EP3760378A1 - Tool bit with reduced diameter torsion zones - Google Patents
Tool bit with reduced diameter torsion zones Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3760378A1 EP3760378A1 EP20190507.2A EP20190507A EP3760378A1 EP 3760378 A1 EP3760378 A1 EP 3760378A1 EP 20190507 A EP20190507 A EP 20190507A EP 3760378 A1 EP3760378 A1 EP 3760378A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- sleeve
- tool bit
- bit
- floating sleeve
- floating
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
- B25B23/00—Details of, or accessories for, spanners, wrenches, screwdrivers
- B25B23/0007—Connections or joints between tool parts
- B25B23/0035—Connection means between socket or screwdriver bit and tool
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
- B25B15/00—Screwdrivers
- B25B15/001—Screwdrivers characterised by material or shape of the tool bit
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
- B25B15/00—Screwdrivers
- B25B15/001—Screwdrivers characterised by material or shape of the tool bit
- B25B15/004—Screwdrivers characterised by material or shape of the tool bit characterised by cross-section
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
- B25B23/00—Details of, or accessories for, spanners, wrenches, screwdrivers
- B25B23/02—Arrangements for handling screws or nuts
- B25B23/08—Arrangements for handling screws or nuts for holding or positioning screw or nut prior to or during its rotation
- B25B23/12—Arrangements for handling screws or nuts for holding or positioning screw or nut prior to or during its rotation using magnetic means
Definitions
- a coil spring 130 surrounds a portion of the body 112 and is disposed between the body 112 and the retraction collar 114.
- the coil spring 130 abuttingly engages a clip 144 which is received in a groove 145 around a mid-portion of the body 112 and terminates as an integrally formed clip 134 that is disposed in the angular slot 126 and is designed to releasably engage a recess 38 in a hex or polygonal-shaped bit tip 40 in the same manner as the embodiment illustrated in Figures 3 and 4 .
- the internal annular sleeve 132 attaches to the rear portion of the retraction collar 114.
- the floating sleeve 232 can be removed by applying a slight force in a forward direction to overcome the retaining force of the retainer 230 within the elongated annular recess 228. Upon removal of the floating sleeve 232, the reversible bit assembly 210 can be removed from the socket 204 so that the bit drivers 222, 224 can be chosen for use. In another embodiment, similar to the embodiments described above, the floating sleeve 232 can be moved to a parked position in which the retainer 230 engages the socket 204 or a parking groove in the socket 204, rearward of the annular recess 228 to facilitate easier removal of the bits from the sleeve 212.
- the body 472 also includes an annular groove 502 located at an intermediate location along the body 472.
- the annular groove 502 is disposed in the exterior surface of the body and is elongated in the axial direction so as to receive a C-shaped hog ring 504 that is received in an annular recess 506 on the interior of the floating sleeve 474.
- the C-shaped hog ring 504 can travel axially along the length of the annular groove 502 to allow the floating sleeve 474 to float in a forward and rearward direction.
- the annular groove 502 has forward and rearward shoulders that limit the axial movement of the floating sleeve.
- the floating sleeve 510 includes an elongated annular recess 512 on an outer surface thereof and a pair of tapered window openings 514 extending through the sleeve 510 opposite one another within the elongated annular recess 512.
- the window openings 514 each receive a ball 516 therein and a spring band 518 is received within the elongated annular recess 512 over top of the balls 516 to secure the balls 516 within the tapered window openings 514.
- the balls 516 are designed to be received in a reduced diameter portion 306 of the tool bit 300 between the forward and rearward shoulders 308, 310 to limit the axial movement of the floating sleeve 510 in the forward and rearward directions.
- first and second shank portions 924, 926 Adjacent the first and second working portions 904, 908 are first and second shank portions 924, 926, each of which is disposed between the respective working portion 904, 908 and reduced diameter portion 912, 914.
- the shank portions 924, 926 each have a hex-shaped cross-section and are interrupted by an annular groove 928, 930.
- the first shank portion 924 is configured to be retained in a tool holder of a fastening tool when the second working region 908 is being used to drive a fastener.
- the second shank portion 926 is configured to be retained in a tool holder of a fastening tool when the first working region 904 is being used to drive a fastener.
- Disposed between the reduced diameter portions 912, 914 is an intermediate portion 932 also having a hex-shaped cross-section.
- first and second shank portions 924", 926 Adjacent the first and second working portions 904", 908" are first and second shank portions 924", 926", each of which is disposed between the respective working portion 904", 908" and reduced diameter portion 912", 914".
- the shank portions 924", 926" each have a hex-shaped cross-section and are interrupted by an annular groove 928", 930".
- the first shank portion 924" is configured to be retained in a tool holder of a fastening tool when the second working region 908" is being used to drive a fastener.
- the second shank portion 926" is configured to be retained in a tool holder of a fastening tool when the first working region 904" is being used to drive a fastener.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Details Of Spanners, Wrenches, And Screw Drivers And Accessories (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present disclosure relates to tool bits and tool bit holders with floating magnet sleeves.
- This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.
- Auxiliary chucks for power and hand tools have become increasingly common, especially as the need and desirability of wider versatility in the use of power tools and hand tools has increased. Such auxiliary chucks allow the hand or power tool to be used with any of a number of interchangeable bits. This, in turn, has resulted in demands for greater speed, convenience and ease of insertion and removal of tool bits from such chucks.
- In one exemplary type of such conventional quick-release chucks, one or more detent balls are positioned within a hollow, barrel-shaped tool bit holder body and are resiliently biased into engagement with a circumferentially-extending groove or recess on the shank of the tool bit. An example of such a ball-type mechanism is disclosed in commonly assigned
U.S. Patent No. 5,988,957 which is herein incorporated by reference. In other conventional quick release chucks, a spring biased clip is used to engage the bit within the tool bit holder body. Examples of the spring biased clip design are disclosed in commonly assignedU.S. Patent Nos. 7,086,813 and6,929,266 which are herein incorporated by reference. - This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.
- In an aspect, a tool bit assembly includes a tool bit having a shaft with a first working region configured to drive a fastener disposed at a first end of the shaft. A second working region configured to drive a fastener is disposed at a second end of the shaft. A first bit retaining region is disposed proximate the second working region and is configured to couple the tool bit to a power tool so that the first working region can drive a fastener. A second bit retaining region is disposed proximate the first working region and is configured to couple the tool bit to a power tool so that the second working region can drive a fastener. At least one reduced diameter portion is between the first working region and the second working region. A floating sleeve has a radially inwardly projecting retention mechanism at a rear end of the sleeve and a magnet at the front end of the sleeve. The floating sleeve is removably and reversibly receivable over the tool bit in a first orientation and a second orientation. In the first orientation the magnet is proximate the first working region and the retention mechanism is received in the at least one reduced diameter portion to allow the floating sleeve to move between a first forward position in which the magnet is able to engage a fastener being driven by the first working region and a first rearward position in which the magnet is retracted relative to the first working region. In the second orientation the magnet is proximate the second working region and the retention mechanism is received in the at least one reduced diameter portion to allow the floating sleeve to move between a second forward position in which the magnet is able to engage a fastener being driven by the second working region and a second rearward position in which the magnet is retracted relative to the second working region.
- Implementations of this aspect may include on or more of the following features. The retention mechanism may include one of an O-ring, a C-clip, at least one retaining ball, and an inwardly projecting wall portion of the floating sleeve. The retention mechanism may include at least one ball received in at least one window in the floating sleeve and a spring band received in an annular recess in the sleeve, the spring band biasing the at least one ball radially inward toward the tool bit. The at least one ball pair may include a pair of balls and the at least one window may include a pair of window openings, with each ball received in a different window opening. The magnet may include a ring-shaped magnet. The first bit retaining region may include a shank region of polygonal cross-section disposed between the first working region and the at least one reduced diameter portion, and the second retaining region comprises a shank region of polygonal cross-section disposed between the second working region and the at least one reduced diameter portion. Each shank region may include an annular groove. The at least one reduced diameter portion may include a single reduced diameter portion disposed substantially equidistant between the first working region and the second working region. The at least one reduced diameter portion may include a first reduced diameter portion closer to the first working region that receives the retention mechanism when the floating magnet sleeve is in the first orientation and a second reduced diameter portion closer to the second working region that receives the retention mechanism when the floating magnet sleeve is in the second orientation. This may include a third reduced diameter portion disposed between the first and second reduced diameter portions.
- In an aspect, a tool bit assembly includes a tool bit having a shaft with a first working region disposed at a first end of the shaft and configured to drive a fastener. A first shank portion is disposed proximate a second end of the shaft and is configured to couple the tool bit to a power tool. A first reduced diameter torsion zone is disposed closer to the first working region and has a first shoulder closer to the first working region and a second shoulder closer to the first shank portion. A second reduced diameter torsion zone is disposed closer to the first shank portion and has a third shoulder closer to the first working region and a second shoulder closer to the first shank portion. An intermediate portion of larger diameter than the first and second reduced diameter portions is disposed between the second shoulder and the third shoulder. A floating sleeve has a radially inwardly projecting retention mechanism at a rear end of the sleeve and a magnet at the front end of the sleeve. The floating sleeve is removably receivable over the tool bit in a first orientation with the magnet proximate the first working region and the retention mechanism received in the first torsion zone. The floating sleeve may move between a first forward position in which the retention mechanism abuts the first shoulder and the magnet is able to engage a fastener being driven by the first working region and a first rearward position in which the retention mechanism abuts the second shoulder and the magnet is retracted relative to the first working region.
- Implementations of this aspect may include one or more of the following features. The diameter of the intermediate portion may be substantially the same as a diameter of the first shank portion. The first and second torsion zones may have substantially equal length. The tool bit may include a second working region disposed at a second end of the shaft and configured to drive a fastener and a second shank portion disposed proximate the first end of the shaft and configured to couple the tool bit to a power tool. The second shank portion may be disposed between the first working region and the first torsion zone and the first shank portion may be disposed between the second working region and the second torsion zone. The floating sleeve may be removably receivable over the tool bit in a second orientation with the magnet proximate the second working region and the retention mechanism received in the second torsion zone such that the floating sleeve may move between a second forward position in which the retention mechanism abuts the fourth shoulder and the magnet is able to engage a fastener being driven by the second working region and a second rearward position in which the retention mechanism abuts the third shoulder and the magnet is retracted relative to the second working region. The retention mechanism may include at least one ball received in at least one window in the floating sleeve and a spring band received in an annular recess in the sleeve. The spring band may bias the at least one ball radially inward toward the tool bit. The magnet may include a ring-shaped magnet. The first shank portion, the intermediate portion, and at least a portion of the first working end region each may have a polygonal cross-section of a diameter that is greater than the diameters of the first and second torsion zones. The intermediate portion may include a first large diameter intermediate portion adjacent the first torsion zone, a second large diameter intermediate portion adjacent the second torsion zone and a third reduced diameter torsion zone disposed between the first and second large diameter intermediate portions.
- In another aspect, a tool bit for driving a fastener includes a shaft with a front end and a rear end, a working region disposed at the front end and configured to drive a fastener, and a shank portion disposed at the rear end and configured to couple the shaft to a power tool. A first reduced diameter torsion zone is disposed in the shaft proximate the working region and is configured to reduce stresses and breakage in the shaft. A second distinct reduced diameter torsion zone is disposed in the shaft proximate the shank portion and is configured to reduce stresses and breakage in the shaft.
- Implementations of this aspect may include one or more of the following features. An intermediate portion of larger diameter than the first and second torsion zones may be disposed in the shaft between the first and second torsion zones. The first and second torsion zones have substantially the same length or different lengths. The first torsion zone may be configured to removably receive and retain a floating magnet sleeve so that the sleeve can move axially between a front end and a rear end of the first torsion zone. The shank portion may have a polygonal cross-section and the first and second torsion zones may have round cross-sections.
- Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
- The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bit holder assembly according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 2 is a longitudinal or axial cross-sectional view of the bit holder assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view similar to that ofFIG. 2 , but illustrating a tool bit fully inserted in the bit holder assembly; -
FIG. 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view similar to that ofFIG. 3 , but illustrating a fastener engaged with the tool bit and the retraction sleeve moved forward for magnetically engaging the fastener; -
FIG. 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view similar to that ofFIG. 2 , but illustrating the retraction collar pulled rearward and the tool bit being removed from the bit holder assembly; -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative bit holder assembly according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 7 is a longitudinal or axial cross-sectional view of the bit holder assembly ofFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 8 is a side view of a power tool with the bit holder assembly of the present disclosure mounted therein; -
FIG. 9 is a side view of a power tool with the bit holder assembly integrally formed therein; -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a bit holder assembly according to a third embodiment; -
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the bit holder assembly ofFigure 10 ; -
FIGS. 12A-12C are partial cross-sectional views of a bit holder assembly according to an alternative embodiment; -
FIG. 12D is a partial cross-sectional view of a bit holder assembly according to an alternative embodiment; -
FIG. 12E is a partial cross-sectional view of a bit holder assembly according to an alternative embodiment; -
FIG. 13 is a plan view of a hog ring type retainer utilized in the embodiments ofFigures 12A-12E ; -
FIGS. 14A and 14B are plan views of an elastic O-ring and an elastic C-ring that can be utilized in the embodiments ofFigures 12A-12E ; -
FIG. 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of a bit holder according to a further embodiment according to the principles of present disclosure; -
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a ball and spring band which are utilized according to the alternative embodiment shown inFigure 15 ; -
FIG. 17 is a side plan view of a six-in-one rotary tool having a floating ring magnet according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 18 is a side plan view of the six-in-one rotary tool shown inFigure 17 with the ring magnet in a forward position; -
FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the six-in-one rotary tool and floating ring magnet as shown inFigures 17 and 18 ; -
FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a pivotal bit holder accessory having a floating ring magnet mounted on a forward end thereof; -
FIG. 21 is an alternative pivotal bit holder accessory having a ring magnet mounted to a floating locking sleeve of the accessory, according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a tool bit having a magnetic ring supported by a floating sleeve, according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 23 is a side plan view of the tool bit and floating sleeve shown inFigure 22 ; -
FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the tool bit and floating sleeve shown inFigures 22 and 23 ; -
FIG. 25 is a side plan view of the tool bit shown inFigure 22 ; -
FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the tool bit with a floating sleeve, according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 26 ; -
FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the tool bit and floating sleeve shown inFigure 26 ; -
FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view similar toFigure 28 , with the floating sleeve in a forward position, according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 30 is a perspective view of an alternative floating sleeve design, according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a floating sleeve according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a floating sleeve according to the present disclosure; -
FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a tool bit having a floating sleeve, according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 34 is a side plan view of the tool bit and floating sleeve shown inFigure 33 ; -
FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of the tool bit and floating sleeve shown inFigure 33 ; -
FIG. 36 is a side plan view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 33 ; -
FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a tool bit and an alternative floating sleeve, according to the present disclosure; -
FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of the tool bit and floating sleeve shown inFigure 37 ; -
FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 37 ; -
FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a tool bit and alternative floating sleeve design, according to the present disclosure; -
FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of the tool bit and floating sleeve shown inFigure 40 ; -
FIG. 42 is a perspective view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 40 ; -
FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a tool bit having a floating ring magnet supported by a floating sleeve, according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view of the tool bit and floating sleeve shown inFigure 43 ; -
FIG. 45 is a side plan view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 43 ; -
FIG. 46 is a perspective view of a D-shaped ring utilized with the floating sleeve shown inFigure 45 ; -
FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a tool bit and alternative floating sleeve design according to the present disclosure; -
FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional view of the tool bit and floating sleeve shown inFigure 47 ; -
FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 49-49 ofFigure 48 ; -
FIG. 50 is a side plan view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 47 ; -
FIG. 51 is a perspective view of a spring band utilized in the embodiment ofFigure 47 ; -
FIG. 52 is a side plan view of a tool bit having a floating sleeve according to an alternative embodiment; -
FIG. 53 is an exploded perspective view of the floating sleeve, ball, and spring band utilized in the embodiment ofFigure 52 ; -
FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a tool bit and alternative floating sleeve design, according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 55 is a perspective view of the floating sleeve design as shown inFigure 54 with the locking jaws in a disengaged position; -
FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the floating sleeve design shown inFigure 54 with the lock collar shown in the locked position for engaging the floating sleeve to the tool bit; -
FIG. 57 is a partial cutaway perspective view of an alternative floating sleeve design according to the present disclosure; -
FIG. 58 is a side plan view of a pair of ring magnets disposed around a tool bit with a connecting sleeve removed for illustrative purposes, according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 59 illustrates a sleeve that is mounted to the pair of ring magnets as shown inFigure 58 ; -
FIG. 60 is a side plan view of an alternative bit holder assembly according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 61A is a longitudinal or axial cross-sectional view of the bit holder assembly ofFigure 60 ; -
FIG. 61B is a longitudinal or axial cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the bit holder assembly ofFigure 60 ; -
FIG. 62 is a side plan view of the body portion of the bit holder assembly shown inFigure 60 ; -
FIG. 63 is a longitudinal or axial cross-sectional view of the floating sleeve of the bit holder assembly ofFigure 60 ; -
FIG. 64 is a perspective view of a tool bit and alternative floating sleeve design according to the present disclosure; -
FIG. 65 is a cross-sectional view of the tool bit and floating sleeve shown inFigure 64 with the floating sleeve in a forward position; -
FIG. 66 is a cross-sectional view of the tool bit and floating sleeve shown inFigure 64 with the floating sleeve in a rearward position; -
FIG. 67 is a perspective view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 64 ; -
FIG. 68 is a side plan view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 64 ; -
FIG. 69 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 64 ; -
FIG. 70 is a side plan view of the tool bit shown inFigure 64 ; -
FIG. 71A is a cross-sectional view of a tool bit and floating sleeve according to a further embodiment of the present application with the floating sleeve shown in a forward direction; -
FIG. 71B is a cross-sectional view of the tool bit and floating sleeve shown inFigure 71A with the floating sleeve in a rearward position; -
FIG. 72 is a perspective view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 71A ; -
FIG. 73 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the floating sleeve assembly shown inFigure 71A ; -
FIG. 74 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 71A ; -
FIG. 75 is a side plan view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 71A ; -
FIG. 76 is a cross-sectional view of a tool bit and floating sleeve according to a further embodiment of the present application; -
FIG. 77 is a cross-sectional view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 76 with an alternative tool bit; -
FIG. 78 is a perspective view of floating sleeve assembly shown inFigure 76 ; -
FIG. 79 is a disassembled cross-sectional view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 76 ; -
FIG. 80 is a cross-sectional view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 76 with the floating sleeve in a rearward position; -
FIG. 81 is a cross-sectional view of the floating sleeve shown inFigure 76 with the floating sleeve in a forward position; -
FIG. 82 is a cross-sectional view of a tool bit and floating sleeve according to a further embodiment of the present application; -
FIG. 83 is a side plan view of the tool bit shown inFigure 82 ; -
FIG. 84 is a cross-sectional view of a tool bit and floating sleeve according to a further embodiment of the present application; -
FIG. 85 is a side plan view of the tool bit shown inFigure 84 ; -
FIG. 86 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of another embodiment of a tool bit holder assembly; -
FIGS. 87A-87B are partial cross-sectional plan views of the tool bit holder assembly ofFIG. 86 . -
FIG. 87C is a partial cross-sectional plan view of an alternative embodiment of the tool bit holder assembly ofFIG. 86 . -
FIGS. 88A-88C are plan views of various retention members for use with the bit holder assemblies ofFIGS. 87A-87C . -
FIG. 89 is a side view of a double ended tool bit for use with the floating magnet sleeve ofFIG. 64 . -
FIG. 90 is a side view of the tool bit ofFIG. 89 received in the floating magnet sleeve ofFIG. 64 . -
FIGS. 91A and 91B are cross-sectional views of the tool bit ofFIG. 89 with the floating magnet sleeve ofFIG. 64 received over the first and second working regions of the tool bit. -
FIG. 92 . Is a side view of another embodiment of a double ended tool bit for use with the floating magnet sleeve ofFIG. 64 . -
FIG. 93 is a side view of yet another embodiment of a double ended tool bit for use with the floating magnet sleeve ofFIG. 64 . Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. - Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
- Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.
- Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.
- The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," "including," and "having," are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.
- When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "engaged to," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
- Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.
- Spatially relative terms, such as "inner," "outer," "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.
- With reference to
Figures 1-5 , a first embodiment of the quick-change bit holder 10, according to the principles of the present disclosure, will now be described. Thebit holder 10 includes abody 12 andretraction collar 14 slidably mounted on the body and retained in place by asleeve bushing 32, as illustrated inFigure 2 . Thebody 12 can include a hex or polygonal-shapedshank 16 for mounting thebit holder 10 for rotation by a hand tool or a power tool. - With reference to
Figure 2 , thebody 12 also includes a hex or polygonal-shaped socket or bore 20 with thebore 20 opening axially outwardly toward the front or forward end of thebit holder 10. A plunger bore 22 extends axially from the hex-shaped socket or bore 20 toward the rear end of thebit holder assembly 10. Optionally, anejection spring 24 can be disposed in the plunger bore 22. Thebody 12 includes anangular slot 26 formed transversely therein, with theslot 26 extending from the radially outer surface of thebody 12 in an axially forward and radially inward direction to communicate with the interior of the hex bore orsocket 20. - A
coil spring 30 surrounds a portion of thebody 12 and is disposed between thebody 12 and theretraction collar 14. Thecoil spring 30 abuttingly engages aclip 44 which is received in a groove around a mid-portion of thebody 12 and terminates in an integrally formedclip 34 that is disposed in theangular slot 26 and is designed to releasably engage arecess 38 in a hex or polygonal-shapedbit tip 40 as illustrated inFigure 3 . An internalannular sleeve 32 attaches to the rear portion of theretraction collar 14. Thesleeve 32 can be secured to thecollar 14 by adhesive, a press fit, thermal bonding, fasteners, pins, or other known attachment techniques. Received in a groove around a mid-portion of thebody 12 is aclip 44 that acts as a stop against thesleeve 32 to limit forward travel of theretractable collar 14. Theretractable collar 14 includes aforward shoulder portion 48 that, when pulled rearward, can engage thespring 30 and pull theclip portion 34 of thespring 30 pulling it rearward out of engagement with abit 40 received in the hex-shapedcavity 20. - The
retractable collar 14 is of a non-magnetic material with the exception of amagnetic tip 50 that can be in the form of a ring magnet. Alternative magnetic arrangements can be used including multiple non-ring shaped magnets combined to form a ring-like shape mounted at the tip of thecollar 14. Both faces and the internal bore of the magnet, however, may remain accessible. - In operation, as shown in
Figure 2 , thecollar 14 starts in a neutral position with the collar biased forward and thespring clip 34 extending into thebore 20. Next, as shown inFigure 3 , abit 40 is inserted into thebore 20 so that thespring clip 34 engages anotch 38 in the side of thebit 40 to prevent removal of thebit 40 from thebore 20. Thebit 40 also compresses theejection spring 24. Theretraction collar 14 remains in the neutral position. Next, as shown inFigure 4 , when thebit 40 is used to drive a screw orfastener 54, thecollar 14 floats as a result of the magnetic force radiating from the outer face to a forward position until the outer face of themagnet 50 reaches the fastener, enabling the outer face of thering magnet 50 to magnetically adhere to thescrew 54. This occurs before the bearingsleeve 32 engages thestop ring 44. The magnetic force, generating from the inner face of themagnet 50 by design, then draws thefastener 54 and thesleeve 14 jointly towards thebody 12, the material of which it is made exhibiting magnet attractable properties resulting in holding thefastener 54 tight against thebit 40. The outer face of themagnet 50 also provides a stable surface to reduce movement of the fastener (wobble) during installation. The surface geometry of the face of themagnet 50 being such as to provide support to fasteners of multiple sizes, shapes, and configurations. - Next, as shown in
Figure 5 , when the operation has finished and the user desires to remove thebit 40 from thebit holder 10, the user retracts theretraction collar 14 relative to thebody 12, causing thespring 30 to compress, and thespring clip 34 to disengage from thebit 40, which allows theejection spring 24 to attempt to eject thebit 40 from theholder 10. The ejection is, however, limited in movement to the point where thebit notch 38 is clear, and remains as such, of theclip 34 allowing for easy one handed removal, but not to the point where it leaves thebore 20. This controlled ejection is accomplished as a result of the magnetic field generating from the inner bore of themagnet 50 surrounding thebit 40. - With reference to
Figures 6 and 7 , an alternative quickchange bit holder 60, according to the present disclosure, will now be described. Thebit holder 60 includes abody 62 and aretraction collar assembly 64 mounted thereon. Thebody 62 includes ahex shank 66 and a hex-shaped socket or bore 70 formed in thebody 62, with thebore 70 opening axially outwardly toward the front or forward end of thebit holder assembly 60. A plunger bore 72 extends axially from the hex-shaped socket or bore 70 toward the rear end of thebit holder assembly 60. Optionally, anejection spring 74 can be disposed in the plunger bore 72. Thebody 62 includes anangular slot 76 similar to theslot 26 as described above. Acoil spring 80 having anintegral spring clip 84 surrounds thebody 62 and is disposed between the body and theclip 84 such that thespring clip 84 is disposed in theangular slot 76 for engaging abit tip 40 in the manner as discussed above with regard to the previous embodiment. - The
retraction collar assembly 64 includes arear collar 64a, anintermediate collar 64b and aforward collar 64c. Aretainer clip 86 is disposed in a recessed groove in the outer surface of thebody 62 and is disposed against a forward facingshoulder 88 of therearward collar 64a. Theintermediate collar 64b is press fit onto therearward collar 64a to trap theretainer clip 86 therebetween. A rearward facingshoulder 90 is provided in a forward direction from thespring 80 on theintermediate collar 64b. Theforward collar 64c is slidably supported on a forward end of theintermediate collar 64b and includes amagnetic tip 50 in the form of a magnet ring. Theforward collar 64c acts as a floating sleeve and includes arearward shoulder portion 90 that engages aforward shoulder portion 92 of theintermediate collar 64b to limit the forward travel of theforward collar 64c. The rear end of theforward collar 64c can be stretched over the forward end of theintermediate collar 64b to complete thecollar assembly 64. Slots can be provided in the rear end of theforward collar 64c to facilitate assembly on theintermediate collar 64b. Alternatively, the collar could be retained through the usage of a spring ring mounted in a groove on the OD of theintermediate collar 64b and a mating taper and groove in the ID of theforward collar 64c. - In operation, a
bit tip 40 can be inserted into the hex-shapedbore 70 of thebit holder body 62. Thespring clip 84 engages arecess 38 in thebit tip 40 in order to retain thebit tip 40 within thebore 70. Theforward collar 64c is able to float in a forward direction to engage a fastener that is engaged by thebit tip 40 in order to magnetically retain the fastener to thebit tip 40. When the fastener is inserted and the user wishes to remove thebit tip 40, theretraction collar 64 can be pulled in a rearward direction so that rearward facingshoulder 94 ofintermediate collar 64c pulls rearward on thespring 80 to disengage thespring clip portion 84 from therecess 38 in thebit tip 40. The magnetic sleeve on thisbit holder 60 works just like the other in that it grabs the screw and pulls it back towards thebody 62 and against the bit while reducing wobble. - It should be understood that in each of the embodiments described herein, the
bit holder drill 2 as shown inFigure 8 by inserting the hex-shapedshank power tool 2, as shown inFigure 9 . Furthermore, although the present disclosure discloses aspring clip spring U.S. Patent Nos. 7,086,813 ;6,929,266 ;6,261,035 ; and5,988,957 which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Furthermore, the use of a ball detent mechanism is also known in the art, and can be used in place of the integral spring clip and spring arrangement of the present disclosure. Further, other previous bit holder designs can be modified to include a ring magnet near the front of the outer actuation sleeve to allow the magnet and/or actuation sleeve to float forward to magnetize a fastener during operation. - With reference to
Figures 10 and 11 , a third embodiment of the quick-change bit holder 110, according to the principles of the present disclosure, will now be described. Thebit holder 110 includes abody 112 and aretraction collar 114 slidably mounted on thebody 112 and retained in place by asleeve bushing 132, as illustrated inFigure 11 . Thebody 112 can include a hex or polygonal-shapedshank 116 for mounting thebit holder 110 for rotation by a hand tool or a power tool. - With reference to
Figure 11 , thebody 112 also includes a hex or polygonal-shaped socket or bore 120 with thebore 120 opening axially outwardly toward the front end of thebit holder 110. A plunger bore 122 extends axially from the hex-shaped socket or bore 120 toward the rear end of thebit holder assembly 110. Optionally, anejection spring 124 can be disposed in the plunger bore 122. Thebody 112 includes anangular slot 126 formed transversely therein, with theslot 126 extending from the radially outward surface of thebody 112 in and axially forward and radially inward direction to communicate with the interior of the hex bore orsocket 120. - A
coil spring 130 surrounds a portion of thebody 112 and is disposed between thebody 112 and theretraction collar 114. Thecoil spring 130 abuttingly engages aclip 144 which is received in agroove 145 around a mid-portion of thebody 112 and terminates as an integrally formedclip 134 that is disposed in theangular slot 126 and is designed to releasably engage arecess 38 in a hex or polygonal-shapedbit tip 40 in the same manner as the embodiment illustrated inFigures 3 and 4 . The internalannular sleeve 132 attaches to the rear portion of theretraction collar 114.Sleeve 132 can be secured to thecollar 114 by adhesive, a press fit, thermal bonding, fasteners, pins, or other known attachment techniques. Theclip 144 acts as a stop against thesleeve 132 to limit for travel of theretractable collar 114.Retractable collar 114 includes aforward shoulder portion 148 that when pulled rearward can engage thespring 130 and pull theclip portion 134 of thespring 130, pulling it rearward out of engagement with abit 40 received in the hex-shapedcavity 120. -
Retractable collar 114 supports a removable magnet ring 150 that is supported by aremovable sleeve 152.Removable sleeve 152 is secured to theretractable collar 114 by a retainer such as an O-ring orbull nose ring 154 that is received in a groove in a forward portion thereof. The sleeve 152' is press fit over top of the retainer ring in order to releasably secure thesleeve 152 to theretraction collar 114. - The operation of the
bit tip holder 110 as described is the same as thebit tip holder 10 as described above. - With reference to
Figures 12A-12C , abit holder 160 is shown including a hex-shaped or polygonal-shapedshank 162 and abody portion 164 including a hex-shaped or polygonal-shapedbore 166 in an end thereof for receiving abit 40. The outer surface of thebody 164 is provided with an elongatedannular recess 168. A floatingsleeve 170 is provided on the end of thebody 164 and supports aring magnet 50 at an end thereof. The floatingsleeve 170 includes an interiorannular groove 172 that receives aretainer 174 therein. The floatingsleeve 170 can be removably attached to thebody 164 by force fitting thebody 164 into arear opening 176 of the floatingsleeve 170 until theretainer 174 is received in therecess 168 of thebody 164. - The
recess 168 is provided with aforward shoulder 178 and arearward shoulder 180 that allow the floatingsleeve 170 to travel in a forward and rearward direction as indicated by arrow A while theshoulders sleeve 170 by engagement with theretainer member 174. Thus, the floating sleeve can float freely between a front position, as shown inFig. 12B , in which theretainer 174 engages thefront shoulder 178, and a rear position as shown inFig. 12C , in which theretainer 174 engages therear shoulder 180. As shown inFigures 13 and 14A-14B , theretainer 174 can take the form of a non-elastic member, such as a steel orelastic hog ring 174A, as shown inFigure 13 , or an elastic member, such as an elastic O-ring 174B as shown inFigure 14A or an elastic C-ring 174C as shown inFigure 14B . - With reference to
Figure 12D , in an alternative embodiment, the floatingsleeve 170 can also be moved rearward to a parked position in which theretainer 174 is positioned rearward of therear shoulder 180. In this embodiment, theretainer 174 comprises an elastic element (such as an elastic O-ring 174A or an elastic C-ring 174B) that is stretched and expands when thesleeve 170 is pulled axially rearward to the parked position. The expandedelastic retainer 174 frictionally engages the outer wall of thebody portion 164 in a tight manner to maintain the sleeve in the parked position until the user pulls the outer sleeve forward back to one of the floating positions shown inFigures 12A-12C . Aninternal shoulder 177 on the front end of thesleeve 170 abuts afront end 179 of thebody portion 164 to prevent further rearward movement of thesleeve 170 beyond the parked position. In the parked position, it is easier for the user to grasp and remove thebit 40 from thesocket 166. Referring toFigure 12E , in another embodiment, thebody portion 164 may be formed with anannular parking groove 175 rearward of theannular recess 168 to more securely retain theretainer 174 and thesleeve 170 in the parked position. - As an alternative, as illustrated in
Figure 15 , the bit holder 160' can use an alternative retainer in the form of aball 190 which can be received in anopening 192 in the floating sleeve 170' and can be retained therein by anannular spring band 194 that can be made of steel or plastic or other suitable material. The ball is received in an annular recess 168' so that the floating sleeve 170' can float between a forward position in which theball 190 engages a front shoulder 178' of theannular recess 168 and a rear position in which the ball engages a rear shoulder 180' of the annular recess 168'. In operation, thebit holder 160, 160' can be used to engage a fastener via thetool bit 40 and the floatingsleeve 170, 170' allows thering magnet 50 to float forward under its magnetic force to engage the fastener and magnetize the fastener to improve the retention of the fastener with thetool bit 40. In an alternative embodiment, the floating sleeve 170' may be moveable to a parked position where theball 190 is rearward of the rear shoulder 180' and engages thebody portion 164 or a parking groove in thebody portion 164, to facilitate easier removal of thetool bit 40. - In a still further alternative embodiment of the bit holder, as shown in
Figures 17-19 , thebit holder 200 can be configured as a six-in-one rotary tool that includes a floatingring magnet 50. In particular, as illustrated inFigure 19 , thetool holder 200 includes ashank 202 that is integral with, and that extends rearwardly from asocket 204.Shank 202 is preferably hex-shaped or polygonal and includes acircumferential groove 206. Thetool socket 204 includes abore 208 that extends axially from the socket end and that is also preferably hex-shaped or polygonal. Areversible bit assembly 210 is received in thebore 208 and includes asleeve 212 having a pair ofaxial storage cavities web 220. Thesleeve 212 receives a first and asecond bit driver sleeve 212, each of thecavities second bit drivers bit drivers sleeve 212 andsocket 204. Each of the first andsecond bit drivers second bit drivers sleeve 212. Additionally,sleeve 212 is reversible within the socket bore 208 such that either the first orsecond bit drivers socket 204. Accordingly, the tool may be configured such that any of the four bit driver ends 222a, 222b, 224a, 224b operably project from thesocket 204. Either of thebit drivers sleeve 212 to expose the hex-shapedcavity bore 208 for use as a second nut driver. It is noted that thebore 208 is larger than thecavities bore 208 is a 5/16 inch hex-opening while thecavities - Similar to the above embodiments, the outer surface of the
socket 204 can be provided with an elongatedannular recess 228 that can be engaged by aretainer 230 of a floatingsleeve 232 that supports aring magnet 50 at a forward end thereof. Accordingly, as thetool holder 200 is used to engage a fastener, one of thebit drivers sleeve 232 allows thering magnet 50 to move in a forward direction to engage the fastener to secure the fastener to thebit driver sleeve 232 can be removed by applying a slight force in a forward direction to overcome the retaining force of theretainer 230 within the elongatedannular recess 228. Upon removal of the floatingsleeve 232, thereversible bit assembly 210 can be removed from thesocket 204 so that thebit drivers sleeve 232 can be moved to a parked position in which theretainer 230 engages thesocket 204 or a parking groove in thesocket 204, rearward of theannular recess 228 to facilitate easier removal of the bits from thesleeve 212. - With reference to
Figure 20 , a pivotal/rigid accessory 250 for power and hand tools is disclosed and includes adrive component 252 adapted to be connected to a power tool or hand tool and a drivencomponent 254 that is pivotally connected to thedrive component 252. A lockingsleeve 256 is provided for securing the drivencomponent 254 for non-pivotal movement relative to thedrive component 252, or the lockingsleeve 256 can be moved to a disengaged position that allows the drivencomponent 254 to pivot relative to thedrive component 252. A pivot mechanism of this type is disclosed inU.S. Patent No. 7,942,426 , which is herein incorporated by reference. According to the principles of the present disclosure, a floatingsleeve 260 can be provided at the forward end of the drivencomponent 254 and supports amagnetic ring 50 at a forward end thereof to aid in retaining a fastener on abit 40 received in a hex-shaped bore in the drivencomponent 254. As illustrated inFigure 20 , the floating sleeve can include aretainer 262 that can be received in an elongatedannular recess 264 on the outer surface of the drivencomponent 254 to allow the floatingsleeve 260 to move in a forward and rearward axial direction as indicated by arrow A. In another embodiment, similar to the previously described embodiments, the floatingsleeve 260 can be moved to and retained in a parked position in which theretainer 262 frictionally engages the drivencomponent 254 or a parking groove in the drivencomponent 254, rearward of theannular recess 264, to facilitate easier removal of thebit 40 from the drivencomponent 254. - As an alternative, as illustrated in
Figure 21 , thering magnet 50 can be secured to the front end of the locking sleeve 256' which can be allowed to float in a forward direction to allow thering magnet 50 to engage a fastener secured to thetool bit 40 received in a bore in the drivencomponent 254 of the tool holder.Figure 21 illustrates the pivoting arrangement between the driving component and the driven component which, again, is detailed inU.S. Patent No. 7,942,426 , which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. - With reference to
Figures 22-25 , atool bit 300 having a floatingring magnet 50, according to the principles of the present disclosure, will now be described. Thetool bit 300 includes a shaft having a hex-shapedshank 302 at a first end, and a workingregion 304 disposed at a second end. The shaft can have a section between the hex-shapedshank 302 and the workingregion 304 that has a reduceddiameter region 306 that is disposed between twoshoulders diameter region 306 provides a torsion zone that allows the shaft to twist to absorb forces while thetool bit 300 is being used to drive a fastener. Atool bit 300 having a torsion zone of this type is generally known in the art as disclosed byU.S. Patent No. 5,704,261 . - As illustrated in
Figures 24 and 25 , the workingregion 304 of thetool bit 300 can be provided with various types of drive heads such as Phillips, flat, hex, square, and other known types of drive heads. A recessedgroove 312 is provided in the workingregion 304 for receiving aretainer ring 314 therein. Aring magnet 50 is supported by asleeve 316 that is retained on thetool bit 300 by theretainer ring 314 that is received within the recessedgroove 312. As thetool bit 300 is engaged with a fastener, the floatingsleeve 316 is moved in a forward direction to allow thering magnet 50 to engage the fastener to assist in retaining the fastener to thetool bit 300. The floatingsleeve 316 includes aninterior shoulder 318 that engages theretainer 314 to limit the sleeve's forward axial travel. Thetool bit 300 includes ashoulder 320 at an end of the workingregion 304 that limits the axial travel of the floatingsleeve 316 in the opposite direction. The floatingsleeve 316 can optionally be removed from thetool bit 300 by pulling on the floatingsleeve 316 in an axial direction to overcome theretainer 314. Theretainer 314 can be a rubber O-ring or a steel hog ring that can be flexed inward when the floatingsleeve 316 is either inserted onto or pulled off of thetool bit 300. - With reference to
Figures 26-29 , an alternative arrangement for mounting aring magnet 50 to atool bit 300 such as the tool bit as described above, will now be described. Thering magnet 50 is supported by a floatingsleeve 330 that is slidably received on a forward end of thetool bit 300. The floatingsleeve 330 includes a plurality of axially extendingfingers 332 that are integrally formed with thesleeve 330 and releasably engage the reduced diameter region of the tool bit between the twoshoulders Figure 28 illustrates the floatingsleeve 330 in a rearward position, whileFigure 29 illustrates the floatingsleeve 330 in a forward position for thering magnet 50 to engage a fastener to help retain the fastener on thetool bit 300. The floatingsleeve 330 can be removed from the tool bit by pulling forward on the floatingsleeve 330, thus causing thefingers 332 to flex radially outward over top of the increased diameter portion at thehead 304 of thetool bit 300. It is noted that the floatingsleeve 330 can be made from plastic, rubber, or other materials that allow flexibility of thefingers 332. Thering magnet 50 can be secured to the floatingsleeve 330 by adhesives, in-molding, or other known fastening techniques. - With reference to
Figure 30 , analternative floating sleeve 340 design is shown for supporting aring magnet 50 that can be received on atool bit 300. Thesleeve 340 includes afirst end 342 supporting thering magnet 50 and asecond end 344 including a singleelongated slot 346 that allows thesecond end 344 of thesleeve 340 to flex outward for insertion of atool bit 300 therein. The interior ofsecond end 344 of thesleeve 340 includes a plurality of radially inwardly extendingtabs 348 that are received in the reduceddiameter portion 306 of thetool bit 300 and engage the forward andrearward shoulders sleeve 340 along the length of thetool bit 300. The floatingsleeve 340 can be made from plastic or rubber - With reference to
Figure 31 , a floatingsleeve 350, according to an alternative embodiment, can include aplastic cup 352 that receives thering magnet 50 at a forward end thereof and arubber sleeve 354 at a rearward end thereof. The interior surface of therubber sleeve 354 includes a plurality of radially inwardly extendingtabs 356 at its rearward end, as illustrated in phantom inFigure 31 . The radially inwardly extendingtabs 356 are flexible to allow atool bit 300 to be inserted into thesleeve 350 so that thetabs 356 engage the reduceddiameter portion 306 between the forward andrearward shoulders tool bit 300. Thus, thesleeve 350 is allowed to float in a forward and rearward direction in the manner as described with regard to the above described embodiments. - With reference to
Figure 32 , analternative floating sleeve 360 design is provided in which a floatingring magnet 50 is supported at a first end of arubber sleeve 360. The second end of the sleeve includes a plurality of radially inwardly extendingtabs 362 that are flexible to allow atool bit 300 to be inserted into thesleeve 360 wherein thetabs 362 are disposed in the reduceddiameter portion 306 between the forward andrearward shoulders tool bit 300. Thering magnet 50 can be reinforced with a metal orplastic cap 364 disposed between thering magnet 50 and the first end of therubber sleeve 360. - With reference to
Figures 33-36 , analternative floating sleeve 370 is provided for supporting aring magnet 50 in aforward end 372 thereof. The floatingsleeve 370 can be made from plastic and can include one or moreflexible fingers 374 that engage the reduceddiameter portion 306 of thetool bit 300 between the forward andrearward shoulders fingers 374 can include a radially inwardly protrudingend portion 376 that engages the reduceddiameter portion 306 of thetool bit 300. Theelongated fingers 374 are integrally formed with theplastic sleeve 370 to allow thefingers 374 to flex radially outward when atool bit 300 is inserted therein or removed therefrom. - With reference to
Figures 37-39 , an alternative arrangement of a floatingsleeve 380 is provided wherein theflexible fingers 382 are made from a spring steel and are separately attached to the floatingsleeve 380 which can be made from plastic or metal. Theflexible fingers 382 operate in the same manner as thefingers 374 disclosed inFigures 33-36 to retain the floatingsleeve 380 onto atool bit 300 while allowing thesleeve 380 to float in a forward and rearward direction until thefingers 382 engage the forward orrearward shoulders tool bit 300. Thefingers 382 include radially inwardly protrudingportions 384 that engage the reduceddiameter portion 306 of thetool bit 300. Theflexible fingers 382 can be secured to thesleeve 380 by arivet 386 or can be in-molded into thesleeve 380. Thesleeve 380 includes a pair of opposingwindows 388 to receive thefingers 382. - With reference to
Figures 40-42 , analternative floating sleeve 390 is provided for supporting aring magnet 50 in a forward end thereof. The floatingsleeve 390 can be made from plastic, rubber, or metal and can include a recessedannular groove 392 on an exterior surface thereof as well as a pair of oppositely disposedwindows 394 that extend from thegroove 392 into the interior of thesleeve 390. A rubber O-ring or ahog ring 396 can be provided in theannular groove 392 so as to extend into thewindow portion 394 of theannular sleeve 390 in such a manner that the O-ring orhog ring 396 can be received in the reduceddiameter portion 306 of thetool bit 300 between the forward andrearward shoulders sleeve 390 onto thetool bit 300. The reduceddiameter portion 306 of the tool bit allows the floatingsleeve 390 to move in a forward and rearward direction to allow thering magnet 50 to engage a fastener for securing the fastener to thetool bit 300. - With reference to
Figures 43-46 , a still further alternative embodiment of the floatingsleeve 400 is shown wherein the floatingsleeve 400 supports aring magnet 50 at a forward end and includes an exteriorannular groove 402 with anopening 404 on one side that communicates to the interior of thesleeve 400. Theannual groove 402 receives a D-shapedring 406 having a generallyflat portion 408 along one side thereof that is received in thewindow opening 404 of theannular groove 402 so that it communicates to the interior of thesleeve 400. Theflat portion 408 of the D-shapedring 406, as shown inFigure 46 , is received in the reduceddiameter portion 306 of thetool bit 300 between the forward andrearward shoulders sleeve 400 in the forward and rearward directions. - With reference to
Figures 47-51 , an alternative arrangement of the floatingsleeve 410, according to the principles of present disclosure, will now be described. The floatingsleeve 410 includes an elongatedannular recess 412 on an outer surface thereof and a plurality ofwindow openings 414 extending therethrough within the elongatedannular recess 412. Theopenings 414 each receive aball 416 therein and aspring band 418 is received within the elongatedannular recess 412 over top of theballs 416 to secure theballs 416 within theopenings 414. Theballs 416 are designed to be received in the reduceddiameter portion 306 of thetool bit 300 between the forward andrearward shoulders sleeve 410 in the forward and rearward directions. During insertion of thetool bit 300 into the floatingsleeve 410, thespring band 418 allows theballs 414 to be pushed radially outward against the spring force of theband 418 while the head of thetool bit 300 is inserted into, or removed from, thesleeve 410. As theballs 416 reach the reduceddiameter portion 306, theballs 416 move radially inward reducing the force of thespring band 418 on theballs 414. It is intended that theballs 414 provide an interference when engaging the forward andrearward shoulders diameter portion 306, but do not provide significant resistance to the floating motion of thesleeve 410 along thetool bit 300. - With reference to
Figures 52 and 53 , analternative floating sleeve 420 is shown utilizing asingle ball 422 wherein thespring band 424 is provided with anopening 426 therein for maintaining the position of thespring band 424 relative to theball 422 that is received in thesingle opening 426 of the floatingsleeve 420. - With reference to
Figures 54-56 , analternative floating sleeve 430, according to the principles of present disclosure, will now be described. The floatingsleeve 430 supports aring magnet 50 at a forward end thereof and includes a pair oflock jaws 432 that are pivotally mounted to the floating sleeve bypivots 434. Thelock jaws 432 each include radially inwardly extendingtabs 436 that are designed to be engaged within the reduceddiameter portion 306 of thetool bit 300. Thelock jaws 432 can be pivoted to an engaged position, as illustrated inFigure 54 , and alock collar 438 can be pulled over top of thelock jaws 432, as illustrated inFigure 56 , to secure thelock jaws 432 to thetool bit 300. Thering magnet 50 is supported at the forward end of the floatingsleeve 430 and thelock jaws 432 limit the axial movement of the floatingsleeve 430 along thetool bit 300 to allow thering magnet 50 to float to an engaged position when thetool bit 300 is engaged with a fastener. In order to remove the slidingsleeve 430 from thetool bit 300, thelock collar 438 can be pulled in a forward position allowing thelock jaws 432 to be pivoted radially outward so that thetool bit 300 can be removed from the floatingsleeve 430. It is noted that thelock collar 438 can be made of a flexible material, or can have a rigid outer ring with a flexible material on the interior thereof that allows thelock collar 438 to be retained on thelock jaws 432 when they are in the locked position. - With reference to
Figure 57 , an alternative floating sleeve 440 is shown including aring magnet 50 at a forward end of a plastic sleeve. The plastic sleeve 440 has aslot 442 therein and has exterior cam surfaces 444 thereon. Arotating sleeve 446 is engaged with the cam surfaces 444 of the sleeve 440 and therotating sleeve 446 can be rotated to cause plastic sleeve 440 to be retained in a radially inward direction to positively engaged the radially inwardly extendingtabs 448 of the sleeve 440 within the reduceddiameter portion 306 of thetool bit 300 between the forward andrearward shoulders rotating sleeve 446 can also be rotated to an unlocking position that allows the sleeve 440 to flex outwardly sufficiently enough to allow removal of thebit 300 from the floating sleeve 440. - With reference to
Figures 58 and 59 , a further embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described. With this embodiment, the use of atool bit 450 having a hex-shapedshaft 452 without a reduced diameter portion is provided. A floating sleeve 454 is provided with twointerior ring magnets 456, 458 (as illustrated inFigure 58 with the sleeve 454 removed) which are positioned with both poles opposing one another at approximately 10mm apart. With both poles of thering magnets tool bit 452 as they are captured by the non-magnetic sleeve 454. An O-ring 460 can optionally be placed between the twomagnets magnets bit 450 until a face of theforward magnet 458 contacts a head of a fastener that has been placed on the drivingend 462 of thetool bit 450. Once that contact is made, the sleeve 454 then positions itself such that the fastener remains in place on thebit 450 during installation. Once the faster is securely started, the sleeve 454 can be drawn back onto thebit 450 if desired where it will remain during the driving and seating of the fastener. - With reference to
Figures 60, 61A ,62 and 63 , abit holder assembly 470 is disclosed including abody 472 and a floatingsleeve 474. Thebody 472 includes a first end defining ashank 476 and a second end defining apolygonal cavity 478 that can be hex-shaped or can have another polygonal shape. At the inner end of thepolygonal cavity 478, anadditional bore 480 can be provided for receiving amagnet 482 therein. An exterior surface of thebody 472 at the second end includes a threadedportion 484 which is adapted to receive a threadedcap 486. The threadedcap 486 includesinterior threads 488 that engage the threadedportion 484. The threadedcap 486 also includes a radially inwardly extending shoulder 490 that captures an O-ring 492 axially between the shoulder 490 and anend surface 494 of thebody 472. At a rear end of the threadedportion 484, anannular groove 496 is formed having aforward shoulder 498. At the rearward end of the threadedcap 486, ashoulder 500 is formed for engagement with theshoulder 498 at the forward end of theannular groove 496. Theshoulders cap 486 in the forward axial direction. - When a bit 40 (not shown) is inserted into the
polygonal cavity 478, the threadedcap 486 can be tightened against the O-ring 492 causing the O-ring 492 to expand radially inwardly to engage thebit 40 and secure thebit 40 within thecavity 478. In order to remove thebit 40, the threadedcap 486 can be rotated to release the clamping force against the O-ring 492 thereby allowing the O-ring 492 to disengage thebit 40 and allow thebit 40 to be removed. - The
body 472 also includes anannular groove 502 located at an intermediate location along thebody 472. Theannular groove 502 is disposed in the exterior surface of the body and is elongated in the axial direction so as to receive a C-shapedhog ring 504 that is received in anannular recess 506 on the interior of the floatingsleeve 474. The C-shapedhog ring 504 can travel axially along the length of theannular groove 502 to allow the floatingsleeve 474 to float in a forward and rearward direction. Theannular groove 502 has forward and rearward shoulders that limit the axial movement of the floating sleeve. The C-shapedhog ring 504 is flexible to allow removal of the floatingsleeve 474 from thebody 472 in order to gain access to the threadedcap 486 for tightening and loosening thecap 486 to allow insertion and removal ofbits 40 from thepolygonal cavity 478. A forward end of the floatingsleeve 474 supports aring magnet 50 that is allowed to move in forward and rearward directions to engage and magnetize a fastener to retain the fastener to thetool bit 40. Aspacer sleeve 508 can be disposed rearward of thering magnet 50 and can limit the rearward movement of the floatingsleeve 474 by engagement with a forward end of the threadedcap 486. - In operation, the
shank 476 can be inserted into a drill either directly or indirectly via a quick release chuck device. The floatingsleeve 474 can be removed from thebody 472 and abit 40 can be inserted into thepolygonal cavity 478. Themagnet 482 would attract thetool bit 40 to the rearward-most location within thepolygonal cavity 478. The threadedcap 486 can then be tightened in the rearward direction R to cause the O-ring 492 to expand radially inward while being compressed and thereby engage thebit 40 and secure thebit 40 in thepolygonal cavity 478. The floatingsleeve 474 can then be slid over the end of thebody 472 so that the C-shapedhog ring 504 is received within theannular groove 502 to limit the axial movement of the floatingsleeve 474. When a fastener 54 (not shown) is brought into engagement with thetool bit 40, the floatingsleeve 474 under the influence of thering magnet 50 can slide axially forward to engage thefastener 54 to thereby magnetize thefastener 54 and retain it to thebit 40. - With reference to
Figure 61B , in an alternate embodiment, a bit holder assembly 470' may comprise thebody 472,shank 476 and threadedcap 486 described above with a modified floating sleeve 474'. The floating sleeve 474' may include a retainer 504', such as an O-shaped or C-shaped elastic ring, that is received in theannular groove 502 on the exterior of thebody 472 to allow the floating sleeve 474' to float between a forward position and a rearward position as limited by aforward shoulder 503 and arearward shoulder 501 of theannular groove 502. The floating sleeve 474' supports aring magnet 450 and that is allowed to move in forward and rearward directions to engage and magnetize a fastener to retain the fastener to thetool bit 40, as described above. The floating sleeve 474' differs from the floatingsleeve 474 ofFigure 61A in that there is nospacer 508 and the floating sleeve 474' can be moved further rearward to a parked position as shown inFigure 61B . In the parked position, the retainer 504' engages an outer wall of the body 472 (or a parking groove formed in the outer wall of the body 472). This exposes the threadedcap 486 to enable the threadedcap 486 to be removed from thebody 472 without removing the floating sleeve 474' from thebody 472. - With reference to
Figures 64-70 , an alternative arrangement of the floatingsleeve 510, according to the principles of the present disclosure, will now be described. The floatingsleeve 510 includes an elongatedannular recess 512 on an outer surface thereof and a pair of taperedwindow openings 514 extending through thesleeve 510 opposite one another within the elongatedannular recess 512. Thewindow openings 514 each receive aball 516 therein and aspring band 518 is received within the elongatedannular recess 512 over top of theballs 516 to secure theballs 516 within the taperedwindow openings 514. Theballs 516 are designed to be received in a reduceddiameter portion 306 of thetool bit 300 between the forward andrearward shoulders sleeve 510 in the forward and rearward directions. - During insertion of the
tool bit 300 into the floatingsleeve 510, thespring band 518 allows theballs 514 to be pushed radially outward against the spring force of theband 518 while the workingregion 304 of thetool bit 300 is inserted into, or removed from, thesleeve 510. As theballs 516 reach the reduceddiameter portion 306 of thetool bit 300, theballs 516 move radially inwardly reducing the force of thespring band 518 on theballs 514. It is intended that theballs 514 provide an interference when engaging the forward andrearward shoulders diameter portion 306, but do not provide significant resistance to the floating motion of thesleeve 510 along thetool bit 300. Aring magnet 50 is disposed at the forward end of the floatingsleeve 510 and is designed to magnetize a fastener 54 (not shown) that is engaged to thebit 300.Figure 65 shows the floatingsleeve 510 in a forward position whileFigure 66 shows the floatingsleeve 510 in a rearward position. - Referring also to
Figures 89 and 90 , the floatingsleeve 510 can be received over the end of a double endedtool bit 900. The double endedtool bit 900 comprises ashaft 902 with a first working portion (e.g., a screwdriving head) 904 at afirst end 906 and a second working portion (e.g., a screwdriving head) 908 at asecond end 910. The shaft also includes a first reduceddiameter portion 912 proximate the first workingportion 904 and a second reduceddiameter portion 914 proximate the second workingportion 908. Each of the reduceddiameter portions front shoulder portion rear shoulder portion diameter portions shaft 902. - Adjacent the first and second working
portions second shank portions portion diameter portion shank portions annular groove first shank portion 924 is configured to be retained in a tool holder of a fastening tool when the second workingregion 908 is being used to drive a fastener. Thesecond shank portion 926 is configured to be retained in a tool holder of a fastening tool when the first workingregion 904 is being used to drive a fastener. Disposed between the reduceddiameter portions intermediate portion 932 also having a hex-shaped cross-section. - Referring also to
FIG. 90A and 90B , the floatingsleeve 510 is alternatively receivable over thefirst end 906 of the tool bit 900 (FIG. 90A ) or thesecond end 910 of the tool bit 900 (FIG. 90B ). During insertion of thetool bit 900 into the floatingsleeve 510, thespring band 518 allows theballs 514 to be pushed radially outward against the spring force of theband 518 while the workingregion tool bit 900 is inserted into, or removed from, thesleeve 510. As theballs 516 reach the respective reduceddiameter portion tool bit 900, theballs 516 move radially inwardly reducing the force of thespring band 518 on theballs 514. Theballs 514 provide an interference when engaging theforward shoulder rearward shoulder diameter portions sleeve 510 along thetool bit 900. Thering magnet 50 disposed at the forward end of the floatingsleeve 510 floats forward to attract and magnetize the head of a fastener (not shown) that is engaged to the respective workingregion tool bit 900. - Referring to
FIG. 92 , another embodiment of a double ended tool bit 900' to be used with the floatingsleeve 510 includes a shaft 902' with a first working portion (e.g., a screwdriving head) 904' at a first end 906' and a second working portion (e.g., a screwdriving head) 908' at a second end 910'. The shaft includes a single reduced diameter portion 912' disposed equidistant between the first working portion 904' and the second working portion 908'. The reduced diameter portion 912' is defined by a first shoulder 916' that is closer to the first working portion 904' and a second shoulder 920' that is closer to the second working portion 908'. The reduced diameter portions 912', 914' may function as torsion zones that reduce torsional stresses and breakage in the shaft 902'. - Adjacent the first and second working portions 904', 908' are first and second shank portions 924', 926', each of which is disposed between the respective working portion 904', 908' and reduced diameter portion 912', 914'. The shank portions 924', 926' each have a hex-shaped cross-section and are interrupted by an annular groove 928', 930'. The
first shank portion 924 is configured to be retained in a tool holder of a fastening tool when the second workingregion 908 is being used to drive a fastener. Thesecond shank portion 926 is configured to be retained in a tool holder of a fastening tool when the first workingregion 904 is being used to drive a fastener. The floatingsleeve 510 is alternatively receivable over the first end 906' or the second end 910' of the tool bit 900'. In either case, theballs 514 are received in the reduced diameter portion 912' and move between the first shoulder 916' and the second shoulder 920', which allows thesleeve 510 to float relative to the respective working region 904', 908' of the tool bit 900'. - Referring to
FIG. 93 , another embodiment of a double endedtool bit 900" to be used with the floatingsleeve 510 includes ashaft 902" with a first working portion (e.g., a screwdriving head) 904" at afirst end 906" and a second working portion (e.g., a screwdriving head) 908" at asecond end 910". The shaft also includes a first reduceddiameter portion 912" proximate the first workingportion 904" and a second reduceddiameter portion 914" proximate the second workingportion 908". Each of the reduceddiameter portions 912", 914" is defined by afront shoulder 916", 918" that is closer to the respective workingportion 904", 908", and arear shoulder 920", 922" that is further from the respective workingportion 904", 908". The reduceddiameter portions 912", 914" may function as torsion zones that reduce torsional stresses and breakage in theshaft 902". - Adjacent the first and second working
portions 904", 908" are first andsecond shank portions 924", 926", each of which is disposed between the respective workingportion 904", 908" and reduceddiameter portion 912", 914". Theshank portions 924", 926" each have a hex-shaped cross-section and are interrupted by anannular groove 928", 930". Thefirst shank portion 924" is configured to be retained in a tool holder of a fastening tool when the second workingregion 908" is being used to drive a fastener. Thesecond shank portion 926" is configured to be retained in a tool holder of a fastening tool when the first workingregion 904" is being used to drive a fastener. Disposed between the reduceddiameter portions 912", 914" is anintermediate portion 932" having a hex-shaped cross-section and a thirdreduced diameter portion 934". The thirdreduced diameter portion 934" may function as yet another torsion zone that reduces torsional stresses and breakage in theshaft 902". The floatingsleeve 510 is alternatively receivable over thefirst end 906" or thesecond end 910" of thetool bit 900". In either case, theballs 514 are received in the reduceddiameter portion 912" and move between thefirst shoulder 916" and thesecond shoulder 920", which allows thesleeve 510 to float relative to the respective workingregion 904", 908" of thetool bit 900". -
Figures 71-75 illustrate an alternative arrangement of the floatingsleeve 530 which is arranged with the same construction as the floatingsleeve 510 with different external dimensions and appearance. Accordingly, the same reference numerals used for describing the components of the floatingsleeve 510 are used for the components of the floatingsleeve 530 and a detailed description of the floatingsleeve 530 is not believed to be necessary, other than to note that its dimensions are different from that of thering magnet assembly 510 in order to be used with a different type of bit having a smaller working head region and/or longer reduced diameter portion. - With reference to
Figures 76-81 , an alternative tool bit assembly 550 will now be described. The tool bit assembly 550 includes atool bit 552, abase collar 554 that is received on thetool bit 552, and a floatingsleeve 556 that is slidably received on thebase collar 554. A front end of thesleeve 556 is tapered inwardly. This intuitively prevents the user from attaching the sleeve backwards on the bit. - As shown in
Fig. 76 , thetool bit 552 can be of the type that includes ashank portion 558 and a workingend 560 with a reduceddiameter portion 561 and anannular groove 562 disposed in an intermediate location thereon. As an alternative, the tool bit 552', as shown inFigure 77 , can include recessed grooves at the corner edges of the hex-shapedshank 558 instead of theannular groove 562. - The
base collar 554 includes an internal recessedgroove 568 that receives aretainer ring 570 therein. Theretainer ring 570 is designed to be received in theannular groove 562 of thetool bit 552 or within the recessedgrooves 564 of the alternative bit 552'.Retainer ring 570 secures the base collar to thetool bit 552, 552'. Thebase collar 554 includes a reduceddiameter portion 572 having a recessedgroove 574 in an outer surface thereof. Astop shoulder 576 is disposed at a rearward end of the reduceddiameter portion 572. The floatingsleeve 556 is movably received on the reduceddiameter portion 572. The floatingsleeve 556 includes an internalannular groove 578 that receives a retainingring 580 received in the recessedgroove 574. Retainingring 580 limits the axial movement of the floatingsleeve 556 via the forward andrearward shoulders annular groove 578. Therearward end 586 of the floatingsleeve 556 engages thestop shoulder 576 of thebase collar 554. Aring magnet 50 is received in a forward end of the floatingsleeve 556 and is designed to magnetize a fastener to retain the fastener to the workinghead region 560 of thetool bit 552. - With reference to
Figures 82-85 , the base collar 554' of the tool bit assembly 550 ofFigures 76-81 has been modified to include aninternal shoulder portion 590 that engages aforward shoulder 592 of the reduceddiameter portion 561 of thetool bit 552. Theshoulder portion 590 and theretainer ring 570 secure the base collar 554' relative to thetool bit 552 so that the movement of the floatingsleeve 556 can be better controlled.Figures 82 and 84 show the modified base collar 554' engaged withalternative tool bits 552, 552'. - With reference to
Figures 86-88C , abit holder assembly 800 includes abody portion 820 coupled to ashank 840, and a floatingsleeve 810 received over thebody portion 820. Thebody portion 820 andshank 840 are similar to thesleeve 20 and connectingrod 40 of the bit holder described inU.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2012/0126497 , titled "Small Outer Diameter Quick Release Extension Rod," which is incorporated herein by reference ("the '497 application"). As described in greater detail in the '497 application, thebody 820 includes asocket 823 configured to receive atool bit 40. A pair of lateral accommodation portions 832 is defined in a circumference of thesocket 823. A pair of elongatedelastic elements 870 are each received in the lateral accommodation portions 832. Each elongatedelastic element 870 is sheet shaped and includes abody portion 871 connected between a pushedend portion 872 and anengaging end portion 873, which extends from thebody portion 871 at an angle of approximately 45±15 degrees. - An
actuator sleeve 830 is received over theshank 840 and a rear end of thebody 820 and is moveable axially relative to thebody 820 and theshank 840. Areturn spring 860 is held axially by afirst positioning ring 850 that is fixedly connected to theshank 840. Thereturn spring 860 biases theactuator sleeve 830 toward a forward or locked position. Theactuation sleeve 830 is fixedly connected to asecond positioning ring 880. Thesecond positioning ring 880 is fixedly connected to the pushedend portions 872 of the elongatedelastic elements 871. When theactuator sleeve 830 is in its forward position (as shown inFig. 4 of the '497 application), theengaging end portions 873 of the elongatedelastic elements 870 project into thesocket 823 to engage and retain atool bit 40 in thesocket 823. When theactuator sleeve 830 is retracted against the force of the return spring 860 (as shown inFig. 6 of the '497 application), thesecond positioning ring 880 pulls theend portions 872 of the elongatedelastic elements 870 to retract theengaging end portions 873 from thesocket 823, enabling removal of thetool bit 40 from thesocket 823. - Inside of the
socket 823 is anejection mechanism 890 includes aplunger 891, amagnetic element 892 and anelastic element 893. Themagnetic element 892 is disposed on one end of theplunger 891, and the other end of theplunger 891 abuts against one end of theelastic element 893. The other end of theelastic element 893 abuts against an end of the connectingrod 840. Themagnetic element 892 faces toward front end of thesocket 823. When a tool bit is inserted into thesocket 823, theelastic element 893 is compressed. When the tool bit is released from thesocket 823, theelastic element 893 pushes theplunger 891 toward the open end of the socket, causing at least partial ejection of the tool bit out of thesocket 823. This helps enable removal of the tool bit from thesocket 823. Themagnetic element 892 prevents the tool bit from being fully ejected from thesocket 823 when theactuator sleeve 830 is retracted to release the tool bit. - The outer surface of the
body 820 is provided with an elongatedannular recess 812. The floatingsleeve 810 is substantially surrounds thebody 820 and supports aring magnet 814 at an end thereof. The floatingsleeve 810 includes an interiorannular groove 816 that receives aretainer 818 therein. The floatingsleeve 810 can be removably attached to thebody 820 by force fitting thebody 820 into arear opening 822 of the floatingsleeve 810 until theretainer 818 is received in therecess 812 of thebody 820. - The
recess 812 is provided with aforward shoulder 824 and arearward shoulder 826 that allow the floatingsleeve 170 to travel in a forward and rearward direction as indicated by arrow A while theshoulders sleeve 810 by engagement with theretainer member 818. Thus, the floating sleeve can float freely between a rear position, as shown inFig. 87A , in which theretainer 818 engages therear shoulder 826, and a front position as shown inFig. 87B , in which theretainer 818 engages thefront shoulder 824 and thering magnet 814 can engage the head of a threadedfastener 819. As shown inFigures 88A-88C , theretainer 818 can take the form of a non-elastic member, such as asteel hog ring 818a, as shown inFigure 88A , or an elastic member, such as an elastic O-ring 818b as shown inFigure 88B or an elastic C-ring 818c as shown inFigure 88C . - With reference to
Figure 87C , in an alternative embodiment, the floatingsleeve 810 can also be moved rearward to a parked position in which theretainer 818 is positioned rearward of therear shoulder 826. In this embodiment, theretainer 818 comprises an elastic element (such as an elastic O-ring 818b or an elastic C-ring 818c) that is stretched and expands when the floatingsleeve 810 is pulled axially rearward to the parked position. The expandedelastic retainer 818 frictionally engages the outer wall of thebody portion 820 in a tight manner to maintain the floatingsleeve 810 in the parked position until the user pulls the floatingsleeve 810 forward back to one of the floating positions shown inFigures 87A and87B . Aninternal shoulder 877 on the front end of the floatingsleeve 810 abuts afront end 879 of thebody portion 820 to prevent further rearward movement of the floatingsleeve 810 beyond the parked position. In the parked position, it is easier for the user to grasp and remove thebit 40 when it is ejected from thesocket 823 when theactuator sleeve 830 is retracted. In another embodiment, similar to the embodiment ofFigure 12E , thebody portion 820 may be formed with an annular parking groove rearward of theannular recess 812 to more securely retain theretainer 818 and the floatingsleeve 810 in the parked position. - The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.
- The invention may include one or more features in accordance with any of the following numbered clauses (which, for the avoidance of doubt, do not constitute part of the claims of this application).
- 1. A tool bit assembly, comprising:
- a tool bit having a shaft with a first working region configured to drive a fastener disposed at a first end of the shaft, a second working region configured to drive a fastener disposed at a second end of the shaft, a first bit retaining region disposed proximate the second working region and configured to couple the tool bit to a power tool so that the first working region can drive a fastener, a second bit retaining region disposed proximate the first working region and configured to couple the tool bit to a power tool so that the second working region can drive a fastener, and at least one reduced diameter portion between the first working region and the second working region; and
- a floating sleeve having a radially inwardly projecting retention mechanism at a rear end of the sleeve and a magnet at the front end of the sleeve,
- wherein the floating sleeve is removably and reversibly receivable over the tool bit in a first orientation and a second orientation,
- wherein in the first orientation the magnet is proximate the first working region and the retention mechanism is received in the at least one reduced diameter portion to allow the floating sleeve to move between a first forward position in which the magnet is able to engage a fastener being driven by the first working region and a first rearward position in which the magnet is retracted relative to the first working region, and
- wherein in the second orientation the magnet is proximate the second working region and the retention mechanism is received in the at least one reduced diameter portion to allow the floating sleeve to move between a second forward position in which the magnet is able to engage a fastener being driven by the second working region and a second rearward position in which the magnet is retracted relative to the second working region.
- 2. The tool bit assembly of clause 1, wherein the retention mechanism comprises one of an O-ring, a C-clip, at least one retaining ball, and an inwardly projecting wall portion of the floating sleeve.
- 3. The tool bit assembly of clause 1, wherein the retention mechanism comprises at least one ball received in at least one window in the floating sleeve and a spring band received in an annular recess in the sleeve, the spring band biasing the at least one ball radially inward toward the tool bit.
- 4. The tool bit assembly of clause 3, wherein the at least one ball pair comprises a pair of balls and the at least one window comprises a pair of window openings, with each ball received in a different window opening.
- 5. The tool bit assembly of clause 1, wherein the magnet comprises a ring-shaped magnet.
- 6. The tool bit assembly of clause 1, wherein the first bit retaining region comprises a shank region of polygonal cross-section disposed between the first working region and the at least one reduced diameter portion, and the second retaining region comprises a shank region of polygonal cross-section disposed between the second working region and the at least one reduced diameter portion.
- 7. The tool bit assembly of clause 8, wherein each shank region further comprises an annular groove.
- 8. The tool bit assembly of clause 1, wherein the at least one reduced diameter portion comprises a single reduced diameter portion disposed substantially equidistant between the first working region and the second working region.
- 9. The tool bit assembly of clause 1, wherein the at least one reduced diameter portion comprises a first reduced diameter portion closer to the first working region that receives the retention mechanism when the floating magnet sleeve is in the first orientation and a second reduced diameter portion closer to the second working region that receives the retention mechanism when the floating magnet sleeve is in the second orientation.
- 10. The tool bit assembly of clause 8, further comprising a third reduced diameter portion disposed between the first and second reduced diameter portions.
- 11. The tool bit assembly of clause 9, the first reduced diameter torsion zone having a first shoulder closer to the first working region and a second shoulder closer to the first bit retaining region, the second reduced diameter torsion zone having a third shoulder closer to the first working region and a fourth shoulder closer to the first bit retaining region, the tool bit assembly further comprising;
an intermediate portion of larger diameter than the first and second reduced diameter portions disposed between the second shoulder and the third shoulder, and wherein;
in the first forward position of the floating sleeve the retention mechanism abuts the first shoulder, in the first rearward position of the floating sleeve the retention mechanism abuts the second shoulder, in the second forward position the retention mechanism abuts the fourth shoulder and in the second rearward position the retention mechanism abuts the fourth shoulder. - 12. The tool bit system of clause 11, wherein the diameter of the intermediate portion is substantially the same as a diameter of the first shank portion, wherein;
the first and second torsion zones have substantially equal length, and wherein;
the second shank portion is disposed between the first working region and the first torsion zone and the first shank portion is disposed between the second working region and the second torsion zone. - 13. The tool bit assembly of clause 11, wherein the first shank portion, the intermediate portion, and at least a portion of the first working end region each have a polygonal cross-section of a diameter that is greater than the diameters of the first and second torsion zones, and wherein;
the intermediate portion comprises a first large diameter intermediate portion adjacent the first torsion zone, a second large diameter intermediate portion adjacent the second torsion zone and a third reduced diameter torsion zone disposed between the first and second large diameter intermediate portions. - 14. A tool bit for driving a fastener comprising:
- a shaft with a front end and a rear end;
- a working region disposed at the front end and configured to drive a fastener;
- a shank portion disposed at the rear end and configured to couple the shaft to a power tool;
- a first reduced diameter torsion zone disposed in the shaft proximate the working region and configured to reduce stresses and breakage in the shaft; and
- a second distinct reduced diameter torsion zone disposed in the shaft proximate the shank portion and configured to reduce stresses and breakage in the shaft.
- 15. The tool bit of
clause 14, further comprising an intermediate portion of larger diameter than the first and second torsion zones disposed in the shaft between the first and second torsion zones. - 16. The tool bit of
clause 14, wherein the first and second torsion zones have substantially the same length. - 17. The tool bit of
clause 14, wherein the first and second torsion zones have different lengths. - 18. The tool bit of
clause 14, wherein the first torsion zone is configured to removably receive and retain a floating magnet sleeve so that the sleeve can move axially between a front end and a rear end of the first torsion zone and wherein; the shank portion has a polygonal cross-section and the first and second torsion zones have round cross-sections.
Claims (6)
- A tool bit for driving a fastener comprising:a shaft with a front end and a rear end;a working region disposed at the front end and configured to drive a fastener;a shank portion disposed at the rear end and configured to couple the shaft to a power tool;a first reduced diameter torsion zone disposed in the shaft proximate the working region and configured to reduce stresses and breakage in the shaft; anda second distinct reduced diameter torsion zone disposed in the shaft proximate the shank portion and configured to reduce stresses and breakage in the shaft.
- The tool bit of claim 1, further comprising an intermediate portion of larger diameter than the first and second torsion zones disposed in the shaft between the first and second torsion zones.
- The tool bit of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first and second torsion zones have substantially the same length.
- The tool bit of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first and second torsion zones have different lengths.
- The tool bit of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shank portion has a polygonal cross-section and the first and second torsion zones have round cross-sections.
- The tool bit of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first torsion zone is configured to removably receive and retain a floating magnet sleeve so that the sleeve can move axially between a front end and a rear end of the first torsion zone.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
TW103214649U TWM500658U (en) | 2013-08-15 | 2014-08-15 | Tool bits and tool bit holders with floating magnet sleeves |
CN201420463546.6U CN204397783U (en) | 2013-08-15 | 2014-08-15 | Cutter head assembly, cutter head clip assembly and the cutter head clip assembly for throw |
US14/817,323 US9943946B2 (en) | 2012-02-15 | 2015-08-04 | Tool bits with floating magnet sleeves |
EP15180953.0A EP3009234B1 (en) | 2014-08-15 | 2015-08-13 | Tool bits with floating magnet sleeves |
Related Parent Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP15180953.0A Division EP3009234B1 (en) | 2014-08-15 | 2015-08-13 | Tool bits with floating magnet sleeves |
EP15180953.0A Division-Into EP3009234B1 (en) | 2014-08-15 | 2015-08-13 | Tool bits with floating magnet sleeves |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP3760378A1 true EP3760378A1 (en) | 2021-01-06 |
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ID=53969167
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP20190507.2A Withdrawn EP3760378A1 (en) | 2014-08-15 | 2015-08-13 | Tool bit with reduced diameter torsion zones |
EP15180953.0A Active EP3009234B1 (en) | 2014-08-15 | 2015-08-13 | Tool bits with floating magnet sleeves |
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EP15180953.0A Active EP3009234B1 (en) | 2014-08-15 | 2015-08-13 | Tool bits with floating magnet sleeves |
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Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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EP3235596B1 (en) * | 2016-04-21 | 2020-10-28 | Chang, Chia-Feng | Screwdriver bit assembly with a magnetic structure |
CN108237498B (en) * | 2016-12-27 | 2024-04-09 | 苏州宝时得电动工具有限公司 | Clamping head |
DE102021122932B3 (en) | 2021-09-06 | 2022-08-11 | Kirchhoff Witte Gmbh | Bit holder for holding and screwing in a screw with a screw head in a mounting base |
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- 2015-08-13 EP EP20190507.2A patent/EP3760378A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2015-08-13 EP EP15180953.0A patent/EP3009234B1/en active Active
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WO2012049078A1 (en) * | 2010-10-15 | 2012-04-19 | Wera - Werk Hermann Werner Gmbh & Co. Kg | Torque transmission device for use with a rotary impact screwdriver |
US20120126497A1 (en) | 2010-11-23 | 2012-05-24 | Ying-Mo Lin | Small outer diameter quick release extension rod |
WO2013031339A1 (en) * | 2011-08-30 | 2013-03-07 | 株式会社ベッセル工業 | Driver bit |
EP2628570A2 (en) * | 2012-02-15 | 2013-08-21 | Black & Decker Inc. | Quick change bit holder with ring magnet |
Also Published As
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EP3009234A1 (en) | 2016-04-20 |
EP3009234B1 (en) | 2020-09-23 |
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