CPC B67B 7/15 (2013.01) [B67B 7/182 (2013.01); G01B 11/26 (2013.01); G01D 5/20 (2013.01)] | 30 Claims |
1. An apparatus for imparting rotational torque upon a substantially cylindrical object, comprising:
a coupling assembly having a substantially circular surface having a diameter approximately equal to that of the substantially cylindrical object wherein the coupling is adapted to receive the substantially cylindrical object; and
a plurality of fingers extending from the substantially circular surface wherein a proximate end of each finger is attached to the coupling and a distal end extends away from the coupling;
wherein each finger includes a spline at least partially recessed within a chamber therein, wherein a first end of the spline is pivotally retained in the distal end of each finger, and a second end of the spline adjacent the coupling is biased so that the second end is urged outward from the finger that retains spline; and
wherein each spline is adapted to grip a surface of the substantially cylindrical object, when the substantially cylindrical object is received between the fingers so that rotation of the coupling causes rotation of the substantially cylindrical object.
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