrusion upon frame  140 J limits rotation of handle  190 J with respect to frame  140 J during release of fastener  300 . For the embodiment of  FIGS. 22-25 , either one of face  148  or  204  can be positioned adjacent to sliding latch portion  216 . 
     To use wrench  190 J to tighten a fastener  300 , bolt head  302  is positioned within frame  140 J and is contacted by frame faces  148 ,  204  and movable jaw faces  122 ,  124 , as described elsewhere herein. End grip  192  is grasped by a hand of the user and wrench  100 J is rotated clockwise along the plane of the page, as viewed in the figures, to move wrench  100 J through a tightening stroke. Due to engagement of catch  230  and hook  234 , sliding latch portion  216  is unable to move, and wrench  100 J functions in the manner of fixed wrench  140 E of  FIGS. 14-15 , for example. 
     With reference to  FIG. 24 , At the end of a stroke, it may be desired to further turn or tighten fastener  300 . Accordingly, wrench  100 J is moved in an opposite, or counter-clockwise direction as viewed in the figures. This movement disengages hook  234  from catch  230 , and wrench  100 J is rotated with respect to bolt head  302 . More particularly, the corners of bolt head  302  push against closed ended jaw  148 J, which is displaceable due to the disengagement of sliding latch portion  216  and pivotable latch portion  226 . Closed ended jaw  148 J pivots about pivot  212 , which causes pivot  214  to be displaced along the plane of the page as viewed, which also causes displacement of sliding latch portion  216  along rail  218 . This causes an enlargement of the enclosed portion of frame  140 J, which enables rotation of fastener  300  within frame  140 J. 
     When the relative rotation of wrench  100 J and fastener  300  is sufficient to realign faces of bolt head  302  with frame faces  148 ,  204  and movable jaw faces  122 ,  124 , bolt faces no longer push against close ended jaw  148 J. As such, an interior dimension of the enclosed portion of frame  140 J can once again be reduced in size as spring  224  pulls sliding latch portion  216  back into latched engagement with pivotable latch portion  232 . Once reengaged, frame handle  190 J can once again be rotated in a clockwise direction to continue turning or tightening fastener  300  as described above. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 25A-25B , sliding latch portion  216  and pivotable latch portion  232  are shown in perspective, including respective pivot apertures  236 ,  238 . A pin, not shown, passes through corresponding apertures in movable pivot  214  and handle  190 J, although pivots  212 ,  214 , and  226  can be formed by any known means. Notches  240 ,  242  can be formed in sliding latch portion  216  and pivotable latch portion  232 , respectively, to form a space for spring  224 . 
     Referring now to FIGS.  FIG. 26-29 , an open end ‘ratcheting’ or auto-releasing wrench  100 P of the disclosure is illustrated, in which rotation of wrench  100 P in a first direction engages and rotates fastener  300 , and rotation of wrench  100 P in a second opposite direction enables rotation of wrench  100 P with respect to fastener  300 .  FIGS. 26 and 28  are shown in a cross-section taken through line A-A of  FIG. 27 , and  FIG. 29  is a hidden line view of the wrench of  FIG. 26 . 
     Frame  140 P pivotally supports handle  190 P at pivot  226 , as described with respect to  FIG. 21 ; however, hook  234  is replaced with a cam  244  extending away from pivot  226 . A ramped cam follower channel  246  within a surface of locking block  248 . As handle  190 P is moved, cam  244  slides along follower channel  246  to move locking block  248  closer or farther from pivot  226 . Movement of locking block  248  is constrained by mating rails  250  extending inward from frame portion  210 P, which travel within guide channels  252  formed within locking block  248 . Alternatively, as with other rail/channel sliding engagements herein, locking block  248  can include a protruding rail which engages a channel in frame portion  210 P. When handle  190 P is rotated about pivot  226  clockwise as viewed in  FIG. 26 , it will eventually rest upon ledge  254 . In this position, cam  244  has pushed locking block under pivoting fixed jaw  142 P, thereby preventing pivoting fixed jaw  142 P from rotating about pivot  214 P. In this configuration, wrench  100 P functions in a manner as described with respect to the wrench of  FIG. 1  when tightening. 
     When handle  190 P is moved counter-clockwise about pivot  226 , as viewed in  FIG. 26 , cam  244  slides within cam follower channel  246  to move locking block  248  closer to pivot  226  and out from under pivoting fixed jaw  142 P. When block  248  has been moved in this manner, pivoting fixed jaw  142 P becomes free to rotate about pivot  214 P. In this configuration, when wrench  100 P is rotated with respect to fastener  300 , the corners of bolt head  302  push against pivoting fixed jaw  142 P, moving face  148  away from movable jaw  120 , enabling rotation of fastener  300  with respect wrench  100 P. As with wrench  100 J of  FIG. 21 , further rotation of wrench  100 P will realign the bolt head  302  faces with face  148  and movable jaw faces  122  and  124 . Spring  258  biases pivoting fixed jaw  142 P into engagement with fastener  300 , and positions pivoting fixed jaw  142 P to enable locking block  248  to be moved under pivoting fixed jaw  142 P by cam  244 , whereby tightening can be carried out by further clockwise movement of handle  190 . 
     A biasing element  260  of any type, in this example a spring, connects between frame  140 P or handle  190 P and fixed jaw  142 P, to urge fixed jaw  142 P to rotate about pivot  214 P, clearing a space under of fixed jaw  142 P so that block  252  can slide under fixed jaw  142 P. When it is desired to locked fixed jaw  142 P, handle  190 P is pulled back to contact ledge  254 , while causing block  248  to slide under lock jaw  142 P, thereby locking jaw  142 P in position for a subsequent tightening or loosening operation. 
     Wrenches  100 J and  100 P can be flipped over vertically, as viewed in the Figures, and re-engaged with a fastener  300 , whereby fastener  300  can be tightened or loosened in an opposite rotational direction. As in  FIG. 22 , a stop  256  limits rotation of handle  190 P when releasing fastener  300 , and ledge  254  limits rotation when tightening or loosening. While releasing wrench  100 J and  100 P enable movement of one or both of fixed faces  142 ,  204 , they are still fixed in the sense that when they are retained in a tightening orientation, they remain fixed with respect to movement of movable jaw faces  122 ,  124 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 30-36 , a socket  100 S is useable with a standard socket driver handle or ratchet driver, for example a one-fourth, three eighths, or half-inch socket driver, of any style. A tool engagement  270  is configured to engage with the standard driver, and includes mating parts as understood within the art, including for example a detent engageable with a spring biased locking bearing of the driver. Alternatively, shaft  180  can be extended to form a handle  190  as described herein, or a handle  190  (not shown) can be affixed to socket  100 S in any manner, for example to form a Saltus wrench. Similarly, a releasing mechanism as described in  FIG. 22-25 or 26-29  can be adapted to socket  100 S. 
     Socket  400  includes analogous parts to the various forms of wrench  100  described herein, and which have analogous functions. This includes movable jaw  120 S, adjusting shaft  180 , end grip  192 S, frame  140 S, fixed engagement faces  148 ,  204 , movable engagement faces  124 ,  122  and threaded bore  152 S. For compactness, bore  128 S is oriented to be adjacent to movable jaw faces  122  and  124 , repositioning shaft bore  152 S adjacent to movable and fixed jaws  120 S and  142 S. A recess  272  is formed within the socket frame  140 S, so that fingers can rotate grip  192 S to rotate shaft  180  and change a position of movable jaw  120 S. Rotation of grip  192 S causes movable jaw to move towards or away from fixed engagement faces  148 ,  204 , to engage a bolt head  302  as described elsewhere herein. 
     A slot  274  is formed within socket frame  140 S, and guides movement, and prevents rotation, of movable jaw  120 S. Shaft  180  prevents tilting of movable jaw  120 S. Threads  182  can be formed to limit axial movement of movable jaw  120 S, or a land or other obstruction can be formed within frame  140 S.  FIG. 32  illustrates movable jaw  120 S at a lower limit of movement, in this example, whereby movable jaw  120 S remains in contact with at least one sidewall  276  of slot  274 . 
     For compactness, it may be seen that shaft  180  is positioned alongside or side-by-side with movable jaw  120 S, instead of in-line behind movable jaw  120 S as in other embodiments herein. It should be noted, however, that this side-by-side arrangement can be carried out in the other embodiments, as well. 
     Wrenches of the disclosure can be made of any material with sufficient hardness, durability, and strength for a particular application, as well as resistance to damage due to liquids or other substances found within a particular use context. Materials can include metal or plastic, or a composite material, for example. Some or all of a wrench of the disclosure can be made by casting, forging, machining, molding, stamping, grinding, 3D printing, extrusion, welding, brazing, or any other manufacturing method appropriate to the shapes shown and described, with consideration to hardness, durability, and strength, as well as attractiveness and precision. Some or all of the components shown and described can be provided with an attractive and durable finish, such as by chroming, painting, coating, knurling or stamping. 
     All references cited herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described herein above. In addition, unless mention was made above to the contrary, it should be noted that all of the accompanying drawings are not to scale. There are many different features to the present disclosure and it is contemplated that these features may be used together or separately. Thus, the disclosure should not be limited to any particular combination of features or to a particular application of the disclosure. Further, it should be understood that variations and modifications within the spirit and scope of the disclosure might occur to those skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains. Accordingly, all expedient modifications readily attainable by one versed in the art from the disclosure set forth herein that are within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure are to be included as further embodiments of the present disclosure.