Tool adapter

Abstract

A tool adapter (100) for attaching a tool (102) to a rod (104) comprises a main body (106) and a clamping body (108), where the tool (102) is attachable to the main body (106) and the clamping body (108) is hinged to the main body (106). Further, a fastening element (112) is hinged to the body (106). The clamping body (108) and the fastening element (112) are configured such that the rod (104) can be clamped between the main body (106) and the clamping body (108). A tool adapter (100) for attaching a tool (102) to a rod (104) is characterized in that the tool adapter (100) further comprises at least one fixing arrangement (116) formed on the clamping body (108) and / or the main body (106), where the at least one fixing arrangement (116) is configured to functionally interact with a fastening element (112), the clamping body (108) is configured such that the tool adapter (100) is prevented from accidentally falling from the rod (104) by preventing the fastening element (112) from disengaging from the clamping body (108).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a tool adapter, and in particular to a tool adapter for attaching a tool to a pole. Background Art

[0002] A tool adapter is used to extend the user's reach when working with a tool. To do this, the user uses a special tool and a special pole that cooperate with each other. The tool adapter includes a body that can be connected to the tool on one side and to a pole on the other side, wherein the user can hold the pole while working. The tools that can be connected to the tool adapter may include, but are not limited to, hedge trimmers, saws, pruners, etc. The tool adapter may include a locking mechanism for holding both the tool and the pole in place while working. However, using a tool adapter to increase the user's reach involves the risk of the tool adapter or the pole accidentally falling. The tool adapter or the pole may fall onto the floor surface due to the locking mechanism becoming loose.

[0003] An example of a tool adapter is provided in U.S. Patent No. 8,167,259 B2 (hereinafter referred to as the '259 reference). The '259 reference provides a quick-attach and release clamp and medical device system. The system includes a quick-attach and release clamp, a support base, a medical device, and a support rod. The quick-attach and release clamp enables the medical device to easily clamp and release the support rod, allowing the device to be moved up and down as necessary. The quick-attach and release clamp also allows the medical device to be rotated about the support rod and clamped in a desired radial position relative to the support rod. Furthermore, the quick-attach and release clamp includes a knob, a rod, and an arm attached to the rod. The rod is constructed and arranged to be inserted into a channel in the knob. The rod includes a threaded portion having multiple male threads that releasably interlock with one or more female threads of a locking threaded portion. When the knob is rotated clockwise, the threaded portion can extend through the top of the knob, causing the knob to translate inward along the threaded portion. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In light of the above, it is an object of the present invention to solve or at least reduce the above disadvantages.This object is achieved at least in part by a tool adapter for attaching a tool to a rod.

[0005] According to one aspect of the invention, a tool adapter for attaching a tool to a rod comprises a main body and a clamping body, wherein the tool is attachable to the main body and the clamping body is hinged to the main body, and wherein the clamping body is rotatable relative to the main body about a first axis. In addition, a fastening element is hinged to the main body, wherein the fastening element is rotatable relative to the main body about a second axis, and wherein the second axis is parallel to the first axis and perpendicular to an extension of the fastening element. In addition, the clamping body and the fastening element are configured such that the rod can be clamped, in particular immovably clamped, between the main body and the clamping body. The tool adapter for attaching a tool to a rod is characterized in that the tool adapter further comprises at least one fixing arrangement formed on the clamping body and / or the main body, wherein the at least one fixing arrangement is configured to functionally interact with the fastening element such that an accidental detachment of the tool adapter from the rod is prevented by preventing the fastening element from detaching from the clamping body.

[0006] Thus, the present disclosure advantageously provides an improved tool adapter that provides a safe and secure connection between a tool and a rod and is configured to extend the reach of a user of the tool adapter and / or the tool. The tool adapter includes a fastening element to bind the body and clamping body of the tool adapter and the rod in a fixed position and further prevent accidental disengagement between the tool adapter and the rod due to excessive pivotal movement between the clamping body and the body of the tool adapter. In other words, the fastening element is configured to prevent the clamping body from pivoting relative to the body so that the rod can be securely clamped between the clamping body and the body of the tool adapter. The tool adapter also includes at least one fixing arrangement structure that is configured to prevent the fastening element from disengaging from the clamping body and thereby reduce the likelihood of the tool adapter accidentally falling off or becoming entirely detached from the rod, or reduce the likelihood of the rod accidentally falling off or becoming entirely detached from the tool adapter.

[0007] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the fastening element is a screw, in particular a knurled screw, comprising a head portion and a threaded shaft portion, wherein the shaft portion is configured to be screwed into an internal thread of a hinge element of the main body. The screw can be removably engaged with the tool adapter in a tool-free manner to prevent the clamping body from moving away from the main body and thereby prevent the tool adapter from accidentally falling off the rod, or the rod from accidentally falling off the tool adapter.

[0008] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the at least one fixing arrangement formed on the clamping body comprises a first snap-in element and a second snap-in element, in particular, wherein the first snap-in element and / or the second snap-in element are configured to interact with, in particular contact, an axial portion of the fastening element so that a rotation of the fastening element relative to the body in a direction around the second axis is prevented. The first snap-in element and the second snap-in element can be configured to prevent or delay tipping over of the fastening element around the second axis. A pivoting movement of the fastening element relative to the body is thereby prevented so that a pivoting movement of the clamping body around the first axis is also prevented. As a result, an accidental detachment of the tool adapter from the rod is prevented.

[0009] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the clamping body includes an elongated hole, particularly a U-shaped hole, configured to allow the fastening element to rotate in and out of the hole relative to the body, and wherein the hole is formed along a plane perpendicular to the second axis. Specifically, the hole extends from a side of the clamping body farthest from the first axis toward the first axis, and wherein the first and second snap elements are formed in the hole. The elongated hole includes at least one securing arrangement to at least partially engage with the fastening element and prevent or delay tipping or rotational movement of the fastening element in a direction about the second axis, thereby preventing accidents that could result from accidentally dropping the tool adapter.

[0010] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first and second snap elements are formed parallel to each other in the hole, particularly on opposite sides of the hole, and / or when the fastening element is prevented from detaching from the clamping body, the first and second snap elements extend parallel to the extension of the fastening element, and / or the first and second snap elements are configured to interact with the shaft portion at similar positions along the extension of the shaft portion, and / or the first and second snap elements have substantially the same length along the extension of the shaft portion. The first and second snap elements can apply equal but opposite forces to the fastening element to maintain the fastening element in a stable and upright position as much as possible, thereby preventing the fastening element from detaching from the clamping body.

[0011] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the length of the first snap element and / or the second snap element at a position adjacent to the hole is substantially equal to the thickness of the clamping body, wherein the thickness is viewed in a direction parallel to the extension of the fastening element when the fastening element is prevented from detaching from the clamping body, and / or the hole has an upper end and a lower end, and wherein the first snap element and / or the second snap element extends from the upper end to the lower end. The first snap element and the second snap element can advantageously span along the thickness of the clamping body to provide enhanced support to the fastening element and prevent detachment of the fastening element from the clamping body.

[0012] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the at least one fixing arrangement formed on the main body includes a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface, wherein the first inclined surface and / or the second inclined surface is configured to limit the rotation of the fastening element relative to the main body in a direction about the second axis to a predefined angular range between 0° and 90°, preferably between 0° and 60°, and more preferably between 0° and 45°. The first inclined surface and the second inclined surface can be configured to prevent or delay the fastening element from tipping over from the clamping body and thereby prevent pivotal or rotational movement of the clamping body relative to the main body, so as to prevent the tool adapter from accidentally falling off the shaft.

[0013] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the body includes an opening extending through the body between a first end and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the first end faces the clamping body. Furthermore, a hinge element is mounted to the opening such that the hinge element is rotatable about a second axis, and wherein the hinge element is configured such that the fastening element can be screwed into the hinge element. Rotatably mounting the hinge element to the body allows for a removable, tool-free connection between the fastening element and the tool adapter.

[0014] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a first inclined surface is formed at the first end and extends away from the inner surface of the opening and at an angle thereto toward the clamping body, and / or a second inclined surface is formed at the second end and extends away from the inner surface of the opening and at an angle thereto. Specifically, the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface are substantially parallel to each other. The first inclined surface and the second inclined surface can be configured to engage with the fastening element such that rotational movement of the fastening element about the second axis is limited, thereby preventing complete flipping of the fastening element. This can reduce, and in particular prevent, the possibility of the fastening element detaching from the clamping body of the tool adapter, thereby reducing, and in particular preventing, loosening of the clamping between the tool adapter and the rod.

[0015] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first inclined surface extends at a 45° angle relative to the inner surface of the opening, and the second inclined surface extends at a 45° angle relative to the inner surface of the opening, and when the fastening element is tightened into the hinge element, the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface are formed on opposite sides of the inner surface of the opening relative to the fastening element. The first inclined surface and the second inclined surface can apply equal but opposite forces to the fastening element to prevent or inhibit the fastening element from completely flipping over or detaching from the clamping body.

[0016] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first and second inclined surfaces are configured to contact the shaft portion of the fastening element along a substantially similar length along the extension of the shaft portion when the fastening element rotates about the hinge element of the main body. When the fastening element contacts the first and second inclined surfaces, subsequent rotation of the fastening element about the second axis can be prevented. Thus, the fastening element can be prevented from being disengaged from the clamping body of the tool adapter, allowing the shaft to remain securely clamped to the tool adapter and the tool to be effectively used for its intended application.

[0017] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the at least one securing arrangement formed on the clamping body is a protrusion, wherein the protrusion is configured to at least partially interact with the head portion of the fastening element so that, when the rod is clamped (particularly immovably clamped) between the main body and the clamping body, the fastening element is prevented from rotating relative to the main body about the second axis. Consequently, the screw must be unscrewed from the hinge element by a predetermined amount to allow the head portion to rotate on the protrusion and the clamping element to rotate relative to the main body about the first axis. As a result, the tool adapter can be securely clamped to the rod.

[0018] The at least one fixing arrangement may comprise a combination of a projection and a first snap element and a second snap element, or a combination of a projection and a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface. Alternatively, the fixing arrangement may comprise a combination of a projection and a first snap element, a second snap element, a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface. The specific embodiment of the fixing arrangement may depend on the requirements, whereby it is intended to limit the rotation of the fastening element relative to the main body and / or the clamping body so that an accidental detachment of the tool adapter from the shaft can be substantially prevented.

[0019] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the clamping body includes an elongated hole, in particular a U-shaped hole, which is configured to allow the fastening element to rotate in and out of the hole relative to the main body, wherein the hole is formed along a plane perpendicular to the second axis. Specifically, wherein the hole extends from the side of the clamping body farthest from the first axis toward the first axis. In addition, the hole has an upper end and a lower end, wherein when the fastening element is prevented from detaching from the clamping body, the protrusion extends away from the upper end and is substantially parallel to the extension of the fastening element. The protrusion can be embodied as at least one protrusion extending away from the upper end of the hole so as to support the head portion of the fastening element and inhibit the fastening element from rotating about the second axis. Therefore, the fastening element is prevented from detaching from the clamping body.

[0020] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a protrusion is formed on a peripheral edge of the clamping body, wherein the peripheral edge is disposed on opposite sides of the fastening element relative to the first axis when the fastening element is prevented from being detached from the clamping body. The protrusion prevents the fastening element from loosening or flipping, allowing the rod to be properly clamped between the clamping body and the main body of the tool adapter. Thus, for the safety and protection of the user, any accidental drop of the rod, such as from a height, is avoided.

[0021] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the clamping body includes an elongated hole, in particular a U-shaped hole, which is configured to allow the fastening element to rotate in and out of the hole relative to the body, wherein the hole is formed along a plane perpendicular to the second axis. In addition, the body includes an opening extending through the body between a first end and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the first end faces the clamping body, and wherein the hole is aligned with the opening when the fastening element is prevented from detaching from the clamping body. The hole and / or the opening may include at least one fixed arrangement to prevent or delay rotation of the fastening element. As a result, detachment between the clamping body and the fastening element can be prevented or delayed.

[0022] Before discussing the invention with the aid of the accompanying drawings, a general discussion of the invention will be briefly given. A tool adapter can be provided for attaching a tool to a rod via a clamping body, wherein the clamping body is pivoted onto the main body of the tool adapter. The tool adapter can secure the clamping body to the main body using a fastening element. The fastening element can be selected to allow attachment without any play. Rods of any size or diameter can be used to extend the reach of the tool. The tool adapter can be prevented from accidentally and unnoticed loosening and falling off the rod by at least one, and in particular three, mechanical details. When the fastening element can be fully tightened, there may be no risk of the tool adapter falling off the rod. However, in some cases, the fastening element may not be tightened enough by the user, or the fastening element may become loose due to contact with any object (wooden branches) in (near) the working area.

[0023] Additionally, the tool adapter may allow for increased clearance of the tool adapter against the rod. The clearance may be of a defined amount and the user may be able to notice loosening of the tool adapter before the tool adapter falls off the rod. A first mechanical detail may comprise a snap function which may prevent the fastening element from pivoting to an open position. A second mechanical detail may comprise a length of the fastening element and a limitation on the pivot angle of the fastening element. The length of the fastening element and the limitation on the pivot angle of the fastening element may be combined and adapted to each other in such a way that the fastening element may be loosened more turns before the clamping element (hinge) may be fully opened. Furthermore, a third mechanical detail may comprise creating a different height level for the head portion of the fastening element compared to the protrusion from the surface of the clamping element surrounding the head portion of the fastening element.

[0024] The tool adapter according to the present invention can provide safety and protection against damage due to components falling from a height.

[0025] Other features and aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a tool adapter according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 2 illustrates a top perspective view of a tool adapter with a head portion of a fastening element removed according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 3 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a tool adapter according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 4 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a tool adapter according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 5 illustrates a semi-open position of a tool adapter according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0032] Figure 6 An open position of a tool adapter according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The present invention will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate example embodiments of the invention incorporating one or more aspects of the invention. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments shown herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. For example, one or more aspects of the invention may be used in other embodiments and even other types of structures and / or methods. In the drawings, like numbers represent similar elements.

[0034] Certain terms are used herein for convenience only and are not to be construed as limiting the present invention. For example, terms such as "upper," "lower," "front," "back," "side," "longitudinal," "lateral," "transverse," "upward," "downward," "forward," "backward," "sideways," "left," "right," "horizontal," "vertical," "upward," "inside," "outside," "inwardly," "outwardly," "top," "bottom," "higher," "above," "below," "center," "middle," "middle," "between," "end," "adjacent," "near," "near," "distal," "distal side," "radial," "circumferential," and the like describe only the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings. In practice, unless otherwise indicated, components may be oriented in any direction, and thus the terms should be understood to encompass such variations.

[0035] Figure 1 A perspective view of a tool adapter 100 for attaching a tool 102 to a rod 104 is illustrated. The tool adapter 100 includes a body 106 and a clamping body 108, wherein the clamping body 108 is hingedly connected to the body 106. The clamping body 108 is rotatable relative to the body 106 in a direction about a first axis 110. The tool adapter 100 also includes a fastening element 112 rotatable to the body 106, wherein the fastening element 112 is rotatable relative to the body 106 in a direction about a second axis 114. The second axis 114 is parallel to the first axis 110 and perpendicular to the extension of the fastening element 112. The fastening element 112 is a knurled screw including a head portion 111 and a threaded shaft portion 113. The shaft portion 113 is configured to be screwed into a hinge element 126 of the body 106, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 The clamp body 108 and the fastening element 112 are configured such that the rod 104 is substantially immovably clamped between the main body 106 and the clamp body 108 .

[0036] Figure 2 A top perspective view of a tool adapter 100 is illustrated, according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present disclosure, with the head portion 111 of the fastening element 112 removed. The tool adapter 100 includes a main body 106 and a clamping body 108. The clamping body 108 includes a U-shaped aperture 118 configured to allow the fastening element 112 to rotate relative to the main body 106 within and outside the aperture 118. The aperture 118 is formed along a plane perpendicular to the second axis 114. The aperture 118 extends from a side 115 of the clamping body 108 furthest from the first axis 110 toward the first axis 110. Furthermore, the aperture 118 has an upper end 117 and a lower end 119, which are separated from each other by a thickness T of the clamping body 108. In other words, the clamping body 108 has a thickness T at a location adjacent to the aperture 118. When the fastening element 112 is prevented from being detached from the clamping body 108, the thickness T is viewed in a direction parallel to the extension of the fastening element 112.

[0037] Furthermore, the at least one fixing arrangement 116 formed on the clamp body 108 comprises a first snap element 202 and a second snap element 204. The first snap element 202 and the second snap element 204 are formed in the hole 118 of the clamp body 108.

[0038] The first snap element 202 and the second snap element 204 are formed parallel to each other and are formed on opposite sides of the hole 118. When the fastening element 112 is prevented from being detached from the clamping body 108, the first snap element 202 and the second snap element 204 extend parallel to the extension of the fastening element 112, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown. The first snap element 202 and the second snap element 204 have substantially the same length L along the extension of the shaft portion 113 of the fastening element 112. In addition, the first snap element 202 and the second snap element 204 are configured to interact with the shaft portion 113 at approximately the same position along the extension of the shaft portion 113. Each of the first snap element 202 and the second snap element 204 extends from the upper end 117 to the lower end 119 of the hole 118. In other words, the length L of the first snap element 202 and the second snap element 204 at a position adjacent to the hole 118 is substantially equal to the thickness T of the clamp body 108.

[0039] The first snap element 202 and the second snap element contact the shaft portion 113 of the fastening element 112 such that rotation of the fastening element 112 relative to the body 106 is prevented.

[0040] Figure 3 A side cross-sectional view of a tool adapter 100 according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The tool adapter 100 includes a main body 106 and a clamping body 108, wherein the clamping body 108 is hingedly connected to the main body 106. The clamping body 108 is rotatable relative to the main body 106 about a first axis 110. The tool adapter 100 also includes a fastening element 112 hingedly mounted to the main body 106, wherein the fastening element 112 is rotatable relative to the main body 106 about a second axis 114. The second axis 114 extends parallel to the first axis 110 and perpendicular to the extension of the fastening element 112. The fastening element 112 is a knurled screw including a head portion 111 and a threaded shaft portion 113. The shaft portion 113 is configured to be screwed into an internal thread of a hinge element 126 of the main body 106. In other words, the hinge element 126 is configured such that the fastening element 112 can be screwed into the hinge element 126. Additionally, the rod 104 is immovably clamped between the main body 106 and the clamping body 108 .

[0041] In addition, the clamping body 108 includes an elongated U-shaped hole 118 that is configured to allow the fastening element 112 to rotate in and out of the hole 118 relative to the main body 106. The hole 118 is formed along a plane that is perpendicular to the second axis 114. Specifically, the hole 118 extends from the side 115 of the clamping body 108 that is farthest from the first axis 110 toward the first axis 110. The hole 118 has an upper end 117 and a lower end 119 that are separated from each other by a thickness T of the clamping body 108. In other words, the clamping body 108 has a thickness T at a position adjacent to the hole 118. When the fastening element 112 is prevented from detaching from the clamping body 108, the thickness T is observed in a direction parallel to the extension of the fastening element 112, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 shown.

[0042] Additionally, the body 106 includes an opening 120 extending through the body 106 between a first end 122 and a second end 124 opposite the first end 122, wherein the first end 122 faces the clamping body 108. Figure 3 As illustrated, when the fastening element 112 is prevented from being disengaged from the clamp body 108, the aperture 118 is aligned with the opening 120. Additionally, the hinge element 126 is mounted to the opening 120 and is rotatable about the second axis 114.

[0043] Continue to refer Figure 3 The tool adapter 100 further includes the at least one securing arrangement 116, which includes a first inclined surface 302 and a second inclined surface 304. The first inclined surface 302 and the second inclined surface 304 are substantially parallel to each other. When the fastening element 112 is tightened into the hinge element 126, the first inclined surface 302 and the second inclined surface 304 are formed on opposite sides of the inner surface of the opening 120 relative to the fastening element 112. The first inclined surface 302 is formed at the first end 122 and extends away from the inner surface of the opening 120 and at an angle thereto toward the clamp body 108. The first inclined surface 302 extends at a 45° angle relative to the inner surface of the opening 120. In addition, the second inclined surface 304 is formed at the second end 124 and extends away from the inner surface of the opening 120 and at an angle thereto. The second inclined surface 304 extends at a 45° angle relative to the inner surface of the opening 120.

[0044] The first inclined surface 302 and the second inclined surface 304 are configured to contact the shaft portion 113 of the fastening element 112 along a substantially similar length along the extension of the shaft portion 113 when the fastening element 112 is rotated about the hinge element 126 of the body 106. The first inclined surface 302 and the second inclined surface 304 are configured to limit the rotation of the fastening element 112 relative to the body 106 to a predefined angular range between 0° and 90°, preferably between 0° and 60°, and more preferably between 0° and 45°.

[0045] Figure 4 A side cross-sectional view of a tool adapter 100 according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The tool adapter 100 includes a body 106 and a clamping body 108, wherein a tool 102 is substantially immovably clamped between the body 106 and the clamping body 108. The clamping body 108 is rotatable relative to the body 106 in a direction about a first axis 110. The tool adapter 100 also includes a fastening element 112 hingedly mounted to the body 106, wherein the fastening element 112 is rotatable relative to the body 106 about a second axis 114. The second axis 114 is parallel to the first axis 110 and perpendicular to the extension of the fastening element 112. The fastening element 112 is a knurled screw including a head portion 111 and a threaded shaft portion 113. The shaft portion 113 is screwed into an internal thread of a hinge element 126 of the body 106.

[0046] In addition, the clamping body 108 includes an elongated U-shaped hole 118 that is configured to allow the fastening element 112 to rotate in and out of the hole 118 relative to the main body 106. The hole 118 is formed along a plane that is perpendicular to the second axis 114. Specifically, the hole 118 extends from the side 115 of the clamping body 108 that is farthest from the first axis 110 toward the first axis 110. The hole 118 has an upper end 117 and a lower end 119 that are separated from each other by a thickness T of the clamping body 108. In other words, the clamping body 108 has a thickness T at a position adjacent to the hole 118. When the fastening element 112 is prevented from detaching from the clamping body 108, the thickness T is observed in a direction parallel to the extension of the fastening element 112, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 shown.

[0047] In addition, the body 106 includes an opening 120 extending through the body 106 between a first end 122 and a second end 124 opposite the first end 122, wherein the first end 122 faces the clamp body 108. When the fastening element 112 is prevented from being removed from the clamp body 108, the aperture 118 is aligned with the opening 120. In addition, the hinge element 126 is mounted to the opening 120 such that the hinge element 126 is rotatable about the second axis 114.

[0048] Continue to refer Figure 4 The tool adapter 100 includes the at least one fixing arrangement 116 formed on the main body 106 and the at least one fixing arrangement 116 formed on the clamp body 108. The at least one fixing arrangement 116, wherein the at least one fixing arrangement 116 formed on the main body 106 includes the first inclined surface 302 and the second inclined surface 304, and the at least one fixing arrangement 116 formed on the clamp body 106 includes the protrusion 400.

[0049] The first inclined surface 302 and the second inclined surface 304 extend substantially parallel to each other. When the fastening element 112 is screwed into the hinge element 126, the first inclined surface 302 and the second inclined surface 304 are formed on opposite sides of the inner surface of the opening 120 relative to the fastening element 112. The first inclined surface 302 is formed at the first end 122 and extends away from the inner surface of the opening 120 and at an angle thereto toward the clamp body 108. The first inclined surface 302 extends at a 45° angle relative to the inner surface of the opening 120. In addition, the second inclined surface 304 is formed at the second end 124 and extends away from the inner surface of the opening 120 and at an angle thereto. The second inclined surface 304 extends at a 45° angle relative to the inner surface of the opening 120.

[0050] The first and second inclined surfaces 302, 304 are configured to contact the shaft portion 113 of the fastening element 112 along a substantially similar length along the extension of the shaft portion 113 (not shown) when the fastening element 112 is rotated about the hinge element 126 of the body 106. Figure 4 ). The first and second inclined surfaces 302, 304 are configured to limit rotation of the fastening element 112 relative to the body 106 to a predefined angular range between 0° and 90°, preferably between 0° and 60°, and more preferably between 0° and 45°.

[0051] In addition, the protrusion 400 is formed at the peripheral edge 107 of the clamp body 108. When the fastening element 112 is prevented from being detached from the clamp body 108, the peripheral edge 107 is disposed at the opposite side of the fastening element 112 relative to the first axis 110, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 The protrusion 400 extends away from the upper end 117 and is substantially parallel to the extension of the fastening element 112.

[0052] The protrusion 400 is configured to at least partially interact with the head portion 111 of the fastening element 112 such that rotation of the fastening element 112 relative to the body 106 is restricted.

[0053] Figure 5The tool adapter 100 is illustrated in a semi-open position. When the fastening element 112 is not sufficiently tightened or has become loosened before or during use of the tool 102, the fastening element 112 slowly and gradually disengages from the clamp body 108. This disengagement causes the fastening element 112 to rotate relative to the main body 106 about the second axis 114. This gives the user ample time to notice the loosening of the clamp and, consequently, the movement of the tool adapter 100 relative to the shaft 104. Consequently, potential accidents caused by the tool adapter 100 becoming disengaged from the shaft 104 can be prevented. This delay in the separation of the tool adapter 100 from the shaft 104 is caused by the at least one securing arrangement 116 formed on the clamp body 108 and / or the main body 106. The at least one securing arrangement interacts with the fastening element 112 so that substantially complete disengagement of the clamp body 108 and the fastening element 112 is prevented. Thus, the tool adapter 100 is prevented from accidentally falling off the shaft 104 by preventing the fastening element 112 from disengaging from the clamp body 108 .

[0054] In the semi-open position, the fastening element 112 is slightly rotated relative to the body 106 about the second axis 114 so that the head portion 111 of the fastening element 112 is a first distance X from the first end 122 of the opening 120. The first distance X is greater than when the lever 104 is in the clamped position or the fully closed position (e.g., as shown in FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The distance between the head portion 111, and in particular the underside of the head portion 111 facing the clamping body 108, and the first end 122 of the opening 120, when the tool adapter 100 is clamped between the clamping body 104 and the main body 106 (in the semi-open position) is 1 / 4" (in the semi-open position). Furthermore, as a result, the clamping body 108 has already been slightly rotated relative to the main body 106 about the first axis 110. Consequently, the tool adapter 100 has become noticeably loose, but has not yet been separated from the shaft 104.

[0055] Figure 6 The fully open position of tool adapter 100 is illustrated. Figure 5 1. The tool adapter 100 is in the fully open position of the tool adapter 100. The fastening element 112 has been threaded out of the internal threads of the hinge element 126 of the main body 106 more turns than in the illustrated semi-open position. In the fully open position of the tool adapter 100, the tool adapter 100 is removed from the shaft 104 because the fastening element 112 no longer prevents the clamping body 108 from rotating away from the main body 106. In the fully open position of the tool adapter 100, the head portion 111 of the fastening element 112 is a second distance Y from the first end 122 of the opening 120, wherein the second distance Y is greater than the first distance X. In addition, the second distance Y is greater than the distance X when the shaft 104 is in the clamped position or the fully closed position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 ). Figure 3 and Figure 4) The head portion 111 , in particular, the distance between the lower side of the head portion 111 facing the clamping body 108 and the first end 122 of the opening 120 when the head portion 111 is clamped between the clamping body 104 and the main body 106 .

[0056] In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed exemplary embodiments of, and examples for, the invention, and although specific terms are employed, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the invention which is set forth in the following claims.

[0057] Component List

[0058]

Claims

1. A tool adapter (100) for attaching a tool (102) to a rod (104), the tool adapter comprising: a body (106) to which the tool (102) is attachable, a clamping body (108) hingedly connected to the main body (106), wherein the clamping body (108) is rotatable relative to the main body (106) about a first axis (110), a fastening element (112) hinged to the body (106), wherein the fastening element (112) is rotatable relative to the body (106) about a second axis (114), wherein the second axis (114) is parallel to the first axis (110) and perpendicular to the extension of the fastening element (112), and The clamping body (108) and the fastening element (112) are configured such that the rod (104) can be clamped, in particular immovably clamped, between the main body (106) and the clamping body (108). Its characteristics are: The tool adapter (100) further comprises: at least one fixing arrangement (116), the at least one fixing arrangement being formed on the clamping body (108) and / or the main body (106), The at least one securing arrangement (116) is configured to functionally interact with the fastening element (112) to prevent the tool adapter (100) from accidentally falling off the shaft (104) by preventing the fastening element (112) from detaching from the clamping body (108).

2. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to claim 1, wherein the fastening element (112) is a screw, in particular a knurled screw, comprising a head portion (111) and a threaded shaft portion (113), and The shaft portion (113) is configured to be screwed into an internal thread of a hinge element (126) of the main body (106).

3. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the at least one fixing arrangement (116) formed on the clamping body (108) comprises a first snap element (202) and a second snap element (204), Specifically, the first snap element (202) and / or the second snap element (204) are configured to interact with, in particular contact, the shaft portion (113) of the fastening element (112) so that the fastening element (112) is prevented from rotating relative to the main body (106) in a direction around the second axis (114).

4. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to claim 3, wherein the clamping body (108) comprises an elongated hole (118), in particular a U-shaped hole (118), the elongated hole being configured to allow the fastening element (112) to rotate relative to the main body (106) in and out of the hole (118), wherein the hole (118) is formed along a plane perpendicular to the second axis (114), Specifically, the hole (118) extends from the side surface (115) of the clamping body (108) farthest from the first axis (110) toward the first axis (110), and The first snap-fit ​​element (202) and the second snap-fit ​​element (204) are formed in the hole (118).

5. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the first snap-fit ​​element (202) and the second snap-fit ​​element (204) are formed parallel to each other in the hole (118), in particular on opposite sides of the hole (118), and / or wherein when the detachment of the fastening element (112) from the clamping body (108) is prevented, the first snap element (202) and the second snap element (204) extend parallel to the extension of the fastening element (112), and / or wherein the first snap element (202) and the second snap element (204) are configured to interact with the shaft portion (113) at an approximate position along the extension of the shaft portion (113), and / or Wherein the first snap-fit ​​element (202) and the second snap-fit ​​element (204) have substantially the same length (L) along the extension of the shaft portion (113).

6. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the first snap-fit ​​element (202) and / or the second snap-fit ​​element (204) has, at a position adjacent to the hole (118), a length (L) that is substantially equal to a thickness (T) of the clamping body (108), wherein the thickness (T) is seen in a direction parallel to the extension of the fastening element (112) when the detachment of the fastening element (112) from the clamping body (108) is prevented, and / or wherein the hole (118) has an upper end (117) and a lower end (119), and The first snap-fit ​​element (202) and / or the second snap-fit ​​element (204) extend from the upper end (117) to the lower end (119).

7. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one fixing arrangement (116) formed on the body (106) includes a first inclined surface (302) and a second inclined surface (304), Specifically, the first inclined surface (302) and / or the second inclined surface (304) are configured to limit the rotation of the fastening element (112) relative to the body (106) in a direction around the second axis to a predetermined angular range between 0° and 90°, preferably between 0° and 60° and more preferably between 0° and 45°.

8. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to claim 7, wherein the body (106) includes an opening (120) extending through the body (106) between a first end (122) and a second end (124) opposite the first end (122), wherein the first end (122) faces the clamping body (108), wherein the hinge element (126) is mounted to the opening (120) such that the hinge element (126) is rotatable about the second axis (114), and The hinge element (126) is designed such that the fastening element (112) can be screwed into the hinge element (126).

9. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to claim 8, wherein the first inclined surface (302) is formed at the first end (122) and extends away from the inner surface of the opening (120) and toward the clamping body (108) at an angle to the inner surface of the opening, and / or wherein the second inclined surface (304) is formed at the second end (124) and extends away from the inner surface of the opening (120) and at an angle to the inner surface of the opening, Specifically, the first inclined surface (302) and the second inclined surface (304) extend substantially parallel to each other.

10. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the first inclined surface (302) extends at an angle of substantially 45° relative to an inner surface of the opening (120), and the second inclined surface (304) extends at an angle of substantially 45° relative to the inner surface of the opening (120), and Wherein when the fastening element (112) is screwed into the hinge element (126), the first inclined surface (302) and the second inclined surface (304) are formed on opposite sides of the inner surface of the opening (120) relative to the fastening element (112).

11. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the first inclined surface (302) and the second inclined surface (304) are configured to contact the shaft portion (113) along a substantially similar length as seen along the extension of the shaft portion (113) of the fastening element (112) when the fastening element (112) is rotated about the hinge element (126) of the body (106).

12. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one fixing arrangement (116) formed on the clamping body (108) is a protrusion (400), The protrusion (400) is configured to at least partially interact with the head portion (111) of the fastening element (112) so that when the rod (104) is clamped, in particular clamped immovably between the main body (106) and the clamping body (108), the fastening element (112) is prevented from rotating relative to the main body (106) in the direction around the second axis.

13. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to claim 12, wherein the clamping body (108) comprises an elongated hole (118), in particular a U-shaped hole (118), the elongated hole being configured to allow the fastening element (112) to rotate relative to the main body (106) in and out of the hole (118), wherein the hole (118) is formed along a plane perpendicular to the second axis (114), Specifically, the hole (118) extends from the side surface (115) of the clamping body (108) farthest from the first axis (110) toward the first axis (110), wherein the hole (118) has an upper end (117) and a lower end (119), Wherein when the detachment of the fastening element (112) from the clamping body (108) is prevented, the protrusion (400) extends away from the upper end (117) and extends substantially parallel to the extension of the fastening element (112).

14. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the protrusion (400) is formed at the peripheral edge (107) of the clamping body (108), wherein the peripheral edge (107) is disposed at opposite sides of the fastening element (112) relative to the first axis (110) when the detachment of the fastening element (112) from the clamping body (108) is prevented.

15. A tool adapter (100) for attaching the tool (102) to the rod (104) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping body (108) comprises an elongated hole (118), in particular a U-shaped hole (118), the elongated hole being configured to allow the fastening element (112) to rotate relative to the main body (106) in and out of the hole (118), wherein the hole (118) is formed along a plane perpendicular to the second axis (114), wherein the body (106) includes an opening (120) extending through the body (106) between a first end (122) and a second end (124) opposite the first end (122), wherein the first end (122) faces the clamping body (108), and wherein the aperture (118) is aligned with the opening (120) when the detachment of the fastening element (112) from the clamp body (108) is prevented.

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