Accessory and kit for fastening tool and fastening tool

Abstract

The utility model provides an accessory and a suite for a fastening tool and the fastening tool, the fastening tool is provided with a straight-through type driving piece, the accessory comprises a coupling part, an adapter part and a lock, the coupling part can be inserted into a hole from a first side of the hole in a first direction along an axis of the hole of the straight-through type driving piece, and the adapter part can be inserted into the hole from a second side of the hole in a second direction along the axis of the hole. The aperture of the through drive is defined by a plurality of drive surfaces. The adapter portion extends from the coupling portion, and the lock is rotatable relative to the coupling portion between a locked position in which the lock engages with a periphery on a second side of the bore opposite the first side to prevent removal of the accessory from the bore in a second direction opposite the first direction, and an unlocked position in which the lock engages with the periphery on the second side of the bore opposite the first direction to prevent removal of the accessory from the bore in a second direction opposite the first direction. The lock is aligned with the plurality of driver surfaces to allow the accessory to be removed from the aperture in the second direction.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 597,879, filed November 10, 2023; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 604,065, filed November 29, 2023; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 560,542, filed March 1, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This utility model relates to fastening tools with a straight-through drive element, such as box ratchet tools and nut wrenches. Background Technology

[0004] Straight-through fastening tools include a through-hole in the drive mechanism of the fastening tool, allowing fasteners, workpieces, tool heads, accessories, etc., to extend through the drive mechanism. One type of straight-through fastening tool is a ratchet tool, more specifically a box ratchet, which facilitates tightening or loosening fasteners in confined spaces where the tool cannot rotate around a 360-degree axis. Other types of straight-through fastening tools include nut wrenches.

[0005] If it is necessary to couple certain types of tool heads to the through-drive of a tool, through-drive fastening tools may require the use of accessories (e.g., adapters). The tool head is coupled to the adapter, and then the adapter is coupled to the tool. Utility Model Content

[0006] It may be necessary to remove the tool head from the attachment without removing the attachment from the tool. Known attachments can be held in place by friction or a stop, and can be pulled out of the tool's drive mechanism if sufficient force is applied to the tool head. Therefore, a method is needed to retain the attachment within the drive mechanism of a through-type fastening tool. Such attachments also need to be able to be quickly removed from the drive mechanism when needed.

[0007] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an attachment for a fastening tool having a through-type drive including a hole defined by a plurality of drive member surfaces. The attachment includes: a coupling portion that can be inserted into the hole from a first side of the hole in a first direction along the axis of the hole to couple the attachment so as to rotate with the drive member about the axis; an adapter portion extending from the coupling portion and configured to couple to a tool element to perform work on a workpiece; and a lock rotatable relative to the coupling portion between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the lock engages with the periphery of the hole on a second side of the hole opposite to the first side to prevent removal of the attachment from the hole in a second direction opposite to the first direction; and in the unlocked position, the lock is aligned with the plurality of drive member surfaces to allow removal of the attachment from the hole in the second direction.

[0008] In some respects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory in which the lock is biased toward the locked position.

[0009] In some respects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory in which the lock is rotatable about an axis.

[0010] In some respects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory in which the lock and adapter portions are located on opposite sides of the coupling portion.

[0011] In some respects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory in which the lock can rotate between a plurality of locked positions and a plurality of unlocked positions.

[0012] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory that further includes a stop ball configured to hold the lock in a selected position among a plurality of locked positions and a plurality of unlocked positions.

[0013] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory wherein the coupling portion has a hexagonal profile and the adapter portion has a square profile.

[0014] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory that further includes a flange disposed between the adapter portion and the coupling portion, wherein the flange can engage with the periphery of the hole on a first side of the hole to restrict the accessory from being inserted into the hole.

[0015] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory that further includes a stop ball supported by an adapter portion and configured to engage the tool element when the tool element is coupled to the adapter portion.

[0016] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory in which the lock includes a body, a first protrusion extending from the body and a second protrusion extending from the body, and wherein the first and second protrusions are configured to be inserted into a coupling portion and, when the lock is in a locked position, not aligned with the surfaces of a plurality of actuators.

[0017] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory in which the lock further includes a shaft extending from the body into a hole defined within the coupling portion, the shaft including a groove that receives a pin to retain the shaft within the coupling portion.

[0018] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory that further includes a torsion spring around a shaft that biases the lock toward a locked position.

[0019] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory that further includes markings on the lock to indicate the direction of rotation of the lock from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0020] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to a kit including an accessory, wherein the accessory is a first accessory, and wherein the kit further includes a second accessory, the second accessory including the same coupling portion and lock as the first accessory, and wherein the second accessory includes an adapter portion extending from the coupling portion and configured to be coupled to a tool element to perform work on a workpiece, the adapter portion of the second accessory having a different size than the adapter portion of the first accessory.

[0021] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to a kit that further includes a third accessory, which includes the same coupling portion and lock as the first and second accessories, and wherein the third accessory includes an adapter portion that extends from the coupling portion and is configured to be coupled to a tool element to perform work on a workpiece, the adapter portion of the third accessory having a different size than the adapter portions of the first and second accessories.

[0022] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an attachment for a fastening tool having a through-type drive including a hole defined by a plurality of drive surfaces, the attachment comprising: a coupling portion that is insertable into the hole in a first direction along the axis of the hole to couple the attachment so as to rotate with the drive about the axis; an adapter portion that extends from the coupling portion and is configured to couple to a tool element to perform work on a workpiece; and a locking assembly including an actuator movable relative to the coupling portion along the axis between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein in the locked position the locking assembly prevents the attachment from being removed from the hole in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and in the unlocked position the locking assembly allows the attachment to be removed from the hole in the second direction.

[0023] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory in which the locking assembly includes a wedge disposed within the coupling portion, the wedge being movable between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein in the extended position the wedge extends at least partially beyond the coupling portion, and in the retracted position the wedge is disposed within the coupling portion.

[0024] In some respects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory in which, in response to movement of the actuator from a locked position to an unlocked position, the wedge can move from an extended position to a retracted position.

[0025] In some respects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory in which the wedge is one of a plurality of wedges, each wedge being movable together between an extended position and a retracted position in response to movement of the actuator.

[0026] In some respects, the technology described in this utility model relates to an accessory in which the wedge is biased toward the protruding position.

[0027] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to a fastening tool comprising: a housing; a motor supported within the housing; a through-drive member rotatable about an axis in response to operation of the motor, the through-drive member including a hole defined by a plurality of drive member surfaces; and an attachment including a coupling portion insertable into the hole in a first direction along the axis to couple the attachment so as to rotate with the drive member about the axis; an adapter portion extending from the coupling portion and configured to couple to a tool element to perform work on a workpiece; and a lock rotatable relative to the coupling portion between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the lock engages the periphery of the hole to prevent the attachment from being removed from the hole in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and in the unlocked position, the lock aligns with the plurality of drive member surfaces to allow the attachment to be removed from the hole in the second direction.

[0028] Other features and aspects of this utility model are described in the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a box-type ratchet according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a box-type ratchet.

[0031] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an accessory with a quick-release lock according to an embodiment of the present invention, which can be used with... Figure 1 Used together with a box-type ratchet.

[0032] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Top 3D view of the quick-release lock attached to the device.

[0033] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A 3D view of the bottom of the quick-release lock attached to the device.

[0034] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A three-dimensional view of the accessory shows the spring.

[0035] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A 3D view of the accessory, in which the spring is hidden.

[0036] Figure 8 It is coupled to Figure 1 box ratchet Figure 3 The attached enlarged image shows the quick-release lock in the locked position.

[0037] Figure 9 It is coupled to Figure 1 box ratchet Figure 3 The attached enlarged image shows the quick-release lock in the unlocked position.

[0038] Figure 10 This is an enlarged view of the attachment, which includes a quick-release lock according to another embodiment of the present invention and is coupled to... Figure 1 The box-type ratchet has a quick-release lock in the locked position.

[0039] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The 3D view of the attachment.

[0040] Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 The line 12-12 in the middle is cut off Figure 11 A sectional view of the attachment.

[0041] Figure 13 yes Figure 11A three-dimensional view of the bottom of the hexagonal cap of the quick-release lock attached to the accessory.

[0042] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of an accessory including a quick-release lock according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 15 It is along Figure 14 The line 15-15 is cut from the middle. Figure 14 A sectional view of the attachment.

[0044] Figure 16 It is along Figure 14 Line 16-16 is cut from the middle. Figure 14 A sectional view of the attachment.

[0045] Figure 17 yes Figure 14 Cross-sectional view of the attachment.

[0046] Figure 18 yes Figure 14 Another cross-sectional view of the attachment.

[0047] Figure 19 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a box-type ratchet.

[0048] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of an accessory according to another embodiment of the present invention, the accessory being coupled to... Figure 1 A box-type ratchet.

[0049] Figure 21 It is along Figure 20 The line 21-21 in the middle is cut off Figure 20 A cross-sectional view of the attachment, which is set in the unpressed position.

[0050] Figure 22 It is along Figure 20 The line 22-22 in the middle is cut off Figure 20 A cross-sectional view of the attachment, which is set in the unpressed position.

[0051] Figure 23 yes Figure 20 A sectional view of the attachment, which is set in the depressed position.

[0052] Figure 24 This is an exploded view of an attachment according to another embodiment of the present invention, the attachment being coupled to... Figure 1 A box-type ratchet.

[0053] Figure 24A It is shown Figure 24 Side views of the accessories in various sizes.

[0054] Figure 24BIt is shown Figure 24 The three-dimensional diagram marked on the attachment.

[0055] Figure 25 It is coupling to Figure 24 A 3D view of the lock attached to the package.

[0056] Figure 26 It has a spring. Figure 24 The top 3D view of the attachment.

[0057] Figure 27 It has a spring. Figure 24 The front view of the attachment.

[0058] Figure 28 yes Figure 24 A sectional view of the attachment.

[0059] Figure 29A It has Figure 25 The lock Figure 24 The 3D view of the attachment shows the lock set in the locked position.

[0060] Figure 29B It has Figure 25 The lock Figure 24 A top view of the attachment, with the lock set in the locked position.

[0061] Figure 30A It has Figure 25 The lock Figure 24 The attached 3D diagram shows the lock positioned in the unlocked position.

[0062] Figure 30B It has Figure 25 The lock Figure 24 A top view of the attachment, with the lock set in the unlocked position.

[0063] Figure 31 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a box-type ratchet. Figure 24 The attachments are fully inserted into the box ratchet.

[0064] Figure 32 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a box-type ratchet. Figure 24 The accessory is partially inserted into the box ratchet.

[0065] Figure 33 This is a front view of an accessory according to another embodiment of the present invention, the accessory being coupled to... Figure 1 A box-type ratchet.

[0066] Figure 34 yes Figure 33 A sectional view of the attachment.

[0067] Before explaining any embodiment of this utility model in detail, it should be understood that the application of this utility model is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components described in the following description or shown in the drawings. This utility model can have other embodiments and can be implemented or realized in various ways. Furthermore, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used in this utility model are for illustrative purposes and should not be considered restrictive. Detailed Implementation

[0068] Figure 1 An embodiment of a fastening tool with a through-type drive is shown, and more specifically, a ratchet tool 10 or a box ratchet configured to rotate a fastener in clockwise and counterclockwise directions via a ratchet assembly 14 is shown. The ratchet tool (also simply referred to as "tool" in this invention) 10 includes a housing 18 having an outer shell 22 and a drive housing 26, the drive housing 26 extending at least partially from and supported within the outer shell 22. A tool axis A1 is defined along the length of the housing 18. Figure 2 As shown, the drive housing 26 is coupled to the housing 22 via fasteners 38 spaced circumferentially around the housing 22. The yoke housing 42 is coupled to and extends from the drive housing 26. The ratchet assembly 14 is supported within the yoke housing 42. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive housing 26 and the yoke housing 42 are formed separately and coupled together. In some embodiments, the drive housing 26 and the yoke housing 42 may alternatively be formed integrally. A battery pack (not shown, but which may be, for example, a 12-volt battery pack or a battery pack with another voltage capacity) may be removably coupled to the housing 18, for example, by sliding the battery pack into the housing 18. The ratchet tool 10 also includes a switch 54 (e.g., a trigger) pivotally coupled to the housing 18 and electrically coupled to the tool 10 such that engagement of the switch 54 activates the tool 10.

[0069] See Figure 2 The printed circuit board assembly (“PCBA”) 62, the motor 66, and the gear assembly 70 are supported within the housing 18. The PCBA 62 includes a controller for controlling the operation of the tool 10. The gear assembly 70 is operatively coupled to the rotor shaft 82 of the motor 66 to receive rotational input and transmit rotational motion of the rotor shaft 82 to the ratchet assembly 14.

[0070] A crankshaft 86 is at least partially disposed within a yoke housing 42. A first end 90 of the crankshaft 86 engages a gear assembly 70 and is rotatable about a tool axis A1 together with a portion of the gear assembly 70. The crankshaft 86 further defines a coupling portion 94 extending from a second end 98 of the crankshaft 86. The coupling portion 94 is radially offset from the tool axis A1 such that the coupling portion 94 is eccentrically oriented relative to the crankshaft 86. A bearing 100 (e.g., a spherical bearing) is coupled to the coupling portion 94 of the crankshaft 86. The bearing 100 engages a ratchet assembly 14 and transmits rotation of the coupling portion 94 to the ratchet assembly 14.

[0071] See also Figure 2 The ratchet assembly 14 is shown in more detail. The ratchet assembly 14 is relative to the yoke housing 42 about the fastening axis A2. Figure 19 The ratchet assembly 14 pivots, with the fastening axis A2 generally perpendicular to the tool axis A1, although other angular relationships may exist between the tool axis A1 and the fastening axis A2 in other embodiments. The ratchet assembly 14 includes a yoke 102 and a forward / reverse assembly 106. Figure 1 ), left pawl 110 and right pawl 114, biasing members (e.g., first biasing member 118 and second biasing member 122); Figure 2 The drive member 126, in the illustrated embodiment, includes a splined outer periphery 130 configured to mate with pawls 110, 114. A yoke 102 further defines a fastening hole 134 configured to receive the drive member 126. The left and right pawls 110 and 114, the forward / reverse assembly 106, and the first biasing member 118 and the second biasing member 122 are supported within the yoke 102.

[0072] The drive member 126 is rotatably supported in the fastening hole 134 of the yoke member 102 and rotates about the fastening axis A2. The splined outer periphery 130 of the drive member 126 includes a plurality of teeth circumferentially positioned around the outer periphery 130. The drive member 126 further defines a path along the fastening axis A2. Figure 2 and 19 A centrally extending drive hole 142. As shown, the drive hole 142 is defined by a plurality of drive surfaces, such that the drive hole 142 has a hexagonal cross-section. In other embodiments, the drive hole 142 may have different cross-sections (e.g., square, quincunx, etc.). Recess 148 ( Figure 19An attachment retaining spring 146 extends circumferentially around the drive bore 142 and is received therein. The attachment retaining spring 146 may be an O-ring made of an elastic material. The attachment retaining spring 146 (in a radially inward direction) extends at least partially into the drive bore 142 and can engage the attachment to frictionally retain the attachment within the drive bore 142. In other embodiments, the groove 148 and the attachment retaining spring 146 may be omitted. In another embodiment, the O-ring may be disposed behind the retaining spring 146 (i.e., around the outer diameter of the retaining spring 146). The O-ring can help achieve a uniform application of retaining force on the attachment (such as the attachment described in more detail below).

[0073] See Figure 1 and Figure 3 The attachment 150 is configured to couple a tool element (e.g., a socket, a tool head, etc.) to the drive 126 of the cassette ratchet 10 to perform work on a workpiece (e.g., a fastener). In some embodiments, the attachment 150 may be configured to directly engage the workpiece and perform work on it (e.g., the attachment 150 may include a socket, a screwdriver head, etc.).

[0074] The illustrated attachment 150 includes a coupling portion 154 and an adapter portion 158. The coupling portion 154 of the attachment 150 has a hexagonal cross-sectional profile and is configured to be received within a drive member bore 142 of the drive member 126. That is, the coupling portion 154 of the attachment 150 can be inserted into the drive member bore 142 in a direction along axis A2. A flange 160 is formed along the coupling portion 154 and serves as a stop member configured to prevent the attachment 150 from falling through the drive member 126 in the insertion direction. The illustrated adapter portion 158 has a square cross-sectional profile and is configured to couple to the tool element.

[0075] See Figure 3-7 The quick-release lock 162 is coupled to the attachment 150 (e.g., via fastener 164) to help retain the attachment 150 within the drive member 126. That is, the lock 162 prevents the attachment 150 from being accidentally removed from the drive member hole 142 of the drive member 126. The lock 162 includes a body 166, a first protrusion 170a extending from the body 166, and a second protrusion 170b also extending from the body 166. The first protrusion 170a and the second protrusion 170b are spaced apart from each other and are located on opposite sides of the lock 162. The lock 162 is rotatable relative to the attachment 150, allowing the lock 162 to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position ( Figure 8 Lock 162 prevents accessory 150 from being removed from tool 10. In the unlocked position ( Figure 9 Lock 162 is positioned to allow the removal of attachment 150 from tool 10.

[0076] Spring 178 is disposed within hole 182 of accessory 150. Specifically, spring 178 includes a first end (not shown) and a second end 190. The first end is configured to be received within a first recess 184 defined within end surface 186 of hole 182, and the second end 190 is configured to be received within a second recess 194 defined within body 166 of lock 162. Figure 5 Therefore, once the accessory 150 is fully inserted into the drive hole 142 of the drive member 126, the spring 178 biases the lock 162 into the locked position.

[0077] See Figure 8 Lock 162 is shown in the locked position. After attachment 150 is fully inserted into drive member 126, spring 178 biases lock 162 into the locked position such that the corners 198a, 198b of the first protrusion 170a and the second protrusion 170b engage the flat top surface 202 of drive member 126 to lock attachment 150 in place. Each protrusion 170a, 170b is configured to abut against a corresponding tab 206a, 206b formed on coupling portion 154 of attachment 150. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Furthermore, protrusions 170a and 170b are not aligned with the drive surface of the drive hole 142 in the locked position. Thus, in the locked position, lock 162 increases the retention between attachment 150 and tool 10 to prevent attachment 150 from being pulled through tool 10.

[0078] See Figure 9 Lock 162 is shown in the unlocked position. The user can rotate lock 162 clockwise or counterclockwise to move it to the unlocked position. Once the corresponding flat sides 210a, 210b of the first protrusion 170a and the second protrusion 170b become parallel to the flat edge 214 of the drive hole 142 of the drive member 126, attachment 150 is allowed to be removed from tool 10. Furthermore, the first edge 218a and the second edge 218b defined along the body 166 of lock 162 are configured to abut the tabs 206a, 206b of attachment 150, respectively, to prevent further rotation of lock 162.

[0079] See Figure 3 A first height H1 is defined between the top and bottom surfaces of the lock 162, thereby defining the height of the lock 162. Furthermore, a second height H2 is defined between the top surface of the lock 162 and the bottom surface of the flange 160 of the attachment 150. By minimizing the first height H1 and the second height H2, the attachment 150 has a low profile and a small head height. In the illustrated embodiment, the ratio of the first height H1 to the second height H2 is approximately 1:6. Therefore, the lock 162 is configured as a small adapter, but not so small that it is difficult for a user to grip the lock 162.

[0080] During operation, the user presses switch 54 to actuate motor 66. In response to the actuation of switch 54 and motor 66, crankshaft 86 and coupling portion 94 rotate, causing bearing 100 to engage yoke 102 to rotate ratchet assembly 14 about fastening axis A2. As ratchet assembly 14 and its left pawl 110 and right pawl 114 rotate, depending on the position of forward / reverse assembly 106, the left pawl 110 or right pawl 114 will engage drive member 126 to rotatably advance drive member 126 and rotate accessory 150.

[0081] Figure 10-13 An accessory 300 according to another embodiment is shown, which can be coupled to and used with a ratchet tool 10. The accessory 300 shown includes a coupling portion 304 and an adapter portion 308. The coupling portion 304 of the accessory 300 has a hexagonal cross-sectional profile and is configured to be received within a drive bore 142 of a drive member 126. A flange 310 is formed along the coupling portion 304 and serves as a stop member configured to prevent the accessory 300 from falling through the drive member 126. The adapter portion 308 has a square cross-sectional profile and is configured to be coupled to a tool element (e.g., a socket, a drill bit, etc.) to perform work on a workpiece (e.g., a fastener).

[0082] A quick-release lock 314 is coupled to accessory 300 to help retain accessory 300 within drive 126. Lock 314 includes a hexagonal cap 318, a clamping actuator 322 extending from the hexagonal cap 318, and a shaft 326 also extending from the hexagonal cap 318. Figure 12 Shaft 326 is received in bore 330 within coupling portion 304 defined in attachment 300. Recess 334 is defined along the periphery of shaft 326 of lock 314 and is configured to receive pin 338 extending through coupling portion 304. Pin 338 is fitted between shaft 326 of lock 314 and bore 330 of coupling portion 304 to retain shaft 326 within attachment 300.

[0083] The hexagonal cap 318 of the lock 314 has an outer profile corresponding to the hexagonal cross-section of the drive hole 142 of the drive member 126 and the hexagonal cross-section of the coupling portion 304. Therefore, the hexagonal cap 318 has a plurality of flat side surfaces 342 to form a cap with a hexagonal shape. The clamping actuator 322 can be gripped by a user to rotate the lock 314 relative to the accessory 300, allowing the lock 314 to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position ( Figure 10 Lock 314 prevents accessory 300 from being removed from tool 10. In the unlocked position, lock 314 is positioned to allow accessory 300 to be removed from the tool.

[0084] Annex 300 further includes a pair of stop balls 344a, 344b, which are biased against the lock 314 by corresponding springs 346a, 346b. The stop balls 344a, 344b are biased into individual recesses 350 defined within the bottom surface 354 of the lock 314. Figure 13 In the illustrated embodiment, lock 314 has 12 recesses 350. Lock 314 is movable between 12 different positions (i.e., six locked positions and six unlocked positions) via engagement between stop balls 344a, 344b and the recesses 350. Thus, stop balls 344a, 344b are configured to hold lock 314 in a particular orientation.

[0085] See Figure 10 Lock 314 is shown in one of the locked positions. Lock 314 is rotated such that the corner 352 of lock 314 engages the top surface 202 of drive member 126 (at the periphery of drive member hole 142) to lock attachment 300 in place. Lock 314 is configured to increase retention between attachment 300 and tool 10 to prevent attachment 300 from being pulled through tool 10. Lock 314 can then be rotated by the user to be in one of the unlocked positions such that the flat side 342 of lock 314 engages with the drive member hole 142 of drive member 126 (at the periphery of drive member hole 142). Figure 8 and 9 The flat edge 214 is parallel to allow attachment 300 to be removed from tool 10.

[0086] Figure 14-19 An accessory 400 according to another embodiment is shown, which can be coupled to and used with the ratchet tool 10. The accessory 400 shown includes a coupling portion 404 and an adapter portion 408. The coupling portion 404 of the accessory 400 has a hexagonal cross-sectional profile and is configured to be received within a drive bore 142 of the drive member 126. The adapter portion 408 has a square cross-sectional profile and is configured to be coupled to a tool element (e.g., a socket, tool head, etc.) to perform work on a workpiece (e.g., a fastener).

[0087] The illustrated attachment 400 includes a quick-release lock assembly having a first wedge 410a and a second wedge 410b disposed in corresponding cutouts 414a, 414b defined within a coupling portion 404. The wedges 410a, 410b are movable between a retracted position and an extended position. A first spring 418a and a second spring 418b are configured to bias the wedges 410a, 410b into the extended position, respectively, such that the wedges 410a, 410b extend out of the attachment 400. More specifically, chamfered edges 420a, 420b defined on each wedge 410a, 410b are configured to extend out of the attachment 400 to engage with the tool 10. Although the attachment 400 includes two wedges 410a, 410b in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the attachment 400 may include a different number of wedges, such as a single wedge 410a.

[0088] The locking assembly of attachment 400 further includes an actuator in the form of a button 424 configured to be pressed by a user to allow attachment 400 to be removed from tool 10. A shaft 428 is integrally formed with the button 424 and extends through a hole 432 defined within attachment 400. Shaft 428 also extends through holes 436a, 436b defined respectively in wedges 410a, 410b. Additionally, two recesses 440a, 440b are defined within shaft 428 and configured to engage with wedges 410a, 410b to move each wedge 410a, 410b between a retracted position and an extended position.

[0089] The attachment 400 is configured to be inserted into the drive member 126 in either a first insertion direction 444a or a second insertion direction 444b opposite to the first insertion direction 444a. When the attachment 400 is inserted in the first insertion direction 444a, the attachment 400 is positioned in a first position such that the adapter portion 408 extends from the side of the tool 10 where the switch 54 is located. When the attachment 400 is inserted in the second insertion direction 444b, the attachment 400 is positioned in a second position such that the adapter portion 408 extends from the side of the tool 10 where the forward and reverse components 106 are located.

[0090] Once the accessory 400 is fully inserted into the drive hole 142 of the drive member 126, one of the wedges 410a and 410b engages a groove 148 defined within the drive hole 142 to lock the accessory 400 within the drive member 126. The groove 148 is not centrally located within the drive member 126, and thus allows the accessory 400 to be locked into the drive member 126 in a first or second position. In the first position, the groove 148 is configured to receive the second wedge 410b, and more specifically, the chamfered edge 420b of the second wedge 410b, as the first wedge 410a is biased against the drive hole 142 of the drive member 126. In the second position, the groove 148 is configured to receive the first wedge 410a, and more specifically, the chamfered edge 420a of the first wedge 410a, as the second wedge 410b is biased against the drive hole 142 of the drive member 126.

[0091] To allow removal of attachment 400 from tool 10, the user can press button 424 to displace shaft 428 downward against third spring 452. As shaft 428 displaces downward when button 424 is pressed, first wedge 410a and second wedge 410b move from extended position to retracted position. Wedges 410a and 410b ride along the contours of recesses 440a and 440b and are pushed against first spring 418a and second spring 418b to be fully positioned within coupling portion 404. Depending on the orientation of attachment 400, the corresponding wedges 410a and 410b then disengage from recess 148 to allow removal of attachment 400.

[0092] The accessory 400 shown includes a pin 456 disposed within a coupling portion 404. The pin 456 extends through a slot 460 defined within a shaft 428 to limit displacement of the shaft 428 and prevent removal of the shaft 428 from the hole 432. When the button 424 is pressed, the pin 456 is configured to abut a first end 464a of the slot 460 to prevent further displacement of the shaft 428 within the coupling portion 404. When the button 424 is not pressed, the pin 456 abuts a second end 464b of the slot 460 to limit the amount by which the button 424 extends out of the hole 432 of the accessory 400 when biased by a third spring 452.

[0093] Figure 20-23An accessory 500 according to another embodiment is shown, which can be coupled to and used with the ratchet tool 10. The accessory 500 shown includes a coupling portion 504 and an adapter portion 508. The coupling portion 504 of the accessory 500 has a hexagonal cross-sectional profile and is configured to be revived within the drive bore 142 of the drive member 126. The adapter portion 508 has a square cross-sectional profile and is configured to be coupled to a tool element (e.g., a socket, tool head, etc.). A stop ball 512 is disposed within the adapter portion 508 and configured to engage the tool element to aid in coupling the tool element to the adapter portion 508.

[0094] The accessory 500 also includes a button 516 and a shaft 520 integrally formed with the button 516. The button 516 is configured to be pressed by a user to allow removal of a tool element from the adapter portion 508 of the accessory 500. The shaft 520 is formed by a first shaft portion 520a and a second shaft portion 520b smaller than the first shaft portion 520a. A recessed portion 522 is defined within the second shaft portion 520b and configured to receive a stop ball 512 when the button 516 is pressed. The shaft 520 is disposed in a through hole 524 defined within the accessory 500. The hole 524 is formed by a first hole portion 524a and a second hole portion 524b smaller than the first hole portion 524a.

[0095] Attachment 500 further includes a spring 528 arranged around shaft 520. A first end 528a of spring 528 engages button 516, and a second end 528b of spring 528 is disposed at end surface 532 of first bore portion 524a. Spring 528 is configured to bias button 516 out of first bore portion 524a when button 516 is not pressed by user. In this way, second shaft portion 520b is positioned abutting stop ball 512 and pushing a portion of stop ball 512 out of attachment 500 to engage with tool element.

[0096] When the user presses button 516, such as Figure 23 As shown, shaft 520 is shifted downwards such that the first shaft portion 520a abuts the end surface 532 of the first hole portion 524a. The recessed portion 522 of the second shaft portion 520b aligns with the stop ball 512. The stop ball 512 is then allowed to disengage from the tool element and be received within the recessed portion 522 to remove the tool element. Button 516 allows the tool element to be released from attachment 500 with a force less than the popping force generated when attachment 500 is removed from tool 10. In this way, attachment 500 is prevented from being removed from tool 10 when the user removes the tool element from attachment 500.

[0097] Furthermore, accessory 500 includes a pin 534 disposed within coupling portion 504. Pin 534 extends through a slot 536 defined within first shaft portion 520a to further restrict displacement of shaft 520. When button 516 is pressed, pin 534 is configured to abut against slot 536 to prevent further displacement of shaft 520. Pin 534 also prevents button 516 from being removed from hole 524.

[0098] Therefore, this invention provides in particular an attachment for use with a ratchet tool, having an actuable quick-release mechanism to conveniently allow removal of the attachment from the ratchet tool (and / or removal of the tool head from the attachment), but to prevent the attachment from being accidentally removed or detached from the ratchet tool.

[0099] Figure 24-28 Figures 31 and 32 illustrate an accessory 600 according to another embodiment, which can be coupled to and used with a ratchet tool 10. The accessory 600 shown includes a coupling portion 604, an adapter portion 608, and a flange 610 formed along the coupling portion 604. The coupling portion 604 of the accessory 600 has a hexagonal cross-sectional profile and is configured to be received within a drive bore 142 of the drive member 126. The coupling portion 604 also has two locking protrusions 614a, 614b formed along the top surface 615 of the coupling portion 604. The adapter portion 608 has a square cross-sectional profile and is configured to be coupled to a tool element (e.g., a socket, tool head, etc.) to perform work on a workpiece (e.g., a fastener). The flange 610 serves as a stop member configured to prevent the accessory 600 from falling through the drive member 126. A stop ball 616 ( Figure 26 It is located within the adapter section 508 and biased by the spring 618 to engage the tool element, thereby helping to couple the tool element to the adapter section 608.

[0100] like Figure 24A As shown, in various embodiments, the adapter portion 608 of accessory 600 can have different sizes (e.g., 1 / 2 inch, 3 / 8 inch, 1 / 4 inch, etc.), while the coupling portion 604 can have the same size in each case. Therefore, accessory 600 can be one of a set of accessories 600 of different sizes, each accessory having the same coupling portion 604 compatible with the ratchet tool 10, making the accessories 600 interchangeable. The set of accessories 600 of different sizes can be configured as a kit, and in some embodiments, the kit may include a container (not shown) that can be used to easily transport multiple accessories 600.

[0101] Back Figure 24A quick-release lock 622 is coupled to an accessory 600 to help hold the accessory 600 within the drive member 126. The lock 622 includes a cap 626 having a pair of recesses 628 defined therein, a clamping actuator 630 extending from the cap 626, and a shaft 634 also extending from the cap 626 in a direction opposite to that of the clamping actuator 630. The shaft 634 of the lock 622 is received in a hole 638 defined within the coupling portion 604 of the accessory 600. Figure 26 The groove 642 is defined along the periphery of the shaft 634 of the lock 622 and is configured to receive a pin 646 extending through a hole 650 defined within the coupling portion 604. The pin 646 is press-fitted into the hole 650 to be positioned between the shaft 634 of the lock 622 and the hole 638 of the coupling portion 604. The hole 650 of the coupling portion 604 has a chamfered opening that facilitates the press-fit process. In this way, the pin 646 retains the shaft 634 within the attachment 600 and prevents the lock 622 from being removed.

[0102] A spring 654 (e.g., a torsion spring) is disposed within a bore 638 of the coupling portion 604 to be arranged about a shaft 634. Specifically, the spring 654 includes a first end 658a and a second end 658b. The first end 658a of the spring 654 is configured to be received within a first recess 662 defined in an end surface 664 of the bore 638. The second end 658b of the spring 654 is configured to be received within a second recess (not shown) defined in a cap 626 of the lock 622. Furthermore, the spring 654 is disposed within the bore 638 of the coupling portion 604 such that the second end 658b of the spring 654 extends beyond the locking protrusions 614a, 614b of the coupling portion 604 to facilitate coupling the quick-release lock 622 to the accessory 600.

[0103] See Figure 29A and 29B Lock 622 is shown in the locked position when coupled to attachment 600. A hexagonal outline 663, drawn in dashed lines, is arranged along attachment 600 to show the outline of the drive hole 142 of drive member 126. The ends 664a, 664b of clamping actuator 630 extend beyond the hexagonal outline 663 to indicate the locked position, in which the ends 664a, 664b are positioned to engage the flat-top surface 202 of drive member 126 to lock attachment 600 in place. Thus, in the locked position, quick-release lock 622 increases retention between attachment 600 and tool 10 to prevent attachment 600 from being pulled through tool 10.

[0104] See Figure 30A and 30BLock 622 is shown in the unlocked position when coupled to accessory 600. A user can rotate lock 622 counterclockwise or clockwise to move it to the unlocked position. In some embodiments, lock 622 may include a mark N printed, etched, engraved, etc., on lock 622 to indicate the direction of rotation for moving lock 622 toward the locked and / or unlocked position. Figure 24B ).

[0105] Back Figure 30A and 30B The lock 622 is rotated approximately 30 degrees, such that the ends 664a, 664b of the clamping actuator 630 are parallel to the hexagonal profile 663. In other words, the ends 664a, 664b of the clamping actuator 630 are parallel to the flat edge 214 of the drive hole 142 of the drive member 126. This allows the attachment 600 to be removed from the tool 10. When the lock 622 is rotated between the locked and unlocked positions to quickly release the lock 622, each locking protrusion 614a, 614b of the coupling portion 604 moves within a corresponding recess 628 of the cap 626 to limit the amount of rotation of the lock 622 relative to the attachment 600.

[0106] Furthermore, when the accessory 600 is inserted into the drive member 126 of the tool 10, the quick-release lock 622 rotates to the unlocked position. This aligns the ends 664a, 664b of the clamping actuator 630 with the flat edge 214 of the drive member hole 142, providing an easy coupling process between the tool 10 and the accessory 600. Once the accessory 600 is fully inserted into the drive member 126, the lock 622 is biased into the locked position by the spring 654. The dimensions and shapes of the accessory 600 and the lock 622 are respectively matched to the angular configuration of the drive member hole 142. Figure 31 and 32 Furthermore, the chamfers formed along the ends 664a, 664b of the clamping actuator 630 allow the C-ring provided along the drive member 126 to be pressed down when the accessory 600 is inserted into and removed from the tool 10.

[0107] Figure 33 and 34An accessory 700 according to another embodiment is shown, which can be coupled to and used with a ratchet tool 10. The accessory 700 includes a coupling portion 704, an adapter portion 708, and a flange 710 formed along the end of the coupling portion 704 near the adapter portion 708. The coupling portion 704 of the accessory 700 has a hexagonal cross-sectional profile and is configured to be received within a drive bore 142 of the drive member 126. The adapter portion 708 has a square cross-sectional profile and is configured to be coupled to a tool element (e.g., a socket, tool head, etc.) to perform work on a workpiece (e.g., a fastener). The flange 710 serves as a stop member configured to prevent the accessory 700 from falling through the drive member 126. A quick-release lock 716 is coupled to the accessory 700 to help retain the accessory 700 within the drive member 126. The quick-release lock 716 is similar to... Figure 24-32 The quick-release lock 622. In this way, the pin 722 is press-fitted into the hole 726 of the coupling portion 704 to engage the lock 716 and prevent the lock 716 from being removed from the accessory 700.

[0108] The coupling portion 704 includes a necking (diameter reduction) region 730 near the flange 710. In the event of excessive torque being applied during manual operation of the tool 10, the necking region 730 allows for the failure of the easily replaceable accessory 700 before any further damage is caused to the tool 10 (e.g., to the gear assembly 70, ratchet assembly 14, etc.). The necking region 730 also indicates when a failure may occur, resulting in a easier and faster repair process for the user.

[0109] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the invention.

[0110] The various features and aspects of this utility model are described in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An accessory for a fastening tool, the fastening tool having a straight-through drive element, characterized in that, The attachments include: The coupling portion is insertable into the hole from a first side of the hole in a first direction along the axis of the hole of the through-type drive member to couple the accessory so as to rotate together with the drive member about the axis, the hole of the through-type drive member being defined by a plurality of drive member surfaces; An adapter portion, extending from the coupling portion and configured to couple to a tool element to perform work on a workpiece; and A lock, rotatable relative to the coupling portion between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein in the locked position the lock engages with the periphery of the hole on a second side of the hole opposite to the first side to prevent the attachment from being removed from the hole in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and in the unlocked position the lock is aligned with the surfaces of the plurality of actuators to allow the attachment to be removed from the hole in the second direction.

2. The appendix as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The lock is biased toward the locked position.

3. The appendix as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The lock is rotatable about the axis.

4. The appendix as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The lock and the adapter portion are located on opposite sides of the coupling portion.

5. The appendix as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The lock can rotate between a plurality of locked positions and a plurality of unlocked positions.

6. The appendix as described in claim 5, characterized in that, It further includes a stop ball configured to hold the lock in a selected position among the plurality of locked positions and the plurality of unlocked positions.

7. The appendix as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The coupling portion has a hexagonal profile, and the adapter portion has a square profile.

8. The appendix as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It further includes a flange disposed between the adapter portion and the coupling portion, wherein the flange can engage with the periphery of the hole on a first side of the hole to restrict the insertion of the accessory into the hole.

9. The appendix as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It further includes a stop ball, which is supported by the adapter portion and configured to engage the tool element when the tool element is coupled to the adapter portion.

10. The appendix as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The lock includes a body, a first protrusion extending from the body, and a second protrusion extending from the body, wherein the first protrusion and the second protrusion are configured to be misaligned with the surfaces of the plurality of actuators when the coupling portion is inserted into the hole and the lock is in the locked position.

11. The appendix as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The lock further includes a shaft extending from the body into a hole defined within the coupling portion, the shaft including a groove that receives a pin to retain the shaft within the coupling portion.

12. The appendix as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, It further includes a torsion spring surrounding the axis, the torsion spring biasing the lock toward the locked position.

13. The appendix as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The lock is further marked to indicate the direction of rotation of the lock from the locked position toward the unlocked position.

14. A kit, characterized in that, The kit includes an accessory as described in claim 1, the accessory being a first accessory, and wherein the kit further includes a second accessory, the second accessory including the same coupling portion and lock as the first accessory, and wherein the second accessory includes an adapter portion extending from the coupling portion and configured to be coupled to a tool element to perform work on a workpiece, the adapter portion of the second accessory having a different size than the adapter portion of the first accessory.

15. The kit as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, The device further includes a third accessory, which includes the same coupling portion and lock as the first accessory and the second accessory, and wherein the third accessory includes an adapter portion that extends from the coupling portion and is configured to couple to a tool element to perform work on a workpiece, and the adapter portion of the third accessory is sized differently from the adapter portions of the first accessory and the second accessory.

16. An accessory for a fastening tool, said fastening tool having a straight-through drive element, characterized in that, The attachments include: The coupling portion is insertable into the hole along the axis of the hole in the through-type drive member in a first direction to couple the accessory to rotate together with the drive member about the axis, the hole of the through-type drive member being defined by a plurality of drive member surfaces; An adapter portion, extending from the coupling portion and configured to couple to a tool element to perform work on a workpiece; and A locking assembly includes an actuator movable relative to the coupling portion along the axis between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein in the locked position the locking assembly prevents the attachment from being removed from the hole in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and in the unlocked position the locking assembly allows the attachment to be removed from the hole in the second direction.

17. The appendix as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, The locking assembly includes a wedge disposed within the coupling portion, the wedge being movable between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein in the extended position the wedge extends at least partially beyond the coupling portion, and in the retracted position the wedge is disposed within the coupling portion.

18. The appendix as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that, In response to the actuator moving from the locked position to the unlocked position, the wedge can move from the extended position to the retracted position.

19. The appendix as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that, The wedge is one of a plurality of wedges, each of which can move together between the extended position and the retracted position in response to movement of the actuator.

20. The appendix as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that, The wedge is biased toward the protruding position.

21. A fastening tool, characterized in that, include: case; The motor is supported within the housing; A through-drive member, the through-drive member being rotatable about an axis in response to the operation of the motor, the through-drive member including holes defined by a plurality of drive member surfaces; and The attachments include: The coupling portion is insertable into the hole along the axis in a first direction to couple the accessory so as to rotate together with the drive member about the axis; An adapter portion, extending from the coupling portion and configured to couple to a tool element to perform work on a workpiece; and A lock, rotatable relative to the coupling portion between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein in the locked position the lock engages the periphery of the hole to prevent the attachment from being removed from the hole in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and in the unlocked position the lock is aligned with the surfaces of the plurality of actuators to allow the attachment to be removed from the hole in the second direction.

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