Hanging accessory with nose piece insert

Abstract

A suspension accessory for use with a powered fastener driver, comprising a nosepiece from which fasteners are ejected, includes a bracket configured to be mounted to a work surface and an insert coupled to the bracket. The insert comprises a base defining a recess with a bottom surface and an adjacent side wall, and a retaining element extending from the bottom surface of the recess and spaced from the side wall. The retaining element has a through-hole and defines an outer circumference. The recess is configured to receive the nosepiece such that the outer circumference of the retaining element is interference-fitted by the nosepiece, with a distal end of the nosepiece in contact with the bottom surface of the recess and an outer surface of the nosepiece spaced inward from the side wall.

Description

Cross-reference to related registrations This application claims priority over the preliminary US patent application No. 63 / 810.202 filed on May 22, 2025, and the preliminary US patent application No. 63 / 736.778 filed on December 20, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Field of invention The present invention relates to suspension accessories for use with a driven fastener driver, in particular suspension accessories with a nosepiece insert which is received in a nosepiece of the driven fastener driver. Summary of the invention In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a suspension accessory used with a powered fastener driver, wherein the powered fastener driver includes a nosepiece from which fasteners are ejected, and wherein the suspension accessory includes: a bracket configured to be attached to a work surface;and an insert coupled to the holder, the insert comprising a base defining a recess with a bottom surface and an adjacent side wall, and a retaining element extending from the bottom surface of the recess and spaced from the side wall, the retaining element having an opening extending through it and defining an outer circumference, the recess being configured to receive the nosepiece such that the outer circumference of the retaining element engages with the nosepiece in an interference fit and a distal end of the nosepiece is in contact with the bottom surface of the recess and an outer surface of the nosepiece is spaced inwards from the side wall. In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a suspension accessory for use with a powered fastener driver, wherein the powered fastener driver comprises a nosepiece from which fasteners are ejected, and wherein the suspension accessory comprises: a bracket configured to be attached to a work surface; and an insert supported by the bracket, the insert comprising a base defining a recess that defines a bottom surface and an adjacent side wall;and a retaining element extending from the bottom surface of the recess and spaced apart from the side wall of the recess, the retaining element having an opening extending through it, the retaining element having a distal end, a first section extending from the bottom surface of the recess to the distal end and defining an outer circumference, a second section extending from the second section to the distal end, the second section extending inwards at an angle from the first section, the first section having a height less than the height of the side wall, the recess being configured to receive the nosepiece such that the outer circumference of the retaining element engages the nosepiece in an interference fit. In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a suspension accessory for use with a powered fastener driver, wherein the powered fastener driver comprises a nosepiece from which fasteners are ejected, and wherein the suspension accessory comprises: a bracket configured to be attached to a work surface; and an insert supported by the bracket, the insert comprising a base defining a recess that defines a bottom surface and an adjacent side wall; and a retaining element extending from the bottom surface of the recess and spaced from the side wall of the recess, the retaining element comprising a shaft extending from the bottom surface and having a distal end opposite the bottom surface and an opening extending along the length of the shaft, and a plurality of projections.which extend tangentially from the shaft, each of the plurality of projections extending between the bottom surface of the recess and the distal end, a first section of each of the plurality of projections extending from the bottom surface of the recess to the distal end, and a second section of each of the plurality of projections extending inwards relative to the corresponding first section, the recess being configured to receive the nosepiece such that the first sections of at least one subset of the plurality of projections engage in an interference fit with the nosepiece, and a distal end of the nosepiece being in contact with the bottom surface of the recess, and an outer surface of the nosepiece being spaced inwards from the side wall. In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a suspension accessory for use with a powered fastener driver, wherein the powered fastener driver comprises a nosepiece from which fasteners are ejected, wherein the suspension accessory comprises: a bracket configured to be attached to a work surface, the bracket comprising a recess with a bottom surface and an adjacent side wall, and a retaining element extending from the bottom surface of the recess and spaced from the side wall, the retaining element having an opening extending through it that defines an outer circumference, wherein the recess is configured to receive the nosepiece.so that the outer circumference of the retaining element engages with the nose piece in a press fit, and a distal end of the nose piece is in contact with the bottom surface of the recess, and an outer surface of the nose piece has a distance from the side wall to the inside. Further features and aspects of the invention will become clear from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. Brief description of the drawings Fig. 1 is a side view of a driven fastener driver with a nose piece. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the driven fastener driver from Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a nose piece of the driven fastener driver from Fig. 1. Fig. 4 is a perspective top view of a suspension accessory with an insert according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the suspension accessory and the insert from Fig. 4. Fig. 6 is a top view of the insert from Fig. 4. Fig. 7 is a detailed top view of the insert from Fig. 4, which is received in the nose piece from Fig. 3. Fig. 8A is a cross-sectional view of the insert from Fig. 4 along section line 8A-8A in Fig. 4. Fig. 8B is another cross-sectional view of the insert from Fig. 4 along section line 8B-8B in Fig. 4. Fig.Fig. 9A is a perspective view of an insert according to another embodiment for use with the suspension accessory from Fig. 4. Fig. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the insert from Fig. 9A, which is received in the nose piece of the driven fastener driver from Fig. 1. Fig. 10 is a perspective view of an insert according to another embodiment for use with the suspension accessory from Fig. 4. Fig. 11 is a perspective view of an insert according to another embodiment for use with the suspension accessory from Fig. 4. Fig. 12 is a perspective view of an insert according to another embodiment for use with the suspension accessory from Fig. 4. Fig. 13 is a side view of the insert from Fig. 12. Fig. 14 is a perspective view of an insert according to another embodiment for use with the suspension accessory from Fig. 4.Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the insert from Figure 14 along line 15-15 from Figure 14. Figure 16 is a perspective view of an insert according to another embodiment for use with the suspension accessory from Figure 4. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the insert from Figure 14 along line 17-17 from Figure 16. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the insert from Figure 14 along line 18-18 from Figure 17. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the insert from Figure 14 along line 19-19 from Figure 17. Figure 20 is a perspective view of an insert according to another embodiment for use with the suspension accessory from Figure 4. Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the insert from Fig. 20 along line 21-21 from Fig. 20. Fig. 22 is a perspective view of an insert according to another embodiment for use with the suspension accessory from Fig. 4.Figure 23 is a perspective view of an insert according to another embodiment for use with the suspension accessory from Figure 4. Figure 24 is a perspective view of a holder with an integrally formed insert. Before individual embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it should be noted that the application of the invention is not limited to the design details and arrangements of components described in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention can also be implemented or carried out in other embodiments and in various ways. Furthermore, it should be noted that the formulations and terms used here serve only for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. Detailed description Fig. 1 shows a powered fastener driver 10 that can eject fasteners (e.g., nails) into a work surface (e.g., a wall made of concrete, steel, solid masonry, etc.) to fasten fixtures or structures (electrical installations, cables, frame structures, etc.) to the work surface. In some embodiments, the powered fastener driver 10 can be configured as a powered single-shot fastener driver that can eject individual fasteners sequentially when they are manually loaded into the fastener driver after each driving cycle. In other embodiments, the powered fastener driver 10 can be configured as a powered multi-shot fastener driver that includes a magazine holding a stacked strip of fasteners, thus eliminating the need for the user to manually reload the fastener driver after each driving cycle.In the illustrated embodiment, the driven fastener driver 10 is a fastener driver 10 driven by a gas spring. The driven fastener driver 10 comprises a housing 12 (Fig. 2) containing a motor (e.g., a brushless DC motor) that provides a driving force for operating the driven fastener driver 10. The housing 12 further includes a cylinder 16, a drive piston 18 located within the cylinder 16 to perform a reciprocating motion, and a drive blade 20 attached to the drive piston 18. The driven fastener driver 10 also includes a gas spring 22 (i.e., a gas spring).A fixed quantity of compressed gas (e.g., nitrogen) within the cylinder 16 expands during a fastener driving operation within the cylinder 16 to move the drive piston 18 and drive blade 20 toward the working surface, ejecting the fastener from a nosepiece 24 and into the working surface. The driven fastener driver 10 also includes a lifting mechanism 26 coupled between the motor and the drive piston 18. The lifting mechanism 26 returns the drive piston 18 and drive blade 20 to an upper central position within the cylinder 16, thereby compressing the gas spring 22 for a subsequent fastener driving operation. The nose piece 24 retracts upon contact with the working surface and also serves as a safety device for the driven fastener driver 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the nose piece 24 is designed as a cylinder dimensioned such that the fastener can be ejected through it. As shown in Fig. 3, one end 30 of the nose piece 24 comprises a positive groove or projection 32. In the illustrated example, the end 30 of the nose piece 24 comprises a circular projection 32. Figures 4-5 show a suspension accessory 34 for use with the powered fastener driver 10. The suspension accessory 34 is attached to the work surface. The suspension accessory 34 comprises a bracket 38 and a plastic insert 42. The bracket 38 is attached to the work surface via the powered fastener driver 10. In particular, the bracket 38 defines a mounting surface 38a and an insert support surface 38b. An opening 38c extends between the mounting surface 38a and the insert support surface 38b, as shown. The plastic insert 42 is supported by the bracket 38 and is configured to be received in the nosepiece 24 to hold the suspension accessory 34 against the nosepiece 24 before it is attached to the work surface (Fig. 10). The insert 42 can have various configurations, as shown here.Therefore, identical structures are designated with the same terms and reference numerals, with only the differences discussed herein being specified. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the holder 38 and the insert 42 are formed separately and then coupled together. In other embodiments, the holder 38 can be formed integrally with the insert 42, as shown in Fig. 24. As shown in Figs. 4-5, the insert 42 comprises a base 50, a connecting element 54 (Fig. 5) which is supported by and extends from the base 50, and a retaining element 58 which is supported by the base 50. The base 50 comprises a first surface 70 and a second surface 74 opposite the first surface 70. The base 50 defines a longitudinal axis 78 (Fig. 8A) extending between the first surface 70 and the second surface 74. The base 50 defines an outer wall 79 extending between the first surface 70 and the second surface 74. A recess 80 is defined in the base 50, more precisely in the first surface 70 of the base 50. The recess 80 comprises a bottom surface 86 and an adjacent side wall 90 that surrounds the bottom surface 86. The base surface 86 generally runs parallel to the first surface 70. An opening 94 (Fig. 8A) extends along the longitudinal axis 78 through the base 50. One end of the opening 94 extends through the base surface 86 and the opposite end of the opening 94 extends through the second surface 74. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 50 has a perimeter having a first shape (e.g., square), and the recess 80 defined by the side wall 90 has a second shape (e.g., circular) that differs from the first shape. In other embodiments, the first and second perimeters may have the same shape. Furthermore, in the embodiment according to Figures 4-5, the outer wall 79 comprises four sides 79a-79d. The adjacent sides 79a-79d are coupled to define corners 716. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 22, the base 50 has an alternative configuration. As shown, the outer wall 79 comprises a plurality of indentations 720. In the embodiment shown, one of the indentations 720 is formed in each corner 716, so that there are four indentations 720. In other embodiments, the indentations 720 may be positioned differently and / or there may be larger or fewer indentations 720. In the embodiment shown, the indentations 720 extend from the first surface 70 to the second surface 74 and are generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 78. As shown, the indentations 720 extend partially from the first surface 70 to the second surface 74. Thus, the indentations 720 each define an indentation surface 724 that is indented relative to the outer wall 79.Each of the indentation surfaces 724 defines a plane that generally runs parallel to the longitudinal axis 78. In the illustrated embodiment, the indentation surfaces 724 extend between adjacent sides 79a-79d of the outer wall 79. As shown, the indentation surfaces 724 are positioned at oblique angles relative to the respective sides 79a-79b. As shown, the indentation surfaces 724 are positioned at obtuse angles relative to the respective sides 79a-79b. The indentations 724 reduce the mass of the base 50 by more than 10%. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the indentations reduce the mass of the base 50 by 14%. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 23, the base 50 has yet another alternative configuration. As shown, the base 50 includes the indentations 720 discussed above with reference to Fig. 22 and further includes a plurality of grooves 728 extending from the first surface 70 to the second surface 74. Each of the grooves also extends between the side wall 90 and the indentation surface 724. In the embodiment shown, the grooves 728 are each U-shaped, although in other embodiments they may have other shapes. The indentations 720 and the grooves 728 reduce the mass of the base 50 by at least 20%. For example, in the embodiment shown, the indentations 720 and the grooves 728 reduce the mass of the base by 20%. Although the configuration of the base 50 is shown with respect to the embodiment of Fig. 4-8B, the base 50 of the embodiments of Fig. 9A-21 can also be the configurations of Fig.22 and Fig. 23 include. In each of the embodiments, the connecting element 54 extends from the second surface 74. An axis 100 (Fig. 8A) extending through the connecting element 54 is aligned with (e.g., coextensively with) the longitudinal axis 78 of the base 50. The connecting element 54 defines an opening 104 extending through it along the axis 100. The opening 104 in the connecting element 54 is connected to and aligned with the opening 94 in the base 50. The connecting element 54 extends through the opening 38c in the holder 38, while the second surface 74 of the base 50 is positioned on the insert support surface 38b of the holder 38. In each of the embodiments, the retaining element 58 is coupled to and extends from the base 50. As shown, the retaining element 58 is positioned within the recess 80 and extends from the base surface 86. An axis 120 (Fig. 8A) extending through the retaining element 58 is aligned with (e.g., coextensively with) the longitudinal axis 78 of the base 50. The retaining element 58 is spaced from the side wall 90 by a first gap or spacer. The retaining element 58 defines an opening 124 that extends through it along the axis 120. The opening 124 in the retaining element 58 is connected to and aligned with the openings 94 and 104 in the base 50 and the connecting element 54. The retaining element 58 also has a first section 130 which is coupled to and extends from the base surface 86, and a second section 134 which extends from the first section 130.As shown in Fig. 8A, the first section 130 defines a perimeter of the retaining element 58 and has a height H1 that is less than the height H2 of the wall 90 of the recess 80. Furthermore, the height H3 of the second section 134 is generally less than the height H1 of the first section 130. The perimeter has a first dimension (e.g., width W1). The second section 134 has a second dimension that is less than the first dimension (e.g., width W2). The first width W1 is generally uniform along a height H4 of the retaining element 58, while the second width W2 decreases along the height H4 of the retaining element 58. In the illustrated embodiments, the first section 130 defines one or more outermost edges 140 and the second section 134 defines one or more outermost edges 144. Each of the outermost edges 140 of the first section 130 extends in a first plane P1 (Fig. 8B), which is generally perpendicular to the base surface 86.Each of the outermost edges 144 of the second section 134 extends in a second plane P2 (Fig. 8B) which is inclined inwards relative to the first plane P1 of the corresponding outermost edge 140 of the first section 130 (e.g., in the direction of the axis 120), as discussed in more detail below. In other words, the outermost edges 144 of the second section 134 are chamfered relative to the corresponding outermost edges 140 of the first section 130. In the illustrated embodiments, the angle θ of the second plane P2 relative to the corresponding first plane P1 is approximately 163 degrees. The term "approximately" is used here as plus or minus one degree. In other embodiments, the angle θ of the second plane P2 relative to the corresponding first plane P1 is less than approximately 180 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle θ of the second plane P2 relative to the first plane P1 is more than approximately 150 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle θ of the second plane P2 relative to the corresponding first plane P1 lies between approximately 120 degrees and approximately 180 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle θ of the second plane P2 relative to the corresponding first plane P1 lies between approximately 130 degrees and approximately 170 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle θ of the second plane P2 relative to the corresponding first plane P1 lies between approximately 140 degrees and approximately 165 degrees. As shown in Fig. 9B, the first section 130 is configured to engage an inner surface of the nose piece 24, while the projection 32 of the nose piece 24 is configured to be received in the recess 80 between the retaining element 58 and the side wall 90. The first section 130 is configured to form an interference fit with the inner surface of the nose piece 24. As shown in Fig. 9B, when the nose piece 24 receives the retaining element 58, each of the outermost edges 140 of the first section 130 engages the inner surface of the nose piece 24, and a second gap or space is defined between the inner surface of the nose piece 24 and each of the outermost edges 144 of the second section 134.Additionally, the openings 94, 104, and 124 of the base 50, the connecting element 54, and the retaining element 58 together define a path that is aligned with the guide of the nosepiece 24 and configured to receive a fastener and guide the fastener into the work surface. When the fastener is driven into the work surface, the head of the fastener engages the distal end of the retaining element 58, and the retaining element 58 moves with the fastener as it is driven into the work surface. Furthermore, once driven into the work surface, the insert 42 is coupled between the holder 38 connected to the work surface and the head of the fastener.In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining element 58 has a crushing capacity in which the retaining element 58 deforms elastically, so that it is not destroyed by the force of the fastening means, but instead retains its general shape even after the holder 38 is coupled to the working surface. With reference to Fig. 4-8B, the retaining element 58 of the insert 42 comprises a shaft 200 and a plurality of projections 204. The shaft 200 is connected to and extends from the base surface 86. The shaft 200 defines the opening 124 and includes an outer circumferential surface 208. The shaft 200 is generally cylindrical and also defines a generally cylindrical opening 124. Each of the projections 204 extends outward from the shaft 200. As shown, each of the projections 204 extends tangentially from the outer circumferential surface 208 of the shaft 200. Each of the projections 204 has a distal end 212 that is spaced apart from the shaft 200. The distal end 212 defines a first surface 220 and a second surface 224 that is inclined inward relative to the first surface 220. Each of the projections 204 is separated from the adjacent projections 204 by a third space or gap. As shown, each of the projections 204 comprises a first section 230, partially defined by the first surface 220, and a second section 234, partially defined by the second surface 224. The first section 230 of each projection 204 extends from the base surface 86 to a distal end 238 of the shaft 200. The second section 234 of each projection 204 extends from the first section 230 to the distal end 238 of the shaft 200. As shown, the first sections 230 of the projections 204 together define the first section 130 of the retaining element 58, while the second sections 234 of the projections 204 together define the second section 134 of the retaining element 58. Additionally, each of the first surfaces 220 of the projections 204 extends in a first plane P1, which is perpendicular to the base surface 86.Each of the second surfaces 224 of the projections 204 extends in a second plane P2, which is inclined inwards relative to the corresponding first surface 220. The second sections 234 each define a chamfered edge, and together the second sections 234 define a chamfered edge of the retaining element 58. In the embodiment of Fig. 4-8B, the first sections 230 of the projections 204 have the same height H1, and the second sections 234 of the projections 204 have the same height H3, which is less than the height H1, as mentioned above. In some embodiments, such as those of Fig. 22 and Fig. 23, the first section 230 of a first subgroup of each of the projections 204 may have a first height H1', ​​while the corresponding second section 234 may have a second height H1'. Similarly, the first section 230 of a second subgroup of each of the projections 204 may have a third height H3', while the corresponding second section 234 may have a fourth height H". Although shown only in Fig. 22, in the embodiments of Fig. 22 and Fig. 23, the first height H1' and the third height H" are different, and the second height H3' and the fourth height H" are different.For example, the first height H1' is smaller than the third height H” and the second height H3' is larger than the fourth height H”. The projections of the first subgroup alternate with the projections of the second subgroup. In the illustrated embodiment, the projections 204 comprise a first set of projections 204 with a first length L1 between the shaft 200 and its distal end 238, and a second set of projections 204 with a second, shorter length L2 between the shaft 200 and its distal end 238. Accordingly, the first projections 204 define a first maximum radius, and the second projections 204 define a second maximum radius, which is smaller than the first maximum radius. The first set of projections 204 alternates with the second set of projections 204 around the circumference of the shaft 200. Together, the first set of projections 204 defines the circumference of the first section 130. The circumference is thus defined by the first maximum radius of the first set of projections 204 and has a first circumference C1.The second set of projections 204 together defines a second circumference C2 (determined by the second maximum radius), which is smaller than the first circumference C1. Accordingly, only the first set of projections 204 is configured to engage with the inner surface of the nosepiece 24 (e.g., forming an interference fit), while the second set of projections 204 is spaced from the inner surface of the nosepiece 24 but provides support and maintains the compression action. In other embodiments, each of the projections 204 can have the same length and define the same maximum radius, so that each projection 204 defines the circumference of the first section 130 and engages with the inner surface of the nosepiece 24 (e.g., forming an interference fit).In other embodiments, a subgroup of the projections 204 can have the same length and define the same maximum radius, such that the subgroup of projections 204 defines the circumference of the first section 130 and engages with the inner surface of the nose piece 24 (e.g., forming an interference fit). In such embodiments, one or more additional subgroups of projections can have different lengths and define a different, smaller maximum radius. That is, subgroups of projections can have different configurations than the first subgroup of projections 204. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 4-8B, there are six projections 204, although other embodiments may have more or fewer projections 204. Additionally, there are three projections 204 in the first set and three projections 204 in the second set, although other embodiments may have more or fewer projections 204 in each set. Furthermore, in the embodiment shown, the first set has the same number of projections 204 as the second set, but other embodiments may have more or fewer projections 204 in the second set than in the first set. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 9A-10, the retaining element 58 comprises a plurality of interconnected V-shaped projections 300. The V-shaped projections 300 are spaced apart from one another by a third interval. Each of the V-shaped projections 300 defines a section of a wall of the retaining element 58 and defines a groove 304 that forms a section of the opening 124. As shown, each of the V-shaped projections 300 comprises a first leg and a second leg connected to the first leg. The intersection of the first leg with the second leg defines a first surface 310 and a second surface 314, which is inclined inwards relative to the first surface 310. Together, the V-shaped projections 300 form the shape of a star. Thus, the cross-sectional shape of the retaining element 58 is a star, with the cross-section being taken in a plane P4 ( Fig. 10) perpendicular to the axis 120 of the retaining element 58.Accordingly, the opening 124 is also star-shaped. The retaining element 58 surrounds the opening 124 in the base 50. In the illustrated embodiment, there are eight V-shaped projections 300, but in other embodiments there may be more or fewer than eight projections 300. In the embodiment of Figs. 9A-9B, there are eight V-shaped projections 300, while in the embodiment of Fig. 10, there are four V-shaped projections 300. As shown, each of the V-shaped projections 300 comprises a first section 320, partially defined by the first surface 310, and a second section 324, partially defined by the second surface 314. The first section 320 of each of the V-shaped projections 300 extends from the base surface 86 to a distal end 338 of the retaining element 58. The second section 324 of each of the V-shaped projections 300 extends from the first section 320 to the distal end 338 of the retaining element 58. As shown, the first sections 320 of the V-shaped projections 300 together form the first section 130 of the retaining element 58, while the second sections 324 of the V-shaped projections together form the second section 134 of the retaining element 58. In addition, each of the first surfaces 310 of the V-shaped projections 300 extends into a first plane P1, which is perpendicular to the base surface 86.Each of the second surfaces 314 of the V-shaped projections 300 extends in a second plane P1, which is inclined inwards relative to the first surface 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the second sections 324 are generally flat or planar and therefore each define a chamfered edge. Together, the second sections 324 thus define a chamfered edge of the retaining element 58. In other embodiments, the second sections 324 can generally be curved or arcuate and therefore each define a rounded edge. Together, the second sections 324 can thus define a curved edge of the retaining element 58 in other embodiments. Although the projections 300 in Figures 9-10 are V-shaped, in other embodiments the projections 300 can have other shapes. For example, in some embodiments the projections 300 can be semicircular, cuboid, polygonal, etc. In the embodiment shown in Figures 11 and 14-18, the retaining element 58 is generally polygonal and therefore has a polygonal cross-section. As shown, the retaining element 58 comprises a plurality of sides 400 that are coupled together. In the embodiment shown, the retaining element 58 has four sides 400 and is generally square in shape. In other embodiments, the retaining element 58 may have three or more sides 400. As shown, the retaining element 58 surrounds the opening 94 in the base 50. As shown in Fig. 11, each side 400 and the corners 402 adjoining adjacent sides 400 each comprise a first section 410 and a second section 414. The first section 410 of each of the sides 400 and corners 402 extends from the base surface 86 to a distal end 438 of the retaining element 58. The second section 414 of each of the sides 400 and corners 402 extends from the first section 410 to the distal end 438 of the retaining element 58. As shown, the first sections 410 of the sides 400 and corners 402 together define the first section 130 of the retaining element 58, while the second sections 414 of the sides 400 and corners 402 together define the second section 134 of the retaining element 58. Additionally, each of the first sections 410 of the sides 400 and corners 402 extends in a first plane P1 that is perpendicular to the base surface 86. Each of the second sections 414 of the sides 400 and corners 402 extends in a second plane P2 which is inclined inwards relative to the first section 410.In the illustrated embodiment, the second sections 414 are generally flat or planar and therefore each define a chamfered edge. Together, the second sections 414 thus define a chamfered edge of the retaining element 58. In other embodiments, the second sections 414 can generally be curved or arcuate and therefore each define a rounded edge. Together, in other embodiments, the second sections 414 can thus define a curved edge of the retaining element 58. As shown in Figures 14-15, the retaining element 58 has three sides 400' and is generally triangular in shape. The retaining element 58 surrounds the opening 94 in the base 50. In the embodiment shown in Figures 14 and 15, the sides 400' do not comprise separate sections. Instead, each of the sides 400' extends from the bottom surface 86 to the distal end 438' of the retaining element 58 in a single plane P3. Each of the corners 402' adjoining adjacent sides 400' comprises a first section 410' and a second section 414'. The first section 410' of each of the corners 402' extends from the base surface 86 to a distal end 438' of the retaining element 58. The second section 414' of each of the corners 402' extends from the first section 410' to the distal end 438' of the retaining element 58.As shown, the first sections 410' of the corners 402' together define the first section 130 of the retaining element 58, while the second sections 414' of the corners 402' together define the second section 134 of the retaining element 58. Additionally, each of the first sections 410' of the corners 402' extends in a first plane P1 that is perpendicular to the base surface 86. Each of the second sections 414' of the corners 402' extends in a second plane P2 that is inclined inwards relative to the first section 410'. In the embodiment shown, the second sections 414' are generally flat or planar and therefore each define a chamfered edge. Together, the second sections 414' thus define a chamfered edge of the retaining element 58. In other embodiments, the second sections 414' can generally be curved or arcuate and therefore each define a rounded edge.Together, the second sections 414' can thus define a curved edge of the retaining element 58 in other embodiments. The embodiment shown in Figs. 16-19 is a variant of the embodiment shown in Figs. 14-15. The retaining element 58 has three sides 400” and a generally triangular shape. The retaining element 58 surrounds the opening 94 in the base 50. In the embodiment shown in Figs. 16-19, the sides 400” do not comprise separate sections. Instead, each of the sides 400” extends from the bottom surface 86 to the distal end 438’ of the retaining element 58 in different planes. Each of the corners 402”, which adjoin adjacent sides 400’, comprises a first section 410” and a second section 414”. The first section 410” of each of the corners 402” extends from the base surface 86 to a distal end 438” of the retaining element 58. The first section 410” of each of the corners 402” defines a first surface 492 with a front edge 492a and a rear edge 492b, each positioned at a non-perpendicular angle α relative to the base surface 86.Furthermore, the first surface 492 has a uniform width along its height, although in other embodiments the width may not be uniform. The second section 414' of each of the corners 402” extends from the first section 410' to the distal end 438' of the retaining element 58. The second section 414” of each of the corners 402” defines a second surface 496 with a front edge 496a extending from the front edge 492a of the first surface 492, and a rear edge 496b extending from the rear edge 492b of the first surface 492. The front edge 496a extends from the front edge 492a at a first angle β1, and the rear edge 496b extends from the rear edge 492b at a second angle β2, which differs from the first angle β1. Accordingly, the second surface 496 has a variable width along its height, although in other embodiments the width may also be uniform. As shown, the first surfaces 492 of the corners 402” together define the first section 130 of the retaining element 58, while the second surfaces 496 of the corners 402” together define the second section 134 of the retaining element 58. Additionally, each of the first sections 410” of the corners 402” extends in a first plane P1 that is perpendicular to the base surface 86. Each of the second sections 414” of the corners 402” extends in a second plane P2 that is inclined inwards relative to the first section 410”. In the embodiment shown, the second sections 414” are generally flat or planar and therefore each define a chamfered edge. Together, the second sections 414” thus define a chamfered edge of the retaining element 58. In other embodiments, the second sections 414” can generally be curved or arcuate and therefore each define a rounded edge.Together, the second sections 414” can thus define a curved edge of the retaining element 58 in other embodiments. Due to the variability of the surfaces 492, 496, the sides 400” extending between them along the height of the retaining element 58 are also variable. That is, in the embodiment of Figs. 16-19, the triangular shape of the retaining element 58 has a “twisted” arrangement. In the embodiment shown in Figures 12-13, the retaining element 58 is generally cylindrical and thus has a circular cross-section. A plurality of projections 500 extend inwards from an inner surface of the retaining element 58. The innermost ends of the projections 500 partially define the path for the fastening elements. As shown, the retaining element 58 surrounds the opening 94 in the base 50. The diameter of an inner circumference defined by the inner surface of the retaining element 58 is larger than the diameter of the opening 94 extending through the base 50. As shown, the retaining element 58 comprises a first section 510 and a second section 514. The first section 510 extends from the base surface 86 to a distal end 538 of the retaining element 58. The second section 514 extends from the first section 510 to the distal end 538 of the retaining element 58. As shown, the first section 510 defines the first section 130 of the retaining element 58, while the second section 514 defines the second section 134 of the retaining element 58. Additionally, the first section 510 extends at a perpendicular angle relative to the base surface 86. In other embodiments, the first section 510 may extend at a non-perpendicular angle from the base surface 86. The second section 514 is inclined inwards relative to the first section 510.Furthermore, a tangent at each point around the first section 510 extends in a plane P1 perpendicular to the base surface 86, and a tangent at each point around the second section 514 extends in a plane P2 inclined inwards relative to the corresponding plane P1 of the first section 510. The second section 514 therefore defines a chamfered edge of the retaining element 58. In other embodiments, the second section 514 may define a curved or rounded edge. In the embodiment shown in Figures 20-21, the retaining element 58 comprises a plurality of separate walls 600 arranged around the opening 94. Each wall 600 comprises a first end 704 adjacent to the opening 94, a second end 708 opposite the first end 704, and an axis 712 extending between the first end 704 and the second end 708. In the illustrated embodiment, the axes 712 of the walls 600 are arranged at a right angle to the axes 712 of adjacent walls 600. In other embodiments, the axes 712 of the walls 600 may be arranged at a non-right angle to the axes 712 of adjacent walls 600. Furthermore, the first end 704 of each wall 600 is positioned between the first end 704 and the second end 708 of an adjacent wall, and the second end 708 of each wall 600 extends beyond another adjacent wall 600. As shown, each of the second ends 708 of the walls 600 comprises a first section 610 and a second section 614. The first section 610 extends from the base surface 86 to a distal end of the wall 600. The second section 614 extends from the first section 610 to the distal end 538 of the wall 600. As shown, the first sections 610 of the walls 600 together define the first section 130 of the retaining element 58, while the second sections 614 of the walls 600 together define the second section 134 of the retaining element 58. Additionally, each of the first sections 610 extends at a right angle relative to the base surface 86. Each of the second sections 614 is inclined inwards relative to its respective first section 610.Furthermore, each of the first sections 610 extends in a plane P1 that is perpendicular to the base surface 86, and each of the second sections 614 extends in a plane P2 that is inclined inwards relative to the corresponding plane P1 of the respective first section 610. Each of the second sections 614 therefore defines a chamfered edge of the holder 58. In other embodiments, each of the second sections 614 may instead define a rounded or curved edge. Various features of the invention are set out in the following claims. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature US 63 / 810,202

[0001] US 63 / 736,778

[0001]

Claims

Suspension accessory for use with a powered fastener driver, wherein the powered fastener driver comprises a nosepiece from which fasteners are ejected, and wherein the suspension accessory comprises: a bracket configured to be attached to a work surface;and an insert coupled to the holder, the insert comprising a base defining a recess with a bottom surface and an adjacent side wall, and a retaining element extending from the bottom surface of the recess and spaced from the side wall, the retaining element having an opening extending through it and defining an outer circumference, the recess being configured to receive the nosepiece such that the outer circumference of the retaining element engages with the nosepiece in an interference fit and a distal end of the nosepiece is in contact with the bottom surface of the recess and an outer surface of the nosepiece is spaced inwards from the side wall. Suspension accessory according to claim 1, wherein the retaining element comprises a first section extending from the base surface and a second section extending from the first section, wherein the first section defines the outer circumference and has a first width, and wherein the second section has a second width which is smaller than the first width. Suspension accessory according to claim 2, wherein the first width is uniform along the length of the retaining element and wherein the second width decreases along the length of the retaining element. Suspension accessory according to claim 2, wherein the second section defines a beveled or rounded edge of the retaining element. Suspension accessory according to claim 2, wherein the second section is positioned at a non-parallel and non-perpendicular angle relative to the first section. Suspension accessory according to claim 5, wherein the angle is greater than about 120 degrees and less than 180 degrees. Suspension accessory according to claim 2, wherein the retaining element comprises a shaft and a plurality of projections extending tangentially from the shaft, the shaft defining the opening, each of the plurality of projections extending between the bottom surface of the recess and a distal end of the shaft, a first section of each of the plurality of projections extending from the bottom surface of the recess to the distal end of the shaft, and a second section of each of the plurality of projections extending from the first section to the distal end of the shaft, the second section being tapered inwards relative to the first section, the first sections of at least one subgroup of the plurality of projections together forming the first section of the retaining element, and the second sections of at least one subgroup of the plurality of projections together forming the second section of the retaining element. Suspension accessory according to claim 2, wherein the height of the first section is less than the height of the side wall of the recess. Suspension accessory according to claim 1, wherein the retaining element has a cross-section that is star-shaped, polygonal or circular. Hanging accessory according to claim 1, wherein the base comprises an outer wall and a plurality of indentations in the outer wall. Hanging accessory according to claim 1, wherein the base comprises an outer wall and a plurality of indentations in the outer wall, each of the plurality of indentations comprising an indentation surface which is pressed in relative to the outer wall, and wherein the base further comprises a plurality of grooves, each of the plurality of grooves extending between the side wall and a corresponding indentation surface. Suspension accessory for use with a powered fastener driver, wherein the powered fastener driver comprises a nosepiece from which fasteners are ejected, the suspension accessory comprising: a bracket configured to be attached to a work surface; and an insert supported by the bracket, the insert comprising a base defining a recess that defines a bottom surface and an adjacent side wall;and a retaining element extending from the bottom surface of the recess and spaced from the side wall, the retaining element having an opening extending through it, the retaining element having a distal end, a first section extending from the bottom surface of the recess to the distal end and defining an outer circumference, a second section extending from the first section to the distal end, the second section extending inward at an angle from the first section, the first section having a height less than the height of the side wall, the recess being configured to receive the nosepiece such that the outer circumference of the retaining element engages the nosepiece with an interference fit. Suspension accessory according to claim 12, wherein the second section defines a beveled or rounded edge of the retaining element. Suspension accessory according to claim 12, wherein the angle is greater than approximately 120 degrees and less than 180 degrees. Suspension accessory according to claim 12, wherein the retaining element has a cross-section that is star-shaped, polygonal or circular. Suspension accessory according to claim 12, wherein the retaining element comprises a shaft and a plurality of projections extending tangentially from the shaft, the shaft defining the distal end and the opening, and each of the plurality of projections extending between the bottom surface of the recess and to the distal end, a first section of each of the plurality of projections extending from the bottom surface of the recess to the distal end, and a second section of each of the plurality of projections extending from the corresponding first section to the distal end of the shaft, the second section of each of the plurality of projections being tapered inwards relative to the corresponding first section, the first sections of at least one subset of the plurality of projections together defining the first section of the retaining element.and the second sections of at least one subgroup of the multitude of projections together form the second section of the retaining element. Suspension accessory according to claim 12, wherein the recess is configured to receive the nose piece such that a distal end of the nose piece is in contact with the bottom surface of the recess and an outside of the nose piece is spaced inwards from the side wall. Suspension accessory for use with a powered fastener driver, wherein the powered fastener driver comprises a nosepiece from which fasteners are ejected, the suspension accessory comprising: a bracket configured to be attached to a work surface; and an insert coupled to the bracket, the insert comprising a base defining a recess with a bottom surface and an adjacent side wall, and a retaining element extending from the bottom surface of the recess and spaced apart from the side wall of the recess, the retaining element comprising a shaft extending from the bottom surface and having a distal end opposite the bottom surface and an opening extending along the length of the shaft, and a plurality of projections extending tangentially from the shaft.wherein each of the plurality of projections extends between the bottom surface of the recess and the distal end, wherein a first section of each of the plurality of projections extends from the bottom surface of the recess to the distal end and a second section of each of the plurality of projections extends inward relative to the corresponding first section, wherein the recess is configured to receive the nosepiece such that the first sections of at least one subset of the plurality of projections engage together through the nosepiece in an interference fit, and wherein a distal end of the nosepiece is in contact with the bottom surface of the recess and an outer surface of the nosepiece is spaced inward from the side wall. Suspension accessory according to claim 18, wherein the subgroup of projections is a first subgroup of projections and further comprises a second subgroup of projections, wherein each projection of the first subgroup has a first length and each projection of the second subgroup has a second length which is shorter than the first length. Suspension accessory according to claim 19, wherein the first subgroup of projections defines a first diameter which is larger than a second diameter which is defined by the second subgroup of projections. Suspension accessory according to claim 18, wherein the second section of each of the plurality of projections is positioned at a non-parallel and non-perpendicular angle relative to the corresponding first section. Suspension accessory according to claim 18, wherein the second section of each of the projections is positioned at an angle greater than approximately 120 degrees and less than 180 degrees. Suspension accessory according to claim 18, wherein the height of the first section is less than the height of the side wall of the recess. Suspension accessory for use with a powered fastener driver, wherein the powered fastener driver comprises a nosepiece from which fasteners are ejected, the suspension accessory comprising: a bracket configured to be attached to a work surface, the bracket comprising a recess with a bottom surface and an adjacent side wall, and a retaining element extending from the bottom surface of the recess and spaced from the side wall, the retaining element having an opening extending through it and defining an outer circumference, the recess being configured to receive the nosepiece such that the outer circumference of the retaining element engages with the nosepiece in a press fit, a distal end of the nosepiece is in contact with the bottom surface of the recess, and an outer surface of the nosepiece is spaced inward from the side wall. Suspension accessory according to claim 24, wherein the retaining element comprises a first section extending from the base surface and a second section extending from the first section, wherein the first section defines the outer circumference and has a first width, and wherein the second section has a second width which is smaller than the first width. Suspension accessory according to claim 25, wherein the first width is uniform along the length of the retaining element and wherein the second width decreases along the length of the retaining element. Suspension accessory according to claim 25, wherein the second section defines a chamfered or rounded edge of the retaining element. Suspension accessory according to claim 25, wherein the second section is positioned at a non-parallel and non-perpendicular angle relative to the first section. Suspension accessory according to claim 28, wherein the angle is greater than about 120 degrees and less than 180 degrees. Suspension accessory according to claim 25, wherein the retaining element comprises a shaft and a plurality of projections extending tangentially from the shaft, the shaft defining the opening and each of the plurality of projections extending between the bottom surface of the recess and a distal end of the shaft, a first section of each of the plurality of projections extending from the bottom surface of the recess to the distal end of the shaft, and a second section of each of the plurality of projections extending from the first section to the distal end of the shaft, the second section being tapered inwards relative to the first section, the first sections of at least one subgroup of the plurality of projections together defining the first section of the retaining element, and the second sections of at least one subgroup of the plurality of projections together forming the second section of the retaining element. Suspension accessory according to claim 25, wherein the height of the first section is less than the height of the side wall of the recess. Suspension accessory according to claim 24, wherein the retaining element has a cross-section that is star-shaped, polygonal or circular. Hanging accessory according to claim 24, wherein the side wall further comprises a plurality of grooves running parallel to the opening.

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