Patent Publication Number: US-2023134778-A1

Title: Adjustable Pliers

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     Pliers are a tool formed by two halves with handles at a proximal end and working tips at a distal end. Pliers can be used to grip various work pieces. 
     Overview 
     In a first embodiment, adjustable pliers are disclosed. The adjustable pliers include a first plier half and a second plier half coupled to the first plier half. The first plier half includes a first handle and a first working tip opposite the first handle. The second plier half includes a second handle, a second working tip opposite the second handle, and a slot extending along a path from a first end of the path to a second end of the path. The path extends in a first direction at the first end of the path and extends in a second direction substantially parallel to the first direction at the second end of the path. The first end of the path and the second end of the path are aligned with a first axis, and the second plier half extends from the second handle to the second working tip in a direction that is substantially aligned with a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis. A performance parameter is defined, at least in part, by a relationship between dimensions of the slot or of the second working tip. The adjustable pliers also include a stud disposed in the slot, the stud being configured to be fixed with respect to the first plier half. When the stud is disposed at the first end of the slot and as the first and second handles are pushed toward each other, the first and second working tips are configured to move away from each other. When the stud is disposed at the second end of the slot and as the first and second handles are pushed toward each other, the first and second working tips are configured to move toward each other. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the path of the slot extends: (i) from the first end of the path to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path with respect to the first axis by a lateral offset, (ii) from the lateral outermost position to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path with respect to the second axis by a longitudinal offset, and (iii) from the most proximal position to the second end of the path, where the lateral outermost position is disposed on a first curved portion of the path, and where the most proximal position is disposed on a second curved portion of the path. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the performance parameter is defined, at least in part, by a first ratio of (i) the lateral offset and (ii) one half of a width of the first end of the slot. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the first ratio has a value in a range of 0.55 to 1.10. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the performance parameter is defined, at least in part, by a second ratio of (i) the longitudinal offset and (ii) a length of the second working tip along the second axis. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the second ratio has a value in a range of 1.03 to 2.28. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the performance parameter is defined, at least in part, by a third ratio of (i) an offset between the first end of the path and a center point of a radius of curvature of the second curved portion and (ii) a distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the third ratio has a value in a range of 0.26 to 0.35. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the performance parameter is defined by at least of two of: a first ratio of (i) the lateral offset and (ii) one half of a width of the first end of the slot, a second ratio of (i) the longitudinal offset and (ii) a length of the second working tip along the direction, and a third ratio of (i) an offset between the first end of the path and a center point of a radius of curvature of the second curved portion and (ii) a distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the performance parameter is defined, at least in part, by a fourth ratio of a radius of curvature of the first curved portion and one half of the width of the first end of the slot. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the fourth ratio has a value of 1.19 or 2.19. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the path of the slot is continuously curved. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the second curved portion extends to the second end of the path. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the performance parameter is defined, at least in part, by a first ratio of (i) the lateral offset and (ii) one half of a width of the first end of the slot, and wherein the first ratio has a value of 0.57 or 0.60. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the performance parameter is defined, at least in part, by a second ratio of (i) the longitudinal offset and (ii) a length of the second working tip along the second axis, and wherein the second ratio has a value of 1.35, 1.92, 1.60, or 2.26. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the performance parameter is defined, at least in part, by a third ratio of (i) an offset between the first end of the path and a center point of a radius of curvature of the second curved portion and (ii) a distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, and wherein the third ratio has a value of 0.27 or 0.33. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the performance parameter is defined, at least in part, by a fifth ratio of a radius of curvature of the second curved portion and one half of the width of the first end of the slot. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the fifth ratio has a value of 3.48 or 4.38. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the path of the slot includes a first linear portion between the first curved portion and the second curved portion, and a second linear portion between the second curved portion and the second end of the path. 
     In an embodiment of the adjustable pliers, the performance parameter is defined, at least in part, by a first ratio of (i) the lateral offset and (ii) one half of a width of the first end of the slot, and wherein the first ratio has a value of 1. 
     Other embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by reading the following detailed description, with reference where appropriate to the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Example embodiments are described herein with reference to the drawings. 
         FIG.  1    shows a perspective view of adjustable pliers in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  2 A  shows a top plan view of adjustable pliers in a first working position in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  2 B  shows a top plan view of adjustable pliers in a second working position in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  3    shows another top plan view of adjustable pliers in the first working position coupled to a snap-ring in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  4    shows another top plan view of adjustable pliers in the second working position coupled to a snap-ring in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  5 A  shows another top plan view of adjustable pliers in the first working position in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  5 B  shows a side view of adjustable pliers in the first working position in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  6 A  shows a top plan view of adjustable pliers in a first transitioning position in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  6 B  shows a side view of adjustable pliers in the first transitioning position in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  7 A  shows a top plan view of adjustable pliers in a second transitioning position in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  7 B  shows a side view of adjustable pliers in the second transitioning position in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  8 A  shows a top plan view of adjustable pliers in a third transitioning position in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  8 B  shows a side view of adjustable pliers in the third transitioning position in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  9 A  shows another top plan view of adjustable pliers in the second working position in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  9 B  shows a side view of adjustable pliers in the second working position in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  10 A  shows a top plan view of aspects of a second plier half having a continuously curved slot in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  10 B  shows a side view of aspects of the second plier half shown in  FIG.  10 A  in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  10 C  shows another top plan view of aspects of the second plier half shown in  FIG.  10 A  in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  11    shows a top plan view of aspects of a second plier half having another continuously curved slot in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  12 A  shows a top plan view of aspects of a second plier half having a slot including two linear portions in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  12 B  shows a side view of aspects of the second plier half shown in  FIG.  12 A  in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  12 C  shows another top plan view of aspects of the second plier half shown in  FIG.  10 A  in accordance with an example embodiment. 
         FIG.  13    shows a top plan view of aspects of a second plier half having another slot including two linear portions in accordance with an example embodiment. 
     
    
    
     The drawings are schematic and not necessarily to scale. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     I. INTRODUCTION 
     This description describes several example embodiments, at least some of which pertain to adjustable pliers, such as retaining ring, or snap-ring pliers. Example pliers are formed by two halves with handles at a proximal end and working tips at a distal end. The two halves are rotatably coupled to one another via a stud. Squeezing the handles together moves the working tips. In a standard plier configuration, the plier halves cross a longitudinal axis that runs from the proximal end to the distal end, such that the working tip of each plier half (or halve) is on the opposite side of the longitudinal axis from the handle of that plier half. In this case, squeezing the handles together will move the working tips toward one another, similar to scissors. On the other hand, it is also possible to configure pliers to have a “reverse” or expanding configuration, such that squeezing the handles together moves the working tips away from each other. For example, where the working tip and handle of the first plier half is disposed on one side of the longitudinal axis and the working tip and handle of the second plier half is disposed on the other side of the longitudinal axis, squeezing the handles together will cause the working tips to separate. Adjustable pliers described herein may transition between the standard plier configuration and reverse configuration without separating the first plier half and the second plier half. 
     The standard and reverse plier configurations can be useful for various different applications. For example, both configurations can be used for placing and removing retaining rings, such as snap-rings. Pliers that close when squeezed may be used to contract an internal retaining ring for insertion inside a conduit or another ring-shaped structure. On the other hand, pliers that open when squeezed may be used to expand an external retaining ring and allow the external retaining ring to be slipped over a shaft or similar structure. 
     Example embodiments described herein include adjustable pliers having a second plier half with a slot for receiving a stud that is coupled to a first plier half. The slot extends on a path from a first end to a second end, where the first and second ends of the path are aligned with a lateral axis, or a first axis. Moreover, the second plier half extends from a handle to a working tip in a direction that is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis, or a second axis, that is perpendicular to the lateral axis. A performance parameter is defined, at least in part, by a relationship between dimensions of the slot or of a working tip of the second plier half. In some embodiments, the performance parameter is one or more ratios of dimensions of the slot or of the working tip of the first plier half. Applicant has determined that the performance parameters described herein help to achieve better performance of the adjustable pliers. Beneficially, performance parameters described herein may enable a user to operate the adjustable pliers in a first working position and a second working position, such that a force on the adjustable pliers during operation pushes the stud into a slot end, rather than along the slot path. Further, performance parameters described herein may enable the first working tip and second working tip to cross in the transition between first and second working positions without tipping or contacting each other or with reduced tipping or contacting. As yet another example, performance parameters described herein may enable a smooth transition between the first working position and second working position. 
     II. EXAMPLE ADJUSTABLE PLIERS 
       FIGS.  1 - 4    show an embodiment of adjustable pliers that can be adjusted to have either a standard configuration or a reverse configuration by repositioning the location of the stud with respect to the plier halves. For example,  FIG.  1    shows adjustable pliers  100  that include a first plier half  120  and a second plier half  140  that are coupled through a stud  160 . The first plier half  120  includes a first handle  122 , a first working tip  132 , and a first joint body  130  between the first handle  122  and the first working tip  132 . Likewise, the second plier half  140  includes a second handle  142 , a second working tip  152 , and a second joint body  150  between the second handle  142  and the second working tip  152 . 
       FIG.  2 A  shows adjustable pliers  100  in a first working position. The adjustable pliers  100  are shown substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis  102  with the first handle  122  and the second handle  142  disposed toward a proximal end  104  of longitudinal axis  102  and the first working tip  132  and the second working tip  152  disposed toward a distal end  106  of longitudinal axis  102 . 
     As the adjustable pliers  100  open and close, the two plier halves  120 ,  140  rotate about the stud  160 . Accordingly, the paths of the first handle  122 , second handle  142 , first working tip  132 , and second working tip  152  as the adjustable pliers  100  are opened and closed are all arcs. However, in view of their respective positions near the proximal end  104  and distal end  106  of the longitudinal axis  102  when the adjustable pliers are being operated, the handles  122 ,  142  and working tips  132 ,  152 , move substantially in a lateral direction illustrated by lateral axis  108 . 
     In some embodiments, the stud  160  may be fixed. Fixed, as used herein, means in a set location with respect to the first plier half  120 . Thus, in some embodiments, the stud  160  is rotatable even though it might be inserted into the first plier half  120  and be held at a particular location in the first plier half  120 . Further, in some embodiments, the stud  160  may be entirely stationary with respect to the first plier half. For example, the stud  160  might be integrally formed with the first plier half  120 . 
     Further, in some embodiments, a force applied to a handle of the adjustable pliers is substantially aligned with first and second directions at ends of a path of the slot. This force on a plier half urges the stud  160 , which is coupled to the other plier half, in the opposite direction, i.e., into the end of the slot. 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  2 A , when the adjustable pliers  100  are arranged in the first position the first handle  122  and the first working tip  132  of the first plier half  120  are both positioned on the same side of the longitudinal axis  102 . Similarly, the second handle  142  and the second working tip  152  are both positioned on the other side of the longitudinal axis  102 . Accordingly, pushing the first handle  122  and the second handle  142  toward one another, also referred to herein as “squeezing” the adjustable pliers (depicted by arrows  190  and  191 ), causes the first working tip  132  and the second working tip  152  to move away from one another (depicted by arrows  192  and  193 ). On the other hand, when the adjustable pliers  100  are arranged in a second working position, as shown in  FIG.  2 B , the first plier half  120  and the second plier half  140  cross the longitudinal axis  102 . Thus, the first handle  122  is positioned on one side of the longitudinal axis  102  while the first working tip  132  is positioned on the other side of the longitudinal axis  102 . Likewise, the second handle  142  of the second plier half  140  is positioned on one side of the longitudinal axis  102  while the second working tip  152  is positioned on the other side of the longitudinal axis  102 . In this configuration, pushing the first handle  122  and the second handle  142  toward one another causes the first working tip  132  and the second working tip  152  to move toward one another (depicted by arrows  194  and  195 ). 
     In order to switch the adjustable pliers  100  from the first position shown in  FIG.  2 A  to the second position shown in  FIG.  2 B , the relative positions of the plier halves  120 ,  140  and stud  160  may be adjusted. This adjustment may be facilitated by moving the stud  160  through different positions in a slot  170  in the second plier half  140  that retains the stud  160 . For example, when the adjustable pliers  100  are in the first working position shown in  FIG.  2 A , which is associated with a reverse configuration, where squeezing the handles  122 ,  142  causes the working tips  132 ,  152  to separate, the stud  160  is disposed at a first end  172  of the slot  170 . On the other hand, when the stud  160  is moved to a second end  174  of the slot  170 , the adjustable pliers  100  are in the second working position shown in  FIG.  2 B , which is associated with a standard configuration where squeezing the handles causes the working tips to come together. 
     In both positions, the force on the second handle and the second working tip, during operation of the adjustable pliers is in a lateral direction, as shown in  FIGS.  3  and  4   . For example, in  FIG.  3   , where the adjustable pliers  100  are in the first working position, the second handle  142  is being pushed toward the first handle  122 , i.e. to a first left direction  196 , and the expanded external snap-ring  202  is trying to close, i.e., pushing the second working tip  152  also to a second left direction  198  parallel to the first left direction  196 . In  FIG.  4   , where the adjustable pliers  100  are in the second working position, the second handle  142  is again being pushed toward the first handle  122 , i.e., to the first left direction  196 , and the internal snap-ring  204  is trying to expand, i.e., pushing on the second working tip  152  also to the second left direction  198 . 
     Thus, during operation of the adjustable pliers  100  when in either the first working position or second working position, the second handle  142  is pushing on a right side of the stud  160 . In order to hold the adjustable pliers  100  in either of the two working positions, both ends of the slot  170  may be advantageously closed on the right side and a path of the slot  170  may extend at least partially toward the left side. Accordingly, the force on the adjustable pliers  100  during operation pushes the stud  160  into one of the ends of the slot, rather than along the path of the slot. 
     The adjustable pliers may transition from the first working position to the second working position.  FIGS.  5 A and  5 B  show the adjustable pliers  100  in the first working position,  FIGS.  9 A and  9 B  show the adjustable pliers  100  in the second working position, and  FIGS.  6 A to  8 A and  6 B to  8 B  show the adjustable pliers transitioning from the first working position to the second working position. 
     In the transition between the first and second working positions, the stud  160  moves along a path  180  of the slot  170 . In particular, in  FIG.  6 A , the adjustable pliers  100  are in a first transitioning position, where the stud  160  is in a first transitioning position on path  180  of the slot  170 . In the first transitioning position, the stud  160  is closer to a first end  172  of the slot  170  than the second end  174  of the slot  170 . Further, in  FIG.  7 A , the adjustable pliers  100  are in a second transitioning position, where the stud  160  is in a second transitioning position on the path  180  of the slot  170 . The second position in the path  180  is closer to the second end  174  of the slot  170  than the first position in the path  180 . Moreover, in  FIG.  8 A , the adjustable pliers  100  are in a third transitioning position, where the stud  160  is in a third transitioning position on the path  180  of the slot  170 . In the third transitioning position, the stud  160  is closer to the second end  174  of the slot  170  than the first end  172  of the slot  170 . 
     In the transition between the first and second working positions, the working tips  132  and  152  move relative to each other. In particular, the first working tip  132  and the second working tip  152  cross without tipping or contacting each other, as shown in  FIGS.  6 B to  8 B . 
       FIGS.  10 A to  10 C  show aspects of a second plier half  1040  having a slot  1070  and a second working tip  1052 . The slot  1070  has a path  1080  that is continuously curved. The second working tip  1052  has a cross-sectional length C. 
     The slot  1070  in the second plier half  1040  is formed by a bore having a radius, such that the slot  1070  has a width. As illustrated in  FIG.  10 A , the path  1080  includes a first end  1082  and a second end  1088 . As shown in  FIG.  10 C , the path  1080  extends in a first direction  1062  at the first end  1082  of the path  1080  and extends in a second direction  1064  substantially parallel to the first direction  1062  at the second end  1088  of the path  1080 . The first end  1082  and the second end  1088  of the path  1080  are aligned on a lateral axis  1008 . 
     From the first end  1082  of the path  1080 , the path  1080  extends to a lateral outermost position  1084  that is spaced from the first end  1082  of the path  1080 , with respect to the lateral axis  1008 , by a lateral offset B. At the lateral outermost position  1084 , the path  1080  of the slot  1070  extends along a first curved portion  1083  (see  FIG.  10 C ). 
     From the lateral outermost position  1084 , the path  1080  of the slot  1070  extends to a most proximal position  1086  that is spaced from the first end  1082  of the path  1080 , with respect to a longitudinal axis  1002 , by a longitudinal offset D. The longitudinal offset D allows the second working tip  1052  to pass a working tip of a first plier half, and is thus greater than a cross-sectional length of the second working tip  1052 , as described above. At the most proximal position  1086  of the path  1080 , the path  1080  extends along a second curved portion  1087  (see  FIG.  10 C ). 
     Thus, the path  1080  extends from the first end  1082  to the lateral outermost position  1084 , from the lateral outermost position  1084  to the most proximal position  1086 , and from the most proximal position  1086  to the second end  1088 . In some embodiments, the most proximal position  1086  is between the first end  1082  and second end  1088  with respect to the lateral axis  1008 . As shown in  FIGS.  10 A and  10 C , the lateral outermost position  1084  is disposed on the first curved portion  1083 , and the most proximal position is disposed on the second curved portion  1087 . Further, the second curved portion  1087  extends to the second end  1088 . 
     A performance parameter may be defined, at least in part, by a first ratio of the lateral offset B and one half of the width of the slot  1070 , which may be represented as radius R A. In some embodiments, the bore radius may be the same across the slot  1070 . In other embodiments, the bore radius may vary. The first ratio may be referred to as a hook ratio. In some embodiments, the first ratio defines a hook shape of the slot, which holds the orientation of the second plier half  1040  and first plier half in the first working position and second working position. 
     Further, a performance parameter may be defined, at least in part, by a second ratio of the longitudinal offset D and the cross-sectional length C. The second ratio may be referred to as a tip movement ratio. In some embodiments, the second ratio defines clearance for the second working tip  1052  and the working tip of the first plier half to cross in the transition between the first and second working positions. Moreover, in some embodiments, the crossing of the working tips may be achieved without tipping or contacting each other or with reduced tipping or contacting. Further, in some embodiments, a smooth transition between the first working position and second working position may be achieved. In some embodiments, the performance parameter is defined by both the first ratio and the second ratio. 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  10 A , there is a distance E between the first end  1082  of the path  1080  and the second end  1088  of the path  1080 , along the lateral axis  1008 . Further, a center point  1081  of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion  1087  is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis  1008 , between the first end  1082  of the path  1080  and the second end  1088  of the path  1080 . There is an offset F, along the lateral axis  1008 , between the first end  1082  of the path  1080  and the center point  1081  of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion  1087 . Put another way, the offset F is also the distance between the first end  1082  of the path  1080  and the most proximal position  1086  of the path  1080  with respect to the lateral axis  1008 . 
     A performance parameter is defined, at least in part, by a third ratio of (i) the offset F and (ii) the distance E. The third ratio defines the relative position of the most proximal position  1086  between the first end  1082  of the path  1080  and the second end  1088  of the path  1080  with respect to the lateral axis  1008 . In some embodiments, the performance parameter is defined by at least two of the first ratio, the second ratio, and the third ratio. Further, in some embodiments, the performance parameter is defined by the first ratio, the second ratio, and the third ratio. 
     The first ratio, second ratio, and third ratio may have a range of values. For example, the first ratio may have a value in a range of around 0.55 to around 1.10, including 0.55 to 1.10. “Around,” as used in herein, means above or below the stated numerical value by a variance of 10 percent. As another example, the second ratio may have a value in a range of around 1.03 to around 2.28, including 1.03 to 2.28. As yet another example, the third ratio may have a value in range of around 0.26 to around 0.35, including 0.26 to 0.35. 
       FIG.  11    shows aspects of a second plier half  1140  having a slot  1170 . The slot  1170  has a path  1180  that is continuously curved. As illustrated in  FIG.  11   , the path  1180  includes a first end  1182  and a second end  1188 . The path  1080  extends in a first direction at the first end  1082  of the path  1080  and extends in a second direction substantially parallel to the first direction at the second end  1188  of the path  1180 . The first end  1182  and the second end  1188  of the path  1180  are aligned with a lateral axis  1108 . 
     Second plier halves and slots described herein may have different shapes based on the values of the first ratio, second ratio, or third ratio. For example, a second plier half and slot may take the form of or be similar in form to the second plier half  1040  and slot  1070  when the first ratio has a value of around 0.55, the second ratio has a value of around 1.03, and the third ratio has a value of around 0.26. As another example, a second plier half and slot may take the form of or be similar in form to the second plier half  1140  and slot  1170  when the first ratio has a value of around 1.10, the second ratio has a value of around 2.28, and the third ratio has a value of around 0.35. 
     A performance parameter may be defined, at least in part, by a fourth ratio of a radius of curvature R G of the first curved portion  1083  and radius R A. In some embodiments, the performance parameter is defined by at least by at least two of the first ratio, the second ratio, the third ratio, and fourth ratio. Further, in some embodiments, the performance parameter is defined by the first ratio, the second ratio, the third ratio, and the fourth ratio. In some embodiments, the fourth ratio has value of around 1.19 or around 2.19. 
     Further, a performance parameter may be defined, at least in part, by a fifth ratio of a radius of curvature R H of the second curved portion  1087 . In some embodiments, the performance parameter is defined by at least two of the first ratio, the second ratio, the third ratio, the fourth ratio, and the fifth ratio. Further, in some embodiments, the performance parameter is defined by the first ratio, the second ratio, the third ratio, the fourth ratio, and the fifth ratio. In some embodiments, the fifth ratio has a value of around 3.48 or around 4.38. 
       FIGS.  12 A to  12 C  show aspects of a second plier half  1240  having a slot  1270  and a second working tip  1252 . The slot  1270  has a path  1280  and includes two linear portions. The second working tip  1252  has a cross-sectional length C. 
     The slot  1270  in the second plier half  1240  is formed by a bore having a radius, such that the slot  1270  has a width. One half of the width of the slot  1270  may be represented as radius R A. In some embodiments, the bore radius may be the same across the slot  1270 . In other embodiments, the bore radius may vary. As illustrated in  FIG.  12 A , the path  1280  includes a first end  1282  and a second end  1288 . As illustrated in  FIG.  12 C , the path  1280  extends in a first direction  1262  at the first end  1282  of the path  1280  and extends in a second direction  1264  substantially parallel to the first direction  1262  at the second end  1288  of the path  1280 . The first end  1282  and the second end  1288  of the path  1280  are aligned with a lateral axis  1208 . 
     From the first end  1282  of the path  1280 , the path  1280  extends to a lateral outermost position  1284  that is spaced from the first end  1282  of the path  1280 , with respect to the lateral axis  1208 , by a lateral offset similar to the lateral offset B. There is an angle K between the lateral outermost position  1284  and the lateral axis  1208 . In some embodiments, the angle K is around  60  degrees. At the lateral outermost position  1284 , the path  1280  of the slot  1270  extends along a first curved portion  1283  having a radius of curvature R G. 
     From the lateral outermost position  1284 , the path  1280  of the slot  1270  extends to a most proximal position  1286  that is spaced from the first end  1282  of the path  1280 , with respect to a longitudinal axis  1202 , by a longitudinal offset similar to longitudinal offset D. The longitudinal offset allows the second working tip  1252  to pass a working tip of a first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the second working tip  1252 , as described above. As shown in  FIG.  12 C , at the most proximal position  1286  of the path  1280 , the path  1280  extends along a second curved portion  1287  having a radius of curvature R H. 
     Thus, the path  1280  extends from the first end  1282  to the lateral outermost position  1284 , from the lateral outermost position  1284  to the most proximal position  1286 , and from the most proximal position  1286  to the second end  1288 . There is an angle J between the second end  1288  of the path  1280  and the lateral axis  1208 . In some embodiments, the angle J is around  60  degrees. The slot  1270  includes a first linear portion  1285  between the first curved portion  1283  and the second curved portion  1287 , and a second linear portion  1289  between the second curved portion  1287  and the second end  1288  of the path  1280 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  12 A , there is a distance between the first end  1282  of the path  1280  and the second end  1288  of the path  1280 , along the lateral axis  1208  similar to the distance D. Further, a center point  1281  of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis  1208 , between the first end  1282  of the path  1280  and the second end  1288  of the path  1280 . There is an offset, along the lateral axis  1208 , between the first end  1282  of the path  1280  and the center point  1281  of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion  1287  similar to the offset F. 
     A performance parameter for the adjustable pliers illustrated in  FIG.  12 A to  12 C  may be defined the same or similar way as the performance parameter is defined for the adjustable pliers illustrated in  FIG.  10 A to  10 C . In some embodiments, the first ratio has a value of around 1. Further, in some embodiments, the second ratio has a value of around 1.05. Moreover, in some embodiments, the third ratio has a value around of 0.34. Further, in some embodiments, the fifth ratio has a value around 1.39 or around 2.49. 
       FIG.  13    shows aspects of a second plier half  1340  having a slot  1370 . The slot  1370  has a path  1380  and includes two linear portions. As illustrated in  FIG.  13   , the path  1380  includes a first end  1382  and a second end  1388 . The path  1380  extends in a first direction at the first end  1382  of the path  1380  and extends in a second direction substantially parallel to the first direction  1362  at the second end  1388  of the path  1380 . The first end  1382  and the second end  1388  of the path  1380  are aligned with a lateral axis  1308 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  5 B , the joint body  130  of the first plier half  120  may have an exterior surface  136  on one side of the adjustable pliers  100  and an interior surface  138  that faces the second plier half  140 . Likewise, the joint body  150  of the second plier half  140  may have an exterior surface  156  on the other side of the adjustable pliers  100  and an interior surface  158  that faces the first plier half  120 . In some embodiments, the interior surface  138  of the joint body  130  of the first plier half  120  may be positioned against the interior surface  158  of the joint body  150  of the second plier half  140 , such that the interior surface  138  of the joint body  130  of the first plier half  120  slides over the interior surface  158  of the joint body  150  of the second plier half  140  as the adjustable pliers  100  are opened and closed. In other embodiments, the interior surface  138  of the joint body  130  of the first plier half  120  may be spaced from the interior surface  158  of the joint body  150  of the second plier half  140  by a spacer disposed on the stud or otherwise positioned between the interior surface  138  of the joint body  130  of the first plier half  120  and the interior surface  158  of the joint body  150  of the second plier half  140 . 
     In some embodiments, the interior surface  138  of the joint body  130  of the first plier half  120  and the interior surface  158  of the joint body  150  of the second plier half  140  may each be flat, such that the first plier half  120  and the second plier half  140  engage one another on a flat interface. Such a configuration may allow the first plier half  120  and the second plier half  140  to be rotated with respect to one another about the stud  160  without tipping or contacting. Moreover, the stud  160  may be moved from the first end  172  of the slot  170  to the second end  174  of the slot  170  without the need to tip either the first plier half  120  or the second plier half  140  with respect to one another. Beneficially, this allows the user to adjust the pliers  100  without the need for any complicated movements of either plier half. 
     A performance parameter may be defined, at least in part, by a sixth ratio of a width of the joint body along the lateral axis  108  and a distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. The sixth ratio may enable the adjustable pliers to fit inside equipment of a work piece, such as a shaft having a snap-ring. Adjustable pliers having a smaller width of the joint body may be able to fit into smaller spaces more easily. In some embodiments, the performance parameter is defined by at least two of the first ratio, the second ratio, the third ratio, the fourth ratio, the fifth ratio, and the sixth ratio. Further, in some embodiments, the performance parameter is defined by the first ratio, the second ratio, the third ratio, the fourth ratio, the fifth ratio, and the sixth ratio. In some embodiments, the sixth ratio has a value of around 2.08, around 2.16, or around 1.96. 
     As described herein, the performance parameter may be defined by the first ratio, second ratio, third ratio, fourth ratio, fifth ratio, sixth ratio, or combinations of the ratios. The use of more ratios to define the performance parameter may provide better or more reliable performance of adjustable pliers. For example, use of the first ratio, second ratio, and third ratio provides better or more reliable performance of adjustable pliers than use of only the first ratio and second ratio. 
     Working tips  132 ,  152  may each include a respective insertion pin  134 ,  154 , as shown in  FIG.  2 A . In some embodiments, the working tips  132 ,  152  could also be needle nose tips, or another configuration. 
     In some embodiments, handles  122 ,  142  may each be covered. For example, first handle  122  and/or second handle  142  may be coated with plastic, encased in a rubber sleeve, etc. Further, in some embodiments, handles  122 ,  142  may each have a width. The width of the first handle  122  and/or second handle  142  may provide comfort to a user. The width of first handle  122  is shown, for example, in  FIGS.  5 B to  9 B . 
     III. EXAMPLES 
     The examples that follow are illustrative of specific embodiments of the disclosure. They are set forth for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure. Each of the examples includes a second plier half with a slot for receiving a stud that is coupled to a first plier half, as described above. The slot extends on a path from a first end to a second end, where the first and second ends of the path are aligned with a lateral axis. Moreover, the second plier half extends from a handle to a working tip in a direction that is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis that is perpendicular to the lateral axis. The examples differ in various dimensions, shapes, and ratios. In particular, the slot in each of examples 1-6 is continuously curved, similar to the embodiments shown in  FIGS.  10 A to  10 C . Further, the slot in each of examples 7-8 is continuously curved, similar to the embodiments shown in  FIG.  11   . In contrast, the slot in example 9 includes two linear portions, similar to the embodiments shown in  FIGS.  12 A to  12 C . Further, the slot in each of examples 10-12 includes two linear portions, similar to the embodiments shown in  FIG.  13   . Applicant has determined that with judicious control of selected dimensions and ratios (performance parameters described above), as expressed in the foregoing examples, adjustable pliers can smoothly transition between the first working position and second working position. 
     Example 1 
     In a first example, the adjustable pliers have a pliers size of 3845. The working tips have a tip diameter of 38 thousandths of an inch and a tip angle of 45 degrees. A cross section of the working tip of the second plier half, taken along the longitudinal axis, has a length of 0.17. 
     The slot in the second plier half is formed by a bore having a radius of 0.1005 inches, such that a width of the slot is 0.201 inches. From the first end of the path, the path extends to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the lateral axis, by a lateral offset of 0.057 inches. Accordingly, the ratio of the lateral offset to the bore diameter of the slot is 0.57. At the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends along a first curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.12. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the first curved portion and the radius of the slot bore is 1.19. 
     From the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the longitudinal axis, by a longitudinal offset of 0.23 inches. The longitudinal offset allows the working tip of the second plier half to pass the working tip of the first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half, as described above. Indeed, the ratio the longitudinal offset to the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half is 1.35. At the most proximal position of the path, the path extends along a second curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.35. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion and the radius of the bore of the slot is 3.48. 
     The distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, along the lateral axis, has a length of 0.45. A center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. An offset, along the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion has a length of 0.121 inches. Thus, the ratio of (i) the offset between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion to (ii) the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 0.27. The width of the joint body along the lateral axis is 0.938 inches, such that the ratio of the joint body width to the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 2.08. 
     Example 2 
     In a second example, the adjustable pliers have a pliers size of 3890. The working tips have a tip diameter of 38 thousandths of an inch and a tip angle of 90 degrees. A cross section of the working tip of the second plier half, taken along the longitudinal axis, has a length of 0.12. 
     The slot in the second plier half is formed by a bore having a radius of 0.1005 inches, such that a width of the slot is 0.201 inches. From the first end of the path, the path extends to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the lateral axis, by a lateral offset of 0.057 inches. Accordingly, the ratio of the lateral offset to the bore diameter of the slot is 0.57. At the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends along a first curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.12. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the first curved portion and the radius of the slot bore is 1.19. 
     From the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the longitudinal axis, by a longitudinal offset of 0.23 inches. The longitudinal offset allows the working tip of the second plier half to pass the working tip of the first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half, as described above. Indeed, the ratio the longitudinal offset to the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half is 1.92. At the most proximal position of the path, the path extends along a second curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.35. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion and the radius of the bore of the slot is 3.48. 
     The distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, along the lateral axis, has a length of 0.45. A center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. An offset, along the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion has a length of 0.121 inches. Thus, the ratio of (i) the offset between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion to (ii) the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 0.27. The width of the joint body along the lateral axis is 0.938 inches, such that the ratio of the joint body width to the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 2.08. 
     Example 3 
     In a third example, the adjustable pliers have a pliers size of 4745. The working tips have a tip diameter of 47 thousandths of an inch and a tip angle of 45 degrees. A cross section of the working tip of the second plier half, taken along the longitudinal axis, has a length of 0.17. 
     The slot in the second plier half is formed by a bore having a radius of 0.1005 inches, such that a width of the slot is 0.201 inches. From the first end of the path, the path extends to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the lateral axis, by a lateral offset of 0.057 inches. Accordingly, the ratio of the lateral offset to the bore diameter of the slot is 0.57. At the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends along a first curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.12. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the first curved portion and the radius of the slot bore is 1.19. 
     From the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the longitudinal axis, by a longitudinal offset of 0.23 inches. The longitudinal offset allows the working tip of the second plier half to pass the working tip of the first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half, as described above. Indeed, the ratio the longitudinal offset to the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half is 1.35. At the most proximal position of the path, the path extends along a second curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.35. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion and the radius of the bore of the slot is 3.48. 
     The distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, along the lateral axis, has a length of 0.45. A center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. An offset, along the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion has a length of 0.121 inches. Thus, the ratio of (i) the offset between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion to (ii) the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 0.27. The width of the joint body along the lateral axis is 0.938 inches, such that the ratio of the joint body width to the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 2.08. 
     Example 4 
     In a fourth example, the adjustable pliers have a pliers size of 4790. The working tips have a tip diameter of 47 thousandths of an inch and a tip angle of 90 degrees. A cross section of the working tip of the second plier half, taken along the longitudinal axis, has a length of 0.12. 
     The slot in the second plier half is formed by a bore having a radius of 0.1005 inches, such that a width of the slot is 0.201 inches. From the first end of the path, the path extends to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the lateral axis, by a lateral offset of 0.057 inches. Accordingly, the ratio of the lateral offset to the bore diameter of the slot is 0.57. At the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends along a first curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.12. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the first curved portion and the radius of the slot bore is 1.19. 
     From the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the longitudinal axis, by a longitudinal offset of 0.23 inches. The longitudinal offset allows the working tip of the second plier half to pass the working tip of the first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half, as described above. Indeed, the ratio the longitudinal offset to the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half is 1.92. At the most proximal position of the path, the path extends along a second curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.35. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion and the radius of the bore of the slot is 3.48. 
     The distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, along the lateral axis, has a length of 0.45. A center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. An offset, along the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion has a length of 0.121 inches. Thus, the ratio of (i) the offset between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion to (ii) the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 0.27. The width of the joint body along the lateral axis is 0.938 inches, such that the ratio of the joint body width to the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 2.08. 
     Example 5 
     In a fifth example, the adjustable pliers have a pliers size of 7045. The working tips have a tip diameter of 70 thousandths of an inch and a tip angle of 45 degrees. A cross section of the working tip of the second plier half, taken along the longitudinal axis, has a length of 0.17. 
     The slot in the second plier half is formed by a bore having a radius of 0.1005 inches, such that a width of the slot is 0.201 inches. From the first end of the path, the path extends to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the lateral axis, by a lateral offset of 0.057 inches. Accordingly, the ratio of the lateral offset to the bore diameter of the slot is 0.57. At the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends along a first curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.12. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the first curved portion and the radius of the slot bore is 1.19. 
     From the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the longitudinal axis, by a longitudinal offset of 0.23 inches. The longitudinal offset allows the working tip of the second plier half to pass the working tip of the first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half, as described above. Indeed, the ratio the longitudinal offset to the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half is 1.35. At the most proximal position of the path, the path extends along a second curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.35. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion and the radius of the bore of the slot is 3.48. 
     The distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, along the lateral axis, has a length of 0.45. A center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. An offset, along the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion has a length of 0.121 inches. Thus, the ratio of (i) the offset between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion to (ii) the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 0.27. The width of the joint body along the lateral axis is 0.973 inches, such that the ratio of the joint body width to the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 2.16. 
     Example 6 
     In a sixth example, the adjustable pliers have a pliers size of 7090. The working tips have a tip diameter of 70 thousandths of an inch and a tip angle of 90 degrees. A cross section of the working tip of the second plier half, taken along the longitudinal axis, has a length of 0.12. 
     The slot in the second plier half is formed by a bore having a radius of 0.1005 inches, such that a width of the slot is 0.201 inches. From the first end of the path, the path extends to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the lateral axis, by a lateral offset of 0.057 inches. Accordingly, the ratio of the lateral offset to the bore diameter of the slot is 0.57. At the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends along a first curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.12. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the first curved portion and the radius of the slot bore is 1.19. 
     From the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the longitudinal axis, by a longitudinal offset of 0.23 inches. The longitudinal offset allows the working tip of the second plier half to pass the working tip of the first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half, as described above. Indeed, the ratio the longitudinal offset to the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half is 1.92. At the most proximal position of the path, the path extends along a second curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.35. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion and the radius of the bore of the slot is 3.48. 
     The distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, along the lateral axis, has a length of 0.45. A center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. An offset, along the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion has a length of 0.121 inches. Thus, the ratio of (i) the offset between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion to (ii) the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 0.27. The width of the joint body along the lateral axis is 0.973 inches, such that the ratio of the joint body width to the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 2.16. 
     Example 7 
     In a seventh example, the adjustable pliers have a pliers size of 9045. The working tips have a tip diameter of 90 thousandths of an inch and a tip angle of 45 degrees. A cross section of the working tip of the second plier half, taken along the longitudinal axis, has a length of 0.269. 
     The slot in the second plier half is formed by a bore having a radius of 0.1005 inches, such that a width of the slot is 0.201 inches. From the first end of the path, the path extends to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the lateral axis, by a lateral offset of 0.06 inches. Accordingly, the ratio of the lateral offset to the bore diameter of the slot is 0.6. At the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends along a first curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.22. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the first curved portion and the radius of the slot bore is 2.19. 
     From the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the longitudinal axis, by a longitudinal offset of 0.43 inches. The longitudinal offset allows the working tip of the second plier half to pass the working tip of the first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half, as described above. Indeed, the ratio the longitudinal offset to the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half is 1.6. At the most proximal position of the path, the path extends along a second curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.44. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion and the radius of the bore of the slot is 4.38. 
     The distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, along the lateral axis, has a length of 0.66. A center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. An offset, along the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion has a length of 0.22 inches. Thus, the ratio of (i) the offset between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion to (ii) the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 0.33. The width of the joint body along the lateral axis is 1.296 inches, such that the ratio of the joint body width to the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 1.96. 
     Example 8 
     In an eighth example, the adjustable pliers have a pliers size of 9090. The working tips have a tip diameter of 90 thousandths of an inch and a tip angle of 90 degrees. A cross section of the working tip of the second plier half, taken along the longitudinal axis, has a length of 0.19. 
     The slot in the second plier half is formed by a bore having a radius of 0.1005 inches, such that a width of the slot is 0.201 inches. From the first end of the path, the path extends to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the lateral axis, by a lateral offset of 0.06 inches. Accordingly, the ratio of the lateral offset to the bore diameter of the slot is 0.6. At the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends along a first curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.22. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the first curved portion and the radius of the slot bore is 2.19. 
     From the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the longitudinal axis, by a longitudinal offset of 0.43 inches. The longitudinal offset allows the working tip of the second plier half to pass the working tip of the first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half, as described above. Indeed, the ratio the longitudinal offset to the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half is 2.26. At the most proximal position of the path, the path extends along a second curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.44. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion and the radius of the bore of the slot is 4.38. 
     The distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, along the lateral axis, has a length of 0.66. A center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. An offset, along the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion has a length of 0.22 inches. Thus, the ratio of (i) the offset between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion to (ii) the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 0.33. The width of the joint body along the lateral axis is 1.296 inches, such that the ratio of the joint body width to the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 1.96. 
     Example 9 
     In a ninth example, the adjustable pliers have a pliers size of 9020. The working tips have a tip diameter of 90 thousandths of an inch and a tip angle of 20 degrees. A cross section of the working tip of the second plier half, taken along the longitudinal axis, has a length of 0.556. 
     The slot in the second plier half is formed by a bore having a radius of 0.1005 inches, such that a width of the slot is 0.201 inches. From the first end of the path, the path extends to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the lateral axis, by a lateral offset of 0.1 inches. Accordingly, the ratio of the lateral offset to the bore diameter of the slot is 1. At the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends along a first curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.22. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the first curved portion and the radius of the slot bore is 2.19. 
     From the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the longitudinal axis, by a longitudinal offset of 0.58 inches. The longitudinal offset allows the working tip of the second plier half to pass the working tip of the first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half, as described above. Indeed, the ratio the longitudinal offset to the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half is 1.04. At the most proximal position of the path, the path extends along a second curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.25. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion and the radius of the bore of the slot is 2.49. 
     The distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, along the lateral axis, has a length of 0.66. A center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. An offset, along the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion has a length of 0.225 inches. Thus, the ratio of (i) the offset between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion to (ii) the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 0.34. The width of the joint body along the lateral axis is 1.296 inches, such that the ratio of the joint body width to the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 1.96. 
     Example 10 
     In a tenth example, the adjustable pliers have a pliers size of 4720. The working tips have a tip diameter of 47 thousandths of an inch and a tip angle of 20 degrees. A cross section of the working tip of the second plier half, taken along the longitudinal axis, has a length of 0.351. 
     The slot in the second plier half is formed by a bore having a radius of 0.1005 inches, such that a width of the slot is 0.201 inches. From the first end of the path, the path extends to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the lateral axis, by a lateral offset of 0.101 inches. Accordingly, the ratio of the lateral offset to the bore diameter of the slot is 1. At the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends along a first curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.12. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the first curved portion and the radius of the slot bore is 1.19. 
     From the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the longitudinal axis, by a longitudinal offset of 0.37 inches. The longitudinal offset allows the working tip of the second plier half to pass the working tip of the first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half, as described above. Indeed, the ratio the longitudinal offset to the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half is 1.05. At the most proximal position of the path, the path extends along a second curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.14. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion and the radius of the bore of the slot is 1.39. 
     The distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, along the lateral axis, has a length of 0.45. A center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. An offset, along the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion has a length of 0.155 inches. Thus, the ratio of (i) the offset between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion to (ii) the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 0.34. The width of the joint body along the lateral axis is 0.938 inches, such that the ratio of the joint body width to the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 2.08. 
     Example 11 
     In an eleventh example, the adjustable pliers have a pliers size of 7020. The working tips have a tip diameter of 70 thousandths of an inch and a tip angle of 20 degrees. A cross section of the working tip of the second plier half, taken along the longitudinal axis, has a length of 0.351. 
     The slot in the second plier half is formed by a bore having a radius of 0.1005 inches, such that a width of the slot is 0.201 inches. From the first end of the path, the path extends to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the lateral axis, by a lateral offset of 0.101 inches. Accordingly, the ratio of the lateral offset to the bore diameter of the slot is 1. At the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends along a first curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.12. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the first curved portion and the radius of the slot bore is 1.19. 
     From the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the longitudinal axis, by a longitudinal offset of 0.37 inches. The longitudinal offset allows the working tip of the second plier half to pass the working tip of the first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half, as described above. Indeed, the ratio the longitudinal offset to the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half is 1.05. At the most proximal position of the path, the path extends along a second curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.14. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion and the radius of the bore of the slot is 1.39. 
     The distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, along the lateral axis, has a length of 0.45. A center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. An offset, along the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion has a length of 0.155 inches. Thus, the ratio of (i) the offset between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion to (ii) the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 0.34. The width of the joint body along the lateral axis is 0.973 inches, such that the ratio of the joint body width to the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 2.16. 
     Example 12 
     In a twelfth example, the adjustable pliers have a pliers size of 3820. The working tips have a tip diameter of 38 thousandths of an inch and a tip angle of 20 degrees. A cross section of the working tip of the second plier half, taken along the longitudinal axis, has a length of 0.351. 
     The slot in the second plier half is formed by a bore having a radius of 0.1005 inches, such that a width of the slot is 0.201 inches. From the first end of the path, the path extends to a lateral outermost position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the lateral axis, by a lateral offset of 0.101 inches. Accordingly, the ratio of the lateral offset to the bore diameter of the slot is 1. At the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends along a first curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.12. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the first curved portion and the radius of the slot bore is 1.19. 
     From the lateral outermost position, the path of the slot extends to a most proximal position that is spaced from the first end of the path, with respect to the longitudinal axis, by a longitudinal offset of 0.37 inches. The longitudinal offset allows the working tip of the second plier half to pass the working tip of the first plier half, and is thus greater than the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half, as described above. Indeed, the ratio the longitudinal offset to the cross-sectional length of the working tip of the second plier half is 1.05. At the most proximal position of the path, the path extends along a second curved portion having a radius of curvature of 0.14. The resulting ratio of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion and the radius of the bore of the slot is 1.39. 
     The distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path, along the lateral axis, has a length of 0.45. A center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion is positioned, with respect to the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the second end of the path. An offset, along the lateral axis, between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion has a length of 0.155 inches. Thus, the ratio of (i) the offset between the first end of the path and the center point of the radius of curvature of the second curved portion to (ii) the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 0.34. The width of the joint body along the lateral axis is 0.938 inches, such that the ratio of the joint body width to the distance between the first end of the path and the second end of the path is 2.08. 
     IV. CONCLUSION 
     It should be understood that the arrangements described herein and/or shown in the drawings are for purposes of example only and are not intended to be limiting. As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other arrangements and elements (e.g., machines, interfaces, functions, orders, and/or groupings of functions) can be used instead, and some elements can be omitted altogether. 
     While various aspects and embodiments are described herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein for the purpose of describing embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. 
     In this description, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are used to introduce elements and/or functions of the example embodiments. The intent of using those articles is that there is one or more of the introduced elements and/or functions. 
     In this description, the intent of using the term “and/or” within a list of at least two elements or functions and the intent of using the terms “at least one of,” “at least one of the following,” “one or more of,” “one or more from among,” and “one or more of the following” immediately preceding a list of at least two components or functions is to cover each embodiment including a listed component or function independently and each embodiment including a combination of the listed components or functions. For example, an embodiment described as including A, B, and/or C, or at least one of A, B, and C, or at least one of: A, B, and C, or at least one of A, B, or C, or at least one of: A, B, or C, or one or more of A, B, and C, or one or more of: A, B, and C, or one or more of A, B, or C, or one or more of: A, B, or C is intended to cover each of the following possible embodiments: (i) an embodiment including A, but not B and not C, (ii) an embodiment including B, but not A and not C, (iii) an embodiment including C, but not A and not B, (iv) an embodiment including A and B, but not C, (v) an embodiment including A and C, but not B, (v) an embodiment including B and C, but not A, and/or (vi) an embodiment including A, B, and C. For the embodiments including component or function A, the embodiments can include one A or multiple A. For the embodiments including component or function B, the embodiments can include one B or multiple B. For the embodiments including component or function C, the embodiments can include one C or multiple C. In accordance with the aforementioned example and at least some of the example embodiments, “A” can represent a component, “B” can represent a system, and “C” can represent a symptom. 
     The use of ordinal numbers such as “first,” “second,” “third” and so on is to distinguish respective elements rather than to denote an order of those elements unless the context of using those terms explicitly indicates otherwise. Further, the description of a “first” element, such as a first plate, does not necessitate the presence of a second or any other element, such as a second plate.