Torque wrench adaptor tool assembly and methods of operating the same

A system for engaging a threaded workpiece, said system comprising:

• a torque tool;
• an adaptor tool used in combination with said torque tool, said adaptor tool comprising:
• a locking pin;
• a main body portion defining a hook portion and an aperture, said main body portion configured to pivot about a first pivot pin, said aperture configured to receive the torque tool;
• a first link having a first end, an opposing second end, and a first arcuate contact face, wherein said first end includes a pin hole configured to receive said locking pin, said locking pin configured to be removably engaged to said hook portion;
• a second link having a first end, an opposing second end, and a second arcuate contact face;
• wherein said second link first end is pivotally coupled to said main body portion via said first pivot pin;
• and
• at least a third link having a first end, an opposing second end, and a third arcuate contact face, wherein said first link, said second link, and said at least a third link are pivotally coupled end-to-end such that said first arcuate contact face, said second arcuate contact face, and said third arcuate contact face define a circular opening having a center axis, wherein said circular opening is configured to receive the threaded workpiece such that a rotational force applied to said main body portion facilitates rotation of said adaptor tool and the threaded workpiece about said center axis.

A method of engaging a threaded workpiece, said method comprising:

• providing an adaptor tool comprising:
• a locking pin;
• a main body portion defining a hook portion and an aperture, wherein the main body portion is configured to pivot about a pivot pin;
• a first link having a first end, an opposing second end, and a first arcuate contact face, wherein said first end includes a pin hole configured to receive the locking pin;
• a second link having a first end, an opposing second end, and a second arcuate contact face, wherein said second link first end is pivotally coupled to said main body portion via said pivot pin;
• at least a third link having a first end, an opposing second end, and a third arcuate contact face, wherein said first link, said second link, and said at least a third link are pivotally coupled end-to-end;
• encircling the first, second, and at least third links around the threaded workpiece such that the first arcuate contact face, second arcuate contact face, and third arcuate contact face define a circular opening which contains the threaded workpiece;
• removably coupling the locking pin to the hook portion of the main body portion such that the first, second, and at least third links lock around the threaded workpiece;
• inserting a torque tool into the aperture of the main body portion;
• and
• applying a moment force to the main body portion to constrict the opening and bring the first, second, and third arcuate contact faces into a friction fit with the workpiece;
• and
• changing the angle of engagement between the hook portion and the locking pin during the application of the moment force to rotate the adaptor tool about a center axis of the opening to facilitate tightening or loosening the threaded workpiece.