Threading die and threading die adaptor

Abstract

The threading die adaptor 100 is for use with a power tool (404, Figure 4), such as an impact driver. The adapter has a shaft 104 including a first end 102 for releasably engaging the tool. An opposin

Description

Technical Field The present disclosure relates to threading dies and adaptors, particularly, but not exclusively, threading dies and adaptors for power tools. Background Steel structures and equipment, for example bridges, require a large amount of maintenance and modifications during their lifetime. Metal modification may be carried out to increase the service life of metal structures as demand on them increases, or to meet modern compliance specifications and maintain safety. Such maintenance is usually required to be made on site, outside of workshop facilities. Threading dies are used to create threads on a workpiece. Threading dies may also be used for re-threading worn out workpieces. Workpieces to be threaded may be any elongate structures, such as rods, made of including, but not limited to, brass, aluminium, steel, wood, and the like. Typically, threading dies have a cylindrical or annular geometric profile, and have a set of teeth configured in an internal surface thereof. The threading die may be pushed and rotated about the workpiece such that the teeth cut the external surface of the workpiece. The threads cut on the workpiece correspond to the shape, size, and orientation of the teeth. In existing solutions, the threading die is placed into a die stock / holder connected to a wrench. An operator may align the threading die over the workpiece, preferably over a chamfered end thereof, and rotate the threading die using the wrench while applying linear force in the longitudinal axis of the workpiece. Both rotational and linear force must be imparted to the wrench for cutting the threads onto the workpiece. However, such solutions require the operator to exert significant amounts of manual force to cut the threads, thereby causing strain and fatigue to the operator. Threading of metal workpieces can be performed using a specialised tool, such as a rachet threader which requires a large amount of physical effort and strength, or a power threading machine which is a large free-standing machine to which the rod / metal workpieces must be brought to. Some specialised threading hand-held tools are also available which generate a large torque that the user must physically resist with the use of two hands and significant physical strength. Summary There is provided, in a first aspect, a threading die adaptor for use with a power tool. The threading die adaptor includes a shaft. The shaft may be an elongated structure. The shaft includes a first end for releasably engaging the power tool. The shaft may be gripped by the power tool chuck or a corresponding power tool-shaft adaptor. The shaft also includes a second end, opposing the first end, that defines a die cavity for holding a threading die. Optionally, the die cavity may have a substantially polygonal cross-section, preferably a regular polygon such as a hexagon. The power tool may be a hand-held power tool. In this specification, the term threading covers creating new threads as well as re-threading workpieces which may have degraded through use or over time. Since the threading die is manufactured separately from the adaptor, it may therefore be made of materials different from the adaptor. The material used for making the threading die may be selected such that the threading die is capable of withstanding the torque applied thereto from the shaft / adaptor. For example, a high-speed steel (HSS) may be used for manufacturing the threading die for threading hard metals (workpieces]. Further, the adaptor enables the power tool to be adapted to operate with threading dies of different specifications, thereby allowing for use of a single power tool for a variety of functions / requirements, as the adaptor can be replaced with a suitable tool. For example, the adaptor can be replaced with a drill bit for drilling operation once the threading operation is complete. The versatility of use cases provided by the adaptor eliminates need for carrying a plurality of power tools and improving convenience. Optionally, the adaptor may also include a collar. The collar may be releasably attachable to the second end of the shaft. The collar may be configured to partially close the die cavity when the collar is attached to the second end of the shaft. The collar may be freely rotatable about the second end of the shaft when attached thereto, thereby reducing the torque applied thereto, increasing the reliability of the collar, and minimizing the risk of damage during the threading operation. Optionally, the collar may be attached to the shaft such that the collar is freely rotatable about the shaft, for example, against a constant resistance, or negligible resistance. This is in contrast to threaded coupling where the collar may be tightened or loosened when rotated about the shaft. Optionally, the collar may be attachable to the second end of the shaft via a bayonet mechanism. Optionally, the bayonet mechanism includes one or more protrusions and one or more corresponding grooves or slots, such that the protrusions are locatable in the grooves or slots. Either the protrusions may be defined on the collar and the grooves on the second end of the shaft, or vice versa. The grooves / slots may allow entry / exit of the protrusions along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. Further, the grooves / slots may allow for rotational movement of the protrusions around the longitudinal axis and / or normal to the axis. The bayonet mechanism may include one or more additional protrusions. The protrusions may be of oblong or obround shape and may be wider than they are tall. For example, the protrusions may be wider in a direction around the longitudinal axis of the shaft than they are tall in a direction pointing away from the longitudinal axis of the shaft. This increases the strength of the protrusions. In some examples, the bayonet mechanism may have at least three protrusions located in the groove. Optionally, an alternative fastening mechanism may be a threaded coupling between the collar and the shaft. However, threaded connections may become loose or too tight and seize during use in a power tool, particularly in an impact driver. Hence, a bayonet may be preferred. The collar may further define a workpiece aperture. The workpiece aperture may have a substantially circular cross-section. When the collar is attached to the second end of the shaft, the workpiece aperture may provide an entrance, through the collar, to the die cavity for a workpiece. The collar may further define a swarf hole for allowing chips, which are pieces of the workpiece that are removed during threading, to escape the die cavity. In examples where an impact driver is used, discrete impacts exerted on the workpiece by the impact driver may create chips, instead of strings of swarf. Optionally, the adaptor may further include a guide tube, where a first end of the guide tube is releasably attachable to, or fixedly attached, to the collar around the workpiece aperture, and a second end of the guide tube defines a guide aperture. Optionally, a length of the tube from the first end to the second end may be greater than 0.5 cm, and preferably greater than 1cm. If the guide tubes are releasably attachable, the guide tubes may be swapped with other guide tubes of suitable dimensions and specifications based on requirements, such as based on the geometric profile and specification of the workpiece. Optionally, the guide tube may be internally attached to the collar where the guide tube is inserted into the workpiece aperture using, for instance, press fitting. Alternatively, the guide tube may be externally attached to the collar where the outside edge of the workpiece aperture is inserted into, or positioned against a surface on the guide tube. When the guide tubeis fixedly attached to the collar, the guide tube and the collar may be integrated, or manufactured as a single unit / component. A distance between the guide aperture and the threading die ensures longitudinal alignment of a workpiece, in use, thereby preventing the workpiece from wobbling. Optionally, the shaft may further include a mid-section between the first end and the second end. The mid-section may define a workpiece cavity that may be connected to the die cavity. The workpiece cavity may be elongate to receive a portion of the workpiece that has passed through the die cavity. The workpiece cavity may be elongate along the longitudinal axis of the shaft, i.e. between the first and the second ends of the shaft. The workpiece cavity may be between 40mm and 150mm in length, such as 50mm in some examples, 100mm in other examples, and 150mm in yet other examples. A length from a front face of the die cavity to an end of the workpiece cavity distal from the die cavity may be 50mm, 75mm, 100mm or 150mm. Optionally, the mid-section may define a longitudinal viewing slot in a wall of the workpiece cavity, such that the inside of the workpiece cavity can be viewed from outside the midsection. The viewing slot may allow operators to view the length of the thread made in a workpiece. Optionally, the threading die adaptor may further include length indicators on an outer surface of the mid-section. The length indicators may allow operators to measure a longitudinal distance with respect to the die cavity. The length indicators may be grooves / lines separated by a predetermined distance. The grooves / lines may be defined around the lateral surface of the mid-section. The length indicators may be labelled or numbered to allow operators to measure distances therewith. The labels may be arranged to have an ordinal relationship from the second end to the first end of the shaft. Further, the labels may be oriented such that the base of the labels is towards the first end of the shaft and the top of the labels are towards the second end of the shaft, thereby improving readability of the labels with respect to the viewing angle of the user / operator of the power tool. The labels may indicate a length from a front face of the die cavity. Optionally, the first end of the shaft may have a hexagonal cross section. The first end of the shaft may have a width or diameter of 11mm, or 20mm, optionally measured between flat edges of the cross section. The shaft may have recesses. The recesses may each have flat base for receiving a screw or ball in a direction transverse to the shaft. The recesses may be peripherally spaced about the shaft. The recesses may be located on a common plane transverse to the shaft. In some embodiments, the shaft may have three recesses. The recesses may be equally spaced about the shaft. Optionally, the shaft may be formed using impact rated materials, such as High Tensile Hardened Steel. In some embodiments, the shaft may be made of materials other than HSS, and hence may be capable of withstanding forces from the power tools, such as from an impact driver. Optionally, the threading die for use with the threading die adaptor, may be removably locatable in the die cavity, such that when within the die cavity, the die is non-movable with respect to the shaft. The size and shape of the threading die may be suitably adapted to fit within the cavity such that the threading die is prevented from rotating. The threading die may have a hexagonal outer cross-section. The threading die may also be made of HSS, for example Hardened HSS. The threading die may have a thickness of approximately 10mm to approximately 25mm, optionally, approximately 14mm to approximately 20mm. The threading die may have a largest diameter of approximately 15mm to approximately 60mm, optionally, approximately 27mm to approximately 47mm. Further, the threading die may have a central axis through its aperture and a mid-plane normal to the axis, the mid-plane separating a front portion and a back portion of the die. The front portion of the die may include a threading internal surface for threading a workpiece. The back portion of the die may have a smooth internal surface. All points of the internal surface of the back portion may be at an equal or greater distance from the axis than the widest point on the threading internal surface. In a second aspect, a die set includes a plurality of threading dies, where all of the threading dies in the set have the same outer thickness and cross-sectional shape and size. The threading dies may be as described in preceding paragraphs. The threading internal surface of each of the threading dies in the set may have a different property. The differences in property of the threading internal surface may be with respect to width, depth, circumference of the thread (e.g. for a different sized workpiece), thickness of the front portion / position in the dies of the mid-plane, and the like, but not limited thereto. In a third aspect, a method of threading a workpiece may include providing a threading die adaptor as described in preceding aspects of the present disclosure, where the threading die adaptor may be coupled to a power tool, and a threading die located in the die cavity. The method includes threading the workpiece by rotating the threading die about the workpiece with the power tool. In some embodiments, the power tool may be an impact driver. An impact driver is advantageous because itproduces minimal torque reaction, and chips into the workpiece instead of generating a string of swarf. So, no reaction arm or steady is required. Optionally, the threading die adaptor may be coupled to the power tool by a hex shaft adaptor. The hex shaft adaptor may include a sleeve to receive the hexagonal shaft of the threading die adaptor, and a plurality of fasteners to secure the hex shaft adaptor to the shaft at each recess thereof. The hex shaft adaptor may further include a part shaped to engage with the power tool, such as the impact driver. In a fourth aspect, the present disclosure provides for various kits of parts. A threading die adaptor kit may include a threading die adaptor, and a set of additional collars, such as the collars described above. Each collar in the set may have a respective workpiece aperture, and each of the workpiece apertures in the set has a different diameter. A threading die adaptor kit may include a threading die adaptor, and a set of additional guide tubes. Each guide tube in the set may have a respective guide aperture and each of the guide apertures in the set may have a different diameter. An operator may select the collar and / or guide tube that matches based on the diameter of the workpiece and the threading die, such that the threading die is prevented from wobbling. A threading die adaptor kit may include a threading die adaptor or a threading die adaptor kit as described above, and a threading die. In such embodiments, the thickness of the threading die may be substantially equal to a thickness of the die cavity of the threading die adaptor. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape and size of the threading die and the die cavity may also be substantially identical. The threading die may be sized to be locatable in the die cavity while contacting the shaft or the collar with all significant outer faces of the threading die, such as front, back, at least two sides of the die, and the lateral surface such as all six outer faces of the hexagonal die. The threading die adaptors, threading dies, methods and kits described above may be combined in any possible combination. The optional features described above are equally applicable to all of the described threading die adaptors, threading dies, methods and kits and are not limited to the particular threading die adaptor / threading die / method / kit with which they are described here. The essential features of any of the threading die adaptor / threading die / method / kit described may be optional features of any other threading die adaptor / threading die / method / kit described. Further features and advantages of the above aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent from the claims and the following description. Brief Description of Drawings Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams, in which:- Fig. 1 is an exploded view of a threading die adaptor according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 2 is a side and cross-section representation of the threading die adaptor according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Figs. 3 (a) to (d) are perspective views of various guide tubes attached to the threading die adaptor, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 4 is an exploded view of the threading die adaptor connected to a power tool via a hex shaft adaptor, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and Fig. 5 are side and cross-section views of various threading dies usable with the threading die adaptors, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Description A number of different embodiments of the disclosure are described subsequently. In order to minimise repetition, similar features of the different embodiments are numbered with a common two-digit reference numeral and are differentiated by a third digit placed before the two common digits. Such features are structured similarly, operate similarly, and / or have similar functions unless otherwise indicated. The present disclosure provides a threading die adaptor that allows a plurality of threading dies having different specifications and geometric profiles for cutting threads on workpieces to be attached to conventional power tools. Figs. 1 to 4 show an exemplary threading die adaptor 100 configured to allow one or more threading dies 110 of differing dimensions and specifications to be used with power tools, such as impact drivers 404. Fig. 5 illustrates several examples of the threading dies 110 that the threading die adaptor 100 is capable of accommodating. Fig. 1 provides an exploded view of the threading die adaptor 100. Fig. 2 further provides side view and a cross-section view of the threading die adaptor 100 along axis 'A'. Fig. 3 provides for an assembled view of the threading die adaptor 100. As shown, there is provided, in a first aspect, the threading die adaptor 100 for use with a power tool. The threading die adaptor 100 includes a shaft 104. The shaft 104 may be an elongated structure. The shaft 104 may have a first end 102 and a second end 106, the shaft 104 being elongated between the first and the second ends 102, 106. The first end 102 of the shaft 104 may be configured to releasably engage with power tools. The shaft 104 may be gripped by the power tool chuck, or by the power tool via a corresponding power tool-shaft adaptor, such as hex shaft adaptor 402 of Fig. 4. In some embodiments, the first end 102 of the shaft 104 may be press fit into the corresponding chuck of the power tool. In other embodiments, the first end 102 may have a receiving portion that accommodates and engages with the chuck. The power tool-shaft adaptor may be configured to accommodate and securely engage with the first end 102. The shaft 104 may be constructed to allow forces from the power tool to be transmitted from the first end 102 to the second end 106. The second end 106 of the shaft 104, which may be opposing the first end 102, may define a die cavity 107 for holding a threading die 110. In the context of the present disclosure, power tools may be any machine that is capable of producing rotational and / or linear motion, and preferably, a hand-held power tool. The rotational motion provided by the power tools may be harnessed for threading of workpieces, among other functionalities, using threading dies 110 attached to the power tools configured with the threading die adaptor 100. Hand-held power tools that use the threading die adaptor 100 may include, but not limited to, drills, impact drivers 404, and the like. In most applications, impact drivers 404 may be the preferred power tool used for threading due to their ability to deliver a strong, sudden rotational force and linear force. When threading dies 110 are attached to the impact driver 404 using the threading die adaptor 100, the rotational force and the linear force transmitted by the impact drivers 404 may allow the threading die 110 to cut through and create the threads on the workpiece. While embodiments of the present disclosure are described in the context of the power tool being indicative of impact drivers 404, it may be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the threading die adaptor 100 may allow any power tool to be adapted to accommodate the threading dies 110. In some embodiments, the die cavity 107 may have a substantially polygonal cross-section, such as a rectangular or a hexagonal cross-section. The polygonal cross-section may provide sufficient friction between the threading die 110 and the die cavity 107, thereby preventing possible slippages therebetween. Further, polygonal cross-sections may provide an acceptable balance between force distribution around the threading die 110, and the friction between the threading die 110 and the die cavity 107. In some embodiments, the contours of the die cavity 107 may correspond to those of the threading die 110. The geometric profile and the dimensions of the die cavity 107 may be suitably modified to accommodate and securely engage with the threading die 110. The threading die 110 may have a substantially cylindrical or annular internal geometric profile. A set of teeth / flutes may be defined on the internal surface of the annular gap of the threading die 110. The threading die 110 may be aligned with the workpiece, preferably over a chamfered end thereof, and pushed and rotated over the external surface of the workpiece. Thereon, the teeth may be configured to engage with and chip / cut portions of the external surface of the workpiece when the rotational and linear forces are applied thereto. The size, shape, and orientation of the teeth determine the type and design of the threads cut on the workpiece. In examples where the impact driver 404 is used, discrete impacts exerted on the workpiece by the impact driver 404 create chips, instead of strings of swarf. The threading die 110 may also include one or more chip holes to allow chips created from the cutting of the workpiece to be removed from the path of the teeth. The chip holes may be configured to prevent crowding or increased resistance caused by the chips. Since the threading die 110 may be manufactured separately from the adaptor 100, it may therefore be made of materials different from the adaptor 100. In some embodiments, the material used for making the threading die 110 may be selected such that the threading die 110 is capable of withstanding the torque applied thereto from the power tool through the adaptor 100. The material forming the threading die 110 may also be selected based on hardness of the workpiece. For example, high-speed steel (HSS) may be used for manufacturing the threading die 110 for threading hard metals (workpieces). The adaptor 100 enables the power tool to be adapted to operate with threading dies 110 of different geometric dimensions and specifications. The adaptor 100 also allows for use of a single power tool for a variety of functions / requirements, as the adaptor 100 can be replaced with a suitable tool. For example, the adaptor 100 can be replaced with a drill bit for drilling operation once the threading operation is complete, thereby eliminating the need for carrying a plurality of power tools and improving convenience. The adaptor 100 may also include a collar 112. The collar 112 may be releasably attachable to the second end 106 of the shaft 104. The collar 112 may be configured to partially close the die cavity 107 when the collar 112 is attached to the second end 106 of the shaft 104. In some embodiments, the adaptor 100 may include a first O-ring 108 placed between collar 112 and the die cavity 107. The collar 112 may ensure a secure and stable mechanical coupling of the threading die 110 with the threading die adaptor 100. Partially closing the die cavity 107 allows the workpiece to enter the die cavity to be operated on by the threading die, but does not allow the threading die to exit the die cavity. Further, the collar 112 may also provide operators with sufficient visibility to align the threading die 110 with the workpiece. Further, partially closing the die cavity 107 may allow operators to supply lubricants or cooling fluid between the threading die 110 and the workpiece during the threading process. In some embodiments, the collar 112 may be freely rotatable around the second end 106 of the shaft 104 when attached thereto. The collar 112 may be configured to rotate freely on the second end 106, thereby reducing the torque applied to it. Free rotation of the collar 112 also increases the reliability of the collar 112, and minimizes the risk of damage during the threading operation. In some embodiments, the collar 112 may include a bearing that allows for free rotation about the shaft 104. In other embodiments, the shaft 104 and the collar 112 may be lubricated to minimize friction therebetween. In some embodiments, the collar 112 may be attached to the shaft 104 such that the collar 112 is freely rotatable about the shaft 104 against a constant resistance, unlike in threaded coupling where the collar 112 may be tightened or loosened when rotated about the shaft 104. Further, free rotation of the collar 112 with respect to the shaft 104 may allow the shaft 104, and correspondingly the threading die 110, to rotate during the threading of the workpiece, while the collar 112 maintains its orientation with respect to the workpiece. In such embodiments, free rotation of the collar 112 minimizes inertia required by the power tools to rotate the collar 112 along with the shaft 104 and the threading dies 110. In some embodiments, the collar 112 may be attachable to the second end 106 of the shaft 104 via a bayonet mechanism. In such embodiments, the bayonet mechanism includes one or more protrusions 105 and one or more corresponding grooves or slots (not shown), such that the protrusions 105 are locatable in the grooves or slots. Either the protrusions 105 may be defined on the collar and the grooves on the second end 106, or vice versa as shown in the Figures, The grooves / slots may allow entry / exit of the protrusions 105 along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 104. Further, the grooves / slots may allow for rotational movement of the protrusions 105 around the longitudinal axis and / or normal to the axis. The bayonet mechanism may include one or more additional protrusions. In some examples, the bayonet mechanism may have at least three protrusions locatable in the groove. The additional protrusions may provide increased stability, and structural integrity to the collar 112. The bayonet mechanism may allow the collar 112 to be secured to the shaft 104, without requiring it to be tightened or press-fit. Optionally, an alternative fastening mechanism may be a threaded connections between the collar and the shaft. The collar 112 defines a workpiece aperture 114. The workpiece aperture 114 has a substantially circular cross-section. When the collar 112 is attached to the second end 106 of the shaft 104, the workpiece aperture 114 provides an entrance, through the collar 112, to the die cavity 107 for the workpiece. The collar 112 may further define a swarf hole 113 for allowing chips, which are pieces of the workpiece that are removed during threading, to escape the die cavity 107. The chips may be accumulated by the chip holes of the threading die 110, and may be pushed out of the threading die adaptor 100 through the swarf holes 113. In some embodiments, the adaptor 100 may further include a guide tube 116. A first end of the guide tube 116 may be attached to the collar 112 around the workpiece aperture 114, and a second end of the guide tube 116 may define a guide aperture 118. In an embodiment, the length of the guide tube 116 from the first end to the second end may be greater than about 0.5 cm, and preferably greater than about 1cm. The length of the guide tube 116 may be suitably adapted based on the alignment requirements with the workpiece, geometric profile and specifications of the workpiece, and likelihood of wobbling. The guide aperture 118 of the guide tube 116 may be designed to accommodate the workpiece securely, allowing it to pass through the guide tube 116 with minimal deflection. The guide tube 116 may be either releasably attached or fixedly attached to the collar 112. In embodiments where the guide tubes 116 are releasably attachable, the guide tubes 116 may be swapped with other guide tubes 116 of suitable dimensions and specifications based on requirements, such as based on the diameter and composition of the workpiece. In the embodiment of Fig. 1, the guide tube 116 is internally attached to the collar 112 where the guide tube 116 is inserted into the workpiece aperture 114 using press fitting. In other embodiments, the guide tube 116 may be externally attached to the collar 112 where the outside edge of the workpiece aperture 114 is inserted into or positioned against a provision on the guide tube 116. In some embodiments, a second O-ring 115 may be configured between the guide tube 116 and the collar 112. The second O-ring 115 may be configured to occupy any lashes / slops between the collar 112 and the guide tube 116. The first and the second O-rings 108,115 may be manufactured using any elastically resilient materials, such as including, but not limited to, rubber, elastomers, polymers, plastics, and the like. In embodiments where the guide tube 116 is fixedly attached, the guide tube 116 and the collar 112 may be integrated, or manufactured as a single unit / component. Further, the guide aperture 118 may be configured to provide a distance between the guide aperture 118 and the threading die 110 to ensure longitudinal alignment, and thereby prevent the threading die 110 from wobbling. Further, referring to Figs. 2 to 4, the shaft 104 may include a mid-section between the first end 102 and the second end 106. The mid-section may define a workpiece cavity connected to the die cavity 107. The workpiece cavity is configured to receive a portion of the workpiece that has passed through the threading die 110 and the die cavity 107. The workpiece cavity is elongate along longitudinal axis of the shaft 104, i.e. between the first and the second ends 102,106 of the shaft 104. The workpiece cavity may be between about 40mm and about 150mm in length, such as about 50mm in some examples, about 100mm in other examples, and about 150mm in yet other examples, as shown in Figs. 3 (a) to (d). In some embodiments, the workpiece cavity may be substantially cylindrical, and may have a diameter greater than the diameter of the cut portion of the workpiece and greater than the guide tube and / or workpiece aperture. In some embodiments, the mid-section may define a longitudinal viewing slot 302 in a wall of the workpiece cavity, such that the inside of the workpiece cavity can be viewed from outside the mid-section. The viewing slot 302 may allow users / operators to view the length of the thread cut on the workpiece. In some embodiments, the threading die adaptor 100 may further include length indicators on an outer surface of the mid-section. The length indicators may allow operators to measure a longitudinal distance with respect to the die cavity 107. The length indicators may be grooves / lines separated by a predetermined distance. The grooves / lines may be defined around the lateral surface of the mid-section. The length indicators may be labelled or numbered to allow operators to measure distances therewith. In some embodiments, the labels 304 may be arranged to have an ordinal relationship from the second end 106 to the first end 102 of the shaft 104. Further, the labels may be oriented such that the base of the labels 304 is towards the first end 102 of the shaft 104 and the top of the labels 304 is towards the second end 106 of the shaft 104, thereby improving readability of the labels 304 with respect to the viewing angle of the user / operator of the power tool. In some embodiments, the labels 304 may be etched on the outer surface of the mid-section. In other embodiments, the labels 304 may be painted on the mid-section. In yet other embodiments, the labels 304 may be stickers stuck onto the outer surface of the mid-section. In some embodiments, the first end 102 of the shaft 104 may have a hexagonal crosssection. Further, in some embodiments, the shaft 104 may have recesses. The recesses may each have a flat base for receiving a screw or ball in a direction transverse to the shaft 104. The recesses may be peripherally spaced about the shaft 104. The recesses may be located on a common plane that is transverse to the shaft 104. In some embodiments, the shaft 104 may have three recesses. The recesses may be equally spaced about the shaft 104. The screw or ball passing into the recesses may allow the shaft 104 to be secured to the power tool. In such embodiments, the recesses may be defined in proximity to the second end 106 of the shaft 104. For example, the shaft 104 may be secured to the chuck of the power tool via the screws or balls passing into the recesses. In other embodiments, the threading die adaptor 100 may be coupled to the impact driver 404 by the hex shaft adaptor 402. The hex shaft adaptor 402 may include a sleeve to receive the shaft 104, and a plurality of fasteners to secure the hex shaft adaptor 402 to the shaft 104 at each recess thereof. The hex shaft adaptor 402 may further include a part shaped to engage with the power tool, such as the chuck of the impact driver 404. In other embodiments, the second end 106 of the shaft 104 may be press fit into the chuck of the power tool, or vice versa. In some embodiments, the shaft 104 may be formed using impact rated materials, such as High Tensile Hardened Steel. The shaft 104 may be made of materials other than HSS, and hence may be capable of withstanding forces from the power tools, such as from an impact driver 404. The shaft 104 may be made of materials, and suitably designed, to transmit forces from the power tool connected thereto at the first end 102, to the threading die 110 attached at the second end 106. In some embodiments, the threading die 110 for use with the threading die adaptor 100 may be removably locatable in the die cavity 107, such that when within the die cavity 107, the threading die is non-movable with respect to the shaft 104. The size and shape of the threading die 110 may be suitably adapted to fit within the die cavity 107 such that the threading die 110 is prevented from rotating. In some embodiments, the threading die 110 may have a hexagonal cross-section, as described above. In some embodiments, the threading die 110 may be made of HSS. In some embodiments, the threading die may have a thickness of approximately 10mm to approximately 25mm, optionally, approximately 14mm to approximately 20mm. The threading die may have a largest diameter of approximately 15mm to approximately 60mm, optionally, approximately 27mm to approximately 47mm. Further, the threading die 110 may have a central axis through its aperture and a mid-plane normal to the axis, the mid-plane separating a front portion and a back portion of the die. The front portion of the threading die 110 may include a threading internal surface for threading the workpiece. The back portion of the threading die 110 has a smooth internal surface. All points of the internal surface of the back portion may be at an equal or greater distance from the axis than the widest point on the threading internal surface. Referring to FIG. 5, in a second aspect, a die set 500 includes a plurality of threading dies such as the threading dies 110, where all of the threading dies in the set 500 have the same outer thickness and cross-sectional shape and size. The threading internal surface of each of the threading dies in the set may have a different property. The differences in properties of the threading internal surface may be with respect to width, depth, circumference of the thread (e.g. for a different sized workpiece), thickness of the front portion / position in the threading dies 110 of the mid-plane, and the like, but not limited thereto. The threading die adaptor 100 may allow threading dies 110 of a plurality of types, dimensions, and specifications to be connected to the power tools. Since the threading die adaptor 100 is connected to the power tool chuck via the first end 102 of the shaft 104, the first end 102 may be adapted to be compatible with prevalent designs and / or standards for power tool chucks. Operators of the threading die adaptor 100 may have a plurality of threading dies 110, collars 112, and guide tubes 116 of different dimensions, and specifications, and may select the appropriate combinations thereof based on threading requirements of the workpiece. In a third aspect, a method of threading a workpiece may include providing a threading die adaptor, such as the threading die adaptor 100, where the threading die adaptor 100 may be coupled to a power tool, and a threading die 110 located in the die cavity 107. The method may include threading the workpiece by rotating the threading die 110 about the workpiece with the impact driver 404. Impact drivers 404 may provide an advantage of producing minimal torque reaction, thereby making it convenient for operators to use. Further, the impact driver 404 chip into the workpiece instead of generating a string of swarf, thereby reducing risk of crowding due to clumping of the strings of swarf. In some embodiments, the threading die adaptor 100 may be coupled to the impact driver 404 by the hex shaft adaptor 402. The present disclosure provides for various kits of components / parts used along with the threading die adaptor 100. In a fourth aspect, the present disclosure provides for various kits of parts of the threading die adaptor 100. In a first embodiment, a threading die adaptor kit may include a threading die adaptor 100, and a set of additional collars, such as the collars 112 described above. Each collar 112 in the set has a respective workpiece aperture 114, and each of the workpiece apertures 114 in the set may have a different diameter. In a second embodiment, the threading die adaptor kit may include a threading die adaptor 100, and a set of additional guide tubes. Each guide tube 116 in the set may have a respective guide aperture 118, and each of the guide apertures 118 in the set may have a different diameter. An operator may select the collar 112 and / or guide tube 116 that matches based on the diameter of the workpiece and the threading die 110, such that the threading die 110 is prevented from wobbling. In a third embodiment, the threading die adaptor kit may include a threading die adaptor 100 or a threading die adaptor kit, and a threading die. In such embodiments, the thickness of the threading die 110 may be substantially equal to a thickness of the die cavity 107 of the threading die adaptor 100. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape and size of the threading die 110 and the die cavity 107 may also be substantially identical. The threading die 110 may be sized to be locatable in the die cavity 107 while contacting the shaft 104 or the collar 112 with all significant outer faces of the threading die 110, such as front, back, at least two sides of the threading die 110, and the lateral surface such as all six outer faces of the hexagonal die. In an example scenario, an operator may have a task that involves threading multiple elongated workpieces, such as metal bolts of a signpost. The signpost may require metal bolts of differing specifications, such as a first set of workpieces indicative of thicker and sturdier bolts for supporting the base legs of the signpost, and a second set of workpieces indicative of smaller bolts for attaching the sign on top of the base legs. In such scenarios, the operator may select a threading die 110 from the kit based on the specifications of the workpiece, such as its material and dimensions. The threading die adaptor 100 offers flexibility by allowing the operator to choose from a variety of threading dies 110 from the threading die set 500. The operator may also choose the collar 112, and the guide tube 116, from the corresponding kits, of preferred dimensions and specifications based on requirements, such as length of threading on the workpiece, the diameter of the workpiece, difficulties in aligning the threading die, and the like. Having kits of the components of the threading die adaptor may allow the operator to select the combination of dimensions of said components that may be appropriate for the requirements. Once the operator selects the appropriate combination of the threading die 110, the collar 112, and the guide tube 116, such as for the first set of workpieces, the operator may assemble said components. The operator may place the threading die 110 into the die cavity 107, and attach the collar 112 to the second end 106 of the shaft 104 such that the threading die 110 is partially covered. The guide tubes 116 may be attached to the collar 112, and the shaft 104 may be attached to the power tool, such as the impact driver 404. With the threading die 110 securely held in the die cavity 107 at the second end 106 of the shaft 104, the operator aligns the threading die over the workpieces, preferably over chamfered ends thereof. The collar 112 and the guide tubes 116 may help in aligning the threading die 110 over the workpiece, and provide stability during the operation of the impact driver 404. The impact driver 404 may then be activated for delivering rotational force and linear force to the threading die 110. The teeth on the threading die 110 cut into the external surface of the workpieces, creating threads that match the size, shape, and orientation of the teeth. The chips created from the cuts may be accumulated and pushed out from swarf holes 113 on the guide tubes 116. Further, the threading die adaptor’s midsection, with a workpiece cavity 302 and length indicators, may provide the operator with control and visibility of the workpiece during the threading process. The length indicators help in measuring the depth of the threads on the workpiece. Once the workpiece is cut, the operator may detach the threading die adaptor 100 from the power tool, and attach another combination of the components of the threading die adaptor 100 for cutting threads into other workpieces, such as the second set of workpieces, having different specifications. Alternatively, the chuck of the power tool may be configured with other bits, such as a drill bit, for using the power tool to perform other operations, such as drilling. In another example scenario, the threading die adaptor 100 may be used by a general-purpose machining tool adapted to cut threads on a plurality of workpieces having different specifications. In such scenarios, the machining tool may use the threading die adaptor 100 to accommodate a plurality of threading dies 110, each having differing geometric dimensions and specifications. The threading dies 110, collars 112, and the guide tubes 116 may be suitably replaced based on requirements. Although particular embodiments of the disclosure have been disclosed herein in detail, this has been done by way of example and for the purposes of illustration only. The aforementioned embodiments are not intended to be limiting with respect to the scope of the appended claims. 5 It is contemplated by the inventors that various substitutions, alterations, and modifications may be made to the invention without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. 10

Claims

1. A threading die adaptor for use with a power tool, the adapter having a shaft comprising a first end for releasably engaging the power tool and a second end, 5 opposing the first end, the second end defining a die cavity for holding a threading die.

2. A threading die adaptor according to claim 1, wherein the adaptor further comprises a collar, the collar being releasably attachable to the second end of the shaft, the collar configured to partially close the die cavity when the collar is attached to the second end 10 of the shaft.

3. A threading die adaptor according to claim 2, wherein the collar is rotatable around the second end of the shaft when attached to the shaft.15 4. A threading die adaptor according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the collar is attachable tothe second end of the shaft via a bayonet mechanism.

5. A threading die adaptor according to claim 4, wherein bayonet mechanism comprises one protrusionand one groove or slot, the groove or slot being normal to a longitudinal 20 axis of the shaft, such that when the protrusion is located in the groove or slot, the collar is attached to the second end of the shaft.

6. A threading die adaptor according to claim 5, wherein the bayonet mechanism comprises one or more additional protrusions and when the one or more additional 25 protrusions are located in the groove or slot, the collar is attached to the second end of the shaft.

7. A threading die adaptor according to any of claims 2 to 6, wherein the collar defines a workpiece aperture, and, when the collar is attached to the second end of the shaft, 30 the workpiece aperture provides an entrance, through the collar, to the die cavity for a workpiece.

8. A threading die adaptor according to claim 7, wherein the collar further defines a swarf hole for allowing chips to escape the die cavity.

9. A threading die adaptor according to claim 7 or 8, the adaptor further comprising a guide tube, wherein a first end of the guide tube is releasably attachable to, or fixedly attached to the collar around the workpiece aperture, and a second end of the guide tube defines a guide aperture.

10. A threading die adaptor kit comprising:a threading die adaptor according to any of claims 7 to 9, anda set of additional collars, each collar in the set having a respective workpiece aperture and each of the workpiece apertures in the set having a different diameter.

11. A threading die adaptor kit comprising:a threading die adaptor according to claim 9, anda set of additional guides, each guide in the set having a respective guide aperture and each of the guide apertures in the set having a different diameter.

12. A threading die adaptor according to any of claims 1 to 9, the shaft further comprising a mid-section between the first end and the second end, the mid-section defining a workpiece cavity, connected to the die cavity, the workpiece cavity being elongate and for receiving a workpiece portion that has passed through the die cavity.

13. A threading die adaptor according to claim 12, wherein the workpiece cavity is over 40mm in length.

14. A threading die adaptor according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the mid-section defines a longitudinal viewing slot in a wall of the workpiece cavity, such that the inside of the workpiece cavity can be viewed from outside the mid-section.

15. A threading die adaptor according to claim 14, further comprising length indicators on an outer surface of the mid-section, the length indicators indicating a longitudinal distance to the die cavity.

16. A threading die adaptor according to any preceding claim, wherein the first end of the shaft has a hexagonal cross section and having three recesses, each recess being for receiving a screw or ball extending transverse to the shaft.

17. A threading die adaptor according to any preceding claim, wherein the shaft is formed of High Tensile Hardened Steel.

18. A method of threading a workpiece, the method comprising:providing a threading die adaptor of any of claims 1 to 9 or 12 to 17, the threading die adaptor coupled to an impact driver, and a die located in the die cavity, and threading the workpiece by rotating the die around the workpiece with the impact driver.

19. A method according to claim 18 when dependent on claim 16, wherein the threading die adaptor is coupled to the impact driver by a hex shaft adapter.

20. A threading die for use with the threading die adaptor according to any of claims 1 to 9 or 12 to 17, the threading die being removably locatable in the die cavity, such that when within the die cavity, the die is non-movable with respect to the shaft.

21. A threading die according to claim 20: wherein the die has a thickness of approximately 10mm to approximately 25mm, optionally, approximately 14mm to approximately 20mm; and / or wherein the die has a largest diameter of approximately 15mm to approximately 60mm, optionally, approximately 27mm to approximately 47mm.

22. A threading die according to claim 20 or claim 21, wherein the die has a central axis through its aperture and a mid-plane normal to the axis, the mid-plane separating a front portion and a back portion of the die,wherein the front portion of the die comprises a threading internal surface for threading a workpiece, andthe back portion of the die has a smooth internal surface, wherein all points of the internal surface of the back portion are at an equal or greater distance from the axis than the widest point on the threading internal surface.

23. A die set comprising a plurality of threading dies according to claim 21, wherein all of the threading dies in the set have the same outer thickness and cross-sectional shape and size, and the threading internal surface of each of the dies in the set has a different property.

24. A threading die adaptor kit comprising:a threading die adaptor according to any of claims 1 to 9 or 12 to 17 or a threading die adaptor kit according to claim 10 or 11, anda threading die according to any of claims 20 to 22.

25. A threading die adaptor kit according to claim 24, wherein the thickness of the threading die is substantially equal to a thickness of the die cavity of the threading die adaptor.

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