Small screw catchment and caddy system

TWI939767BActive Publication Date: 2026-09-21巴恩斯 布萊恩 +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
TW113124166
Authority / Receiving Office
TW · TW
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-10-05
Filing Date
2024-06-28
Publication Date
2026-09-21
Estimated Expiration
2044-06-27

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The retrieval and handling of small screws, particularly those used in precision devices and surgical applications, is challenging due to their tiny size, lightweight nature, and reflective materials, making them difficult to grip and locate, often leading to loss and complicating assembly processes.

Method used

A screw accommodation system comprising a box with grooves and a lid, where screws are temporarily secured using adhesive material, allowing for easy retrieval and placement using a screwdriver with a matching tip that engages the adhesive, ensuring secure and consistent alignment.

Benefits of technology

The system provides a secure, intuitive, and efficient method for collecting and placing small screws, enhancing assembly precision in devices and surgical procedures by minimizing misalignment and loss.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This invention discloses a screw receiving system comprising a housing, a first screw, an adhesive, and a cover. The housing includes a plurality of recesses, including a first recess extending from a first opening toward a second surface of the housing. The first recess is sized to receive a screw therein and includes a countersunk bore at a distal end. The first screw is removably disposed in the first recess such that a shoulder of the screw head rests on an upper surface of the countersunk bore, wherein a shank is disposed in an inner recess of the countersunk bore. The adhesive is disposed within an actuating portion of the first screw and is configured to temporarily couple the two components together. The cover is removably coupled to a first surface of the housing such that when the cover is coupled to the first surface, the first screw remains within the first recess.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a small screw collection area and box system. Prior Art

[0002] Picking up small screws while repairing or manufacturing precision devices such as glasses, watches, or jewelry components can be a frustrating and challenging task. Similar challenges exist for small-diameter screw systems used in spinal surgery, craniofacial bone fixation, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. These screws are typically extremely small, sometimes measuring only a few millimeters in length, making them almost invisible to the naked eye. The small size and lightweight nature of these screws make them prone to being lost or easily dropped, increasing the complexity of the task. In addition, screws are typically made of materials such as stainless steel or brass, which are highly reflective, causing them to blend into the background or camouflage on the surface where they are dropped. This optical illusion makes locating these materials an exercise in patience and keen observation.

[0003] Furthermore, small screws are prone to rolling or bouncing when dropped, further complicating the retrieval process. The extremely small size of these small screws also makes it difficult to grip them using traditional tools or fingers, requiring the use of specialized tweezers or magnifying glasses to improve visibility and precision. Repairing or manufacturing small devices such as glasses, watches, or jewelry components requires a steady hand, meticulous attention to detail, and sufficient patience. The same level of expertise required for small-diameter screw systems is also needed for spinal surgery, craniofacial bone fixation, and oral and maxillofacial surgery systems. Searching for and placing these extremely small screws can be a time-consuming and tricky task that tests the dexterity and perseverance of the general public and even the most experienced maintenance personnel and professionals in the operating room. Additionally, placing extremely small screws is also a challenge in the manufacturing process of the screw systems described previously.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for an efficient and effective fastener organization and retrieval tool. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one embodiment, the present invention discloses a screw accommodation system, which system includes a box, a first screw, an adhesive substance, and a lid. The box includes: a first surface that defines a plurality of openings including a first opening; a second surface that is opposite and spaced from the first surface; a plurality of grooves, which include a first groove extending from the first opening toward the second surface of the box, the first groove being sized to receive a screw therein; and a countersunk bore disposed at a distal end of the first groove. The first screw is removably disposed in the first groove. The first screw includes: a head disposed on a first end and having a screwdriver; a shank coupled to the head to define a screw head shoulder, the screw head shoulder sitting on an upper surface of the countersunk bore, wherein the shank is disposed in an inner groove of the countersunk bore; threads disposed on a portion of the shank; and a tip located on a second end. The adhesive substance is disposed within the starter portion of the first screw, and the adhesive substance is configured to temporarily couple two objects together. The lid is removably coupled to the first surface of the box such that when the lid is coupled to the first surface, the first screw is retained within the first groove.

[0006] In some embodiments, the system further includes a screwdriver having a shaft sized to fit within the first groove of the box and a tip sized to fit within the starter portion of the screw. In some embodiments, a diameter of the first groove is between 0 mm and 1 mm larger than a diameter of the shaft of the screwdriver.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first opening is circular and the first groove is a cylindrical hole. In some embodiments, the first groove at least partially includes a frustoconical shape.

[0008] In some embodiments, the lid is hingedly or slidably coupled to the box. In some embodiments, the lid is a removable plastic film. In some embodiments, the adhesive substance is a bone wax or a putty.

[0009] In some embodiments, the plurality of openings further includes a second opening, and the plurality of grooves includes a second groove extending from the second opening toward the second surface of the box, wherein the second groove is sized to receive a second screw therein, the second screw having the same size or a different size as the first screw.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first screw is an eyeglass frame screw, a watch screw, a jewelry screw, an orthopedic screw or a spinal screw, a screw for skull bone fixation or a screw for oral and maxillofacial surgery.

[0011] In another embodiment, a box is disclosed, the box comprising: a first surface that defines a plurality of openings, the plurality of openings including a first opening and a second opening; a second surface that is opposite and spaced from the first surface; a first groove that extends from the first opening toward the second surface of the box, the first groove sized to receive a screw therein, the first groove having a countersunk bore at one of its distal ends; a screw disposed in the first groove, a shank of the screw disposed in an inner groove of the countersunk bore, and a screw head shoulder of the screw sitting on an upper surface of the countersunk bore; a second groove that extends from the second opening toward the second surface of the box, the second groove sized to receive a shaft of a screwdriver therein; and an adhesive material disposed in the second groove.

[0012] In some embodiments, the box further comprises a screwdriver having a shaft sized to fit within each of the first groove and the second groove of the box and a tip sized to fit within a drive portion of the screw. In some embodiments, a diameter of the first groove is between 0 mm and 1 mm larger than a diameter of the shaft of the screwdriver. In some embodiments, a diameter of the second groove is larger than a diameter of the shaft of the screwdriver.

[0013] In another embodiment, a method of picking up a screw is disclosed, the method comprising: providing a box having a first surface that defines a plurality of openings, a plurality of grooves including a first groove extending from the plurality of openings toward a second surface, the first groove having a first screw disposed therein, the first screw having an adhesive material disposed within a drive portion of a head of the screw, wherein the box further comprises a lid removably coupled to the first surface and configured to cover the plurality of grooves; providing a screwdriver having a handle and a tip configured to engage the driver of the screw; removing the lid from the box to expose the plurality of grooves; inserting the tip of the screwdriver into the first groove until the tip of the screwdriver abuts the adhesive material and deforms the adhesive material such that the screw and the screwdriver are temporarily coupled together via the adhesive material; and removing the tip of the screwdriver and the screw from the first groove.

[0014] In certain embodiments, the screw is a spectacle frame screw, and the method further comprises: inserting the screw into a screw hole of a pair of spectacles; and decoupling the adhesive material and the screwdriver from the screw.

[0015] In certain embodiments, the screw is a watch or jewelry screw, and the method further comprises: inserting the screw into a screw hole of a watch; and decoupling the adhesive material and the screwdriver from the screw.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the screw is an orthopedic screw, a spinal screw, a skull fixation screw, or an oral and maxillofacial surgery screw, and the method further comprises: inserting the screw into a screw hole of a spinal implant; and decoupling the adhesive material and the screwdriver from the screw.

[0017] In another embodiment, a method of picking up a screw is disclosed, the method comprising: providing a box having a first surface defining a plurality of openings, a plurality of grooves including a first groove and a second groove extending from the plurality of openings toward a second surface, the first groove having a first screw disposed therein, the second groove having an adhesive material disposed therein, wherein the box further comprises a lid removably coupled to the first surface and configured to cover the plurality of grooves; providing a screwdriver having a handle and a tip configured to engage a driving portion of the screw; removing the lid from the box to expose the plurality of grooves; inserting the tip of the screwdriver into the second groove to abut and deform a portion of the adhesive material; removing the tip of the screwdriver together with the portion of the adhesive material from the second groove; inserting the tip of the screwdriver having the adhesive material into the first groove until the tip of the screwdriver abuts the driving portion of the screw, wherein the portion of the adhesive material is located therebetween such that the screw and the screwdriver are temporarily coupled together via the adhesive material; and removing the tip of the screwdriver and the screw from the first groove.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the method further comprises inserting the screw into a screw hole of a pair of spectacles; and decoupling the adhesive material and the screwdriver from the screw.

[0019] Additional advantages will be set forth in part in the description that follows, or may be learned by practice. The advantages will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] Figures 1A to 1C show a screw receiving system according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figures 2A and 2B show a screw receiving system according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figures 3A to 3C show a screw receiving system according to one embodiment.

[0023] By reference to the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, various objects, aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent and better understood. In the drawings, like reference characters always identify corresponding elements. In the figures, like reference numerals generally indicate the same, functionally similar and / or structurally similar elements. Embodiments

[0024] Generally referring to the figures, a screw collection area and a box system according to various embodiments are shown.

[0025] In one aspect, the assembly and repair of small devices (such as watches and eyeglass frames) are made difficult due to the inclusion of small screws and screw holes. These screws are typically less than 1 mm in size, and it is very difficult for a person to manipulate and align these screws. Existing tools cannot provide a robust and firm connection between a tool and a screw. For example, a magnetic tip screwdriver can hold a screw near the magnetic tip, but these screws often fall to one side of the tip rather than remaining centrally aligned with the starter part of the screw. Therefore, the systems, methods and devices disclosed herein provide an improvement to this technical problem. The systems, methods and devices disclosed herein provide a secure, consistent, repeatable and intuitive screw collection area. The systems, methods and devices disclosed herein further provide a more effective way to assemble and repair small devices using these small fasteners.

[0026] In another aspect, due to (i) the small size of the fasteners and their respective holes and (ii) the sterile environment and the special configuration of the components therein, it becomes difficult to remove and place fasteners (e.g., small screws) in a surgical setting. Although existing tools provide a batch of fasteners for a surgeon to choose from, these existing tools do not solve the problems of alignment and secure contact between the fasteners and the tools. The systems, methods, and devices disclosed herein provide a secure, consistent, repeatable, and intuitive assembly and use of surgical fasteners. The systems, methods, and devices disclosed herein provide a more effective way to remove small fasteners from a box and place them at a desired location.

[0027] Although screws are considered an example of fasteners applicable to the systems, methods, and devices disclosed herein, the present disclosure is not limited to screws. In certain embodiments, the systems, methods, and devices of the present disclosure are applicable to various fasteners (e.g., nuts, bolts, nails, staples, buttons, etc.). In certain embodiments, the systems, methods, and devices of the present disclosure are applicable to various items considered small on a human handling scale (e.g., construction materials, craft materials, pharmaceutical materials, cooking materials, etc.).

[0028] Exemplary Device #1

[0029] Figures 1A through 1C illustrate a screw accommodation system 100 according to one embodiment. Specifically, Figure 1A shows a cross-sectional view along line A-A in Figure 1B, and Figure 1B shows a top view without a lid. Figure 1C shows a cross-sectional view of Figure 1A together with a screwdriver 180. The screw accommodation system 100 of Figures 1A through 1C includes a box 102, a first screw 130, a second screw 150, an adhesive material 160, and a lid 170.

[0030] The box 102 includes a first surface 104 and a second surface 106 that is opposite and spaced from the first surface 104. The first surface 104 defines a plurality of openings including a first opening 108 and a second opening 112. The box 102 further includes a plurality of grooves extending from respective openings in the first surface 104 toward the second surface 106. Each groove is sized to receive a screw and / or a screwdriver (e.g., the screwdriver 180 of Figure 1C) therein. For example, the diameter of the first opening may be greater than the diameter of a screwdriver shaft. In other embodiments, the diameter of the first opening is between 0 mm and 1 mm larger than the diameter of the screwdriver shaft (e.g., to prevent misalignment between the screwdriver tip and the screwdriver). Each groove includes a countersunk bore disposed at a distal end of the groove.

[0031] The plurality of grooves includes a first groove 110 extending from the first opening 108 and a second groove 114 extending from a second opening 112. The first groove 110 includes a first counterbore 116 disposed at the distal end 118 of the first groove 110. The first counterbore 116 includes an internal groove 120 defined by the first counterbore 116, the internal groove being smaller in diameter than a portion at the proximal end 122 of the first groove 110. Thus, the first counterbore 116 defines an upper surface 124.

[0032] As shown, the cartridge 102 includes six openings in the first surface 104 and six corresponding grooves. Each of the openings and corresponding grooves of the cartridge 102 of the system 100 is the same in size and structure. However, in other embodiments, consider various sizes, structures, numbers, and configurations of openings and corresponding grooves. For example, in some embodiments, the cartridge may define 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, or more openings and corresponding grooves. In other embodiments, one opening and corresponding groove may have a size (e.g., diameter, depth, etc.) that is larger or smaller than an adjacent opening and corresponding groove. In other embodiments, the sizes and dimensions of the counterbores of adjacent grooves may vary. In other embodiments, some of the grooves do not include counterbores, but only include a cylindrical or partially cylindrical groove. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the grooves includes a frustoconical shape (e.g., a countersink or chamfered edge on the proximal end of the groove).

[0033] The cartridge 102 may include a transparent material (e.g., polycarbonate, acrylic, polyvinyl chloride, cycloolefin copolymer, polypropylene, or any other substantially transparent and moldable material). This transparent material allows a user to see the screws in the cartridge and determine which grooves are empty or filled. In other embodiments, the cartridge includes an opaque material.

[0034] The cartridge 102 includes a first screw 130 removably disposed in one of the first grooves 110. The first screw 130 includes a head 136 disposed on a first end 132 of the screw. The head 136 defines a starting portion 138. A shank 140 is coupled to the head 136 to define a screw head shoulder 142. The shank 140 extends from the screw head shoulder 142 toward a second end 134 having a tip 146. The shank 140 includes threads 144 on a portion of the shank 140. As shown, the screw head shoulder 142 sits on the upper surface 124 of the first countersunk bore 116, and the shank 140 is disposed within the inner groove 120 of the first countersunk bore 116.

[0035] Figures 1A and 1B further include a second screw 150 substantially similar to the first screw 130. The second screw 150 is disposed in the second groove 114 in a manner similar to the first screw 130 in the first groove 110. For clarity, the second screw 150 is shown without the adhesive material 160 on top. However, in the configurations considered, all screws of the system include an adhesive material on top. In other configurations, some of the screws include an adhesive material on top, while other screws do not.

[0036] The first screw 130 and the second screw 150 of Figures 1A and 1B are the same size. However, in other embodiments, one screw may have a different size, shape, function, or other dimension from the other screw. For example, in some embodiments, one screw may have a first shaft length, and the other screw may have a second shaft length that is longer or shorter than the first shaft length. In other embodiments, a first screw may have a first starting portion shape (e.g., Phillips head), while a second screw may have a second starting portion shape (e.g., hexagonal or flat head).

[0037] The first screw 130 and the second screw 150 may have a size and composition suitable for a particular device or purpose. For example, in some embodiments, the first screw and the second screw are coupleable and insertable into an eyeglass frame such that the system forms an eyeglass repair kit. In some embodiments, the first screw and the second screw are coupleable and insertable into a piece of jewelry (e.g., a watch), such that the system forms a jewelry or watch repair kit. In some embodiments, the first screw and the second screw are coupleable to a spinal surgical clamp and insertable into a patient's spine or a spinal implant, such that the system forms a spinal screw cartridge system.

[0038] System 100 includes an adhesive material 160 disposed on a starting portion 138 of a first screw 130. For example, the adhesive material 160 is disposed on a first end 132 of the first screw 130, where some of the adhesive material 160 extends over a surface of the head 136 and some of the adhesive material 160 extends into the starting portion 138. The adhesive material 160 is configured to temporarily couple two objects together such that when a force or a torque is applied, one object can be removed from (i) the adhesive material and / or (ii) a second object. The adhesive material 160 is not meant to permanently couple the two objects together; however, in other embodiments, this configuration is contemplated by the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the adhesive material is a bone wax or includes at least one of beeswax, isopropyl palmitate, and a wax softener. In certain embodiments, the adhesive material is a putty (e.g., a viscous, sticky, or adhesive putty). In certain embodiments, the adhesive material includes at least one of glue, water, a polymer (e.g., polyvinyl acetate), and borax. In certain embodiments, the adhesive material is a thermosetting plastic or an elastomer.

[0039] A lid 170 is removably coupled to a first surface 104 of the cartridge 102. The lid 170 is a peelable plastic lid that is movable from a closed configuration to an open configuration. In practice, the lid 170 prevents the screws from falling out of the cartridge 102 or being reconfigured within the recesses (e.g., moving the shank 140 out of the internal recess 120 of the countersunk bore 116). For example, during transportation and / or handling before the system 100 is used, the lid 170 holds the internal components of the system 200 in place. The lid 170 includes a transparent material (e.g., transparent plastic); however, in other embodiments, the lid may not be transparent.

[0040] When the lid 170 is coupled to the first surface 104 (i.e., in the closed configuration), each of the screws in the system 100 (e.g., the first screw 130 and the second screw 150) is held in its respective recess. When the lid 170 is pulled back (i.e., moved from the closed configuration to the open configuration), each of the screws is exposed in its respective recess. In other embodiments, the lid is a hinged or slidable lid that is configured to move back and forth between the open configuration and the closed configuration (e.g., via a latch or a clip).

[0041] A screwdriver 180 shown in FIG. 1C has a shaft 182 and a tip 184. The shaft 182 has a diameter sized to fit within each of a plurality of recesses of the cartridge 102. The tip 184 is shaped to engage a starting portion of a screw (e.g., the starting portion 138 of the first screw 130).

[0042] In use, a method of using system 100 to pick up a screw is disclosed. The cassette 102 is provided with screws pre-loaded into a plurality of grooves, each screw having an adhesive material 160 disposed on top adjacent to the screwdriver. The screwdriver 180 is also provided with a shaft 182 and a tip 184 configured to engage a starting portion of the screw (e.g., the starting portion 138 of the first screw 130).

[0043] The cover 170 is removed from the cassette 102 to expose a plurality of grooves (including the first groove 110 and the second groove 114). The tip 184 of the screwdriver 180 is inserted into the first groove 110 until the tip 184 of the screwdriver 180 abuts the adhesive material 160 and deforms the adhesive material, such that the first screw 130 and the screwdriver 180 are temporarily coupled together via the adhesive material 160. Then, the screwdriver 180, together with the first screw 130 adhered to the tip 184, is removed from the first groove 110.

[0044] Once the first screw 130 is coupled to the screwdriver 180, the first screw 130 can be easily and effectively placed in a desired position. For example, the first screw 130 can be inserted into a screw hole of a pair of glasses, a screw hole of a watch, or any other jewelry piece. In other embodiments, the first screw 130 can be an orthopedic screw, or a spinal screw, or a screw for craniofacial bone fixation, and can be inserted into a screw hole of a spinal implant or an anatomical feature for oral, maxillofacial, or other types of surgical procedures. After insertion, the first screw 130 is decoupled from the adhesive material 160 and the screwdriver 180. For example, the decoupling step can be accomplished by pulling the screwdriver 180 out of the starting portion 138 of the first screw 130 along a longitudinal axis or at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the first screw 130. In certain embodiments, the decoupling step can be accomplished by twisting the screwdriver 180 such that the twisting force removes the adhesive material 160 without moving the first screw 130 (e.g., by pulling the screwdriver 180 upward out of the starting portion 138 without completely decoupling from the adhesive material 160). In certain embodiments, the decoupling step is accomplished by a combination of the above operations (e.g., pulling at an angle and twisting).

[0045] Exemplary Device #2

[0046] Figures 2A and 2B show a system 200 that is substantially similar to system 100 of FIGS. 1A - 1C, except as described below. Similar reference numerals between the two systems denote similar elements. Specifically, FIG. 2A shows a cross - sectional view along line A - A in FIG. 2B, and FIG. 2B shows a top view without a cover. System 200 includes a box 102 that defines a plurality of openings that extend from a first surface 104 toward a second surface 106 to define a plurality of grooves. The plurality of grooves includes a first groove 110 that extends from a first opening 108. The first groove 110 includes a first countersunk bore 116. A first screw 130 is disposed within the first groove 110 and rests on the first countersunk bore 116.

[0047] The plurality of grooves further includes a second groove 212 that extends from a second opening 210. The second groove 212 is sized to receive the shaft and tip of a screwdriver (e.g., screwdriver 180 of FIG. 1C). Although the second opening 210 may have a diameter that matches the first opening 108, the shape and dimensions of the second groove 212 in FIGS. 2A - 2B do not match those of the first groove 110. Instead, the second groove 212 is a cylindrical hole without a countersunk bore. In other embodiments, the second groove may have a different shape (e.g., conical, frustoconical, or include a countersunk bore that matches the first groove). In other embodiments, the shape of the second opening may include a different shape (e.g., triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.).

[0048] System 200 includes a large - volume deposit of adhesive material 160 rather than having the adhesive material 160 on top of the screw head. The second groove 212 contains a larger volume of adhesive material 160 than the individual deposits on the screws in system 100. Thus, the adhesive material 160 of system 200 can be reused in small portions. In some embodiments, system 200 is provided with a second separate adhesive material reservoir (e.g., a replacement container) to refill the second groove 212 or for use separately from the second groove 212.

[0049] The cover 270 in system 200 is a hinged cover 270 that is coupled to the box 102 via a hinge 272. The cover 270 can move between an open configuration and a closed configuration. System 200 can be closed and sealed, opened for use, and then repeatedly re - closed and sealed. Similar to the cover 170 of system 100, the cover 270 can include a transparent material.

[0050] In use, a method of using a system 200 to pick up a screw is disclosed. The cassette 102 of the system 200 is provided with screws pre-loaded into a plurality of grooves (e.g., all grooves except one of the grooves may have one screw disposed therein). A screwdriver is also provided (e.g., the screwdriver 180 shown in FIG. 1C), the screwdriver having a shaft 182 and a tip 184 configured to engage a starting portion of the screw (e.g., the starting portion 138 of the first screw 130).

[0051] The lid 270 is hinged or rotated away from the cassette 102 to expose the plurality of grooves. Then, the tip 184 of the screwdriver 180 is inserted into the second groove 212 to abut and deform a portion of the adhesive material 160 therein. The tip 184 of the screwdriver 180, together with a portion of the adhesive material 160 adhered thereto, is removed from the second groove 212.

[0052] The tip 184 of the screwdriver 180 having the adhesive material 160 is inserted into the first groove 110 until the tip 184 abuts the starting portion 138 of the first screw 130. The first screw 130 is temporarily coupled to the screwdriver 180 by a portion of the adhesive material 160 therebetween. Then, the tip 184 of the screwdriver 180 is removed from the first groove 110, with a portion of the adhesive material 160 and the first screw 130 adhered thereto.

[0053] Similar to the system 100, once removed, the first screw 130 can be inserted into a desired location. Contrary to the system 100, the system 200 with a large deposit of the adhesive material 160 allows a user to control the amount of the adhesive material 160 used. For example, a larger mass of the adhesive material 160 can be used for a larger screw, while a smaller mass of the adhesive material can be used for a smaller screw. Additionally, for one system or the other, the manufacturing line can be streamlined (i.e., there are certain advantages to placing the adhesive material directly on the screw, and there are certain advantages to providing only one groove filled with the adhesive material).

[0054] Exemplary System #3

[0055] Figures 3A, 3B, and 3C show a system 300 that is substantially similar to system 200 of FIGS. 2A and 2B, except as described below. Each of the plurality of openings defined by the cartridge 102 in system 300 is smaller in diameter than the plurality of openings defined by the cartridge 102 in system 200. As shown, the first opening 302 and the first groove 304 extending therefrom contain a first screw 130. However, the diameter of the first opening 302 and the first groove 304 is close to or equal to the diameter of the head 136 of the first screw 130. In some embodiments, the diameter of the first opening 302 and the first groove 304 is between 0 mm and 1 mm larger than the diameter of the head 136 of the first screw 130.

[0056] In addition, the diameter of the first opening 302 and the first groove 304 is also close to or equal to the diameter of the shaft 182 of the screwdriver 180, as shown in FIG. 3C. Similarly, the first countersunk bore 306 of the first groove 304 is similar to the first countersunk bore 116 of system 200, except that the internal groove 308 of the first countersunk bore 306 has a smaller diameter. As shown, the internal groove 308 of the first countersunk bore 306 has a diameter that is close to or equal to the diameter of the shank 140 of the first screw 130.

[0057] System 300 with the closely matching dimensions described herein allows for minimal displacement, bistable switching, and / or lateral movement of the various components during the engagement process. For example, when the screwdriver 180 engages the first screw 130, the lateral misalignment is minimized or eliminated. The longitudinal axes of the screwdriver 180 and the first screw 130 are configured to be perfectly or nearly perfectly aligned each time. Additionally, due to the tight dimensions, the first screw 130 cannot deviate from the longitudinal alignment with the first groove 304 and the first countersunk bore 306. Thus, system 300 provides a user-friendly experience with minimal operating errors.

[0058] System 300 further includes an alternative embodiment of a cover 370 (not shown in FIG. 3C). The cover 370 slides in a recess 372 that is fixed to the first surface 104 via a sidewall 374. The cover 370 is configured to slide back and forth in the direction marked by arrow "C" in FIGS. 3A and 3B. The cover 370 can slide along the recess 372 to fully expose the recessed screw while keeping the cover parallel to the surface 104. Similarly, the cover 370 can slide along the recess 372 to retain the recessed screw (e.g., for storage). Similar to the cartridge 102, the cover 370 can include a transparent material such that a user can easily determine the number of screws retained in the plurality of grooves. [Configuration of Some Embodiments] []

[0059] The configurations and arrangements of the systems and methods shown in the various embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., changes in size, dimensions, structure, shape, and proportions of various elements, parameter values, installation arrangements, use of materials, color, orientation, etc.). For example, the positions of the elements can be reversed or otherwise changed, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions can be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method steps can be varied or re-ordered according to alternative embodiments. Other alternatives, modifications, changes, and omissions can be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0060] It should be understood that such methods and systems are not limited to a particular synthesis method, particular components, or particular compositions. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0061] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents. Ranges can be expressed herein as from "about" one particular value and / or to "about" another particular value. When expressing such a range, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations by use of the antecedent "about", it should be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It should further be understood that each of the endpoints of a range is significant both in relation to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint.

[0062] "Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and the description includes instances where the event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

[0063] Throughout this specification and the claims, the word "comprise" and variations of the word such as "comprising" and "comprises" mean "including but not limited to" and are not intended to exclude, for example, other additives, components, integers, or steps. "Exemplary" means "an example of" and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal embodiment. "Such as" is not used in a limiting sense but for illustrative purposes.

[0064] Disclose components that can be used to implement the disclosed methods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein, and it should be understood that when combinations, subgroups, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed, although specific mention of each different individual and collective combination and arrangement of these components may not be explicitly made, for all methods and systems, each component is specifically contemplated and described herein. This applies to all aspects of the present application, including but not limited to the steps in the disclosed methods. Therefore, if there are various additional steps that can be performed, it should be understood that each of these additional steps can be performed using any specific embodiment or combination of embodiments of the disclosed methods.

[0065] 100: System / Screw Accommodating System 102: Box 104: Surface / First Surface 106: Second Surface 108: First Opening 110: First Groove 112: Second Opening 114: Second Groove 116: Countersink Bore / First Countersink Bore 118: Distal End 120: Internal Groove 122: Proximal End 124: Upper Surface 130: First Screw 132: First End 134: Second End 136: Head 138: Starter 140: Shank 142: Screw Head Shoulder 144: Thread 146: Tip 150: Second Screw 160: Adhesive Material 170: Cover 180: Screwdriver 182: Shaft 184: Tip 200: System 210: Second Opening 212: Second Groove 270: Cover / Hinged Cover 272: Hinge 300: System 302: First opening 304: First groove 306: First countersunk bore 308: Internal groove 370: Cover 372: Recess 374: Side wall A-A: Line

Claims

1. A screw receiving system, comprising: One box, It includes: a first surface defining a plurality of openings including a first opening; a second surface opposite to and spaced apart from the first surface; a plurality of recesses including a first recess extending from the first opening toward the second surface of the housing, the first recess being sized to receive a screw therein; and a countersunk bore disposed at a distal end of one of the first recesses; a first screw removably disposed in the first recess, the first screw including: a head disposed on a first end and having an actuating portion; a shank coupled to the head to define a screw head shoulder, the screw head shoulder sitting on an upper surface of one of the countersunk bores, wherein the shank is disposed in an inner recess of one of the countersunk bores; a thread disposed on a portion of the shank; and a tip located on a second end; An adhesive material disposed within the actuating portion of the first screw, the adhesive material being configured to temporarily couple two objects together; and a cover removably coupled to the first surface of the box such that when the cover is coupled to the first surface, the first screw remains within the first recess.

2. The system of claim 1 further includes a screwdriver having a shaft sized for fitting into the first recess of the housing and a tip sized for fitting into the starting portion of the screw.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the diameter of one of the first grooves is between 0 mm and 1 mm larger than the diameter of one of the shafts of the screwdriver.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the first opening is circular and the first groove is a cylindrical hole.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the first groove at least partially comprises a truncated conical shape.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the cover is hinged or slidably coupled to the box.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the cover is a removable plastic film.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the adhesive is a bone wax or a putty.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of openings further includes a second opening, and the plurality of recesses includes a second recess extending from the second opening toward the second surface of the housing, wherein the second recess is sized to receive a second screw therein, the second screw having the same size or a different size as the first screw.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the first screw is an eyeglass frame screw, a watch screw, a jewelry screw, an orthopedic screw, a spinal screw, or a screw used in cranioplasty, oral surgery, or maxillofacial surgery.

11. A box comprising: A first surface, the defined portion of which includes a first opening and a second opening, and a plurality of openings; A second surface opposite to and spaced apart from the first surface; a first groove extending from the first opening toward the second surface of the box, the first groove being sized to accommodate a screw therein, the first groove having a countersunk bore at one of its distal ends; a screw disposed in the first groove, a shank of the screw disposed in an inner groove of the countersunk bore, and a screw head shoulder of the screw resting on an upper surface of the countersunk bore; a second groove extending from the second opening toward the second surface of the box, the second groove being sized to accommodate a shaft of a screwdriver therein; and an adhesive substance disposed in the second groove.

12. The box of claim 11 further includes a screwdriver having a shaft sized for fitting into each of the first and second recesses of the box and a tip sized for fitting into an actuating portion of the screw.

13. The box as requested in item 12, wherein the diameter of one of the first recesses is between 0 mm and 1 mm larger than the diameter of one of the shaft members of the screwdriver.

14. The box as requested in item 12, wherein the diameter of one of the second recesses is larger than the diameter of one of the shafts of the screwdriver.

15. A method for picking up a screw, the method comprising: A box is provided having a first surface defining a plurality of openings, a plurality of recesses including a first groove extending from the plurality of openings toward a second surface, the first groove having a first screw disposed therein, the first screw having an adhesive material disposed within an actuating portion of a head of the screw, wherein the box further includes a cover removably coupled to the first surface and configured to cover the plurality of recesses; a screwdriver is provided having a shank and a tip configured to engage with the actuating portion of the screw; the cover is removed from the box to expose the plurality of recesses; the tip of the screwdriver is inserted into the first recess until the tip of the screwdriver abuts the adhesive material and deforms the adhesive material, such that the screw and the screwdriver are temporarily coupled together via the adhesive material; and the tip of the screwdriver and the screw are removed from the first recess.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the screw is a jewelry screw, the method further comprising: Insert the screw into one of the screw holes of a jewelry piece; And decouple the adhesive and the screwdriver from the screw.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the screw is an orthopedic screw, a spinal screw, a craniotomy screw, an oral surgery screw, or a maxillofacial surgery screw, the method further comprising: Insert the screw into a screw hole in an implant or anatomical feature; And decouple the adhesive and the screwdriver from the screw.

18. A method for picking up a screw, the method comprising: A box is provided having a first surface defining a plurality of openings, a plurality of recesses including a first recess and a second recess extending from the plurality of openings toward a second surface, the first recess having a first screw disposed therein, the second recess having an adhesive material disposed therein, wherein the box further includes a cover removably coupled to the first surface and configured to cover the plurality of recesses; a screwdriver is provided having a shank and a tip configured to engage with a movable portion of the screw; the cover is removed from the box to expose the plurality of recesses; the tip of the screwdriver is inserted into the second recess to abut a portion of the adhesive material and deform that portion; the tip of the screwdriver, together with that portion of the adhesive material, is removed from the second recess; The tip of the screwdriver containing the adhesive is inserted into the first groove until the tip of the screwdriver is adjacent to the starting part of the screw, wherein the portion of the adhesive is located therebetween, such that the screw and the screwdriver are temporarily coupled together by the adhesive; and the tip of the screwdriver and the screw are removed from the first groove.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the screw is a jewelry screw, the method further comprising: Insert the screw into one of the screw holes of a jewelry piece; And decouple the adhesive and the screwdriver from the screw.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the screw is an orthopedic screw, a spinal screw, a craniotomy screw, an oral surgery screw, or a maxillofacial surgery screw, the method further comprising: Insert the screw into a screw hole in an implant or anatomical feature; And decouple the adhesive and the screwdriver from the screw.

Citation Information

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