Non-conductive magnetic retrieval tool
A non-conductive retrieval tool with a magnet connected a handle by a linkage assembly. The linkage assembly can be adjustable to maintain an orientation or position based on manipulation of a user, and can be made of a non-conductive material to safely operate in electrical applications. In some embodiments, the tool can include a socket portion near the magnet to apply torque to work pieces.
1 . A retrieval tool including a handle, the retrieval tool comprising:
a linkage assembly including:
a starting link coupled to the handle and including a starting link round portion opposite the handle;
a connecting link including opposing first and second connecting link frustoconical portions, wherein the first connecting link frustoconical portion is frictionally coupled to the starting link round portion;
a first mid-link including a mid-link round portion frictionally coupled to the second connecting link frustoconical portion;
a second mid-link coupled to the first mid-link via one or more third mid-links, and including a mid-link frustoconical portion; and
a terminal link including a terminal link round portion frictionally coupled to the mid-link frustoconical portion.
2 . The retrieval tool of claim 1 , wherein the terminal link includes a drive portion opposite the terminal link round portion.
3 . The retrieval tool of claim 2 , wherein the drive portion has a square cross-sectional shape.
4 . The retrieval tool of claim 1 , wherein the terminal link includes a socket portion opposite the terminal link round portion.
5 . The retrieval tool of claim 4 , wherein the socket portion has a cross-sectional shape that is any one of a hexagonal cross-sectional shape, a double-hexagonal cross-sectional shape, and a square cross-sectional shape.
6 . The retrieval tool of claim 4 , wherein the socket portion is shaped to engage a work piece.
7 . The retrieval tool of claim 1 , wherein the terminal link includes a magnet.
8 . The retrieval tool of claim 7 , wherein the magnet is disposed within a housing of the terminal link.
9 . The retrieval tool of claim 8 , wherein the terminal link includes a wall within the housing on a side of the housing opposite the terminal link round portion.
10 . The retrieval tool of claim 9 , wherein the terminal link includes a barrier opposite the wall and forming the housing.
11 . The retrieval tool of claim 8 , wherein the housing is cylindrically-shaped.
12 . The retrieval tool of claim 1 , wherein the terminal link includes collapsible jaws.
13 . The retrieval tool of claim 1 , wherein the linkage assembly is at least one of constructed of an electrically non-conductive material and coated with an electrically non-conductive material.
14 . A retrieval tool including a handle, the retrieval tool comprising:
a linkage assembly including:
a starting link coupled to the handle and including a starting link frustoconical portion opposite the handle;
a first mid-link including a mid-link round portion frictionally coupled to the starting link frustoconical portion;
a second mid-link coupled to the first mid-link via one or more third mid-links, and including a mid-link frustoconical portion; and
a terminal link including a terminal link round portion frictionally coupled to the mid-link frustoconical portion.
15 . The retrieval tool of claim 14 , wherein the terminal link includes a drive portion opposite the terminal link round portion.
16 . The retrieval tool of claim 14 , wherein the terminal link includes a socket portion opposite the terminal link round portion.
17 . The retrieval tool of claim 16 , wherein the socket portion is shaped to engage a work piece.
18 . The retrieval tool of claim 14 , wherein the terminal link includes a magnet.
19 . The retrieval tool of claim 18 , wherein the magnet is disposed within a housing of the terminal link.
20 . The retrieval tool of claim 14 , wherein the linkage assembly is at least one of constructed of an electrically non-conductive material and coated with an electrically non-conductive material.