The invention comprises a hydraulic rescue tool
which is useful in extricating victims from traffic accidents. The tool can perform three
basic functions: pushing, pulling, and cutting. The tool comprises a pair of pivotably
mounted arms connected to each other within a common yoke. The arms are forced together or
apart by a hydraulicly operated piston. Attached to the arms are a pair of cutting blades.
The arms are made of a graphite laminate composite material or air craft aluminum for
increased strength
The invention is a high-power portable cutting
tool which is particularly effective in cutting through sheet metal. The tool can thus be
used for extricating accident victims from wreckage. The tool is operated by hydraulic
power, and has one movable blade and one stationary blade. The movable blade is curved,
and is mounted so as to close onto the stationary blade. The curvature of the movable
blade is such that its initial contact with the stationary blade occurs at its free end.
The stationary blade is formed on an anvil, anchored within the frame of the tool. The
anvil is sufficiently long that its end extends beyond the end of the movable blade. The
anvil is anchored within a slot formed in the cover portion of the frame, and is locked
into position with a dowel. The mounting of the anvil within the slot is such that the
forces exerted on the blade are directed against the heavy cover, and not against the
dowel.
