Hammer drill bit

Abstract

An air hammer tool bit or percussion hammer tool bit operably coupled to a driver is described, whereby an axial force provided by an air hammer or percussion hammer is converted to an applied torque by a dedicated driver, such as a socket adapter or wrench. An air hammer bit or percussion hammer bit may include or define a receiving or concave geometry to removably couple a dedicated drive. The drill bit may include an additional anti-rotation geometry adapted to limit rotation of the drill bit when the drill bit is engaged with the air hammer or impact hammer and a retention geometry that prevents the dedicated drive from disengaging from the drill bit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to drive tools and, more particularly, to an air hammer drill bit or impact hammer drill bit adapted for use with a dedicated driver such as a wrench, ratchet, or socket adapter. Background Art

[0002] Traditional methods of removing fasteners rely on static torque applied by a wrench, ratchet, or socket. In the event that a fastener is stubborn or stuck, a lever wrench may be used to increase the leverage and torque applied to the fastener. Additionally, depending on the circumstances, stubborn or stuck fasteners such as bolts, nuts, etc. may be difficult to remove due to a lack of clearance behind or around the fastener head.

[0003] Air hammers are known to provide a powerful driving force to break, chisel, punch, and crush solid materials such as metal, concrete, or tile. Air hammers or impact hammers, whether pneumatic or electric (e.g., with a battery pack) can also be used to apply significant force axially or rotationally to items such as nails, bolts, etc. The electric motor drives a piston, which actuates a chisel, punch, socket, or other attachment to engage the workpiece with greater force than a tool driven only by hand. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present invention broadly relates to a hammer tool bit having a concave or convex geometry, such as a slot, a U-clip, etc., for coupling to a driver (e.g., a wrench, a socket adapter, etc.). In one embodiment, the tool bit may include a square lug adapted to be releasably coupled to a drill bit or a socket. When coupled to an air hammer, the force from the air hammer or impact hammer causes an impact from the drill bit into the driver to provide torque to a fastener. According to one embodiment, a tool bit is described. The tool bit may include a shank having a distal end and a proximal end. The proximal end may be adapted to be removably coupled to a tool, such as an air hammer. The distal end may define an opening or a coupling mechanism. The driver may be coupled to the shank through the opening or the coupling mechanism, the driver including a drive structure. Actuating the shank along the axis of the shank may apply a linear force to the drive structure to generate torque at the distal end connected to a workpiece.

[0005] According to another embodiment, a drill bit for an air hammer or impact hammer may include a shank having a distal end and a proximal end. The proximal end may be adapted to be removably coupled to the air hammer. The distal end defines a concave geometric configuration. The non-rotating geometric configuration may be disposed around the shank. A driver may be coupled to the concave geometric configuration of the distal end. The driver may include a drive structure. Actuating the shank along an axis of the shank may apply a force to the drive structure to generate a torque at the distal end connected to a workpiece. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] To facilitate understanding of the subject matter for which protection is sought, embodiments thereof are shown in the accompanying drawings, and by reviewing the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, when considered in conjunction with the following description, its construction and operation as well as its many advantages should be readily understood and appreciated.

[0007] Figure 1A is an upper perspective view of an exemplary hammer drill bit and driver assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0008] Figure 1B According to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1A An underside perspective view of a hammer drill head and driver assembly.

[0009] Figure 2A is an upper perspective view of another exemplary hammer drill bit and driver assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] Figure 2B According to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 2A Side perspective view of a hammer drill head and driver assembly.

[0011] Figure 3A is a front side perspective view of another exemplary hammer drill bit and driver assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 3B According to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 3A A rear side perspective view of a hammer drill head and driver assembly.

[0013] Figure 4A is a perspective view of another exemplary hammer drill bit and driver assembly disassembled in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 4B According to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 4A A perspective view of an assembled hammer drill head and driver assembly.

[0015] Figure 5A is an exploded side perspective view of another exemplary hammer drill bit and driver assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 5B According to an embodiment of the present invention, the Figure 5A A cross-sectional side view of a hammer drill bit and driver assembly.

[0017] Fig. 6A is an exploded side perspective view of another exemplary hammer drill bit and driver assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 6B is an assembled form according to an embodiment of the present invention Fig. 6AA cross-sectional side view of a hammer drill bit and driver assembly.

[0019] Fig. 7A is an exploded side perspective view of another exemplary hammer drill bit and driver assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 7B is an assembled form according to an embodiment of the present invention Fig. 7A A cross-sectional side view of a hammer drill bit and driver assembly.

[0021] Fig. 8A is an exploded side perspective view of another exemplary hammer drill bit and driver assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 8B is an assembled form according to an embodiment of the present invention Fig. 8A A cross-sectional side view of a hammer drill bit and driver assembly.

[0023] Fig. 9A is a side view of another exemplary hammer drill bit and driver assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Fig. 9B According to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 9A BB intercepted Fig. 9A A cross-sectional side view of a hammer drill bit and driver assembly.

[0025] Fig. 9C is in the second position according to an embodiment of the present invention Fig. 9A Another side view of the hammer drill bit and driver assembly.

[0026] Fig.9D According to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 9C DD intercepted Fig. 9C A cross-sectional side view of a hammer drill bit and driver assembly.

[0027] Fig.9E According to an embodiment of the present invention Fig. 9A Exploded side view of a hammer drill head and driver assembly.

[0028] Fig. 10A is an exploded side perspective view of another exemplary hammer drill bit and driver assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Fig. 10B is an assembled form according to an embodiment of the present invention Fig. 10A A cross-sectional side view of a hammer drill bit and driver assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Although the present invention is susceptible of many different forms of embodiment, embodiments of the invention, including preferred embodiments, are shown in the drawings and will be described in detail herein, it should be understood that the present disclosure is considered to be an example of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspects of the invention to any one or more of the embodiments shown herein. As used herein, the term "present invention" is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but is used to discuss exemplary embodiments of the invention for explanatory purposes only.

[0031] The present invention broadly relates to a tool bit for a tool (e.g., an air hammer or impact hammer) adapted to be operably coupled to a driver, whereby an axial force provided by the air hammer or impact hammer is applied to a drive structure to generate torque at a distal connector (e.g., a socket adapter or a wrench). According to one embodiment, the tool bit may include or define a coupling male or female geometry adapted to removably couple a dedicated driver. The drill bit may include additional anti-rotation geometry that limits rotation of the drill bit, and a retaining geometry that prevents the dedicated driver from being disengaged from the drill bit.

[0032] Reference Figure 1A to Figure 1B As shown, an embodiment of a hammer drill bit 100 may include or define a proximal end 104, a distal end 106, and a shank 102 connecting the proximal end and the distal end. The proximal end 104 may be adapted to be received by an air hammer or impact hammer (not shown) or other suitable tool or otherwise coupled to an air hammer or impact hammer (not shown) or other suitable tool. The drill bit 100 may also include or define a non-rotating geometric configuration portion 103, which is adapted to prevent accidental rotation of the drill bit 100 when the drill bit 100 is engaged with a tool. The non-rotating geometric configuration portion 103 may include or define, for example, one or more flanges, bevels, edges, grooves, stops, or other surfaces around the periphery of the shank. The non-rotating geometric configuration portion 103 may abut or contact a corresponding structure in the tool so that the drill bit 100 is restricted from rotating or spinning when engaged with the tool during use. The drill bit 100 may include or define a concave geometric configuration, such as a slot 108 defined or formed in the distal end 106 of the drill bit 100. The slot 108 may be adapted to couple with a driver.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the driver may include a geometric configuration that allows the driver to be coupled to the drill bit 100 by sliding engagement with the slot 108 of the distal end 106 of the drill bit 100. For example, the driver may be or include a socket adapter 110. The socket adapter 110 may include a first end 114 and a second end 115 and a neck 116 disposed between the first end and the second end. The first end may be bent around the axis of the socket adapter 110 at or near the neck 116 for the purpose of retaining the socket adapter 110 within the slot 108. The second end 115 of the socket adapter 110 may include a convex square lug 112 adapted to releasably couple with a conventional socket (not shown) in a known manner. Alternatively, not shown, the embodiment may implement a concave internal geometric configuration to connect or engage a workpiece. The socket adapter 110 may be coupled to the drill bit 100 by sliding and rotating engagement of the first end 114 through the slot 108 of the drill bit 100. The first end 114 of the socket adapter 110 may be curved so that to couple the socket adapter 110 to the drill bit, the first end 114 may be inserted through the slot 108 and rotated as the socket adapter 110 slides further through the slot 108, whereby the neck 116 is disposed in or about the slot 108. The neck 116 and / or the second end 115 may include a narrowing width that increases as it approaches the second end 115, thereby preventing the socket adapter 110 from sliding further through the slot 108. The curved first end 114 of the socket adapter 110 may prevent disengagement from the drill bit 100 if the socket adapter 110 is moved in a direction that is generally transverse or perpendicular to the axis of the drill bit 100.

[0034] During operation, when a tool such as an air hammer or impact hammer is actuated, the drill bit 100 can travel in an axial direction. The slot 108 of the drill bit 100 can engage the neck 116 of the socket adapter 110, causing the second end 115 and the square lug 112 to rotate. The impact of the drill bit 100 converts the axial force from the tool into a torque applied to the attached socket and fastener.

[0035] Reference FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , depicts an embodiment of an air hammer or impact hammer drill bit 200. Figure 1A to Figure 1B Like the drill bit depicted in , the drill bit 200 includes a proximal end 204, a distal end 206, and a shank 202 therebetween. The drill bit 200 includes a non-rotating geometric configuration portion 203 adapted to prevent undesired rotation of the drill bit 200 when the drill bit 200 is engaged with an air hammer or impact hammer.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the drill bit 200 may include or define a concave geometric configuration suitable for holding the driver 210, such as a U-shaped clip 208 or similar structure. The U-shaped clip 208 may include or define a first fork 205 and a second fork 207, which define a recess for receiving the first end 214 of the driver 210. The pin 218 may be disposed through a pin recess 219 in the first fork 205 and the second fork 207, respectively. The driver 210 may include a second end 215, which may include a drive structure 212 suitable for coupling to a fastener or other workpiece, such as a ratchet, a wrench, etc. The driver 210 may also define a neck portion 216 of reduced width. When the pin 218 is disposed between the first fork 205 and the second fork 207, the width of the neck portion 216 may be narrow enough to be disposed between the base of the U-shaped clip 208 and the pin 218. The width of the first end 214 of the driver 210 can be wider than the distance between the base of the U-clip 208 and the pin 218 so that once the driver is positioned between the first and second prongs 205, 207 substantially perpendicular to the axis 202 and the pin 218 is in place, the driver is securely coupled to the U-clip 208.

[0037] Actuation of drill bit 200 in an axial direction relative to shaft 202 causes driver 210 to rotate and provide torque on the workpiece via drive structure 212. Repeated actuation of drill bit 200 by the tool provides repeatedly applied force to driver 210, resulting in application of torque to the workpiece.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the difference in width between the neck portion 216 and the first end 214 can allow a user to selectively couple and detach the driver from the drill bit 200 by rotating and manipulating the driver 210 to a significant angle relative to the shaft 202 so that the first end can slide through the space between the base of the U-clip 206 and the pin 218.

[0039] Reference FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B , depicts another embodiment of an air hammer or impact hammer tool drill bit. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B Like the drill bit depicted in , drill bit 300 includes a proximal end 304, a distal end 306, and a shank 302 between the ends. Drill bit 300 includes a non-rotating geometric configuration portion 303, which is suitable for limiting undesired rotation of drill bit 300 when drill bit 300 is engaged with a hammer.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the drill bit 300 may include or define a concave geometric configuration, such as a U-shaped clip 308 or the like, to hold the driver 310. The U-shaped clip 308 may include or define a first fork 305 and a second fork 307, the first fork 305 and the second fork 307 defining a recess for receiving a first end 314 of the driver 310. A pin 318 may be disposed through a pin recess 319 in the first fork 305 and the second fork 307, respectively. The driver 310 may include a second end 315, the second end 315 may include a drive structure 312 adapted to be coupled to a fastener or other workpiece, such as a ratchet, a wrench, etc. The driver 310 may also define a pin recess 321 in the neck portion 316 adapted to receive the pin 318, securing the driver 310 to the U-shaped clip 308.

[0041] Actuation of the drill bit 300 in an axial direction relative to the shaft 302 causes the driver 310 to rotate and provide torque on the workpiece through the drive structure 312. Repeated actuation of the drill bit 300 provides a repeatedly applied force to the driver 310, resulting in the application of torque to the workpiece.

[0042] Reference FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B , depicts another embodiment of an air hammer or impact hammer tool drill bit. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B Like the drill bit depicted in , drill bit 400 includes a proximal end 404, a distal end 406, and a shank 402 between the ends. Drill bit 400 includes a non-rotating geometric configuration portion 403, which is suitable for limiting undesired rotation of drill bit 400 when drill bit 400 is engaged with a hammer.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the drill bit 400 may include or define a concave geometric configuration, such as a U-shaped clip 408 or the like, to retain the driver 410. The U-shaped clip 408 may include or define a first fork 405 and a second fork 407, which define a recess for receiving a first end 414 of the driver 410. A pin 418 may be disposed through a pin recess 419 in the first fork 405 and the second fork 407, respectively. The driver 410 may include a second end 415, which may include a drive structure 412 adapted to be coupled to a fastener or other workpiece, such as a ratchet, a wrench, etc.

[0044] The driver 410 may further define or include a curved neck portion 416 adapted to be received in the U-shaped clamp 408. The driver 410 may be coupled to the drill bit 400 by inserting the first end 414 into a recess defined between the pin 418 and the first and second prongs 405, 407 of the U-shaped clamp 408. When the first end 414 of the driver 410 is inserted into the U-shaped clamp, it may rotate about the curved neck portion 416. The driver 410 may include or define a first shoulder 420 and a second shoulder 421 or similar protrusions extending from the body. The shoulders 420, 421 may be adapted to form a stopper that prevents the driver 410 from passing through the U-shaped clamp 408. Once the driver 410 is coupled to the U-shaped clamp 408, the curvature of the neck portion 416 of the driver 410 provides a stopper so that once the driver 410 is disposed between the first and second prongs 405, 407 substantially perpendicular to the axis 402, the driver 410 is securely coupled to the U-shaped clamp 408. The driver 410 may be removed by counter-rotating the curved neck portion 416 and pulling the first end 414 out of the clevis 408 .

[0045] Actuation of the drill bit 400 in an axial direction relative to the shaft 402 causes the driver 410 to rotate and provide torque on the workpiece through the drive structure 412. Repeated actuation of the drill bit 400 provides a repeatedly applied force to the driver 410, resulting in the application of torque to the workpiece.

[0046] Reference FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B , depicts another embodiment of an air hammer or impact hammer tool drill bit. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B Like the drill bit depicted in , drill bit 500 includes a proximal end 504, a distal end 506, and a shank 502 between the ends. Figures 1A to 4B As shown, the drill bit 500 may include a non-rotating geometric configuration (not shown) that is suitable for limiting undesired rotation of the drill bit 500 when the drill bit 500 is engaged with a hammer tool.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the distal end 506 may include a groove 501 or a slot or other similar structure. A sleeve 508 may be coupled to the distal end 506. According to one embodiment, the sleeve 508 may include or define a concave geometric structure, such as a U-shaped clip 520 or a similar structure, to hold the driver 510, and the concave geometric structure includes a first fork 505 and a second fork 507. The first fork 505 and the second fork 507 can each define a bolt recess 519. The sleeve 508 can also define one or more ball recesses 511. According to one embodiment, the sleeve 508 can be coupled to the distal end 506 by one or more balls 509, 513 respectively disposed in the ball recess 511 and the groove 501. The balls 509, 513 can be ball bearings or similar structures. According to one embodiment, the balls 509, 513 can be held in the ball recesses 511 by embossing the sleeve 508 around the balls 519, 513 to press the balls 509, 513 into place, respectively. The balls 509, 513 can be adapted to allow the sleeve 508 to slide axially relative to the shaft 502, the length of the groove 501.

[0048] The clevis 520 can be adapted to couple the driver 510 to the sleeve 508. The clevis 520 can receive the first end 514 of the driver 510. The first end 514 of the driver can include or define a driver recess 521 through which a bolt 518 or other similar fastener can be disposed. The bolt 518 can extend through a bolt recess 519 in the first prong 505, the driver recess 521, and the bolt recess 519 in the second prong 507. The bolt 518 can be secured to the clevis 520 of the sleeve 508 by a nut 517 or similar fastener. As described below, the driver 510 can pivot about the bolt 518. The drill bit 500 can impact the driver 510 on either side, allowing the user to flip the driver 510 to access the fastener as needed.

[0049] The driver 510 may include a second end 515 that may include a drive structure 512 adapted to couple to a fastener or other workpiece, such as a ratchet, wrench, etc. Actuating the drill bit 500 in an axial direction relative to the shaft 502 causes the driver 510 to pivot about the bolt 518 and provide torque on the workpiece via the drive structure 512. Repeated actuation of the drill bit 500 by the hammer tool provides repeatedly applied force to the driver 510, resulting in the application of torque to the workpiece.

[0050] Reference FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B , depicts another embodiment of an air hammer or impact hammer tool drill bit. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B Like the drill bit depicted in , drill bit 600 includes a proximal end 604, a distal end 606, and a shank 602 between the ends. Figures 1A to 4BAs shown, the drill bit 600 may include a non-rotating geometric configuration portion 603, which is suitable for limiting undesired rotation of the drill bit 600 when engaged with an air hammer.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the distal end 606 may include a groove 601 or a slot or other similar structure. A sleeve 608 may be coupled to the distal end 606. The sleeve 608 may include or define a concave geometric structure, such as a U-shaped clip 620 or a similar structure, to hold the driver 610, the concave geometric structure including a first fork 605 and a second fork 607. The first fork 605 and the second fork 607 may each define a bolt recess 619. The sleeve 608 may also define one or more ball recesses 611. According to one embodiment, the sleeve 608 may be coupled to the distal end 606 by one or more balls 609, 613 disposed in the ball recess 611 and the groove 601, respectively. The balls 609, 613 may be ball bearings or similar structures. The balls 609, 613 may be adapted to allow the sleeve 608 to slide axially relative to the shaft 602 by the length of the groove 601. According to one embodiment, a collar 622 may be disposed on the coupling of the sleeve 608 to the distal end 606. The collar 622 may be adapted to protect and secure the balls 609, 613 in the groove 601 and the ball recess 611. The collar 622 may be permanently or removably coupled to the sleeve 608 by threading, press-fitting, welding, or other coupling structures.

[0052] The clevis 620 can be adapted to couple the driver 610 to the sleeve 608. The clevis 620 can receive the first end 614 of the driver 610. The first end 614 of the driver can include or define a driver recess 621 through which a pin 618 or other similar fastener can be disposed. The pin 618 can extend through a pin recess 619 in the first fork 605, the driver recess 621, and a pin recess 619 in the second fork 607. The pin 618 can be secured to the clevis 620 of the sleeve 608 by a protrusion or other retaining structure included in or defined by the pin 618. The size and shape of the protrusion 617 can be designed to allow the pin 618 and the protrusion 617 to be pushed through the pin recess 619 and the driver recess 621 with an applied force. The protrusion 617 can hold the pin 618 in place until such applied force is reversed to pull the pin 618 out of the clevis 620 and the driver 610.

[0053] The driver 610 may include a second end 615 that may include a drive structure 612 adapted to be coupled to a fastener or other workpiece, such as a ratchet, a wrench, etc. Actuating the drill bit 600 in an axial direction relative to the shaft 602 causes the driver 610 to provide torque on the workpiece through the drive structure 612. Repeated actuation of the drill bit 600 by an air hammer tool or an impact hammer tool provides repeatedly applied force to the driver 610, resulting in torque being applied to the workpiece. According to one embodiment, the distal end 606 of the drill bit 600 may include or define a curve adapted to impact the notch 616 of the driver 610. The notch 616 may include or define a corresponding curve adapted to receive the curved distal end 606. The notch 616 and the curved distal end 606 may facilitate smooth actuation when the driver 610 is rotated to loosen the fastener. According to one embodiment, the driver 610 may include or define a notch 616 on opposite sides of the driver 610 body that allows the driver 610 to be rotated to a second orientation by rotating the driver 610 about the pin 618 or by disengaging the driver 610, rotating to a new orientation, and reinstalling the pin 618.

[0054] Reference FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B , depicts another embodiment of an air hammer or impact hammer tool drill bit. The drill bit 700 includes a proximal end 704, a distal end 706, and a shank 702 between the ends. Similar to Figures 1A to 4B As shown, the drill bit 700 may include a non-rotating geometric configuration portion 703, which is suitable for limiting undesired rotation of the drill bit 700 when the drill bit 700 is engaged with an air hammer.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the distal end 706 may include a groove 701 or a slot or other similar structure. A sleeve 708 may be coupled to the distal end 706. The sleeve 708 may include or define a concave geometric structure, such as a U-shaped clip 720 or a similar structure, to hold the driver 710, the concave geometric structure including the first fork 705 and the second fork 707. The first fork 705 and the second fork 707 may each define a ball recess 719. The sleeve 708 may also define one or more pin recesses 711. According to one embodiment, the sleeve 708 may be coupled to the distal end 706 by one or more pins 709, 713 disposed in the pin recess 711 and the groove 701, respectively. The pins 709, 713 may be adapted to allow the sleeve 708 to slide axially relative to the shaft 702 by the length of the groove 701. The pins 709, 713 may be retained in the sleeve 708 by press fitting, embossing, welding, or any other suitable method. Alternatively, a sleeve similar to sleeve 608 may be used to retain the pin.

[0056] The clevis 720 can be adapted to couple the driver 710 to the sleeve 708. The clevis 720 can receive a notch 716, dimple, or other indentation defined in the first end 714 of the driver 710. The first end 714 of the driver can include or define a driver recess 721 through which one or more balls 717, 718, or other similar fasteners can be disposed. The balls 717, 718 can be ball bearings or similar structures. According to one embodiment, the balls 717, 718 can be permanently coupled to the clevis 720 in the ball recess 719 by embossing the sleeve 708 around the balls 717, 718. The balls 717, 718 can extend partially through the ball recess 719 of the first and second prongs 705, 707, respectively, and the driver recess 721.

[0057] The driver 710 may include a second end 715 that may include a drive structure 712 adapted to couple to a fastener or other workpiece, such as a ratchet, wrench, etc. Actuating the drill bit 700 in an axial direction relative to the shaft 702 causes the driver 710 to pivot about the balls 717, 718 and provide torque on the workpiece via the drive structure 712. Repeated actuation of the drill bit 700 by the hammer tool provides repeatedly applied force to the driver 710, resulting in the application of torque to the workpiece.

[0058] Reference FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B , depicts another embodiment of an air hammer or impact hammer drill tool. The drill bit 800 includes a proximal end 804, a distal end 806, and a shank 802 between the ends. Similar to Figures 1A to 4B As shown, the drill bit 800 may include a non-rotating geometric configuration 803 that is suitable for limiting undesired rotation of the drill bit 800 when the drill bit 800 is engaged with a hammer.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the distal end 806 may include a groove 801 or a slot or other similar structure. A sleeve 808 may be coupled to the distal end 806. The sleeve 808 may include or define a concave geometric structure, such as a U-shaped clip 820 or a similar structure, to hold the driver 810, the concave geometric structure including the first fork 805 and the second fork 807. The first fork 805 and the second fork 807 can each define a pin recess 819. The sleeve 808 can also define one or more recesses 811. According to one embodiment, the sleeve 808 can be coupled to the distal end 806 by setting a sleeve pin 809 passing through the recess 811 and the groove 801. The sleeve pin 809 can be coupled to the sleeve 808 by a press fit, welding or other fixing mechanism. The sleeve pin 809 can be adapted to allow the sleeve 808 to slide axially relative to the shaft 802 by the length of the groove 801.

[0060] The U-shaped clip 820 can be adapted to couple the driver 810 to the sleeve 808. The U-shaped clip 820 can receive the first end 814 of the driver 810. The first end 814 of the driver can include or define a driver recess 821 through which a driver pin 818 or other similar fastener can be disposed. The driver 810 can include or define a notch 816, a dimple, or other indentation adapted to receive the distal end 806. The driver pin 818 can extend through a pin recess 819 in the first prong 805, the driver recess 821, and the pin recess 819 in the second prong 807. The driver pin 818 can be secured to the U-shaped clip 820 of the sleeve 808 by a nut or similar fastening method.

[0061] The driver 810 may include a second end 815 that may include a drive structure 812 adapted to be coupled to a fastener or other workpiece, such as a ratchet, a wrench, etc. Actuating the drill bit 800 in an axial direction relative to the shaft 802 causes the driver 810 to provide torque on the workpiece through the drive structure 812. Repeated actuation of the drill bit 800 by a hammer tool provides repeatedly applied force to the driver 810, resulting in torque being applied to the workpiece. According to one embodiment, the driver pin 818 is adapted to rotate freely in the driver recess 821. Thus, the sleeve 808 is disposed in the clevis 820 sufficiently close to the first end of the driver 810 that the drill bit 800 can rotate about the driver pin 818 by approximately 180 degrees. This can allow the drill bit 800 to impact the first end 814 of the driver 810 without disassembling or removing the drive structure 812 from the workpiece.

[0062] Reference FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B , depicts another embodiment of an air hammer or impact hammer tool drill bit. The drill bit 900 includes a proximal end 904, a distal end 906, and a shank 902 between the ends. Similar to Figures 1A to 4B As shown, the drill bit 900 may include a non-rotating geometric configuration portion 903, which is suitable for limiting undesired rotation of the drill bit 900 when the drill bit 900 is engaged with a hammer tool.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the distal end 906 may include a collar 921 and further include or define a drill tip 907 disposed or formed below the collar 921. The collar may be threaded and adapted to receive a nut 922 having corresponding internal threads. The drill tip 907 may further include or define a pin hole 905. The bracket 908 may include or define a cavity 924 adapted to receive the drill tip 907. The bracket may include or define a shoulder 920 having a wider diameter than the body of the bracket 908. The bracket may also include or define a channel 911 adapted to receive a pin 918. The bracket 908 may be adapted to receive the driver 910 through a concave geometric configuration (e.g., a bracket opening 926).

[0064] When assembled, the shoulder 920 of the bracket 908 can be disposed within the lower portion of the interior of the nut 922. The drill end 907 can engage the cavity 924 of the bracket, and the threaded collar 921 engages the internal threads of the nut 922. The pin 918 can engage the bracket 908 through the passage 911 and the pin hole 905. The drill end 907 can engage the notch 916, dimple or other indentation formed in the first end 914 of the driver 910. The engagement of the drill end 907 with the notch 916 secures the driver to the bracket 908.

[0065] The driver 910 may include a second end 915 that may include a drive structure 912 adapted to couple to a fastener or other workpiece, such as a ratchet, wrench, etc. Actuating the drill bit 900 in an axial direction relative to the shaft 902 causes the driver 910 to pivot about the drill bit end 907 and provide torque on the workpiece via the drive structure 912. Repeated actuation of the drill bit 900 by the hammer tool provides repeatedly applied force to the driver 910, resulting in the application of torque to the workpiece.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the drill bit 900 allows the driver 910 to rotate about the contact point of the drill bit 900 and the bracket 908 along an arc length specified by the design. When installed in the pin recess 905 and the channel 911, the pin 918 allows the drill bit 900 to be fully coupled to the recess 916 of the driver 910, but limits the total amount of opening distance that the bracket opening 926 can have. The maximum distance is that the drill bit 900 can be allowed to operate from the drive structure 912 downward along any external surface of the driver 910. This feature allows the user to operate the assembly in many different flexible directions, while also allowing the interchangeability of additional drivers of various sizes and configurations.

[0067] Reference FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B , depicts another embodiment of an air hammer or impact hammer tool drill bit. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B Like the drill bit depicted in , drill bit 1000 includes a proximal end 1004, a distal end 1006, and a shank 1002 between the ends. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B As shown, the drill bit 1000 may include a non-rotating geometric configuration (not shown) that is suitable for limiting undesired rotation of the drill bit 1000 when the drill bit 1000 is engaged with a hammer tool.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the distal end 1006 may include a ball 1009 and a spring 1011 disposed generally in the recess 1001. The sleeve 1008 may be coupled to the distal end 1006. According to one embodiment, the sleeve 1008 may include or define a concave geometric configuration, such as a U-shaped clip 1020 or similar structure, to retain the driver 1010, the concave geometric configuration including the first prong 1005 and the second prong 1007. The first prong 1005 and the second prong 1007 may each define a bolt opening 1019. According to one embodiment, the sleeve 1008 may be coupled to the distal end 1006 by a ball 1009 disposed in the recess 1001, the ball 1009 engaging a groove 1013 disposed on the inner surface 1003 of the sleeve 1008. Additional balls and grooves may be provided. The ball 1009 may be a ball bearing or similar structure.

[0069] The clevis 1020 can be adapted to couple the driver 1010 to the sleeve 1008. The clevis 1020 can receive the first end 1014 of the driver 1010. The first end 1014 of the driver can include or define a driver recess 1021 through which a bolt 1018 or other similar fastener can be disposed. The bolt 1018 can extend through the bolt recess 1019 of the first and second prongs 1005, 1007 and the driver recess 1021. The bolt 1018 can be secured to the clevis 1020 of the sleeve 1008 by a nut or similar fastener. As described below, the driver 1010 can pivot about the bolt 1018. The drill bit 1000 can impact the driver 1010 on either side, allowing the user to flip the driver 1010 as needed to access the fastener.

[0070] The driver 1010 may include a second end 1015 that may include a drive structure 1012 adapted to couple to a fastener or other workpiece, such as a ratchet, wrench, etc. Actuating the drill bit 1000 in an axial direction relative to the shaft 1002 causes the driver 1010 to pivot about the workpiece and provide torque through the drive structure 1012. Repeated actuation of the drill bit 1000 by a hammer tool provides repeatedly applied force to the driver 1010, resulting in the application of torque to the workpiece.

[0071] Although the embodiments described herein describe an air hammer drill bit coupled to a driver or wrench, those skilled in the art will recognize that other driver and tool geometries, including, for example, 6-point hex, 12-point double hex, open end, flared nut end, spline, external Torx, Phillips, male square drive, female square drive, or any other configuration, are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0072] As used herein, the term "coupled" and its functional equivalents are not intended to necessarily be limited to the direct mechanical coupling of two or more components. Rather, the term "coupled" and its functional equivalents are intended to represent any direct or indirect mechanical, electrical, or chemical connection between two or more objects, features, workpieces, and / or environmental elements. In some examples, "coupled" also means that one object is integral with another object. Unless otherwise specifically stated, as used herein, the terms "a" or "an" may include one or more items.

[0073] As used herein, terms indicating direction, order, or orientation, such as "first," "second," "horizontal," "vertical," "lateral," "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "up," "down," "above," "below," "front," "rear," and the like, are non-limiting and are used herein for ease of explanation. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the use of these terms is merely a descriptive example and does not limit the placement, orientation, or arrangement of the elements described using these terms.

[0074] The matters raised in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings are provided by way of illustration only and not by way of limitation. Although particular embodiments have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the broader aspects of the inventor's contribution. The actual scope of the protection sought is defined in the claims that follow when viewed in proper perspective based on the prior art.

Claims

1. A tool comprising: a drill bit having a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal end being adapted to be removably coupled to the tool, the distal end defining an opening; as well as a driver coupled to the drill bit through the opening, the driver comprising a drive structure; Wherein actuating the drill bit along the axis of the drill bit applies a force to the drive structure.

2. The tool of claim 1, further comprising a non-rotating geometric formation disposed about the drill bit, the non-rotating geometric formation being adapted to limit rotation of the drill bit when coupled to the tool.

3. The tool according to claim 1, wherein: The driving structure is a lug.

4. The tool according to claim 1, wherein: The driving structure is a ratchet.

5. The tool according to claim 1, wherein: The driving structure is a wrench.

6. The tool according to claim 1, wherein: The driver also includes a first end, a neck, and a second end, wherein the driver is coupled to the drill bit at the neck by passing the first end through the opening of the drill bit, and wherein the drive structure is disposed at the second end.

7. The tool according to claim 6, wherein: The first end is bent about an axis of the driver.

8. The tool according to claim 6, wherein: The first end includes a first end width that is greater than the opening, and the neck includes a neck width that is less than the first end width.

9. The tool according to claim 6, wherein: The neck includes a shoulder, the shoulder and the neck each having a width greater than the opening.

10. The tool according to claim 1, wherein: The opening is defined by a U-shaped clip and a retainer, the U-shaped clip defining a recess.

11. The tool according to claim 10, wherein: The driver defines a driver recess adapted to receive the retainer.

12. The tool according to claim 10, wherein: The retainer includes a bolt coupled to the clevis with a nut.

13. The tool according to claim 10, wherein: The retainer includes a pin disposed in the recess of the clevis.

14. The tool according to claim 13, wherein: The pin defines a protrusion adapted to retain the pin in the recess of the clevis.

15. The tool according to claim 10, wherein: The retainer includes a ball disposed in the recess.

16. The tool of claim 1, wherein: The distal end includes a sleeve defining the opening.

17. The tool according to claim 16, wherein: The drill bit defines a groove along the axis, and the sleeve further defines a sleeve recess adapted to receive a sleeve retainer disposed in the recess and the groove.

18. The tool of claim 16, further comprising a collar disposed about the sleeve holder.

19. The tool according to claim 17, wherein: The sleeve retainer includes balls.

20. The tool of claim 17, wherein: The sleeve holder includes a pin.

21. The tool of claim 1, further comprising a bracket defining the cavity and the opening; a drill tip defined at the distal end of the shank, the drill tip disposed in the cavity; as well as A nut couples the shank to the bracket.

22. The tool according to claim 21, wherein The driver defines a notch adapted to receive a distal end of the drill bit.

23. The tool of claim 21, further comprising: a pin hole defined in the drill bit end; a passage defined in the bracket; as well as A pin is disposed in the pin passage and the pin hole, the pin being adapted to limit rotation of the drill bit tip in the bracket.

24. A drill bit for an air hammer or impact hammer tool, the drill bit comprising: a handle having a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal end being adapted to be removably coupled to the hammer tool, the distal end defining a concave geometric configuration or a convex geometric configuration; as well as a non-rotating geometric configuration disposed about the handle; as well as a driver coupled to the concave geometry or the convex geometry of the distal end, the driver comprising a drive structure; Wherein, actuating the handle along the axis of the handle applies a force to the drive structure.

25. The drill bit of claim 24, wherein: The concave geometry includes a slot to which the driver is adapted to be coupled by sliding and rotating the driver through the slot.

26. The drill bit of claim 24, wherein: The concave geometry includes a clevis and a clevis retainer to which the driver is coupled.

27. The drill bit of claim 26, wherein: The clevis retainer includes a pin.

28. The drill bit of claim 26, wherein: The clevis retainer includes a ball bearing.

29. The drill bit of claim 26, wherein: The clevis retainer includes a bolt and a nut.

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