Wherever large forces have to be applied over short distances it is useful to employ a force multiplier device. Very large transmission ratios are, according to the present invention, obtained by interruption of the axis of rotation (2) and insertion of an only slightly displaced force transmission axis (4). The force transmission axis (4) can be continuously displaced to both sides of the axis of rotation (2) by means of positioning facilities, preferable an adjusting screw (5) or two wedges. This way variable force generation is obtained with a widely variable range of transmission ratio.The invention can be employed e.g. for the manufacture and operation of presses, clamping, bending and tension devices.