Tool storage device and system and handheld tool

Abstract

A hand tool, a tool storage device, and a tool storage system are provided. The tool storage device includes a base including a shaft extending from an inner surface. The tool holder is coupled to the shaft and includes a plurality of wings extending radially outward relative to the shaft and in a longitudinal direction. A plurality of channels are formed between respective pairs of the plurality of wings. The channels are positioned in a circumferentially adjacent arrangement. The tool holder forms a central bore in which the shaft is positionable and secured to the tool holder. The tool holder is selectively positionable to a body of the hand tool, a cap of the modular bit storage device, or both.

Description

[0001] Priority Claim

[0002] This disclosure claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 510,183, filed on June 26, 2023, entitled "RATCHETING SCREWDRIVER AND TOOL STORAGE DEVICE", the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to hand-held tools, and more particularly to screwdrivers, tool storage systems, and tool storage devices for the bits of hand-held tools. Background Art

[0004] Screwdrivers need to be rotated by a user and need to store bits. However, bulky components can impede the usability of the screwdriver, bit storage, or torque application by the user (e.g., in a compact space).

[0005] Screwdrivers require different bits for various different types of fasteners. A user typically desires to have the various different bits readily and quickly available. However, a bulky toolbox can make it difficult to retrieve the bits.

[0006] A screwdriver, tool storage device, and tool storage system that solve one or more of these problems would be advantageous and beneficial. Summary of the Utility Model

[0007] Aspects and advantages of the present utility model will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the present utility model.

[0008] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a tool storage device. The tool storage device includes a base that includes a shaft extending from an inner surface. A tool holder is coupled to the shaft and includes a plurality of wings that extend radially outward relative to the shaft and along a longitudinal direction. A plurality of channels are formed between corresponding pairs of the plurality of wings and extend along the longitudinal direction. The plurality of channels are positioned in a circumferentially adjacent arrangement. The tool holder forms a central hole in which the shaft can be positioned and fastened to the tool holder.

[0009] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a tool storage system. The tool storage system includes a tool storage device, a cap, and a hand tool. The tool storage device includes a base and a tool holder. The base includes a shaft extending from an inner surface. The tool holder is coupled to the shaft. The tool holder includes a plurality of wings extending radially outward relative to the shaft and along a longitudinal direction. A plurality of channels are formed between respective pairs of the plurality of wings and extend along the longitudinal direction. The plurality of channels are positioned in a circumferentially adjacent arrangement. The tool holder forms a central hole in which the shaft can be positioned and fastened to the tool holder. The cap forms a cap inner volume in which the tool storage device can be positioned through a cap opening. The cap extends along the longitudinal direction and includes a cap inner end wall. The cap inner volume extends between the base of the tool storage device and the cap inner end wall. The hand tool includes a body forming a body inner volume in which the tool storage device can be positioned through a body opening. The body extends along the longitudinal direction and includes a body inner end wall. The body inner volume extends between the base of the tool storage device and the body inner end wall. The body includes a tool head holder along the longitudinal direction away from the body opening through which the tool storage device can be positioned into the body. The tool head holder is configured to receive a tool head at which a cutting head can be received.

[0010] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a hand tool. The hand tool includes a tool storage device and a body. The tool storage device includes a base and a tool holder. The base includes a shaft extending from an inner surface. The tool holder is coupled to the shaft. The tool holder includes a plurality of wings extending radially outward relative to the shaft and along a longitudinal direction. A plurality of channels are formed between respective pairs of the plurality of wings and extend along the longitudinal direction. The plurality of channels are positioned in a circumferentially adjacent arrangement. The tool holder forms a central hole in which the shaft can be positioned and fastened to the tool holder. The body forms an inner volume in which the tool storage device can be positioned through a body opening. The body extends along the longitudinal direction and includes a body inner end wall. The body inner volume extends between the base of the tool storage device and the body inner end wall. The body includes a tool head holder along the longitudinal direction away from the body opening through which the tool storage device can be positioned into the body. The tool head holder is configured to receive a tool head at which a cutting head can be received.

[0011] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present utility model will become better understood with reference to the following description and the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present utility model and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present utility model. Description of the Drawings

[0012] With reference to the accompanying drawings, a complete and enabling disclosure of the present utility model, including its best mode, is set forth herein for one of ordinary skill in the art. In the drawings:

[0013] Figure 1 A side view of an embodiment of a hand tool including a tool storage device attached thereto is provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 2 A side view of an embodiment of a hand tool having a tool storage device extending from a body is provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1 of the hand tool;

[0015] Figure 3 A side view of an embodiment of a hand tool having a tool storage device positioned within a body is provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1 of the hand tool, wherein the body is transparent;

[0016] Figure 4 A side sectional view of an embodiment of a hand tool having a tool storage device positioned within a body is provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1 of the hand tool, wherein the body is transparent;

[0017] Figure 5 A perspective view of an embodiment of a body of a hand tool is provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 6 A transparent perspective view of an embodiment of a body of a hand tool including an embodiment of a tool storage device positioned within the body is provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 7 A side sectional view of an embodiment of a body of a hand tool is provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 8 A side view of an embodiment of a modular tool bit storage device including a tool storage device attached thereto is provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 9 A side view of an embodiment of a modular tool bit storage device having a tool storage device extending from a body is provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure Figure 8 of the modular tool bit storage device;

[0022] Figure 10 A perspective view of an embodiment of a tool storage device is provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 11 An embodiment in accordance with aspects of the present disclosureFigure 10 Cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment of a tool storage device;

[0024] Figure 12 There is provided, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, Figure 10 Side view of a tool storage device;

[0025] Figure 13 There is provided a perspective view of an embodiment of a tool storage device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 14 There is provided a perspective view of an embodiment of a tool storage device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 15 There is provided a perspective view of an embodiment of a tool storage device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 16 There is provided, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, Figure 15 Side view of an embodiment of a tool storage device;

[0029] Figure 17 There is provided a perspective view of an embodiment of a tool holder of a tool storage device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 18 There is provided, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, Figure 17 End view of a tool holder;

[0031] Figure 19 There is provided a perspective view of an embodiment of a tool holder of a tool storage device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 20 There is provided, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, Figure 19 End view of a tool holder; and

[0033] Figure 21 There is provided an embodiment of a tool storage system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the tool storage system including an embodiment of a hand tool having an embodiment of a tool storage device extending from a body and an embodiment of a modular cutter head storage device having an embodiment of a tool storage device extending from a cap.

[0034] The repeated use of reference numerals in this specification and the drawings is intended to represent the same or similar features or elements of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0035] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the present invention and not limitation thereof. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit thereof. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield yet another embodiment. Accordingly, it is intended that the present invention cover such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0036] As used herein, the terms "first", "second", and "third" may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another, and are not intended to indicate the position or importance of the respective components.

[0037] Unless otherwise specified herein, the dimensions provided herein can include approximations of + / - 2% of any discrete quantity, or approximations of +2% of the maximum value within a given range or -2% of the maximum value below a given range.

[0038] There is provided herein a tool storage device 50 ( Figure 2 ), a modular tool bit storage device 90 ( Figure 8 ) and an embodiment of a manipulable hand tool 100 ( Figure 1 ) (such as a screwdriver). Embodiments of the device 90 and the hand tool 100 can form a tool storage system 95 ( Figure 21 ) that overcomes the problems and provides the benefits such as those described herein. Now referring to Figures 1 to 7 , various embodiments of the hand tool 100 include a body 10 that forms an internal volume 82 ( Figure 7 ), into which the tool storage device 50 can be received. The body 10 extends along a longitudinal direction L. The body 10 can form a generally cylindrical structure or include a multi-faceted (e.g., polygonal) outer surface. In some embodiments, as depicted in Figures 1 to 7 , the body 10 includes a first end opening 14 and a second end opening 12 that are separated along the longitudinal direction L. Various embodiments of the body 10 form an internal volume 82 that is configured to receive and store tool bits 72 attached to the tool storage device 50. Various embodiments of the tool bits 72 can include, but are not limited to, screwdriver bits, such as, but not limited to, flat head bits, hex head bits, square head bits, Phillips head bits, cross drive bits, Allen head bits, star or A cutting head and / or the like, as further described herein. Embodiments of the hand tool 100 can be configured with any suitable or desired cutting head size, such as corresponding to a cutting head 72 that can be received at, on, or in the tool storage device 50( Figure 3 ).

[0039] In some embodiments, the body 10 forms a one-piece integral structure. In some embodiments, the body 10 forms a multi-piece assembly. For example, the body 10 can include a two-piece assembly of halves (such as halves including snap-fit interfaces that can be connected to each other). For example, the body 10 can include halves separated along the longitudinal direction L. However, it should be understood that the body 10 can include more than two parts, such as but not limited to three parts or four parts, etc.

[0040] Referring Figures 1 to 6 , in some embodiments, the body 10 forms at least a part of the hand tool 100. The hand tool 100 includes a head 20. The head 20 can form a ratchet head including a ratchet mechanism 22. For example, the ratchet mechanism 22 can include a rod or wheel having a plurality of angled teeth, and the teeth engage at these angled teeth, such as to allow movement in a first direction (e.g., a first circumferential direction, such as clockwise). The ratchet mechanism 22 can include a switch or other device configured to allow movement in a second direction (e.g., a second circumferential direction, such as counterclockwise). The ratchet mechanism 22 can include any suitable type of ratchet mechanism, such as can allow rotation in a circumferential direction and prohibit rotation in the opposite direction, and can further allow switching of the desired rotation direction.

[0041] The head 20 includes a cutting head shaft 30 connected to the ratchet mechanism 22. The shaft 30 includes a cutting head opening 32 configured to receive a cutting head, such as described above. The cutting head is selectively placed and removed from the shaft 30 via the opening 32.

[0042] The head 20 includes a key 34 extending from the ratchet mechanism 22. For example, the key 34 can extend opposite to the extent of the shaft 30. The key 34 includes a pawl 36, such as can be configured as a spherical pawl. The pawl 36 is configured to hold the head 20 to the body 10 at the opening 14 and at the cap 52. The first opening 14 is configured to correspond to the key 34, such as to selectively receive the key 34 and hold the key to the body 10 via the pawl 36.

[0043] Various different embodiments of the pawl 36 may include a ball positioned at the key 34 and within the opening. The ball is configured to shift within the opening, such as to allow the key 34 and the pawl 36 to extend through the opening 14. The opening 14 may include a sleeve positioned therein, such as configured to receive the pawl 36. For example, the pawl 36 may be configured to allow the rear end 24 of the ratchet mechanism 22 to be positioned flush or substantially flush with the face forming the opening 14.

[0044] The first end opening 14 allows the key 34 to extend in the same direction as the longitudinal direction L, such as to position the shaft 30 and the tool bit extending in the same direction as the longitudinal direction L. The body 10 may extend, such as to provide a longitudinally elongated handle by which a user can manually rotate and operate the head 20. For example, the body 10 may extend in the same direction or coaxially with the shaft 30 and the tool bit attached to the shaft.

[0045] In various different embodiments, the opening 14 corresponds to the key 34, such as corresponding in terms of depth, length, and width to allow the key 34 to be positioned within the opening 14. For example, the opening 14 may form a rectangular or substantially rectangular opening. It should be understood that the opening 14 may form other polygons or geometric forms, such as but not limited to geometric shapes such as star-shaped, cross-shaped, triangular, hexagonal, etc.

[0046] Reference Figures 1 to 4 , the second end opening 12 of the body 10 forms a locking interface that is configured to receive the end cap or base 52 of the tool storage device 50. In various different embodiments, the locking interface includes a substantially longitudinally extending face 11 configured to extend into a portion of the base 52 and a substantially radially extending face 13 against which the base 52 can abut the body 10 along the longitudinal direction L.

[0047] Reference Figures 8 to 9 , an embodiment of the modular tool bit storage device 90 includes a cap 16 that is configured to be substantially similar to an embodiment of the body 10. For example, the cap 16 may form a cylindrical or polyhedral body that extends along the longitudinal direction and includes a second end opening 12, such as described with respect to the body 10. It should be understood that embodiments of the cap 16 may include portions, dimensions, volumes, etc. of one or more embodiments of the body 10, such as described herein. The cap 16 includes a closed end 15 opposite the second end opening 12.

[0048] Now reference Figures 10 to 20 , an embodiment of the tool storage device 50 is provided. An embodiment of the tool storage device 50 may include a shaft 54 that extends longitudinally from the base 52, such as corresponding to the longitudinal extent of the body 10 or the cap 16 along the longitudinal direction L. In various different embodiments, the shaft 54 extends from the inner surface 56 of the base 52, such as through the opening 12 into the interior volume of the body 10 or the cap 16.

[0049] The tool holder 58 is coupled to the shaft 54. In various embodiments, the tool holder 58 can be selectively released from the shaft 54. In some embodiments, the tool holder 58 is integral with the shaft 54. For example, the tool holder 58 and the shaft 54 can form a one-piece unitary component. A fastener 60 can hold the tool holder 58 to the shaft 54. In some embodiments, the shaft 54 includes a central bore 62 into which the fastener 60 can extend. The central bore 62 can be configured to receive a threaded portion at the fastener 60. Accordingly, the fastener 60 and the central bore 62 can form a threaded interface that couples the fastener 60 to the shaft 54. The tool holder 58 can be held to the shaft 54 by placing the head 64 at the fastener 60 against a mating surface 66 at the tool holder 58. The mating surface 66 is positioned between the head 64 and the shaft 54, such as to hold the tool holder 58 to the shaft 54. The fastener 60 can extend through a central bore 61 at the tool holder 58 to attach the fastener 60 against the mating surface 66. The central bore 61 can form a generally circular bore (e.g., as depicted at Figures 17 to 18 ), or an oval or racetrack-shaped cross-section bore (e.g., as depicted at Figures 19 to 20 ), or other cross-sections (such as may be adapted to receive a cutting head).

[0050] The tool holder 58 includes a plurality of ribs or wings 68 that extend radially outwardly relative to the shaft 54. For example, when positioned within the body 10 or the cap 16, the shaft 54 and the bores 61, 62 can extend along a centerline axis CA that is coaxial with a longitudinal direction L. A radial direction R extends from the centerline axis CA. The wings 68 extend along the longitudinal direction L that is coaxial with the centerline axis CA and are positioned in a circumferentially adjacent arrangement about the centerline axis CA. One or more pairs of wings 68 form a slot or channel 70 that extends coaxial with the centerline axis CA. A cutting head 72 can be releasably attachable between the wings 68 at the channel 70 such that the wings 68 hold the cutting head 72 securely within and / or against the channel 70. During insertion of the cutting head 72 into the channel 70, the opposing wings 68 can "open" by flexing away from each other across the channel 70. The opposing wings 68 can then "close" around the cutting head 72 by flexing toward each other across the channel 70 to secure the cutting head 72 within the channel 70.

[0051] In some embodiments, the fastener 60 is selectively extendable into the shaft 54 at the aperture 62, such as to adjust the extent of the fastener 60 along the centerline axis CA. For example, the head 64 can be selectively positioned along the centerline axis CA, such as to adjust the distance of the head 64 relative to the inner surface 56 of the base 52. Adjusting the position of the head 64 can permit adjustment along the centerline axis CA of the tool holder 58. Adjusting the tool holder 58 along the centerline axis CA can permit different lengths of cutting heads 72 to be positioned on the tool holder 58.

[0052] In some embodiments, the aperture 61 forms a cutting head opening configured to receive the cutting head 72. The aperture 61 can carry the cutting head 72. Additionally, when the cutting head is secured to the aperture 61, the aperture 61 permits the tool storage device 50 to be used as a hand tool, such as a screwdriver. For example, the aperture 61 can include walls forming a mating interface (e.g., a tight fit, an interference fit, etc.) configured to secure the cutting head to the aperture 61.

[0053] In some embodiments, the base 52 forms ribs 74 at the inner surface 56. The ribs 74 extend between the shaft 54 and the perimeter wall 76 of the base 52. The perimeter wall 76 forms a head at which a user can grasp, manipulate, and articulate the tool storage device 50 (e.g., such as to position and remove the tool holder device 50 at the body 10 or the cap 16). The ribs 74 extend from the inner surface 56 to support the cutting head 72 at the base 52. For example, the ribs 74 can be formed to offset the cutting head 72 from being positioned flat on the inner surface 56.

[0054] Reference Figures 13 to 14 , the base 52 includes an inner wall 80 that is configured such that when the base 52 is attached to the body 10 ( Figure 1 and Figures 3 to 4 ) or the cap 16 ( Figure 9), abuts and corresponds to the longitudinally extending face 11 at the body 10 or the cap 16. The locking interface includes a lock key 78 positioned at the inner wall 80. The lock key 78 includes a raised wall, a groove or a tooth. For example, the lock key 78 can extend in the same direction as the centerline axis CA at least in part. The lock key 78 can be positioned at the longitudinal end of the inner surface 56 distal to the inner wall 80. The face 11 forms a keyway 17, which is configured to receive the lock key 78. The keyway 17 includes a raised surface or a groove, which is configured to receive the corresponding groove or a raised wall formed by the lock key 78. The keyway 17 can form a wall extending along the circumferential direction along the face 11. The keyway 17 can form a wall extending along the longitudinal direction L from the circumferentially extending portion along the face 11 to the face 13. The user can slide the base 52 onto the body 10 or the cap 16 along the longitudinal direction L, and rotate the base 52 to attach the lock key 78 in the keyway 17. For example, keyway 17 may extend along an arc (eg, three quarters of a turn, half a turn, quarter of a turn, or less, or other desired arc along face 11 ) and secure detent 78 within keyway 17 when rotated.

[0055] refer to Figures 1 to 20 , the various different embodiments of the tool storage device 50, tool holder 58, modular tool bit storage device 90, and hand tool 100 each include ranges and ratios that advantageously and beneficially facilitate the retention of multiple tool bits 72. In some embodiments, the ranges and ratios provided herein can allow the tool holder 58 to retain multiple tool bits 72 at the channel 70, or otherwise retain the tool bits 72 at the aperture 61 to allow the tool storage device 50 to be used as a screwdriver or similar tool.

[0056] In various embodiments, the tool holder 58 is configured to hold eight (8) tool bits 72 at a corresponding number of channels 70 formed between the wings 68. In various embodiments, the wings 68 extend between about 27 millimeters and about 37 millimeters along the longitudinal direction L, such as that depicted at dimension 105. Figure 12 The diameter of the tool holder 58 extends approximately 27 mm relative to the centerline axis CA, such as depicted at diameter 106 ( Figure 11 ). In various embodiments, the ratio of the diameter of the tool holder 58 to the length of the wing 68 is in a range between about 1:1 and about 27:37. In other various embodiments, the shaft 54 ​​extends about 34.5 millimeters along the longitudinal direction L. The diameter of the shaft 54 ​​can extend about 6.5 mm relative to the centerline axis CA. Various embodiments of the shaft 54 ​​or portions thereof can include a draft angle at which the diameter varies.

[0057] refer to Figures 10 to 12, in some embodiments, the tool holder 58 includes a wing portion 68 that extends along the longitudinal direction L for approximately 27 millimeters to hold eight (8) 2.5-inch (2.5”) cutting heads at eight (8) channels 70. The ratio of the diameter of the tool holder 58 to the length of the wing portion 68 is approximately 1:1.

[0058] Reference Figures 10 to 20 , in some embodiments, the tool holder 58 includes a wing portion 68 that extends along the longitudinal direction L for approximately 37 millimeters to hold sixteen (16) one-inch (1”) cutting heads at sixteen (16) channels 70. A separating member, such as a plate or a partition 59, extends from the centerline axis CA and separates two sets of wing portions 68A, 68B along the longitudinal direction L. Each set of wing portions 68A, 68B forms eight (8) channels arranged circumferentially with respect to the centerline axis CA. The two sets of wing portions 68A, 68B are separated by the wall 59 along the longitudinal direction L to form sixteen (16) channels 70A, 70B to receive a corresponding number of cutting heads 72. The ratio of the diameter of the tool holder 58 to the length of the wing portion 68 is approximately 27:37.

[0059] For example, the partition 59 may extend from the centerline axis CA (such as along the radial direction R). A first plurality of wing portions 68A extend from a first portion 55 of the partition 59 along the longitudinal direction L. A second plurality of wing portions 68B extend from a second portion 57 of the partition 59 along the longitudinal direction L. In some embodiments, two pairs of eight (8) channels 70 arranged circumferentially with respect to the centerline axis CA are formed between the paired wing portions 68. A first set of eight (8) channels 70A is formed to extend along the longitudinal direction L from the first portion 55. A second set of eight (8) channels 70B is formed to extend along the longitudinal direction L from the second portion 57.

[0060] The following table outlines exemplary cutting head types and sizes for cutting heads 72 such as those described herein. The sizes outlined herein may include a one-inch (1”) length, a 2.5-inch length, or other compatible sizes. The diameter may include a quarter-inch (1 / 4”) or other compatible sizes.

[0061]

[0062] In an exemplary non-limiting embodiment, the tool holder 58 is substantially as Figures 10 to 12configured as depicted therein and further configured to receive sixteen (16) 2.5" cutting heads configured to be of SAE 5 / 54", 3 / 32", 7 / 64", 1 / 8", 9 / 64", 5 / 32", 3 / 16", 1 / 4" or metric 1.5mm, 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 5.5mm, 6mm sizes, or combinations thereof. For example, pairs of cutting heads 72 may be positioned in an adjacent arrangement along the longitudinal direction L in each channel 70 to hold sixteen (16) 2.5" cutting heads at eight (8) channels.

[0063] In another exemplary non-limiting embodiment, the tool holder 58 is substantially as Figures 10 to 12 configured as depicted therein and further configured to receive eight (8) 2.5" cutting heads configured to be of P1, P2, SL 3 / 16", SL 1 / 4", T20, T25, SQ1, SQ2, T7, T8, T9, T10, T15, T25, T27, T30 or combinations thereof. For example, the cutting heads 72 may be positioned in each channel 70 to hold eight (8) 2.5" cutting heads at eight (8) channels.

[0064] The various different embodiments of the tool holder 58 depicted and described herein may additionally include cutting heads stored within the holes 61. Thus, the exemplary embodiments provided herein may be configured to receive eight (8) cutting heads at the channels 70 formed by the wings 68 and additional cutting heads within the holes 61 such that the tool holder 58 and the tool storage device 50 hold nine (9) cutting heads. Further exemplary embodiments provided herein may be configured to receive sixteen (16) cutting heads at the channels 70 formed by the wings 68 and additional cutting heads within the holes 61 such that the tool holder 58 and the tool storage device 50 hold seventeen (17) cutting heads.

[0065] Referring again to Figures 1 to 9 , the ranges and ratios at the body 10 or the cap 16 may advantageously and beneficially receive embodiments such as the tool holder 58 and the tool storage device 50 described herein. Embodiments of the body 10 or the cap 16 may additionally receive embodiments of the tool holder 58 and the tool storage device 50 as a compact hand tool 100 or a modular cutting head storage device 90. The various different embodiments depicted and described herein may allow for high-density stacking of cutting heads within the body, such as in circumferential and / or longitudinal adjacent arrangements (e.g., double-layer stacking along the longitudinal direction). The embodiments provided herein may provide benefits and advantages to the user, giving the user more tools from which to selectively choose or allowing the user to customize various tools as needed.

[0066] In various different embodiments, at enclosed mounting locations such as Figure 1 and Figures 3 to 4 depicted, the body 10 includes a first length 101 from the bottom wall 53 of the cap 52 to the inner end wall 84 of the inner volume 82. The body 10 includes a second length 102 from the bottom wall 53 to the first end opening 14. The body 10 includes a third length 103 from the second end opening 12 to the first end opening 14. Various different embodiments of the body 10 include the ratio of the first length 101 to the second length 102 being between approximately 70% and approximately 80%, or between approximately 74% and approximately 78%, or 76% + / - 2% or + / - 6%. For example, the first length 101 can be between approximately 70% and approximately 80% of the second length 102. Various different embodiments of the body 10 include the ratio of the third length 103 to the first length 101 being between approximately 85% and approximately 91%. For example, the third length 103 can be between approximately 85% and approximately 91% of the first length 101. The ranges and ratios provided herein facilitate a beneficial and advantageous length range for receiving the tool holder 58 within the inner volume 82 of the body 10 and allow the user to use the body 10 as a hand tool 100.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, the body 10 includes a first length 101 of approximately ninety-six (96) millimeters and a second length 102 of approximately one hundred and twenty-six (126) millimeters. In an exemplary embodiment, the body 10 includes a third length 103 of approximately eighty-five (85) millimeters.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, the body 10 includes an outer diameter OD between approximately thirty (30) millimeters and approximately forty (40) millimeters. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer diameter OD is approximately thirty-three (33) to approximately thirty-eight (38) millimeters. The body 10 can include an inner diameter ID of approximately thirty (30) millimeters. The inner diameter ID forms the cavity wall 86 of the inner volume 82 where the tool holder 58 is positioned within the body 10.

[0069] In various additional exemplary embodiments, the body 10 of the modular cutter head storage device 90 includes an outer diameter OD of approximately thirty-three (33) millimeters. The protruding ribs formed from the radially extending face 13 form an outer diameter of approximately thirty-seven (37) millimeters. The body 10 includes a total length from the second end opening 12 to the closed end 15 between approximately eighty-nine (89) millimeters and approximately ninety-three (93) millimeters, or approximately 90.5 millimeters.

[0070] In various different embodiments, the body 10 includes a wall thickness between approximately 1.5 millimeters and approximately four (4) millimeters.

[0071] In various different exemplary embodiments, the body 10 is formed with an internal volume 82 of approximately three (3) cubic inches. For example, the internal volume 82 may correspond to a fourth length 104 extending from the second end opening 12 to the internal end wall 84.

[0072] In various other different exemplary embodiments, the body 10 is formed with a total volume of approximately 5.3 cubic inches. For example, embodiments of the body 10 may form a total volume at which a certain number of cutting heads (e.g., eight cutting heads, or sixteen cutting heads, or seventeen cutting heads, etc.) as described herein can be received. A user can make a beneficial and advantageous selection from the maximum number of cutting heads within the volume.

[0073] It should be understood that embodiments of the body 10 (including the dimensions, ranges, ratios, etc. depicted and described herein) may form one or more embodiments of the cap 16 of the modular cutting head storage device 90.

[0074] Reference Figures 1 to 6 , an exemplary embodiment of the hand tool 100 includes a body 10 that forms a tapered or reduced outer diameter OD at lengths 101, 103 (such as the internal end wall 84 that generally corresponds to the internal volume 82 along the longitudinal direction L). The body 10 may be configured to receive a tool head holder 21 that extends substantially from the internal end wall 84 or the closed end 15 of the body 10. The tool head holder 21 forms a portion where the head 20 and the key 34 can be received and held at the body 10. Such a tapered or reduced outer diameter OD as described can facilitate the grasping, rotation, and user operation of the hand tool 100. Lengths, ratios, and ranges as described herein can further facilitate the storage of cutting heads as described herein while further facilitating the grasping, rotation, and user operation of the body 10 as part of the hand tool 100.

[0075] Reference Figure 21 , an exemplary embodiment of a tool storage system 95 is depicted. The tool storage system 95 may include one or more embodiments of the hand tool 100 and one or more embodiments of the modular cutting head storage device 90 as depicted and described herein. In various different embodiments, the tool storage device 50 may include any one or more of the embodiments depicted and described herein. In some embodiments, the tool storage system 95 may include the hand tool 100, the cutting head storage device 90, and the tool storage device 50 that can be selectively positioned at the hand tool 100 and the cutting head storage device 90 as depicted and described herein.

[0076] Embodiments of the tool storage device 50 provided herein may allow a user to store and retrieve multiple cutting heads (including cutting heads of various sizes) from, for example, the interior of the body 10 of an embodiment of the handheld tool 100 provided herein or the cap 16 of an embodiment of the modular cutting head storage device 90. Embodiments of the handheld tool 100 or the modular cutting head storage device 90 may allow a user to customize the type or variety of cutting heads stored at the handheld tool or storage device. Embodiments of the body 10, the cap 16, or both may be at least partially transparent, such as to allow a user to see through the body or cap into the interior volume. The user may see the cutting head(s) within the interior volume through the body or cap without having to open the tool holder or remove the tool holder from the body or cap. Embodiments such as those depicted herein may facilitate quick access to and invocation of a desired cutting head by the user.

[0077] Additional aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure are provided in the following clauses:

[0078] 1. A tool storage device, the tool storage device comprising: a base including a shaft extending from an inner surface; and a tool holder coupled to the shaft, the tool holder including a plurality of wings extending radially outward relative to the shaft and along a longitudinal direction, wherein a plurality of channels are formed between respective pairs of the plurality of wings and extend along the longitudinal direction, and wherein the plurality of channels are positioned in a circumferentially adjacent arrangement, the tool holder forming a central aperture, the shaft being positionable within the central aperture and fastened to the tool holder.

[0079] 2. The tool storage device according to any one or more of the clauses herein, the tool holder including eight channels formed in a circumferential arrangement between pairs of wings.

[0080] 3. The tool storage device according to any one or more of the clauses herein, the tool holder including a separator extending from a centerline axis extending along the longitudinal direction, wherein the plurality of wings extend along the longitudinal direction from a first portion and a second portion of the separator.

[0081] 4. The tool storage device according to any one or more of the clauses herein, the tool holder including two sets of eight channels each formed in a circumferential arrangement between pairs of wings, wherein a first set of eight channels is formed to extend along the longitudinal direction from the first portion, and wherein a second set of eight channels is formed to extend along the longitudinal direction from the second portion.

[0082] 5. The tool storage device according to any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein a ratio of an outer diameter of the tool holder extending from the centerline axis to a length of the wings along the longitudinal direction is approximately 27:37.

[0083] 6. The tool storage device as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the ratio of the outer diameter of the tool holder extending from the centerline axis to the length of the wing along the longitudinal direction is approximately 1:1.

[0084] 7. The tool storage device as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, including a fastener extending into the central hole at the shaft, wherein the central hole at the shaft is configured to receive the threaded portion at the fastener and position a portion of the tool holder between the fastener head and the shaft along the longitudinal direction.

[0085] 8. The tool storage device as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the base forms a rib at the inner surface, and the rib extends between the shaft and the peripheral wall of the base.

[0086] 9. The tool storage device as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the rib corresponds to the channel formed between the pair of wings in the circumferential position.

[0087] 10. The tool storage device as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the plurality of wings are circumferentially arranged and positioned relative to the centerline axis and around the central hole.

[0088] 11. The tool storage device as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the plurality of wings form the outer diameter of the tool holder.

[0089] 12. The tool storage device as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the ratio of the outer diameter of the tool holder to the length of the wing along the longitudinal direction is approximately 27:37.

[0090] 13. The tool storage device as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the ratio of the outer diameter of the tool holder to the length of the wing along the longitudinal direction is approximately 1:1.

[0091] 14. A modular tool head storage system, the system includes a cap forming an internal volume, the tool storage device of any one or more of the clauses herein can be positioned through the opening into the internal volume, wherein the cap extends along the longitudinal direction, the cap includes an internal end wall, and the internal volume extends between the base of the tool storage device and the internal end wall.

[0092] 15. The modular tool bit storage system as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the first length is formed from the bottom wall at the base of the tool storage device to the inner end wall at the inner volume of the cap, and wherein the second length is formed from the opening through which the tool storage device extends into the cap to the distal end of the cap along the longitudinal direction, and wherein the first length is between approximately 70% and approximately 80% of the second length.

[0093] 16. The modular tool bit storage system as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the cap forms an inner diameter of approximately thirty millimeters.

[0094] 17. A hand tool, the hand tool including a body forming an inner volume, the tool storage device of any one or more of the clauses herein being positionable through an opening into the inner volume, wherein the body extends along the longitudinal direction, the body including an inner end wall, wherein the inner volume extends between the base of the tool storage device and the inner end wall, and wherein the body includes a tool head holder along the longitudinal direction away from the opening, the tool storage device being positionable through the opening into the body, wherein the tool head holder is configured to receive a tool head, and the tool bit is receivable at the tool head.

[0095] 18. The hand tool as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the first length is formed from the bottom wall at the base of the tool storage device to the inner end wall at the inner volume of the body, wherein the second length is formed from the opening through which the tool storage device extends into the body to the distal end of the body along the longitudinal direction, and wherein the second length is between approximately 85% and approximately 91%.

[0096] 19. The hand tool as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the body forms a tapered portion extending at the outer diameter of the body along the longitudinal direction, and wherein the tapered portion is formed along the longitudinal direction corresponding to the inner end wall at the inner volume of the body.

[0097] 20. The hand tool as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the tool head holder is positioned along the longitudinal direction from the tapered portion at the body.

[0098] 21. The hand tool as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, wherein the hand tool is a screwdriver.

[0099] 22. A tool storage system, the tool storage system including the tool storage device as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, the hand tool as described in any one or more of the clauses herein, and the modular tool bit storage system as described in any one or more of the clauses herein.

[0100] This written description uses examples to disclose the present utility model (including the best mode), and also enables those skilled in the art to practice the present utility model, including manufacturing and using any device or system and performing any combined method. The patentable scope of the present utility model is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. If these other examples include structural elements that are identical to the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that do not materially differ from the literal language of the claims, then these other examples are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A tool storage device, the tool storage device comprising: A base, the base including a shaft extending from an inner surface; And A tool holder, the tool holder being coupled to the shaft, the tool holder including a plurality of wings extending radially outward relative to the shaft and along a longitudinal direction, wherein a plurality of channels are formed between corresponding pairs of the wings and extend along the longitudinal direction, and wherein the plurality of channels are positioned in a circumferentially adjacent arrangement, the tool holder forming a central hole, the shaft being able to be positioned into the central hole and fastened to the tool holder.

2. The tool storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tool holder includes eight channels formed between pairs of wings in a circumferential arrangement.

3. The tool storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of wings extend along the longitudinal direction from a first part and a second part of a separator.

4. The tool storage device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The tool holder includes two sets of eight channels each formed between pairs of wings in a circumferential arrangement, characterized in that a first set of eight channels is formed to extend along the longitudinal direction from the first part, and wherein a second set of eight channels is formed to extend along the longitudinal direction from the second part.

5. The tool storage device according to claim 3, wherein, The ratio of the outer diameter of the tool holder extending from a center line axis to the length of the wing along the longitudinal direction is approximately 27:

37.

6. The tool storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ratio of the outer diameter of the tool holder extending from a center line axis to the length of the wing along the longitudinal direction is approximately 1:

1.

7. The tool storage device according to claim 1, wherein, Comprising: A fastener extending into a central hole at the shaft, characterized in that the central hole at the shaft is configured to receive a threaded portion at the fastener and to position a part of the tool holder between the fastener head and the shaft along the longitudinal direction.

8. The tool storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base forms a rib on the inner surface, the rib extending between the shaft and a peripheral wall of the base.

9. The tool storage device according to claim 8, wherein, The rib corresponds in circumferential position to the channels formed between the pairs of wings.

10. The tool storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of wings are positioned in a circumferential arrangement relative to a center line axis and around the central hole.

11. The tool storage device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The plurality of wings form the outer diameter of the tool holder.

12. The tool storage device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The ratio of the outer diameter of the tool holder to the length of the wing along the longitudinal direction is approximately 27:

37.

13. The tool storage device according to claim 11, wherein The ratio of the outer diameter of the tool holder to the length of the wing along the longitudinal direction is approximately 1:

1.

14. A tool storage system, the system comprising: A tool storage device, the tool storage device including a base and a tool holder, the base including a shaft extending from an inner surface, the tool holder being coupled to the shaft, the tool holder including a plurality of wings extending radially outward relative to the shaft and along a longitudinal direction, wherein a plurality of channels are formed between corresponding pairs of the wings and extend along the longitudinal direction, and wherein the plurality of channels are positioned in a circumferentially adjacent arrangement, the tool holder forming a central hole, the shaft being able to be positioned into the central hole and fastened to the tool holder; A cap, the cap forming a cap interior volume, the tool storage device being able to be positioned into the cap interior volume through a cap opening, wherein the cap extends along the longitudinal direction, the cap including a cap inner end wall, wherein the cap interior volume extends between the base of the tool storage device and the cap inner end wall; and A hand-held tool, the hand-held tool including a body forming an internal volume of the body, a tool storage device capable of being positioned into the internal volume of the body through an opening of the body, wherein the body extends along the longitudinal direction, the body including an inner end wall of the body, wherein the internal volume of the body extends between a base of the tool storage device and the inner end wall of the body, and wherein the body includes a tool head holder along the longitudinal direction away from the opening of the body, the tool storage device capable of being positioned through the opening of the body into the body, wherein the tool head holder is configured to receive a tool head, and the tool head is capable of receiving a cutting head.

15. The tool storage system according to claim 14, characterized in that, A first length is formed from a bottom wall at the base of the tool storage device to an inner end wall at the inner volume of the cap, and wherein a second length is formed from an opening through which the tool storage device extends into the cap to a distal end of the cap along the longitudinal direction, and wherein the first length is between about 70% and about 80% of the second length.

16. The tool storage system according to claim 14, wherein, The cap forms an inner diameter of about thirty millimeters.

17. A hand-held tool, the hand-held tool including: A tool storage device, the tool storage device including a base and a tool holder, the base including a shaft extending from an inner surface, the tool holder being coupled to the shaft, the tool holder including a plurality of wings extending radially outward relative to the shaft and along the longitudinal direction, wherein a plurality of channels are formed between corresponding pairs of the plurality of wings and extend along the longitudinal direction, and wherein the plurality of channels are positioned in a circumferentially adjacent arrangement, the tool holder forming a central hole, the shaft capable of being positioned into the central hole and fastened to the tool holder; and A body, the body forming an internal volume, the tool storage device capable of being positioned through an opening into the internal volume, wherein the body extends along the longitudinal direction, the body including an inner end wall, wherein the internal volume extends between a base of the tool storage device and the inner end wall of the body, and wherein the body includes a tool head holder along the longitudinal direction away from the opening of the body, the tool storage device capable of being positioned through the opening into the body, wherein the tool head holder is configured to receive a tool head, and the tool head is capable of receiving a cutting head.

18. The hand-held tool according to claim 17, wherein A first length is formed from a bottom wall at the base of the tool storage device to an inner end wall at the internal volume of the body, wherein a second length is formed from an opening through which the tool storage device extends into the body to a distal end of the body along the longitudinal direction, and wherein the second length is between about 85% and about 91%.

19. The hand-held tool according to claim 17, characterized in that, The body forms a tapered portion extending at an outer diameter of the body along the longitudinal direction, wherein the tapered portion is formed along the longitudinal direction corresponding to the inner end wall at the internal volume of the body.

20. The hand-held tool according to claim 19, characterized in that, The tool head holder is positioned along the longitudinal direction from the tapered portion at the body.

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