Tool head assembly, magnetic intensifier and tool head

Abstract

A tool head assembly, a magnetic enhancer, and a tool head are disclosed. The tool head assembly includes a tool head having a first end defining the tool head and configured to be coupled to a drive portion of a tool, and a second end defining the tool head and configured to engage a workpiece tip. The tool head assembly also includes a magnetic enhancer having a base collar mounted to the tip of the tool head, an outer sleeve movably received on the base collar and including a forward end, a rearward end, and a flange extending radially inward at the rearward end, a magnet positioned at the forward end of the outer sleeve, and a spring positioned between the base collar and the flange of the outer sleeve to bias the flange away from the base collar.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 641,518, filed May 2, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This utility model relates to tool head assemblies, and more specifically to tool head assemblies including magnetic enhancers. Background Technology

[0004] In existing tool head assemblies, during operation, the user initially positions the tool head tip roughly aligned with the fastener to drive it into the hole. However, the tool head may tighten the fastener along a path that is not correctly aligned with the hole. For example, if the fastener is positioned such that its head is not perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis, the tool head may drive the fastener into the hole at an incorrect angle, potentially damaging the fastener and / or the hole. Utility Model Content

[0005] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to a tool head assembly comprising: a tool head including a first end defining the tool head and configured to be coupled to a drive portion of a tool, and a tip defining a second end of the tool head and configured to engage a workpiece; and a magnetic enhancer including a base collar mounted to the tip of the tool head, an outer sleeve movably received on the base collar and including a forward end, a rearward end, and a flange extending radially inward at the rearward end, a magnet positioned at the forward end of the outer sleeve, and a spring positioned between the flange of the base collar and the outer sleeve to bias the flange away from the base collar.

[0006] In some aspects, the technology described in this invention relates to a tool head assembly, wherein the tool head includes a shaft that interconnects a drive portion and a tip, and the shaft has a smaller external dimension than both the drive portion and the tip.

[0007] In some aspects, the technology described in this invention relates to a tool head assembly, wherein the outer sleeve is configured to translate relative to the tip and against the bias of a spring along a base collar.

[0008] In some aspects, the technology described in this invention relates to a tool head assembly, wherein the magnetic enhancer further includes a retainer, wherein a recess is defined on the inner surface of a base collar, wherein the recess is configured to receive and support the retainer, and wherein the retainer partially protrudes from the recess to engage a tip to inhibit movement of the base collar relative to the tip.

[0009] In some aspects, the technology described in this invention relates to a tool head assembly in which a magnet is fixed to an outer sleeve, such that the magnet is configured to move together with the outer sleeve against the bias of a spring.

[0010] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to a tool head assembly in which a magnet has an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of an outer sleeve, thereby creating an interference fit between the magnet and the outer sleeve, the interference fit fixing the magnet relative to the outer sleeve.

[0011] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to a tool head assembly, wherein the outer sleeve is configured to translate relative to the tip of the tool head between a first operating state and a second operating state, and wherein when the outer sleeve is in the first operating state, the tip protrudes further from the forward end of the outer sleeve than when the outer sleeve is in the second operating state.

[0012] In some aspects, the technology described in this utility model relates to a tool head assembly, wherein the tool head assembly is configured to engage a fastener, such that the magnetic force between the magnet and the fastener overcomes the bias of the spring to move the outer sleeve from a first operating state to a second operating state.

[0013] In some aspects, the present invention relates to a magnetic enhancer for use with a tool head, the magnetic enhancer comprising: a base collar configured to be mounted to a tool head; an outer sleeve movably received on the base collar and including a forward end, a rearward end, and a flange extending radially inward at the rearward end; a magnet positioned at the forward end of the outer sleeve; and a spring positioned between the base collar and the flange of the outer sleeve to bias the flange away from the base collar.

[0014] In some aspects, the technology described in this invention relates to a magnetic enhancer, which further includes a retainer, wherein a recess is defined on the inner surface of a base collar, wherein the recess is configured to receive and support the retainer, and wherein the retainer partially protrudes from the recess and is configured to engage a tool head.

[0015] In some respects, the technology described in this utility model relates to magnetic enhancers, wherein the retainer is a C-shaped clip.

[0016] In some aspects, the technology described in this invention relates to a magnetic enhancer in which a magnet is fixed relative to an outer sleeve, such that the magnet is configured to move together with the outer sleeve relative to a base collar.

[0017] In some respects, the technology described in this invention relates to a magnetic enhancer, wherein the magnet has an annular shape, allowing a tool head to pass through the center of the magnet.

[0018] In some aspects, the technology described in this invention relates to a magnetic enhancer, wherein the spring is a first spring, and the magnetic enhancer further includes a second spring positioned between a base collar and a magnet.

[0019] In some aspects, the technology described in this invention relates to a tool head for use with a magnetic enhancer, the tool head comprising: a drive portion defining a first end of the tool head and configured to be coupled to a tool, the drive portion having a first maximum external dimension; a shaft extending from the drive portion in a direction away from the first end of the tool head, the shaft having a second maximum external dimension; and a tip defining a second end of the tool head and configured to engage a workpiece, the tip having a third maximum external dimension, the tip including a plurality of blades, a plurality of flutes, and a groove, each flute being defined between adjacent blades of the plurality of blades, the groove being configured to receive coupling members from the magnetic enhancer to couple the magnetic enhancer to the tool head; wherein the groove is formed in the tip at a position in front of the shaft and behind the plurality of blades.

[0020] In some respects, the technology described in this utility model relates to a tool head, wherein the second maximum external dimension is smaller than each of the first maximum external dimension and the third maximum external dimension.

[0021] In some respects, the technology described in this invention relates to a tool head in which the groove is closer to the shaft than to the second end of the tool head.

[0022] In some respects, the technology described in this invention relates to tool heads, wherein the groove is a circumferential recess that extends continuously around the tip.

[0023] In some aspects, the technology described in this invention relates to a tool head in which a groove is located at the tip position where the outer dimension of the tip is the largest, such that the portion of the tip surrounding the groove has a thickness equal to the third largest outer dimension.

[0024] In some respects, the technology described in this invention relates to a tool head, wherein the second maximum external dimension of the shaft is smaller than the external dimension of the groove. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the tool head assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the toolhead component.

[0027] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The side view of the tool head of the tool head component.

[0028] Figure 4A It is a section taken along line 4-4. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the tool head assembly, wherein the magnetic enhancer of the tool head assembly is in a first operating state.

[0029] Figure 4B It is a section taken along line 4-4. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the tool head assembly, wherein the magnetic enhancer of the tool head assembly is in a second operating state.

[0030] Figure 5A yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the tool head assembly, wherein the magnetic enhancer is in the first operating state.

[0031] Figure 5B yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the operation of the tool head assembly, wherein the magnetic enhancer is in the second operating state.

[0032] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a tool head assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An exploded view of the toolhead component.

[0034] Figure 8A It is a section taken along line 8-8. Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the tool head assembly, wherein the magnetic enhancer of the tool head assembly is in a first operating state.

[0035] Figure 8B It is a section taken along line 8-8. Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the tool head assembly, wherein the magnetic enhancer of the tool head assembly is in a second operating state.

[0036] Figure 8C It is a section taken along line 8-8. Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the tool head assembly, wherein the magnetic enhancer of the tool head assembly is in the third operating state.

[0037] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the operation of the tool head assembly, wherein the magnetic enhancer is in the third operating state. Detailed Implementation

[0038] 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 practiced or implemented in various ways.

[0039] Figure 1and Figure 2 A tool head assembly 2 is shown, including a tool head 10 and a magnetic enhancer 14. The tool head 10 is configured to drive a workpiece 5, such as a fastener (e.g., a screw, bolt, etc.). The magnetic enhancer 14 is mounted on the tool head 10 to magnetically align and hold the fastener 5 on the tool head 10. The tool head 10 is configured to be coupled to a tool. For example, in some embodiments, the tool head 10 is configured to be inserted into a power tool to receive torque from the power tool and apply torque to the fastener 5. In other embodiments, the tool head 10 may be coupled to a hand tool to receive torque from the hand tool. In other embodiments, the tool head 10 may be part of or integrated into a hand tool (such as a screwdriver).

[0040] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the tool head 10 includes a drive portion 18, a tip 22, and a shaft 26 extending between and interconnecting the drive portion 18 and the tip 22. The drive portion 18 defines a first end 10a of the tool head 10, and the tip 22 defines a second end 10b of the tool head 10 opposite to the drive portion 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive portion 18, tip 22, and shaft 26 are integrally formed as a single piece. For example, the drive portion 18, tip 22, and shaft 26 may be formed of a harder material such as steel. In other embodiments, the drive portion 18, tip 22, and shaft 26 may be separate components permanently or removably coupled together. In such embodiments, the drive portion 18, tip 22, and shaft 26 may be made of different materials or the same material. The tool head 10 is configured to rotate about a central longitudinal axis A1 extending through the drive portion 18, shaft 26, and tip 22.

[0041] The drive portion 18 is configured to engage with any number of different tools, adapters, or components to receive torque from the tools, adapters, or components to rotate the tool head 10. For example, the tool head 10 can be used with a drive that includes a socket having a corresponding recess in which the drive portion 18 of the tool head 10 is received. The drive may also include a rod extending from the socket, which may be coupled to a handle for manual use by an operator or to a chuck of a power tool (e.g., a drill) for operator power use. The drive portion 18 shown is a hexagonal drive portion 18 having a hexagonal cross-section. A drive recess 30 is defined in the hexagonal drive portion 18 and can be configured to receive a quick-release mechanism from the drive to secure the tool head 10 to the drive. Alternatively, a sliding friction fit between the drive portion 18 of the tool head 10 and the socket can be used to axially secure the tool head 10 to the drive.

[0042] The drive portion 18 has a maximum external dimension D1. The maximum external dimension D1 is measured perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the maximum external dimension D1 is measured between the opposite corners of the hexagonal drive portion 18. In other embodiments, the maximum external dimension D1 may be measured between other ends of the drive portion 18, depending on the shape of the drive portion 18.

[0043] Tip 22 is formed at the end of shaft 26 opposite to drive portion 18. Tip 22 provides a working end or head for tool head 10 and is configured to engage fasteners (e.g., screws). In the illustrated embodiment, tip 22 is configured as a Phillips-style tip. Alternatively, tip 22 may have other configurations to engage different types of fasteners. For example, tip 22 may be configured as a straight tip (also referred to as a "conventional head") to engage fasteners with corresponding straight grooves. Other tip configurations (e.g., hexagonal, star-shaped, square, etc.) may also be used with tool head 10.

[0044] The tip 22 includes a plurality of chip-removing grooves or recesses 34 circumferentially spaced around the tip 22. The chip-removing grooves 34 are equidistantly arranged around axis A1. The chip-removing grooves 34 extend longitudinally along the tip 22 and converge to form blades 38. The blades 38 have flat, gradually narrowing sidewalls and outer walls, which cause the outer walls to slope and form the leading edge of the blades 38. The blades 38 are also equidistantly arranged around the tip 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the thickness of the blades 38 gradually increases towards axis 26 to the maximum external dimension D2 of the tip 22, which increases the strength of the tool head 10. The maximum external dimension D2 is measured perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis A1. The maximum external dimension D2 of the tip 22 shown is approximately equal to the maximum external dimension D1 of the drive portion 18. In other embodiments, the maximum external dimension D2 of the tip 22 may be greater than or less than the maximum external dimension D1 of the drive portion 18.

[0045] The tip 22 additionally includes a tip groove 42 defined between the shaft 26 and the blade 38. In other words, the tip groove 42 is defined in the tip 22 at a location in front of the shaft 26 and behind the blade 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the tip groove 42 is formed in the tip 22 at a location where the outer dimension of the tip 22 is largest (i.e., the maximum outer dimension D2), such that each portion of the tip 22 surrounding the tip groove 42 has a thickness equal to the maximum outer dimension D2 of the tip 22. In other embodiments, the tip groove 42 may be formed elsewhere along the tip 22, for example in / through the blade 38. The tip groove 42 shown is a circumferential recess that extends continuously around the tip 22. In other embodiments, the tip groove 42 may include one or more discrete recesses formed in the tip 22. The tip groove 42 is configured to receive coupling elements from the magnetic enhancer 14 to fix the magnetic enhancer 14 and the tool head 10 relative to each other, as will be described in more detail below.

[0046] See also Figure 2 and Figure 3 A shaft 26 extends between the drive portion 18 and the tip 22. The shaft 26 shown is generally cylindrical. In other embodiments, the shaft 26 may have other shapes or configurations. For example, the shaft 26 may have a hexagonal or square cross-section, or the shape of the shaft 26 may vary along its length. The shaft 26 has a maximum external dimension D3. The maximum external dimension D3 is measured perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the maximum external dimension D3 is the diameter of the shaft 26. In other embodiments, the maximum external dimension D3 may be different dimensions depending on the shape and configuration of the shaft 26. The maximum external dimension D3 of the shaft 26 is smaller than the maximum external dimension D1 of the drive portion 18 and / or the maximum external dimension D2 of the tip 22. In some embodiments, the maximum external dimension D3 of the shaft 26 is less than 75% of the maximum external dimension D1 of the drive portion 18 and / or the maximum external dimension D2 of the tip 22. In other embodiments, the maximum external dimension D3 of the shaft 26 is between about 25% and about 75% of the maximum external dimension D1 of the drive portion 18 and / or the maximum external dimension D2 of the tip 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the maximum external dimension D3 of the shaft 26 is approximately 50% of the maximum external dimension D1 of the drive portion 18 and / or the maximum external dimension D2 of the tip 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the maximum external dimension D3 of the shaft 26 is smaller than the external dimension of the tip recess 42. In some embodiments, the maximum external dimension D3 of the shaft 26 is larger than the external dimension of the tip recess 42.

[0047] The tool head 10 described above is merely one embodiment of a tool head. In other embodiments, the tool head 10 may have other configurations (e.g., shape, size, parts, etc.). Alternatively, as mentioned above, the tool head 10 may be part of or integrated with a tool. In such embodiments, the tool head 10 may not include, for example, a drive portion 18.

[0048] like Figure 2 and Figure 4A As shown, the magnetic enhancer 14 is mounted to and surrounds the tool head 10 at its tip 22 adjacent to the second end 10b of the tool head 10. The magnetic enhancer 14 includes an outer sleeve 46, a base collar 50, a retainer 54, a magnet 58, and a spring 62. Each of the base collar 50, retainer 54, magnet 58, and spring 62 is positioned within the outer sleeve 46. The outer sleeve 46 is generally cylindrical and includes a first portion 46a, a second portion 46b, and a flange 66 extending radially inward from the first portion 46a at the rearward end of the outer sleeve 46. The first portion 46a is positioned behind the second portion 46b along the central longitudinal axis A1 of the tool head 10. The first portion 46a has a smaller diameter than the second portion 46b, which causes the outer sleeve 46 to include a step 46c between the first portion 46a and the second portion 46b. The step 46c can provide a surface to assist the user, for example, in pulling the magnetic enhancer 14 away from the tool head 10. In other embodiments, the first portion 46a and the second portion 46b may have the same diameter, or the first portion 46a may have a larger diameter than the second portion 46b. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer sleeve 46 is formed of an elastomeric material such as rubber. In other embodiments, the outer sleeve 46 may be formed of another type of material. For example, the outer sleeve 46 may be a metallic material. When the magnetic enhancer 14 is in the first or pre-engaged operating state, such as Figure 4A As shown, at least a portion of the tip 22 protrudes from the forward end of the outer sleeve 46 and the magnet 58, and is configured to engage fasteners, such as... Figure 1 Fastener 5.

[0049] The base collar 50 and retainer 54 are generally positioned at the middle of the inner sleeve 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the base collar 50 is generally cylindrical and includes a recess 70 defined on the inner surface of the base collar 50, which receives and supports the retainer 54. The base collar 50 has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the outer sleeve 46, which allows the base collar 50 to slide or translate relative to the outer sleeve 46. The retainer 54 may partially protrude from the recess 70 of the base collar 50 and enter into a tip groove 42 formed in the tip 22 of the tool head 10 to secure the base collar 50 to the tool head 10. The retainer 54 may be formed of an elastomeric material that creates or provides a frictional fit between the base collar 50 and the tip 22 of the tool head 10 to suppress relative movement between the base collar 50 and the tip 22 of the tool head 10. Thus, the base collar 50 can be configured to move together with the tip 22 of the tool head 10 during working operation. The retainer 54 can also be deflected if sufficient force is applied to allow the base collar 50 to be mounted onto or removed from the tool head 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer 54 is a C-clamp. In other embodiments, the retainer 54 can be another suitable coupling member, such as an O-ring, a ball stop, etc.

[0050] Magnet 58 is positioned at the forward end of outer sleeve 46. In the illustrated embodiment, magnet 58 has an annular or ring-shaped form, allowing tip 22 to pass through the center of magnet 58. In other embodiments, magnet 58 may have other configurations. For example, magnet 58 may consist of one or more magnet elements arranged in a circular (or other suitable) shape around tip 22. The outer diameter of the illustrated magnet 58 is larger than the inner diameter of outer sleeve 46, thereby creating an interference fit between outer sleeve 46 and magnet 58 that fixes magnet 58 relative to outer sleeve 46. That is, magnet 58 can radially pull outer sleeve 46 outward, causing elastomeric outer sleeve 46 to exert a reaction force on magnet 58, which fixes magnet 58 and inhibits movement of magnet 58 relative to outer sleeve 46. In other embodiments, outer sleeve 46 may be formed of a rigid or metallic material, allowing magnet 58 to be fixed to outer sleeve 46 by frictional fit or magnetic attraction. In some implementations, the magnet 58 may be secured to the outer sleeve 46 by fasteners and / or adhesives.

[0051] During operation, the magnet 58 is configured to assist in fastening fasteners (such as...) by mounting the magnetic enhancer 14 on the tool head 10. Figure 1 The fastener 5) is aligned and held on the tool head 10. See specifically... Figure 5AThe magnet 58 generates a magnetic field that attracts the fastener. Due to the annular shape of the magnet 58, the magnetic attraction between the magnet 58 and the fastener can align the fastener with the central longitudinal axis A1 of the tool head 10, thereby improving the ease with which the tip 22 of the tool head 10 can engage the fastener.

[0052] See Figure 4A and 4B Spring 62 is positioned on the side of the base collar 50 opposite to the magnet 58. In the illustrated embodiment, spring 62 is a helical compression spring. In other embodiments, the magnetic enhancer 14 may include other suitable types of springs, such as stacks of wave springs, elastomeric components, etc. Spring 62 is positioned between the base collar 50 and the flange 66 at the rearward end of the outer sleeve 46. Spring 62 biases the flange 66 of the outer sleeve 46 away from the base collar 50, thereby stretching and tightening the outer sleeve 46 while the magnetic enhancer 14 is in a first or pre-engaged operating state. Figure 4A Therefore, when the magnetic enhancer 14 is in Figure 4A In the pre-engaged operating state, the spring 62 is extended. During operation, the outer sleeve 46 can move against the bias of the spring 62 to change or adjust the magnetic enhancer 14 to a second or engaged operating state. Figure 4B When the magnetic enhancer 14 is in Figure 4B When the outer sleeve 46 is in the engaged operating state, the spring 62 shown is compressed. Due to the movement of the outer sleeve 46, the tip 22 protrudes further from the front end of the outer sleeve 46 when the outer sleeve 46 is in the first operating state than when the outer sleeve 46 is in the second operating state.

[0053] See Figure 5A and 5BIn the operation of the tool head 10 and the magnetic enhancer 14, the user first inserts the drive portion 18 of the tool head 10 into the tool to fix the tool head 10 relative to the tool, which allows the tool to drive the tool head 10 to rotate about the central longitudinal axis A1. The user then positions the tip 22 of the tool head 10 approximately aligned with the fastener 5 to drive the fastener 5 into the hole 2. In some embodiments or applications, the user may drive the fastener 5 directly into a surface that does not have a pre-existing hole 2. In this case, the magnet 58 can improve the alignment between the fastener 5 and the surface to ensure that the fastener 5 is properly driven into the surface. As the user moves the tip 22 of the tool head 10 closer to the fastener 5, the magnet 58 in the magnetic enhancer 14 helps to align the fastener 5 along the central longitudinal axis A1 for engagement between the tip 22 of the tool head 10 and the fastener 5. Specifically, the magnet 58 generates a magnetic field that attracts the fastener 5, thereby aligning the fastener 5 such that the head 5a of the fastener 5 is oriented perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis A1 of the tool head 10. Without magnet 58, fastener 5 can be oriented transversely to the central longitudinal axis A1. In this case, without user adjustment, tool head 10 may tighten fastener 5 along a path that is not properly aligned with hole 2. For example, if fastener 5 is positioned such that the head 5a of fastener 5 is oriented at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the central longitudinal axis A1, tool head 10 may drive fastener 5 into hole 2 at an incorrect angle, potentially damaging fastener 5 and / or hole 2.

[0054] refer to Figure 5A and 5BOnce the tip 22 and the fastener 5 are aligned, the tip 22 engages the fastener 5 and begins to tighten (i.e., screw) the fastener 5 into the hole 2. As the tip 22 is positioned sufficiently close to the fastener 5, the magnetic attraction, and more specifically the magnetic force, between the magnet 58 and the fastener 5 becomes strong enough to overcome the spring force provided by the spring 62. As a result, the magnetic force between the magnet 58 and the fastener 5 will push the flange 66 of the outer sleeve 46 against the bias of the spring 62, causing the outer sleeve 46 and the magnet 58 to slide in the forward direction relative to the tool head 10 and the base collar 50. Thus, the magnetic force will move the outer sleeve 46 from a first operating state to a second operating state. Due to the engagement between the base collar 50, the retainer 54, and the tip groove 42, the base collar 50 does not translate with the outer sleeve 46. Instead, as the magnet 58 effectively pulls the outer sleeve 46 against the bias of the spring 62, the outer sleeve 46 can slide along the outer surface of the base collar 50. Once the operation (e.g., tightening) is complete, the user can use the force overcoming the magnetic force between magnet 58 and fastener 5 to pull the power tool, and thus the tool head 10 and magnetic enhancer 14, away from fastener 5. With magnet 58 separated from fastener 5, spring 62 can bias the flange 66 of outer sleeve 46 away from base collar 50, causing magnetic enhancer 14 to return to its pre-engaged operating state, as... Figure 4A As shown.

[0055] The tool head 10 and the magnetic enhancer 14 can also be used in a similar manner to remove the fastener 5 from the hole 2. In this case, the magnet 58 can help to temporarily hold the fastener 5, so that the fastener 5 will not fall off the tool head 10 and be lost when the fastener 5 is removed from the hole 2.

[0056] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A tool head assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. Apart from the differences described in the present invention... Figure 6 and Figure 7 The toolhead component can be broadly similar to Figures 1 to 3 Tool header component.

[0057] exist Figure 6 and Figure 7In the illustrated embodiment, the tool head assembly includes a tool head 110 and a magnetic enhancer 114. The tool head 110 includes a drive portion 118 defining a first end 110a of the tool head 110 and having a maximum external dimension D4, a tip 122 defining a second end 110b of the tool head 110 and having a maximum external dimension D5, and a shaft 126 extending between the drive portion 118 and the tip 122 and interconnecting them. A tip recess 142 is defined in the tip 122 at a position in front of the shaft 126. The shaft 126 has a maximum external dimension D6. Each of the drive portion 118, tip 122, shaft 126, and tip recess 142 can be coupled to… Figure 2 The corresponding parts of the drive portion 18, tip 22, shaft 26, and tip groove 42 of the tool head 10 are generally similar, and in some embodiments are identical to them.

[0058] The magnetic enhancer 114 is mounted to and surrounds the tool head 110 at the point 122 adjacent to the second end 110b of the tool head 110. The magnetic enhancer 114 shown includes an outer sleeve 146, a base collar 150, a retainer 154, a magnet 158 ​​supported within the outer sleeve 146 at its forward end, a first spring 162, and a second spring 164. Each of the outer sleeve 146, base collar 150, retainer 154, and magnet 158 ​​is generally similar to... Figure 2 One of the following: outer sleeve 146, base collar 150, retainer 154, and magnet 158. For example... Figures 8A-8C As shown, the outer sleeve 146 includes a flange 166 that extends radially inward from a portion of the outer sleeve 146 at its rearward end. A base collar 150 and a retainer 154 are positioned within the outer sleeve 146. The base collar 150 includes a recess 170 that receives and supports the retainer 154. The retainer 154 may partially protrude from the recess 170 of the base collar 150 and enter a tip groove 142 formed in the tip 122 of the tool head 110 to secure the base collar 150 to the tool head 110.

[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the base collar 150 is compared to Figure 4A The base collar 50 is smaller to accommodate the first spring 162 and the second spring 164 within the outer sleeve 146. The first spring 162 is positioned on the side of the base collar 150 opposite to the magnet 158. That is, the first spring 162 is positioned between the base collar 150 and the flange 166 and can bias the flange 166 of the outer sleeve 146 away from the base collar 150. The second spring 164 is positioned on the side of the base collar 150 opposite to the flange 166. That is, the second spring 164 is positioned between the base collar 150 and the magnet 158 ​​and can bias the magnet 158 ​​away from the base collar 150.

[0060] The first spring 162 and the second spring 164 enable the magnetic enhancer 114 to switch between a first operating state, a second operating state, and a third operating state. The first operating state can also be referred to as the pre-engaged operating state. See also Figure 8A In the first operating state, the first spring 162 and the second spring 164 apply equal and opposite (i.e., opposite directions) forces to the base collar 150, which allows the spring forces to be effectively balanced and leaves no residual bias within the magnetic enhancer 114. The first operating state can be broadly analogous to the combined... Figure 4A The tool head 10 and the magnetic enhancer 14 are in the pre-engaged state. Specifically, when the magnetic enhancers 14 and 114 are in the pre-engaged operation state, Figure 8A The tip 122 of the tool head 110 protrudes from the outer sleeve 146 and Figure 4A The tip 22 of the tool head 10 (relative to) Figure 4A The forward end of the outer sleeve 46 protrudes by the same distance. During operation, see [reference needed]. Figure 8B and Figure 8C The outer sleeve 146 can move against the bias of the first spring 162 to switch or adjust the magnetic enhancer 114 to a second operating state. Figure 8B Furthermore, the outer sleeve 146 can move against the bias of the second spring 164 to switch or adjust the magnetic enhancer 114 to the third state. Figure 8C The second operating state can also be referred to as the engaged operating state. The second operating state can be broadly similar to the engaged state. Figure 4B The tool head 10 and magnetic enhancer 14 are in the engaged operating state.

[0061] See Figure 8C and Figure 9The third operating state can also be referred to as the sub-flush engagement operating state. To move to the third operating state, the outer sleeve 146 and magnet 158 ​​move rearward (i.e., relative to the tip 122 and base collar 150) and compress the second spring 164 between the base collar 150 and magnet 158. In the third operating state, due to the rearward movement of the outer sleeve 146 and magnet 158, the tip 122 protrudes a greater distance from the forward end of the outer sleeve 146 and magnet 158 ​​compared to the first and second operating states. Therefore, the third operating state is associated with a working operation in which the tip 122 can extend below the surface 107 (i.e., sub-flush) to drive the fastener 105 into the hole 102 during the working operation, or in some cases directly into the surface 107. The second spring 164 advantageously allows the tool head 110 to drive the fastener 105 into the surface 107 in a slightly concave position in the third operating state, without forcing the magnetic enhancer 114 away from the tip 122 and onto the shaft 126 during the rearward movement of the outer sleeve 146 and the magnet 158. Once the working operation is complete, the second spring 164 can bias the magnet 158 ​​and the outer sleeve 146 forward to return the magnetic enhancer 114 to the first operating state.

[0062] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with various embodiments of the tool head assembly, variations of the tool head assembly remain within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Various features and advantages of the present invention are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A tool head assembly, characterized in that, include: Tool head, the tool head comprising: The driving portion, which defines a first end of the tool head and is configured to be coupled to the tool, and Tip, the tip defining a second end of the tool head and configured to engage a workpiece; and Magnetic enhancer, including: A base collar, which is mounted to the tip of the tool head. An outer sleeve, movably received on the base collar, includes a forward end, a rearward end, and a flange extending radially inward at the rearward end. A magnet, the magnet being positioned at the forward end of the outer sleeve, and A spring is positioned between the flange of the base collar and the flange of the outer sleeve to bias the flange away from the base collar.

2. The tool head assembly of claim 1, wherein, The tool head includes a shaft that interconnects the drive portion and the tip, wherein the shaft has an external dimension smaller than both the drive portion and the tip.

3. The tool head assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The outer sleeve is configured to translate relative to the tip and against the bias of the spring along the base collar.

4. The tool head assembly of claim 3, wherein, The magnetic enhancer further includes a retainer, wherein a recess is defined on the inner surface of the base collar, wherein the recess is configured to receive and support the retainer, and wherein the retainer partially protrudes from the recess to engage the tip to inhibit movement of the base collar relative to the tip.

5. The tool head assembly of claim 3, wherein, The magnet is fixed to the outer sleeve, which enables the magnet to move together with the outer sleeve against the bias of the spring.

6. The tool head assembly of claim 5, wherein, The outer diameter of the magnet is larger than the inner diameter of the outer sleeve, thereby creating an interference fit between the magnet and the outer sleeve, which fixes the magnet relative to the outer sleeve.

7. The tool head assembly of claim 1, wherein, The outer sleeve is configured to translate relative to the tip of the tool head between a first operating state and a second operating state, wherein when the outer sleeve is in the first operating state, the tip protrudes further from the forward end of the outer sleeve than when the outer sleeve is in the second operating state.

8. The tool head assembly of claim 7, wherein, The tool head assembly is configured to engage a fastener, such that the magnetic force between the magnet and the fastener overcomes the bias of the spring to move the outer sleeve from the first operating state to the second operating state.

9. A magnetic intensifier for use with a tool head, characterized by, The magnetic enhancer includes: A base collar, the base collar being configured to be mounted onto the tool head; An outer sleeve, the outer sleeve being movably received on the base collar and including a forward end, a rearward end, and a flange extending radially inward at the rearward end; A magnet, the magnet being positioned at the forward end of the outer sleeve; and A spring is positioned between the flange of the base collar and the flange of the outer sleeve to bias the flange away from the base collar.

10. The magnetic intensifier of claim 9, wherein, The device further includes a retainer, wherein a recess is defined on the inner surface of the base collar, wherein the recess is configured to receive and support the retainer, and wherein the retainer partially protrudes from the recess and is configured to engage the tool head.

11. The magnetic intensifier of claim 10, wherein, The retainer is a C-shaped clip.

12. The magnetic intensifier of claim 9, wherein, The magnet is fixed relative to the outer sleeve, which allows the magnet to be configured to move together with the outer sleeve relative to the base collar.

13. The magnetic intensifier of claim 9, wherein, The magnet has a ring shape, which allows the tool head to pass through the center of the magnet.

14. The magnetic intensifier of claim 9, wherein, The spring is a first spring, and the magnetic enhancer further includes a second spring positioned between the base collar and the magnet.

15. A tool head for use with a magnetic intensifier, characterized by The tool head includes: A drive portion, the drive portion defining a first end of the tool head and configured to be coupled to the tool, the drive portion having a first maximum external dimension; A shaft extending from the drive portion in a direction away from a first end of the tool head, the shaft having a second maximum external dimension; and Tip, the tip defining a second end of the tool head and configured to engage a workpiece, the tip having a third maximum external dimension, the tip including Multiple blades, A plurality of chip removal slots, each chip removal slot being defined between adjacent blades in the plurality of blades, and A groove configured to receive a coupling member from the magnetic enhancer to couple the magnetic enhancer to the tool head; The groove is formed in the tip at a position in front of the shaft and behind the plurality of blades.

16. The tool head of claim 15, wherein, The second maximum external dimension is smaller than each of the first maximum external dimension and the third maximum external dimension.

17. The tool head of claim 15, wherein, The groove is closer to the shaft than to the second end of the tool head.

18. The tool head of claim 15, wherein, The groove is a circumferential recess that extends continuously around the tip.

19. The tool head of claim 15, wherein, The groove is located at the tip position where the outer dimension of the tip is the largest, which makes the portion of the tip surrounding the groove have a thickness equal to the third largest outer dimension.

20. The tool head of claim 15, wherein, The second maximum external dimension of the shaft is smaller than the external dimension of the groove.

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