Driving tool

Abstract

The utility model relates to a driving tool. Various embodiments of a tool having a pivoting head and a locking mechanism are provided. The tool includes a handle and a head pivotable relative to the handle. The tool includes a locking mechanism adjustable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism is biased toward holding in the locked position when in the locked position and biased toward holding in the unlocked position when in the unlocked position. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a rotary switch coupled to a locking shuttle that is offset from the central axis of the handle. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a rotary switch coupled to the locking shuttle, the rotary switch including a protrusion configured to engage a retention step of the shuttle.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefits and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 568,810, filed March 22, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 555,239, filed February 19, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to tools with a pivoting head, such as ratchet wrenches. Specifically, this disclosure relates to ratchet wrenches having a pivoting head and a locking mechanism that locks the head in a desired pivoting position. Utility Model Content

[0004] This utility model relates to a driving tool. The driving tool includes a handle extending along a longitudinal axis and a head coupled to the handle, such that the head can pivot relative to the handle to multiple angular positions about a pivoting engagement. The head includes a toothed protrusion extending toward the handle. The driving tool also includes a workpiece engagement structure coupled to the head and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes an engagement member. The engagement member includes a locking end, a hole, and a protrusion. The locking end is configured to engage the head. The hole extends through the engagement member and the protrusion is positioned within the hole. The locking mechanism also includes a control mechanism coupled to the engagement member. The control mechanism includes an actuator, a shaft extending from the actuator, and a protrusion extending radially outward from the shaft, wherein the shaft extends into the hole.

[0005] Another embodiment of this utility model relates to a driving tool. The driving tool includes a handle extending along a longitudinal axis and a head coupled to the handle. The driving tool also includes a workpiece engagement structure coupled to the head and a pivoting engagement positioned between the handle and the head. The pivoting engagement connects the handle to the head such that the head can pivot relative to the handle to multiple angular positions about the pivoting engagement. The driving tool includes a slot defined in the handle and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes a slide switch positioned in the slot, the switch being movable along the longitudinal axis. The switch includes a locking end configured to engage the head. The locking mechanism also includes a retaining member extending through the slide switch, a first recess, and a second recess spaced apart from the first recess along the longitudinal axis. The locking mechanism is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the angular position of the head relative to the handle is fixed, and in the unlocked position, the head is pivotable about the pivoting engagement.

[0006] Another embodiment of the present utility model relates to a driving tool. The driving tool includes a handle extending along a central longitudinal axis and a head coupled to the handle such that the head can be pivoted to a plurality of angular positions relative to the handle about a pivot joint. The driving tool further includes a workpiece engagement structure coupled to the head and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes an engagement member having a locking end configured to engage the head and a tab. The locking mechanism further includes a control mechanism including an actuator, a shaft extending from the actuator into the handle, and an opening section defined in the shaft. The opening section is configured to receive the tab of the engagement member to couple the engagement member to the control mechanism. The locking mechanism is movable between a locked position in which the angular position of the head relative to the handle is fixed and an unlocked position in which the head can be pivoted about the pivot joint.

[0007] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art who practice the embodiments as described in the written description and illustrated in the drawings. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary.

[0008] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate one or more embodiments and together with the description serve to explain principles and operation of the various embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] The present application will become more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration and are not intended to limit the present application. Like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head and a sliding lock according to an example embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head according to an example embodiment. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head according to an example embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head according to an example embodiment. Figure 1 is a separate view of a head of a ratchet wrench according to an example embodiment.

[0013] Figure 4 is a top view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head in a locked state according to an example embodiment. Figure 1 is a top view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head in a locked state according to an example embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5is a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head in an unlocked state according to an example embodiment Figure 1 is a top view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head according to an example embodiment.

[0015] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head and a rotation lock according to an example embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 is a top view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head according to an example embodiment. Figure 6

[0017] Figure 8 is an exploded view of a rotation lock of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head according to an example embodiment. Figure 6

[0018] Figure 9 is an exploded view of a rotation lock of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head according to an example embodiment. Figure 6

[0019] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head according to another example embodiment.

[0020] Figure 11 is a top view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head according to an example embodiment. Figure 10

[0021] Figure 12 is a bottom view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head according to an example embodiment. Figure 10

[0022] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head according to an example embodiment, with the handle removed. Figure 10

[0023] is an exploded view of a locking mechanism of a ratchet wrench according to an example embodiment. Figure 14 Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a locking mechanism of a ratchet wrench having a handle removed according to an example embodiment.

[0024] Figure 15 is a top view of a ratchet wrench having a pivoting head in a locked position according to an example embodiment.

[0025] Figure 16 Figure 10 is a bottom detailed view of a locking mechanism in a locked position according to an example embodiment.

[0026] Figure 17 is a bottom detailed view of a locking mechanism in a locked position according to an example embodiment.

[0027] ​​​​​​​Figure 18 is a top view of a ratchet wrench in an unlocked position according to an example embodiment. Figure 10 is a top view of a ratchet wrench in an unlocked position according to an example embodiment.

[0028] Figure 19 is a bottom detail view of a locking mechanism in an unlocked position according to an example embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Referring generally to the drawings, various embodiments of tools, such as various embodiments of ratchet wrenches having a pivoting head and a locking mechanism, are provided. In various embodiments, the tool includes a locking mechanism that engages the pivoting head to hold or lock the pivoting head in a desired angular position relative to the head. Some conventional ratchet wrenches include a locking mechanism that is always biased toward a locked position, which can cause inadvertent locking when adjusting the angular position of the pivoting head. In certain embodiments discussed herein, the locking mechanism is designed to be held or maintained in a locked state or an unlocked state according to a user’s selection.

[0030] Referring to Figure 1 , a driving tool, such as a wrench 10, is shown according to an example embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the wrench 10 is a ratchet wrench that includes a tool body or handle 12 extending along a longitudinal axis 13, a pivoting joint 14, and a pivoting portion shown as a head 16. Generally, the pivoting joint 14 is located between the handle 12 and the head 16 and allows a user to change an angular position of the head 16 relative to the handle 12.

[0031] In some embodiments, the head 16 includes a workpiece engagement structure with a ratchet mechanism. The workpiece engagement structure can be any structure that allows engagement of a workpiece (e.g., a fastener, a bolt, a nut, etc.). The handle 12 functions as a handle and lever for applying torque to the workpiece. In particular embodiments, the workpiece engagement structure is an open wrench head, a closed wrench head, a screwdriver bit, a post configured to releasably engage a socket, etc. In some embodiments, the head 16 is configured to support a ratchet mechanism coupled to the workpiece engagement structure such that the ratchet mechanism provides a ratcheting action to the workpiece engagement structure. The ratchet mechanism is a mechanical structure that allows the handle 12 to freely or unrestricted rotate about the workpiece engagement structure in a first direction and allows the handle 12 to be restricted or driven to rotate about the workpiece engagement structure in a second direction opposite the first direction. The wrench 10 can include a selection mechanism that allows a user to select which rotational direction provides a driving rotation and which rotational direction provides a free rotation. In particular embodiments, the ratchet mechanism includes a gear structure, one or more pawls, and a biasing component.

[0032] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2The drive tool, shown as a wrench 10, includes a pivotal joint 14 that allows a user to adjust the angular position of a head 16 relative to a handle 12. The head 16 includes a protrusion 18 that extends along a longitudinal axis 13 toward the handle 12. The protrusion 18 includes a plurality of toothed protrusions or splines 20. The handle 12 includes a pair of arms or flanges 22 that extend from a joint end of the handle 12 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 13 toward the head 16. The arms 22 each include an opening 24 that is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 13 and that is aligned with one another. As shown in Figure 2 the protrusion 18 includes a channel 26 and is positioned between the arms 22 such that the channel 26 and the openings 24 are aligned along a rotational axis 28. In some embodiments, the head 16 is rotatably coupled to the handle 12, such as by a pin or shaft that extends along the rotational axis 28 and through the openings 24 and the channel 26.

[0033] The wrench 10 includes a locking mechanism 30 that allows a user to selectively and reversibly lock the head 16 in a desired angular position relative to the handle 12. The locking mechanism 30 includes a switch 32 that is positioned within a slot 34 of the handle 12. In various embodiments, the slot 34 is an elongated slot. In various specific embodiments, the slot 34 is defined in an outwardly longitudinal surface of the handle 12. In such embodiments, the slot 34 extends through only a portion of the handle 12. In other words, in such embodiments, the slot 34 does not extend through the handle 12 and the switch 32 can only be actuated from a single side of the wrench 10.

[0034] As shown in Figure 2 the slot 34 includes a first recess or detent 36 and a second recess or detent 38 that is spaced apart from the first detent 36 along the longitudinal axis 13. In various embodiments, the slot 34 includes a third recess or detent 36 that is opposite or facing the first detent 36 and a fourth recess or detent 38 that is opposite or facing the second detent 38. In various specific embodiments, the handle 12 and, in particular, the slot 34 includes a first set or pair of recesses or detents 36 and a second set of recesses or detents 38. The first set of detents 36 is spaced apart from the second set of detents 38 along the longitudinal axis 13 such that the first set of detents 36 is between the second set of detents 38 and a distal end of the handle 12. The second set of detents 38 is between the first set of detents 36 and the rotational axis 28 relative to the longitudinal axis 13. In specific embodiments, the first set of detents 36 and / or the second set of detents 38 includes two detents that are on opposite sides of the handle 12 about the longitudinal axis 13. In other words, the first set of detents 36 and the second set of detents 38 are defined on inwardly facing surfaces 37 of the handle 12 and, more specifically, the slot 34. In other words, the inwardly facing surfaces 37 each face the longitudinal axis 13.

[0035] The locking mechanism 30 includes a shuttle 40 rigidly connected to a switch 32. In particular embodiments, the switch 32 and the shuttle 40 are integrally formed as a single continuous abutted component. The shuttle 40 has a locking or engaging end 42 configured to engage the splines 20 of the head 16 to lock the head 16 at an angular position relative to the handle 12. The shuttle 40 also includes a retention member 44 configured to be releasably retained within the first set of detents 36 or the second set of detents 38. In some embodiments, the retention member 44 includes one or more retractable ball ends configured to fit within the first set of detents 36 or the second set of detents 38. In various particular embodiments, the retention member 44 extends in an orientation that is substantially perpendicular (e.g., 90 degrees plus or minus 10 degrees) to the longitudinal axis 13. In various embodiments, the retention member 44 extends through the switch 32 and between laterally-facing surfaces 39 of the switch 32. When the switch 32 is positioned within the slot 34, the laterally-facing surfaces 39 face the inward-facing surface 37 of the handle 12.

[0036] Referring to Figure 3 , according to an example embodiment, an isolated view of the head 16 is shown. In particular embodiments, a plurality of splines 20 are circumferentially spaced about a portion of the protrusion 18 about the rotational axis 28. The splines 20 are disposed along an arcuate surface of the protrusion 18 that extends through an arc angle of between 210 degrees and 135 degrees about the rotational axis 28, and in particular, through an angle of about 180 degrees. The configuration of the splines 20 about the protrusion 18 allows a user to lock the head 16 at a plurality of angular positions relative to the handle 12.

[0037] Referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the locking mechanism 30 is movable between a locked position, shown in Figure 4 , in which the angular position of the head 16 relative to the handle 12 is fixed, and an unlocked position, shown in Figure 5 , in which the head 16 is rotatable about the rotational axis 28. To adjust the locking mechanism 30 to the locked position, a user moves the switch 32 parallel to the longitudinal axis 13 toward the head 16 such that the locking end 42 of the shuttle 40 engages and contacts the splines 20 of the head 16. To adjust the locking mechanism 30 to the unlocked position, a user moves the switch 32 parallel to the longitudinal axis 13 away from the head 16 such that the locking end 42 of the shuttle 40 does not contact the splines 20 of the head 16.

[0038] Referring again to Figure 2When the locking mechanism 30 is in the locked position, the retaining member 44 is releasably retained within the second set of detents 38 such that the locking end 42 of the shuttle 40 is engaged with the spline 20 of the head 16 until sufficient force is applied to the switch 32 to remove the retaining member 44 from the second set of detents 38. Similarly, when the locking mechanism 30 is in the unlocked position, the retaining member 44 is releasably retained within the first set of detents 36 such that the locking end 42 is not engaged with the spline 20 of the head 16 until sufficient force is applied to the switch 32 to remove the retaining member 44 from the second set of detents 38. Unlike some conventional rotatable wrench head locking mechanisms that are always biased toward the locked position, the configuration of the retaining member 44, the first set of detents 36, and the second set of detents 38 provides a locking mechanism that is stably retained or maintained in both the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0039] Referring to Figures 6 to 9 , a wrench 110 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The wrench 110 is substantially similar to the wrench 10 except as discussed herein. As discussed in more detail below, Applicants have designed additional embodiments of locking mechanisms for tools having a pivoting head and a locking mechanism. Some conventional ratchet wrenches having a locking mechanism that includes a rotating switch have a locking shuttle that is used to engage a wrench head that is centered within a handle portion of the wrench. In certain embodiments discussed herein, the locking mechanism includes a rotating switch and a locking shuttle that is offset from a central axis of the handle of the wrench. Applicants believe that this configuration results in a safe locking mechanism that requires fewer and simpler components than some conventional designs, which can provide a smaller size locking mechanism that is suitable for smaller size tools.

[0040] As Figure 6 shown, the wrench 110 includes a handle 112 that extends along a longitudinal axis 113 that forms a pivotal joint 114 with the head 16. The handle 112 includes an arm 122 having an opening 124 and a locking mechanism 130 having a control mechanism shown as a rotating lever 144. Similar to the wrench 10, the opening 124 is aligned along a rotational axis 128 with the passage 26 of the head 16 as shown in Figure 3 .

[0041] Referring to Figure 7The locking mechanism 130 also includes an engagement member, shown as a shuttle 140 having a locking end 142 and a shuttle tab 143. The shuttle tab 143 extends from the shaft of the shuttle 140. In particular embodiments, the tab 143 is positioned between the locking end 142 and the opposite end of the shuttle 140. The locking end 142 is configured to engage the toothed protrusion or spline 20 of the head 16 to fix the angular position of the head 16 relative to the handle 112. The rotation lever 144 includes an open or recessed section 146 on a portion of the rotation lever 144 within the handle 112 and configured to receive the shuttle tab 143 to couple the shuttle 140 to the rotation lever 144.

[0042] As shown in Figure 8 , the rotation lever 144 also includes a lever shaft 148 that extends the actuation portion of the lever 144 downward along the rotation axis of the rotation lever 144. The open section 146 is on the lever shaft 148. When the wrench 110 is assembled, the lever shaft 148 is positioned within the body of the handle 112. Referring to Figure 8 and Figure 9 , the shuttle 140 includes a plurality of teeth 152. The teeth 152 extend from the locking end 142 and are configured to mate and engage with the spline 20 of the head 16.

[0043] The rotation lever 144 allows a user to actuate the locking mechanism 130 between a locked position and an unlocked position. As shown in Figure 6 and Figure 7 , when the rotation lever 144 is set in the locked position, the teeth 152 on the locking end 142 of the shuttle 140 are in contact with and engage the spline 20 of the head 16, thereby fixing the angular position of the head 16 relative to the handle 112. The locking mechanism 130 can be actuated from the locked position to the unlocked position by rotating the lever 144 clockwise. Referring back to Figure 7 , the shuttle 140 is offset relative to the longitudinal axis 113 of the handle 112. By offsetting the shuttle 140 from the centerline (i.e., the longitudinal axis 113) of the handle 112, the rotational motion of the rotation lever 144 is converted to translational motion of the shuttle 140. In other words, the shuttle 140 is positioned on one side of the central longitudinal axis 113. In particular embodiments, the shuttle 140 is positioned entirely on one side of the central longitudinal axis or centerline.

[0044] As the rotating lever 144 is rotated, the surface forming the side of the opening section 146 pushes against the shuttle tab 143, causing the shuttle 140 to translate slidingly in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 113. When the rotating lever 144 is set in the unlocked position, the locking end 142 of the shuttle 140 is spaced apart from the spline 20 of the head 16, such that the head 16 can be pivoted about the rotation axis 128 relative to the handle 112. The configuration of the opening section 146, the shuttle tab 143, and the shuttle 140 offset from the longitudinal axis 113 provides a rotation lock mechanism that is easily actuated between the locked and unlocked positions while requiring only two components.

[0045] Referring now to Figures 10 to 19 , according to an exemplary embodiment, a wrench 210 is shown. The wrench 210 is substantially similar to the wrenches 10, 110 except as discussed herein. As discussed in more detail below, Applicant has designed additional embodiments of locking mechanisms for tools having a pivoting head and a locking mechanism. Some conventional ratchet wrenches having a locking mechanism that includes a rotating switch have a locking shuttle that is used to engage the wrench head that can have undesirable reciprocating motion (such as when the wrench is dropped) causing the switch to disengage. In certain embodiments discussed herein, the locking mechanism includes a rotating switch and a locking shuttle that includes a retaining step or ledge configured to engage a protrusion on the switch. Applicant believes that this configuration creates a secure locking mechanism that requires fewer and simpler components than some conventional designs, which can provide a more secure engagement between the shuttle and the switch.

[0046] Referring now to Figures 10 to 12 , the drive tool shown as a wrench 210 includes a pivoting joint 214 that allows a user to adjust the angular position of the head 16 relative to the handle 212. The head 16 includes a protrusion 18 that extends along a longitudinal axis 213 toward the handle 212. The protrusion 18 includes a plurality of toothed protrusions or splines 20. The handle 212 includes a pair of arms or flanges 222 that extend from the joint end of the handle 212 toward the head 16 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 213. The arms 222 each include an opening 224 that is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 213 and aligned with one another. The protrusion 18 includes a channel (see, e.g., 26 in Figure 3 , and is positioned between the arms 222 such that the channel and the openings 224 are aligned along a rotation axis 228.

[0047] In various specific embodiments, the wrench 210, and particularly the head 16, supports a thumbwheel 216. As can be seen in Figure 12As can be observed, positioned along the rear surface of the head 16 is a retaining clip 217 to secure the thumbwheel 216 to the wrench 216. The wrench 210 includes a reverse switch 232 configured to change the drive direction of the wrench 210. The wrench includes a control mechanism shown as a locking mechanism 239 that includes an engagement member shown as a shuttle 234 that engages or couples to toggle an actuator shown as a locking switch 230. In particular embodiments, the switch 230 and the shuttle 234 are each integrally formed as a single continuous contiguous part.

[0048] Referring to Figures 13 to 15 In accordance with example embodiments, details of the locking mechanism 239 are shown. The shuttle 234 has a locking or engagement end configured to engage the spline 20 of the head 16 to lock the head 16 at an angular position relative to the handle 212. In various embodiments, the shuttle 234 includes one or more teeth or splines 236 configured to engage the spline 20. The shuttle 234 also includes a channel 240 defined in a surface opposite (e.g., facing away from the head 16) from the splines 236. A biasing member shown as a spring 238 is positioned within the channel 240 of the shuttle 234. In various particular embodiments, the channel 240 and / or the spring 238 are aligned along the longitudinal axis 213.

[0049] The shuttle 234 also includes a switch aperture 242 configured to receive the locking switch 230. As previously mentioned, Applicant believes that the engagement between the shuttle 234 and the switch 230 provides a more secure engagement and reduces the likelihood of disengaging the components from one another in the event the wrench 210 is dropped. The switch aperture 242 includes a recessed portion 244 with a protrusion or retaining step 246. In other words, the protrusion 246 is connected to or positioned within the aperture 242. In particular embodiments, the switch aperture 242 extends through the shuttle 234 in a generally perpendicular orientation (e.g., 90 degrees plus or minus 10 degrees) relative to the longitudinal axis 213 and the pivot axis 228. In particular embodiments, the switch aperture 242 extends through the entire shuttle 234 (e.g., from the top surface to the bottom surface).

[0050] As Figure 14As shown in FIG. 23, the lock switch 230 includes an actuator or lever 250 that is connected to a shaft 252. The lock switch 230 also includes a protrusion 254 that extends radially outward from a portion of the shaft 252. In various implementations, the protrusion 254 is a single protrusion that extends from the shaft 252. In other words, the shaft 252 includes only one protrusion 254. In various implementations, the lever 250 extends radially in a first direction and the protrusion 254 extends radially in a second direction. In implementations, the first direction and the second direction are different. In other words, the radial extension of the protrusion 254 is not aligned with the radial extension of the lever 250.

[0051] In assembling the lock mechanism 239, the protrusion 254 of the lock switch 230 is positioned within the recessed portion 244 while the shaft 252 is positioned within the main portion of the switch hole 242. Further, when the lock switch 230 is positioned within the hole 242, an end of the lock switch 230, and more particularly the shaft 252, extends beyond or past the end of the switch hole 242. In other words, the end of the shaft 252 is not flush with the end of the switch hole 242 (see, e.g., FIG. 23). Figure 15 ).

[0052] In various implementations, the protrusion 254 is an asymmetric protrusion. In implementations, the protrusion 254 is a single asymmetric protrusion. In implementations, the outermost radial surface of the protrusion 254 is curved. In various implementations, the lock switch 230, and more particularly the shaft 252, includes a planar portion that extends along the longitudinal axis of the shaft 252. In implementations, the shaft 252 has a non-circular cross-sectional shape. In other words, in implementations, the shaft 252 is asymmetric.

[0053] Referring to Figures 16 to 19 , details of the lock mechanism 239 moving between a locked position and an unlocked position are shown in accordance with an example implementation. As shown in Figures 16 to 17 , when the lock switch 230 is rotated in a first direction (e.g., a counterclockwise direction), the protrusion 254 moves into the recessed portion 244 of the shuttle 234 to provide a secure engagement between the shuttle 234 and the lock switch 230. More particularly, the protrusion 254 is positioned over the retaining step 246 (in the orientation shown in FIG. 24) and thus prevents movement of the lock switch 230 relative to the shuttle 234. As discussed previously, Applicant believes that the reduced space of the recessed portion 244 reduces the likelihood of the lock switch 230 falling out of or disengaging from the shuttle 235 in a forceful event like dropping the wrench 210. Figure 17

[0054] As shown in Figures 18 to 19 ​As shown in FIG. 23, when the lock switch 230 is rotated in a second direction (e.g., clockwise) opposite the first direction, the protrusion 254 moves out of the recessed portion 244 of the shuttle 234. More specifically, the protrusion 254 of the lock switch 230 moves away from the recessed portion 244 and toward the longitudinal axis 213 and / or the biasing member 238.

[0055] It is to be understood that the appended drawings illustrate exemplary implementations and that the description herein is an illustration of the embodiments described therein but is not intended to be limiting.

[0056] Other modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of this description. Therefore, this description should not be construed as limiting. The constructions and arrangements presented herein are simply exemplary in nature. Although the various exemplary implementations have been described above in detail, the descriptions are not exhaustive and do not represent all exemplary implementations that can be made by a person of ordinary skill in the art in view of the disclosure. Additional modifications and alternative embodiments will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of this description. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there can be additional elements or steps. Similarly, the terms "first," "second," and the like are intended to be generic terms and do not indicate or imply a ranking of importance. The terms "exemplary," "for example," and "e.g." are intended to be non-limiting. The use of the terms "about" and "substantially” with respect to a given characteristic or parameter is intended to mean that the given characteristic or parameter is within a reasonable operating range of the given characteristic or parameter.

[0057] Unless specifically stated otherwise, no single implementation of any method described herein is intended to be construed as requiring its steps to be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the order of performance of the steps of any method described herein is not intended to be limiting. Additionally, as used in this document, the article "a" is intended to include one or more items, and is not limited to one item. As used in this document, "rigidly coupled" means that two components are coupled in such a way that the components move together in a fixed positional relationship when acted upon by a force.

[0058] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to any combination of any of the features, and any such combination of features can be claimed in this application or in future applications. Any of the features, elements or components of any of the example embodiments discussed above can be used alone or in combination with any of the features, elements or components of any of the other example embodiments discussed above.

[0059] For purposes of the present disclosure, the term "coupled" means the elements are attached to, or engaged with, each other either directly, or indirectly, through one or more additional intervening elements. Such coupling can be permanent, or alternatively, removable or releasable in nature.

[0060] While the present application states particular combinations of features in the claims appended hereto, various embodiments of the present application relate to any combination of any of the features described herein, whether such combination is presently claimed or not, and any such combination of features can be claimed in this application or in future applications. Any of the features, elements or components of any of the example embodiments discussed above can be used alone or in combination with any of the features, elements or components of any of the other example embodiments discussed above.

[0061] In various example embodiments, relative dimensions including angles, lengths and radii as shown in the drawings are drawn to scale. Actual measurements of the drawings will disclose relative dimensions, angles and proportions of various example embodiments. Various example embodiments extend to various ranges of absolute and relative dimensions, angles and proportions that can be determined from the drawings. Various example embodiments include any combination of one or more relative dimensions or angles that can be determined from the drawings. Furthermore, actual dimensions not expressly stated in the description can be determined by using the scale of the dimensions measured in the drawings in combination with the explicit dimensions stated in the description.

Claims

1. A driving tool, characterized in that, The driving tool includes: A handle that extends along a longitudinal axis; A head, which is coupled to the handle, such that the head can pivot about a pivot joint relative to the handle to multiple angular positions, the head including toothed protrusions extending toward the handle; A workpiece joining structure, wherein the workpiece joining structure is connected to the head; Locking mechanism, the locking mechanism comprising: The joining member includes: A locking end, the locking end being configured to engage the head; A hole extending through the engaging member; and A protrusion, the protrusion being positioned within the hole; and A control mechanism, coupled to the connecting member, includes: Actuator; A shaft extending from the actuator, wherein the shaft extends into the bore; and A protrusion that extends radially outward from the axis.

2. The driving tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking mechanism is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the angular position of the head relative to the handle is fixed. In the unlocked position, the head is pivotable about the pivot joint.

3. The driving tool according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the locking mechanism is in the locked position, the protrusion prevents the protrusion of the control mechanism from moving within the hole.

4. The driving tool according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the locking mechanism is in the unlocked position, the protrusion is spaced apart from the convex portion.

5. The driving tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hole in the joining member includes a recessed portion that is at least partially defined by the protrusion.

6. The driving tool according to claim 5, characterized in that, The recessed portion extends along the longitudinal axis and away from the head.

7. A driving tool, characterized in that, The driving tool includes: A handle that extends along a longitudinal axis; head; A workpiece joining structure, wherein the workpiece joining structure is connected to the head; A pivoting joint is positioned between the handle and the head, the pivoting joint connecting the handle to the head, such that the head can pivot about the pivoting joint relative to the handle to multiple angular positions; A slot, the slot being defined in the handle; and Locking mechanism, the locking mechanism comprising: A slide switch, positioned in the slot, movable along the longitudinal axis, the switch comprising: A locking end, the locking end being configured to engage the head; A retaining member extending through the slide switch; the first recess; and The second recess is spaced apart from the first recess along the longitudinal axis; The locking mechanism is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the angular position of the head relative to the handle is fixed. In the unlocked position, the head is pivotable around the pivot joint.

8. The driving tool according to claim 7, characterized in that, The driving tool also includes a first inward-facing surface of the handle positioned in the groove, wherein the first recess and the second recess are positioned on the first inward-facing surface.

9. The driving tool according to claim 8, characterized in that, The driving tool also includes: The handle is positioned in the groove on the second inward-facing surface, which is opposite to the first inward-facing surface; A third recess, the third recess being positioned on the surface facing inwards from the second surface; and A fourth recess is positioned on the surface facing inward of the second face and spaced apart from the third recess along the longitudinal axis.

10. The driving tool according to claim 9, characterized in that, The third recess faces the first recess, and the fourth recess faces the second recess.

11. The driving tool according to claim 9, characterized in that, When the retaining member engages with the first recess, the retaining member engages with the third recess.

12. The driving tool according to claim 7, characterized in that, When the retaining member engages with the first recess, the sliding switch is spaced apart from the head and fixed in the unlocked position.

13. The driving tool according to claim 12, characterized in that, When the retaining member engages with the second recess, the sliding switch engages with the head and is fixed in the locked position.

14. The driving tool according to claim 7, characterized in that, The retaining member extends between the opposing inward-facing surfaces of the groove in an orientation substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

15. A driving tool, characterized in that, The driving tool includes: A handle that extends along a central longitudinal axis; A head, which is connected to the handle, such that the head can pivot about a pivot joint relative to the handle to multiple angular positions; A workpiece joining structure, wherein the workpiece joining structure is connected to the head; Locking mechanism, the locking mechanism comprising: The joining member includes: Locking end, the locking end being configured to engage the head; and Protrusions; and The control mechanism includes: Actuator; A shaft extending from the actuator, wherein the shaft extends into the handle; and An opening section defined on the shaft and configured to receive the protrusion of the engaging member for connecting the engaging member to the control mechanism; The locking mechanism is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the angular position of the head relative to the handle is fixed. In the unlocked position, the head is pivotable around the pivot joint.

16. The driving tool according to claim 15, characterized in that, The engaging member is positioned on one side of the central longitudinal axis of the handle.

17. The driving tool according to claim 15, characterized in that, The engaging member is offset from the central longitudinal axis of the handle.

18. The driving tool according to claim 15, characterized in that, When the actuator moves to the locked position in the first direction, the shaft rotates such that the locking end of the engagement member engages with the head.

19. The driving tool according to claim 18, characterized in that, When the actuator moves to the unlocked position in the second direction, the shaft rotates such that the locking end of the engagement member is spaced apart from the head.

20. The driving tool according to claim 15, characterized in that, The protrusion of the engagement member extends from the axis of the engagement member and is positioned between the locking end and the distal end opposite to the locking end.

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