Chuck assembly for rotary power tool

Abstract

To provide a chuck assembly capable of accepting multiple standard-sized bit shanks without suffering from disadvantages of continuously variable chucks.SOLUTION: A chuck assembly for a rotary power tool includes: a body rotatable about a central axis, the body including a plurality of openings and a first set of threads; a plurality of jaws received within the plurality of openings in the body; a collar surrounding the body, the collar including a stepped portion configured to engage the plurality of jaws to limit radial movement of the plurality of jaws; a second set of threads coupled for co-rotation with the collar and engageable with the first set of threads on the body such that rotation of the collar relative to the body causes the collar to move axially along the body; and a spring biasing the collar such that the stepped portion is biased into engagement with the plurality of jaws.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - Reference to Related Applications) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 596,007, filed on November 3, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 682,204, filed on August 12, 2024, both of which are co - pending, and the entire contents of each are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0002] (Technical Field) The present disclosure relates to power tools, and more particularly, to a chuck assembly for rotary power tools.

Background Art

[0003] Power tools having a rotary output (i.e., rotary power tools) typically include a chuck assembly having a plurality of jaws that are adjustable to grip and secure a tool bit (e.g., a drill bit). Some chuck assemblies are configured to accept a continuous range of bit sizes (referred to herein as "continuously variable chucks"). Other chuck assemblies, which are also commonly known as bit holders, are configured to accept a bit with a one - standard - size hex shank. By leveraging the standard shank geometry, such chuck assemblies can be optimized to reduce weight, size, manufacturing cost, and the time required to change bits compared to continuously variable chucks. However, there are multiple standard nominal sizes for hex - shank bits. For example, 1 / 4 - inch hex bits are commonly used for fastener drivers, drills, and accessory bits, 3 / 8 - inch hex bits are commonly used for hole saw bits, and 7 / 16 - inch hex bits may be used for higher - torque applications. The actual outer width dimensions of such hex bits may vary slightly from the nominal size. For example, a nominal 3 / 8 - inch hex bit may have an actual outer width dimension of 11 / 32 inches.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0004] There is a need for a chuck assembly that can accept bit shanks of multiple standard sizes without suffering from the drawbacks of a continuously variable chuck.

MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0005] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a chuck assembly for a rotary power tool, the chuck assembly being rotatable about a central axis and including a body including a plurality of openings and a first set of threads, a plurality of jaws received within the plurality of openings in the body, a collar surrounding the body and including a stepped portion configured to engage the plurality of jaws to limit radial movement of the plurality of jaws, a second set of threads coupled for co-rotation with the collar and engaged with the first set of threads on the body such that rotation of the collar relative to the body axially moves the collar along the body, and a spring biasing the collar such that the stepped portion is biased to engage the plurality of jaws.

[0006] In some aspects, the technology described herein further relates to a chuck assembly including a plate coupled for co-rotation with the collar, the plate including a central hole, and the body extending through the central hole.

[0007] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a chuck assembly in which the second set of threads is formed within the plate about the perimeter of the central hole.

[0008] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a chuck assembly in which the spring has a first end that engages the body and a second end that engages the plate.

[0009] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a chuck assembly in which the spring is a conical coil spring.

[0010] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a chuck assembly in which the plate has a non-uniform thickness.

[0011] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a chuck assembly in which the plate has a greater thickness closer to the central hole than closer to the outer periphery of the plate.

[0012] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a chuck assembly in which each thread of a second set of threads includes a recess configured to receive an end of each thread of a first set of threads.

[0013] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a chuck assembly in which axial movement of the collar is restricted when the ends of the respective threads are received within the recesses.

[0014] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a chuck assembly in which each of a plurality of jaws includes a stepped outer surface engageable with a stepped portion of the collar.

[0015] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a chuck assembly for a rotary power tool, the chuck assembly including a body rotatable about a central axis and including a plurality of openings and an externally threaded portion, a plurality of jaws received within the plurality of openings in the body, a collar surrounding the body and including a stepped portion configured to engage the plurality of jaws, a plate coupled for co-rotation with the collar and having an internally threaded portion configured to engage the externally threaded portion of the body such that rotation of the collar and the plate relative to the body axially moves the collar and the plate along the body when engaged, and a lock assembly configured to selectively prevent rotation of the collar and the plate relative to the body.

[0016] In some aspects, the technology described herein further includes a sleeve surrounding the collar, the sleeve being rotatable relative to the collar over a first distance and rotatable together with the collar when the sleeve is rotated over a distance greater than the first distance, and relates to a chuck assembly.

[0017] In some aspects, the technology described herein further includes a rotation limiter coupled to the body, the rotation limiter including an arm extending along the externally threaded portion and engageable with the internally threaded portion of the plate to limit rotation of the plate, and relates to a chuck assembly.

[0018] In some aspects, the technology described herein further includes a spring biasing the collar such that the stepped portion is biased to engage the plurality of jaws, the spring being a conical spring, and relates to a chuck assembly.

[0019] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a chuck assembly, wherein the lock assembly includes a ratchet plate having a plurality of ratchet teeth formed on an outer surface of the ratchet plate, a pawl ring positioned within a collar and including a plurality of pawl arms configured to engage the plurality of ratchet teeth of the ratchet plate, and a plurality of lifter arms coupled to a sleeve and configured to disengage the pawl arms from the plurality of ratchet teeth in response to rotation of the sleeve. The lock assembly includes a locked state in which the pawl arms engage the plurality of ratchet teeth and rotation of the collar relative to the body is permitted in a first direction about a central axis and prevented in a second direction opposite the first direction about the central axis. The lock assembly includes an unlocked state in which the lock arms move the pawl arms out of engagement with the plurality of ratchet teeth and rotation of the collar relative to the body is permitted in both the first direction and the second direction about the central axis.

[0020] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a chuck assembly, wherein the lock assembly includes a lock plate having a plurality of first teeth formed on the plate and a plurality of second teeth coupled to the body for co-rotation and axially movable along the body and configured to selectively engage the plurality of first teeth, and a lock spring biasing the lock plate along a central axis into contact with the plate.

[0021] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a chuck assembly, wherein rotation of the collar having a torque greater than a torque threshold moves the lock plate axially away from the plate against the bias of the lock spring, enabling the plurality of first teeth to slide over the plurality of second teeth.

[0022] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a chuck assembly for a rotary power tool, the chuck assembly being rotatable about a central axis and including a plurality of openings and a plurality of sizing groove sets formed in a body, each sizing groove set including a plurality of helical grooves, a body, a plurality of jaws received within the plurality of openings in the body, a collar surrounding the body, configured to rotate about the central axis and axially move along the central axis relative to the body, and configured to engage the plurality of jaws, and a plurality of protrusions coupled to the collar and configured to move with the collar relative to the body, the plurality of protrusions being configured to engage the plurality of sizing groove sets.

[0023] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a chuck assembly in which each of the plurality of sizing groove sets includes an axial groove extending through the plurality of helical grooves.

[0024] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a chuck assembly in which each of the plurality of protrusions is configured to slide along the axial groove of one of the respective sizing groove sets of the plurality of sizing groove sets when the collar moves axially along the central axis.

[0025] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a chuck assembly in which the bottom surfaces of the plurality of helical grooves are textured.

[0026] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a chuck assembly in which the plurality of protrusions are formed on a washer coupled to the collar.

[0027] In some aspects, the technology described herein further relates to a chuck assembly that further includes a lock assembly configured to selectively prevent rotation of the collar.

[0028] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a chuck assembly, where the body includes a plurality of ratchet teeth and the lock assembly includes a lock ring having a cantilever arm engageable with the plurality of ratchet teeth.

[0029] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a chuck assembly, where the lock assembly includes a lock pin movable radially toward a central axis to press the cantilever arm to engage with the plurality of ratchet teeth.

[0030] In some aspects, the technology described herein further relates to a chuck assembly that includes a sleeve coupled to a collar, where the lock pin is movable radially in response to rotation of the sleeve relative to the collar.

[0031] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a chuck assembly, where a plurality of protrusions include a plurality of pins coupled for co-rotation with a collar.

[0032] Other configurations and aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent by considering the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0083] Before any embodiment of the present disclosure is described in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details of the arrangement and structure of components described in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings in its application. The present disclosure can be other embodiments or can be implemented in various ways.

[0084] FIG. 1 shows a chuck assembly 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The chuck assembly 10 may be connected to an output member (e.g., a spindle, an anvil, etc., not shown) of a rotary power tool (e.g., a drill, an impact driver, etc., not shown) for co-rotation with the output member. The illustrated chuck assembly 10 is configured to quickly receive and secure a tool bit (e.g., a drill bit, a screwdriver bit, etc.) having standardized shanks of at least two (e.g., three) different predetermined nominal sizes. For example, the illustrated chuck assembly 10 is configured to receive a tool bit 14 having a hexagonal shank 18 that can be any one of a first nominal size 22, a second nominal size 26, and a third nominal size 30 (FIGS. 2 and 3). The first, second, and third nominal sizes 22, 26, 30 are preferably standard or commonly used hexagonal shank sizes such as 1 / 4 inch, 3 / 8 inch, and 7 / 16 inch. The chuck assembly 10 may be configured to receive tool bits having other types of shanks (e.g., square, three-flat, round, etc.). Additionally, the chuck assembly 10 may be configured to receive tool bits of four or more different nominal shank sizes. The hexagonal shank 18 further includes a groove 20 configured to engage a portion of the chuck assembly 10 to limit axial movement.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 4, the chuck assembly 10 includes a body 34, a plurality of jaws 38, and a collar 42. The body 34 is coupled for co-rotation with an output member of a power tool centered about a central axis A1. The jaws 38 are configured to engage a shank 18 of the tool bit 14 such that the tool bit 14 is coupled for co-rotation with the body 34. The illustrated chuck assembly 10 includes three jaws 38. However, the chuck assembly 10 may include other numbers of jaws 38 in other embodiments. As described in more detail below, the collar 42 is selectively rotatable about the central axis A1 and axially slidable along the central axis A1 to release or retain the tool bit 14 within the chuck assembly 10.

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 5-6, the body 34 includes a head portion 54 and a shaft portion 58. The head portion 54 includes a tool bit bore 62 configured to receive the tool bit 14 and a plurality of openings 64 circumferentially disposed about the head portion 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the tool bit bore 62 is shaped hexagonal in a plane perpendicular to the axis A1, but in other embodiments, the tool bit bore 62 can be square, triangular, or round. Each of the openings 64 receives a corresponding one of the jaws 38 such that each jaw 38 is configured to move radially inwardly or outwardly within its associated tool bit bore 62. The shaft portion 58 includes a bore 66 (FIG. 4) configured to receive the output member and a plurality of sizing groove sets 68 (FIGS. 5-6) circumferentially spaced about the shaft portion 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the bore 66 includes threads for engaging an output member of a rotary tool, but in other embodiments, other connection methods (e.g., splines, press fits, mechanical fasteners, etc.) can be used to couple the body 34 to the output member for co-rotation.

[0087] Each of the illustrated sizing groove sets 68 includes a plurality of (e.g., three) helical grooves 70 and axial slots 72 extending through each of the helical grooves 70 (FIG. 6). The sizing groove set 68 is configured to hold the color 42 in one of three axial positions (FIGS. 9A-9C) corresponding to one of the three helical grooves 70, as described in further detail below. In other embodiments, the sizing groove set 68 can include a different number of helical grooves 70 to hold the color 42 in fewer than three or more than three axial positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom surface of the helical groove 70 includes a textured surface 74 (FIG. 5), which provides audio and tactile feedback as the color 42 moves.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 7, each of the jaws 38 has a front end or tip 78, an outer side 80 extending rearwardly from the tip 78, a tool-engaging side 82 configured to extend parallel to the axis A1 and engage the shank 18 of the tool bit 14, and an angled surface extending obliquely between the tool-engaging side 82 and the tip 78. The rear side 84 of each jaw 38 extends between the outer side 80 and the tool-engaging side 82. The rear side 84 may be oriented at an angle oblique to the tool-engaging side 82.

[0089] Continuing to refer to FIG. 7, the tool engagement side 82 further includes a protruding rib 86 that can engage with the groove 20 of the tool bit 14 to hold the tool bit 14 axially. The outer side 80 of each jaw 38 has a generally stepped shape defined by a plurality of inclined surfaces 90 (or risers) oriented obliquely with respect to the central axis A1 and a plurality of flat surfaces 88 (or treads) oriented generally parallel to the central axis A1, alternating therebetween. In some embodiments, the flat surfaces 88 may be formed at a draft angle such that the flat surfaces 88 do not extend parallel to the central axis A1, but rather define an angle with the central axis A1 that is smaller than the angle of the inclined surfaces 90. The illustrated jaw 38 also includes a pair of laterally extending ears 92 that are received within a portion of each of the openings 64 to prevent movement of the jaw 38 along the central axis A1.

[0090] Referring again to FIG. 4, the collar 42 of the chuck assembly 10 surrounds the body 34. The collar 42 includes a jaw engagement portion 106 on the interior side of the collar 42 and a user-engageable portion 108 on the exterior side of the collar 42. The jaw engagement portion 106 includes a plurality of flat surfaces 112 and a plurality of inclined surfaces 116, both of the inclined surfaces 116 being configured to engage with some combination of the inclined surfaces 90 of the jaws 38. The user-engageable portion 108 extends from the collar 42 and is configured to facilitate a user gripping the collar 42 and applying an axial force to move the collar 42 along the central axis A1.

[0091] Continuing to refer to FIG. 4, the illustrated chuck assembly 10 further includes a positioning washer 94, a coil spring 96, a spring washer 98 (e.g., a Belleville washer), and a retaining ring 102, each of which is surrounded by a collar 42. The positioning washer 94 is shown in more detail in FIG. 8 and is ring-shaped, including a plurality of protrusions 120 formed on its inner circumference and a plurality of slots 124 formed on its outer circumference. The protrusions 120 are received by the sizing groove set 68 of the body 34 and are configured to move within the spiral groove 70 of the sizing groove set 68. The pin slots 124 are configured to receive pins 122 that extend into the pin receiving openings 126 of the collar 42. Thus, the pins 122 couple the positioning washer 94 for co-rotation with the collar 42.

[0092] The coil spring 96 has a first end pressed against the positioning washer 94 and a second end pressed against the flange portion 128 of the body 34. The coil spring 96 biases the positioning washer 94 and, together with the positioning washer, biases the collar 42 in the outward (axial) direction. The spring washer 98 has an inner portion pressed against the positioning washer 94 on the opposite side of the coil spring 96 and an outer portion pressed against the retaining ring 102 positioned in the retaining ring groove 130 of the collar 42. In this way, the spring washer 98 axially holds the positioning washer 94.

[0093] In use, to load a tool bit, such as tool bit 14, into the chuck assembly 10, the user rotates the collar 42 in the loosening direction (e.g., counterclockwise) about the central axis A1 to move the protrusions 120 of the positioning washer 94 from the spiral groove 70 to the axial slot 72. Rotation of the collar 42 in the loosening direction may be limited by the protrusions 120 that strike the wall of the axial slot 72 on the opposite side of the spiral groove 70.

[0094] Next, the user engages any part of the user-engageable portion 108 or the color 42 and moves the color 42 forward along the central axis A1 as permitted by the chuck assembly 10 (e.g., to the extent limited by the length of the slot 72). When the color 42 is moved forward, a gap is formed between the Joe-engagement portion 106 and the outer side 80 of the Joe 38. Next, the user can insert the shank 18 of the tool bit 14 into the tool-bit hole 62 of the body 34.

[0095] When the tool bit 14 is inserted, the rear end of the shank 18 engages the angled surface 83 of the Joe 38 and displaces the Joe 38 outward sufficiently to accommodate the outer dimensions of the shank 18. Next, the shank 18 may be fully inserted into the chuck assembly 10. Once inserted, the user may release the color 42 which moves rearward under the influence of the coil spring 96. In the illustrated embodiment, the color 42 moves rearward to one of three positions shown by FIGS. 9A - 9C, each position corresponding respectively to a first nominal size 22, a second nominal size 26, and a third nominal size 30 of the shank 18 of the tool bit 14. When the color 42 moves rearward, the engagement inclined surface 116 of the color 42 engages the inclined surface 90 of the Joe 38 and moves the Joe 38 radially inward within the tool-bit hole 62 to a position corresponding to one of the first, second, or third nominal sizes 22, 26, 30. The Joe 38 continues to move radially inward until the tool-engagement side 82 contacts the tool bit 14. Additionally, the protruding rib 86 engages the groove 20 of the tool bit 14 which restricts the axial movement of the tool bit 14 within the chuck assembly 10.

[0096] Once Joe 38 engages with the tool bit 14 and the shank 18 of the tool bit 14 is compatible with the chuck assembly 10 (having a shank size that matches one of three nominal sizes 22, 26, 30), the user can rotate the collar 42 in the tightening direction (e.g., clockwise) about the central axis A1. The clockwise rotation of the collar 42 rotates the protrusion 120 of the positioning washer 94 into one of the helical grooves 70 corresponding to the sizes 22, 26, 30 of the bit shank 18 inserted from the slot 72. As the protrusion 120 moves within the helical groove 70, the positioning washer 94 and the collar 42 move rearward. With additional rearward movement, the jaw engagement portion 106 of the collar 42 applies additional clamping force to the outside 80 of the jaw 38, which further moves the jaw 38 radially inward. The additional radial movement of the jaw 38 clamps the jaw 38 around the tool bit 14 and better holds the tool bit 14 within the chuck assembly 10.

[0097] In the illustrated embodiment, as the protrusion 120 moves within the helical groove 70, the protrusion 120 contacts the textured surface 74, which generates audible feedback and / or tactile feedback. The audible feedback and / or tactile feedback warns the user that the protrusion 120 has successfully entered the helical groove 70 and that the chuck assembly 10 is being further tightened around the tool bit 14. The textured surface 74 may also increase the rolling resistance of the protrusion 120 along the helical groove 70 to prevent accidental loosening of the collar 42 (e.g., if the body 34 is rotating and suddenly stops).

[0098] Figures 10-13 illustrate another embodiment of a chuck assembly 210 configured to quickly receive and secure a tool bit having a standard size shank of three different predetermined nominal sizes (e.g., 1 / 4 inch, 3 / 8 inch, and 7 / 16 inch). In other embodiments, the chuck assembly may receive and secure tool bits having two standard size shanks or four or more standard size shanks. Chuck assembly 210 is similar to chuck assembly 10 in several aspects, and like parts have like reference numbers with "200" added. Thus, the following description will primarily focus on the differences between chuck assembly 210 and chuck assembly 10.

[0099] The illustrated chuck assembly 210 includes a body 234, a plurality of jaws 238, a collar assembly 240, and a lock assembly 241. The body 234 receives a portion of the tool bit 14 and is coupled for co-rotation with the output member of a power tool. The plurality of jaws 238 are configured to engage a portion of the shank 18 and hold the tool bit 14. The collar assembly 240 surrounds the body 234 and is axially movable and rotatable relative to the body 234 to selectively clamp the jaws 238 to the shank 18 of the tool bit 14 and to selectively release the jaws 238 to allow removal of the tool bit 14. As described in detail below, the lock assembly 241 prevents accidental loosening of the jaws 238 by preventing rotation of the collar assembly 240 relative to the body 234. For example, the lock assembly 241 may provide an inertia lock function that can prevent the collar assembly 240 from continuing to rotate when the body 234 is rotating and then suddenly stops.

[0100] Figures 10-11 show the body 234 of the chuck assembly 210. The body 234 includes a head portion 254, a shaft portion 258, and a flange portion 328 that defines an interface between the head portion 254 and the shaft portion 258. The head portion 254 includes a tool bit hole 262 (Figure 10) for receiving the tool bit 14 and a plurality of openings 264 for each jaw of the jaw 238. The shaft portion 258 includes a bore 266 configured to receive an output member (e.g., a spindle) of a power tool, a plurality of sizing grooves 268, and a plurality of ratchet teeth 276. Each of the plurality of sizing grooves 268 is circumferentially spaced from each other and includes an axial slot 270 and a plurality of (e.g., three) helical grooves 272. The sizing grooves 268 are configured to receive a portion of the lock assembly 241, as further described below. The ratchet teeth 276 are divided into three groups, and each group is positioned between the sizing grooves 268. The ratchet teeth 276 are configured to engage a portion of the lock assembly 241, as further described below. The flange portion 328 is configured to hold one end of the coil spring 296. The coil spring 296 is configured to bias the collar assembly 240 in a rearward direction.

[0101] Referring to Figure 10, the collar assembly 240 includes a collar 242 and a rotatable sleeve 244. The collar 242 is on the outside. The surface of the jaw engagement portion 306 is configured to engage the outer portion 280 of each jaw of the jaw 238 based on the axial position of the collar assembly 240 in the same manner as described above with respect to the chuck assembly 10.

[0102] The rotatable sleeve 244 is configured to rotate about the central axis A2 and is positioned around the collar 242 between the user-engageable portion 308 and the retaining ring 302. The outer surface of the rotatable sleeve 244 is knurled to provide additional grip for the user. Referring to FIG. 12A, the inner surface of the rotatable sleeve 244 includes a plurality of first slots 332, a plurality of second slots 334 (also referred to as deeper lock pin slots), and a plurality of third slots 336 (also referred to as shallower lock pin slots). Each of the plurality of first slots 332, second slots 334, and third slots 336 are circumferentially spaced from each other on the inner surface of the rotatable sleeve 244. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotatable sleeve 244 is made of a lightweight polymer material (e.g., nylon, polypropylene, ABS, etc.) to reduce the mass and corresponding moment of inertia of the collar assembly 240. The illustrated collar 242 is made of steel for high strength so that a clamping force can be applied to the jaw 238. In other embodiments, the sleeve 244 and the collar 242 may be made of the same or different materials.

[0103] FIGS. 12A-13 show the lock assembly 241 in more detail. The illustrated lock assembly 241 includes a locked configuration (FIG. 12A), an unlocked configuration (FIG. 12C), and a plurality of intermediate positions, one of which is shown in FIG. 12B.

[0104] In the locked configuration, the lock assembly 241 prevents rotation of the collar 242 relative to the body 234, which in turn prevents the jaw 238 from loosening and disengaging from the tool bit 14. In the unlocked configuration, the lock assembly 241 allows the user to rotate the collar 242 in the loosening direction to remove the tool bit 14. The lock assembly 241 also has intermediate positions when transitioning between the unlocked and locked positions.

[0105] The illustrated lock assembly 241 includes a positioning washer 294, a plurality of first pins 344 (also referred to as protrusions), a plurality of second pins 348 (also referred to as lock pins), and a locking ring 352. The positioning washer 294 surrounds the shaft portion 258 of the body 234 and includes a plurality of pin holes 356 configured to receive the pins 344, 348, thereby restraining the pins 344, 348 and allowing only radial slippage of the pins 344, 348.

[0106] The first pin 344 extends from the first slot 332 of the sleeve 244 into the sizing groove 268 of the body 234 and is coupled for co-rotation and axial movement with the collar 242 and the positioning washer 294. The first pin (i.e., protrusion) 344 interfaces with the sizing groove 268 in the same manner as the protrusion 120 of the chuck assembly 10 described above. The lock pin 348 extends from either the unlocked or locked lock pin slots 334, 336 of the rotatable sleeve 244 and engages the locking ring 352. Similar to the first pin 344, the lock pin 348 is coupled for co-rotation and axial movement with the collar 242. The lock pin 344 is also radially movable in response to rotation of the sleeve 244 relative to the collar 242.

[0107] In the illustrated embodiment, the unlocked pressure pin slot 334 is shallower than the locked pressure pin slot 336, and the inner surface of the sleeve 244 defines a cam profile having a peak 335 between the two slots 336. Thus, as the sleeve 244 is rotated from the unlocked position (FIG. 12C) to the locked position (FIG. 12A), the lock pin 348 is pressed inwardly by the contour of the cam profile, and the lock pin 348 then applies pressure to the locking ring 352, as described below.

[0108] The illustrated lock ring 352 is positioned between the body 234 and the positioning washer 294. As shown in FIG. 13, the lock ring 352 includes a plurality of second pin holes 360 and a plurality of cantilever arms 364. The second pin holes 360 receive the first pins 344 through the second pin holes so that the lock ring 352 is coupled for co-rotation with the collar 242. The cantilever arms 364 are elastically deformed inwardly so as to engage the ratchet teeth 276 of the body 234 when the lock pins 348 engage (FIG. 12A). To form the lock ring 352, a spring-like material (e.g., spring steel) is punched (stamped) and rolled into a cylindrical form. In other embodiments, the spring-like material may be laser cut, die formed, or formed in various other ways.

[0109] In use, to load a tool bit, such as tool bit 14, into the chuck assembly 210, the user begins with the lock assembly 241 in the unlocked configuration (FIG. 12C). Next, the user engages the user-engageable portion 308 or any portion of the color assembly 240 and moves the color assembly 240 forward along the central axis A2 as far as possible (e.g., to the extent limited by the length of the slot 270) by the chuck assembly 210. As the color assembly 240 is moved forward, a gap is formed between the jaw engagement portion 306 and the outer portion 280 of each jaw 238. Next, the user can insert the shank 18 of the tool bit 14 into the tool bit hole 262 of the body 234. When the tool bit 14 is inserted, the rear end of the shank 18 engages the jaw 238 and displaces the jaw 238 outwardly enough to accommodate the outer dimensions of the shank 18. Next, the shank 18 may be fully inserted into the chuck assembly 210. Once inserted, the user may release the color assembly 240, which moves rearward under the influence of the coil spring 296. As the color assembly 240 moves rearward, the jaw engagement portion 306 abuts the jaw 238 and moves the jaw 238 radially inward within the tool bit hole 262 to a position corresponding to one of the first, second, or third nominal sizes 22, 26, 30. The jaw 238 continues to move radially inward until the tool engagement side 282 contacts the tool bit 14. In addition, the protruding rib 286 (FIG. 10) engages the groove 20 in the tool bit 14, which limits the axial movement of the tool bit 14 within the chuck assembly 210.

[0110] Once Joe 238 engages with the tool bit 14, the user can rotate the rotatable sleeve 244 in the tightening direction T (e.g., counterclockwise in the orientation of FIG. 12C) about the central axis A2. The sleeve 244 first rotates relative to the first pin 344, and the slots 332 define lost motion regions. As the sleeve 244 rotates, the lock pin 348 travels along the cam profile inside the sleeve 244 until the outer end of the lock pin 348 reaches the peak 335 of the cam profile (FIG. 12B). At this point, if the user continues to rotate the sleeve 244 in the tightening direction T, the user will face increased rotational resistance. The cam profile displaces the lock pin 348 radially inward against the biasing force of the cantilever arm 364, thereby bending the cantilever arm 364 inward to engage with the ratchet teeth 276 on the body 234. As the user continues to rotate the sleeve 244 in the tightening direction T, the lock pin 348 clears the peak 335 of the cam profile and enters the shallower lock pin slot 336, and the shallower lock pin slot holds the lock pin 348 at a radial position where the cantilever arm 364 remains engaged with the ratchet teeth 276 (FIG. 12A), thereby positioning the lock assembly 241 in the locked configuration.

[0111] At this point, the first pin 344 reaches the end 333 of their respective first slots 332. By continuously rotating the sleeve 244 in the tightening direction T, the end 333 of the slot 332 abuts against the first pin 344, rotates the first pin 344 in the tightening direction T, and, together with the first pin, rotates the collar 242, the positioning washer 294, the lock pin 348, and the lock ring 352. When the first pin 344 rotates, it moves into the helical groove 272 (FIG. 11) corresponding to the shank sizes 22, 26, 30 from the axial slot 270. The engagement between the helical groove 272 and the first pin 344 retracts the collar assembly 240 rearward until the tool bit 14 is fixed between the jaws 238, thereby increasing the clamping force on the jaws 238. When the cantilever arm 364 is rotated in the tightening direction T, it slides over the ratchet teeth 276 and prevents the collar assembly 240 from rotating in the loosening direction until the user desires to unlock the lock assembly 241 by rotating the sleeve 244 in the loosening direction. When the sleeve 244 is rotated in the loosening direction (opposite to the tightening direction T), the deeper lock pin slot 334 aligns with the end of the lock pin 348 and allows the lock pin 348 to move radially outward under the restoring force of the cantilever arm 364. When the cantilever arm 364 is moved so as to disengage from the engagement with the ratchet teeth 276, the collar assembly 240 can freely rotate in the loosening direction to reduce the clamping force on the jaws 238 and align the first pin 344 with the axial slot 270 in the body 234.

[0112] Figures 14 through 20C show another embodiment of a chuck assembly 410 configured to quickly receive and secure a tool bit having a shank of three different predetermined nominal sizes (e.g., 1 / 4 inch, 3 / 8 inch, and 7 / 16 inch) of standard size. In other embodiments, the chuck assembly 410 may receive and secure a tool bit having two standard size shanks or four or more size shanks. The chuck assembly 410 is similar to the chuck assembly 10 in several aspects, and like parts have similar reference numbers with "400" added. Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily on the differences between the chuck assembly 410 and the chuck assembly 10. The illustrated chuck assembly 410 includes a body 434, a plurality of jaws 38, a collar 442, a plate 446, and a spring 496.

[0113] As shown in FIGS. 14 through 17, the body 434 includes a head portion 454, a shaft portion 458 that defines a central axis A3, and a flange portion 528 that separates the head portion 454 and the shaft portion 458 (FIG. 17). The body 434 is configured to receive a portion of the tool bit 14 and is coupled for co-rotation with an output spindle of a power tool (not shown). The head portion 454 includes a tool bit hole 462 configured to receive the tool bit 14 and a plurality of slots or openings 464 configured to receive the plurality of jaws 38. The illustrated shaft portion 458 includes a threaded bore 466 configured to receive an output spindle of a power tool. Alternatively, the body 434 may be coupled to the output spindle in other ways (or may be integrally formed with the output spindle).

[0114] As shown in FIGS. 14 - 15 and 19, the color 442 surrounds the body 434 and is rotatable about the central axis A1. The color 442 includes a jaw engagement portion 506 on the inside of the color 442. The jaw engagement portion 506 is stepped and includes a plurality of inclined surfaces 516 that are angled with respect to the axis A1 and a plurality of flat surfaces 512 that are oriented parallel to the axis A1, alternating therebetween. The inclined surfaces 516 are configured to engage with some combination of the inclined surfaces 90 of the jaw 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer surface 546 of the color 442 is textured (e.g., knurled) to facilitate the user's ability to grip and manipulate the color 442. In other embodiments, the textured outer surface 546 may be laser etched or overmolded with a separate material.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 19, the illustrated color 442 further includes a plurality of internal recesses 550. The recesses 550 are circumferentially spaced along the inner surface of the color 442 and are configured to receive corresponding sized and shaped protrusions 558 on the plate 446 (FIG. 18). A retaining ring groove 530 is also formed in the inner surface of the color 442 adjacent to the recesses 550. The retaining ring groove 530 is configured to receive a retaining ring 453, which then holds the plate 446 within the recesses 550.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 18, plate 446 is generally annular and has a varying thickness. In the illustrated embodiment, the thickness of plate 446 is greatest near the central hole 554 and decreases at the outermost edge. Plate 446 is coupled for co-rotation with collar 442 by the engagement of protrusions 558 and recesses 550, and is axially fixed to collar 442 in the forward direction by a wall at the front end of recess 550 and in the rearward direction by retaining ring 453. Thus, plate 446 moves axially and rotatably with collar 442. During assembly, protrusions 558 are aligned with recesses 550 and plate 446 is inserted into collar 442 from the rear end of collar 442. Next, retaining ring 453 is installed in retaining ring groove 530 to fix plate 446 in place.

[0117] The central hole 554 of plate 446 includes internal helical threads 562 configured to receive the shaft portion 458 of body 434 and corresponding external helical threads 467 formed on shaft portion 454, thereby defining a threaded interface between plate 446 and shaft portion 454. The greater thickness of plate 446 in the region of central hole 554 provides greater strength to the threaded interface. Due to the threaded interface, rotation of plate 446 (and thus collar 442) relative to body 434 axially moves plate 446 and collar 442 relative to body 434.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 20D, each internal helical thread 562 is configured to receive and engage the end of one corresponding external helical thread of the external helical thread 467 of the shaft portion 454 when the color 442 and the plate 446 are rotated to a configuration where they are not locked, and includes a locking recess 565. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking recess 565 is a region of the internal helical thread 562 where the pitch distance is greater than the remainder of the internal helical thread 562. As will be described in more detail below, the engagement between the end of the external thread 562 and the locking recess 565 enables it to be retained in a configuration where the color 442 and the plate 446 are not locked. In this way, the locking recess 565 and the end of the external thread 562 define a locking assembly configured to selectively prevent rotation of the color 442 and the plate 446.

[0119] As shown in FIGS. 15-16, the illustrated spring 496 extends between the flange portion 528 of the body 434 and the plate 446. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the spring 496 is a conical coil spring. Thus, the spring 496 is tapered and the diameter increases from the front end to the rear end of the spring 496. The conical shape of the spring 496 provides a better fit within the generally conical internal volume defined between the color 442 and the body 434. In addition, the conical shape of the coil spring 496 allows each successive coil of the coil spring 496 to be nested within the previous coil, which results in a reduction in the overall length when compressed. In addition, the conical shape of the coil spring 496 reduces the possibility of buckling, and the spring force increases exponentially with the deflection of the coil spring 496. However, in other embodiments, other types of springs may be used as the spring 496, including, but not limited to, a coil spring of a constant diameter, a barrel coil spring, an hourglass coil spring, a wave spring, etc. During operation, the coil spring 496 is configured to bias the plate 446 and the color 442 rearward away from the head portion 458 of the body 434. This then generates a clamping force on the jaw 38 via the jaw engagement portion 506.

[0120] In use, the user selects the tool bit 14 to insert into the tool bit hole 462 of the tool chuck assembly 410. The user begins by rotating the collar 442 in the loosening direction about the central axis A1. Rotation of the collar 442 rotates the plate 446 such that the threads 467, 562 engage and move the plate 446 and collar 442 in the forward direction (e.g., toward and / or beyond the position shown in FIG. 20C). This compresses the spring 496 between the plate 446 and the flange portion 528 of the body 434. The mechanical advantage provided by the threads 467, 562 allows the user to more easily overcome the biasing force 496 of the spring.

[0121] As the collar 442 rotates and moves forward, a gap is formed between the jaw engagement portion 506 and the outer 80 of the jaw 38. Once the collar 442 is moved to its most forward position, the end of the external thread 467 enters the lock recess 565 of the thread 562, as shown in FIG. 20D. When the end of the external thread 467 is positioned within the lock recess 565, axial movement of the collar 442 is restricted and the collar 442 maintains its most forward position even if the user releases the collar 442. Next, the user can insert the shank 18 of the tool bit 14 into the tool bit hole 462 of the body 434. When the tool bit 14 is inserted, the rear end of the shank 18 engages the angled surface 83 of the jaw 38 and displaces the jaw 38 outwardly enough to accommodate the outer size of the shank 18. Next, the shank 18 may be fully inserted into the chuck assembly 410.

[0122] Once inserted, the user rotates the collar 442 to move the end of the external thread 467 out of the locking recess 565 and release the collar 442. The spring 496 acts a rearward force on the plate 446 to rotate the plate 446 and the collar 442 in the tightening direction opposite to the loosening direction and move them rearward due to the engagement of the threads 467, 562. The collar 442 continues to rotate and move rearward to one of three positions shown by FIGS. 20A - 20C corresponding to the first, second, and third nominal sizes 22, 26, 30 of the shank 18 of the tool bit 14, respectively. As the collar 442 moves rearward, the engagement inclined surface 516 of the collar 442 engages with the inclined surface 90 of the jaw 38 to move the jaw 38 radially inward within the tool bit hole 462 to a position corresponding to one of the first, second, or third nominal sizes 22, 26, 30. The jaw 38 continues to move radially inward until the tool engagement side 82 contacts the tool bit 14, and the spring 496 applies a clamping force to the tool bit 14 to facilitate the alignment of the operating tool bit 14 and limit runout (i.e., wobbling).

[0123] Figures 21 through 29C show another embodiment of a chuck assembly 1010 configured to quickly receive and secure tool bits having standard size shanks of three different predetermined nominal sizes (e.g., 1 / 4 inch, 3 / 8 inch, and 7 / 16 inch). In other embodiments, the chuck assembly 1010 may receive and secure tool bits having two standard size shanks or four or more sizes of shanks. The chuck assembly 1010 is similar to the chuck assemblies 10, 210, 410 in some respects, and like parts have similar reference numbers with "1000" added. Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily on the differences between the chuck assembly 1010 and the chuck assemblies 10, 210, 410. The illustrated chuck assembly 1010 includes a body 1034, a plurality of jaws 38, a collar assembly 1040, a plate 1046, a rotation limiter 1048 (FIG. 28), a spring 1096, and a lock assembly 1041.

[0124] As best shown in FIGS. 22A and 23, the body 1034 of the chuck assembly 1010 is rotatable about a central axis A1 and includes a head portion 1054, a shaft portion 1058, and a flange portion 1128 that defines an interface between the head portion and the shaft portions 1054, 1058. The head portion 1054 includes a tool bit hole 1062 configured to receive a tool bit (e.g., tool bit 14) and a plurality of openings 1064 for each of the jaws 38.

[0125] The shaft portion 1058 includes a bore 1066, a plurality of externally threaded portions 1067, a plurality of gaps 1069 formed between each of the externally threaded portions 1067, and a plurality of alignment recesses 1071. The bore 1066 is configured to receive an output member (e.g., a spindle) of a power tool. In the illustrated embodiment, the bore 1066 includes an internal thread, while the output member of the power tool includes an external thread. In other embodiments, the bore 1066 may be coupled to the output member by press fitting, inserting pins through both the body 1034 and the output member via brazing, the arrangement of keys and keyways, or any other suitable method.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 26, the externally threaded portions 1067 are circumferentially spaced apart from each other on the shaft portion 1058 and are selectively threadable with the plate 1046, as will be described in more detail below. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the threaded portions 1067 includes a helical thread segment having a V-thread profile, but in other embodiments, the threaded portions 1067 may have another thread profile, preferably a standard thread profile such as a unified thread, an Acme thread, a metric thread, a buttress thread, or the like. The gaps 1069 are defined between adjacent externally threaded portions 1067. The gaps 1069 are unthreaded regions of the shaft portion 1058. In the illustrated embodiment, the externally threaded portions 1067 are defined by continuous helices having a constant pitch, and the gaps 1069 are formed, for example, by machining away portions of the external threads. Thus, adjacent threads within each of the externally threaded portions of the externally threaded portions 1067 are spaced apart in a direction parallel to the axis A1 by a constant pitch.

[0127] In the illustrated embodiment, the chuck body 1034 further includes channels 1073, each channel 1073 extending centrally along each one of the gaps 1069 in a direction parallel to axis A1. Each illustrated channel 1073 extends through the rear end of the shaft portion 1058 in a direction toward the flange portion 1128 and terminates at a point corresponding to the end of the externally threaded portion 1067. Continuing to refer to FIG. 26, arcuate ribs 1071 are formed at the rear end of the shaft portion 1058. The arcuate ribs 1071 are circumferentially spaced from each other and function to engage and position the rotation limiter 1048 as will be described in more detail below.

[0128] Figures 21, 22A, 24, and 25 show the color assembly 1040. The color assembly 1040 includes a color 1042 (FIG. 25) and a rotatable sleeve 1044 (FIG. 24). The color 1042 surrounds the body 1034 and includes an internal stepped jaw engagement portion 1106 and a plurality of external rotation configurations 1151 (e.g., protrusions) formed on the outer surface. The rotatable sleeve 1044 surrounds at least a portion of the color 1042 and includes a plurality of internal rotation configurations 1153 (e.g., protrusions) formed on the inner surface. The external rotation configurations 1151 are circumferentially spaced apart by a distance greater than the width of each of the internal rotation configurations of the internal rotation configurations 1153 of the sleeve 1044. Thus, the sleeve 1044 and the color 1042 define a lost motion connection such that the sleeve 1044 is rotatable relative to the color 1042 to a limited extent and then, once the internal rotation configuration 1153 and the external rotation configuration 1151 engage, are coupled for co-rotation with the color 1042. The limited relative rotation between the sleeve 1044 and the color 1042 allows the sleeve 1044 to function as an actuator for releasing the lock of the lock assembly 1041. For example, as described in more detail below, a user removing the tool bit 14 from the chuck assembly 1010 may grip the sleeve 1044 and rotate the sleeve in the unlock direction. Initially, the sleeve 1044 rotates relative to the color 1042 and the color 1042 remains stationary. During this period, the rotation of the sleeve 1044 unlocks the lock assembly 1041. Once the lock assembly 1041 is unlocked, the internal rotation configuration 1153 of the sleeve 1044 engages the external rotation configuration 1151 of the color 1042 and the sleeve 1044 and the color 1042 rotate together to release the clamping force on the tool bit 14.

[0129] Next, referring to FIGS. 22A and 27, plate 1046 is coupled to collar 1042. Plate 1046 includes a central hole 1154 and a plurality of outwardly extending protrusions 1158. The protrusions 1158 are received within corresponding recesses 1150 of the collar 1042 to couple the plate 1046 and the collar 1042 for co-rotation. The central hole 1154 receives the shaft portion 1058 of the chuck body 1034, and the plate 1046 includes a plurality of internally threaded portions 1162 that extend into the central hole 1154. Each of the internally threaded portions 1162 includes a helical thread segment configured to mate and align with a helical thread segment of the externally threaded portion 1067. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the internally threaded portion 1162 is a V-thread and has a constant pitch, but in other embodiments, the internally threaded portion 1162 may be another type of thread corresponding to the thread type of the externally threaded portion 1067.

[0130] When the internally threaded portion 1162 engages the externally threaded portion 1067, rotation of the collar 1042 and the plate 1046 relative to the chuck body 1034 causes axial movement of the collar 1042 and the plate 1046 along the chuck body 1034 via the action of the threads. The internally threaded portion 1162 can also be received within the gap 1069 between the externally threaded portions 1067. When received within the gap 1069, the collar 1042 and the plate 1046 can slide axially relative to the chuck body 1034 without rotating the collar 1042 and the plate 1046. Axial movement of the plate 1046 relative to the collar 1042 may be restricted by a retaining ring 1053 that is seated within a retaining ring groove formed within the collar 1042 (FIG. 22A).

[0131] Referring to FIG. 28, the rotation limiter 1048 includes a plurality of limiting arms 1049 that extend into the gap 1069 and abut against one circumferential end of each of the externally threaded portions of the externally threaded portion 1067 (FIG. 23). The rotation limiter 1048 also engages a rib 1071 formed at the rear end of the chuck body 1034, and the rib couples with the rotation limiter 1048 for co-rotation with the chuck body 1034. In use, the limiting arm 1049 prevents the internally threaded portion 1162 from rotating beyond the end of the externally threaded portion 1067 in the tightening direction, and also prevents the internally threaded portion 1162 from rotating excessively and engaging an adjacent set of the externally threaded portion 1067 when the internally threaded portion 1162 rotates within the gap 1069 in the loosening direction. In some embodiments, the rotation limiter 1048 is formed by a metal stamping process and then bent into a predetermined shape, although in other embodiments, the rotation limiter 1048 may be machined or cast.

[0132] FIG. 22A shows a spring 1096 of the chuck assembly 1010 that extends between the flange portion 1128 of the body 1034 and the plate 1046. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the spring 1096 is a conical coil spring. In operation, the coil spring 1096 is configured to bias the plate 1046 and the collar 442 rearwardly away from the head portion 1058 of the body 1034. This then generates a clamping force on the jaw 38 via the jaw engagement portion 1106.

[0133] Figures 22A to 23 show a locking assembly 1041 that is movable between a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, the locking assembly 1041 is configured to prevent rotation of the color assembly 1040 relative to the body 1034 in the loosening direction. In the unlocked state, the color assembly 1040 is rotatable relative to the body 1034 in the loosening direction. In one exemplary use, the locking assembly 1241 prevents the rotational inertia of the chuck assembly 1010 from inadvertently rotating the color assembly 1040 relative to the body 1034 when the output member of the tool suddenly stops (e.g., due to a motor brake when the trigger of the tool is released). The illustrated locking assembly 1041 includes a ratchet plate 1170 keyed to the chuck body 1034 (Figs. 22A to 22B), a pawl ring 1172 surrounding the ratchet plate 1170, and a release plate 1174.

[0134] Continuing to refer to Figs. 22A to 22B, the ratchet plate 1170 includes a plurality of ratchet teeth 1176 formed on the outer surface of the ratchet plate 1170. Figs. 22A, 22B, 23, and 29A show the pawl ring 1172 positioned within the color 1042 and between the retaining ring 1053 and the release plate 1174. As best shown in Figs. 22B and 29A, the pawl ring 1172 includes a plurality of pawl arms 1178 configured to engage the plurality of ratchet teeth 1176 of the ratchet plate 1170. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of pawl arms 1178 includes three angled pawl arms 1178. In other embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in Fig. 29B, the pawl ring 1172B may include arcuate pawl arms 1178B. In further embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in Fig. 29C, the pawl ring 1172C may include more than three pawl arms 1178C (e.g., six pawl arms), and the lengths of the pawl arms 1178C may vary.

[0135] Figures 22A and 22B show a release plate 1174 positioned behind the claw ring 1172. The release plate 1174 includes a plurality of alignment configurations 1180 and a plurality of lifter arms 1182. The alignment configurations 1180 are formed on the outer peripheral surface and are configured to couple the release plate 1174 to the rotatable sleeve 1044 for co-rotation. The lifter arms 1182 extend axially forward toward the claw ring 1172 and are configured to selectively contact the claw arms 1178. Specifically, the lifter arms 1182 are configured to lift the claw arms 1178 away from the ratchet teeth 1176 (unlocked state) of the ratchet plate 1170, allowing rotation of the collar assembly 1040 in the loosening direction. Once the lifter arms 1182 no longer contact the claw arms 1178, the claw arms 1178 are biased radially inward to contact the plurality of ratchet teeth 1176. When the claw arms 1178 contact the ratchet teeth 1176, the collar assembly 1040 is no longer allowed to rotate in the loosening direction (i.e., locked state).

[0136] In use, the user selects a tool bit 14 to insert into the tool bit hole 1062 of the tool chuck assembly 1010. The user begins by rotating the rotatable sleeve 1044 of the collar assembly 1040 in the loosening direction about the central axis A1. At the same time, the release plate 1174 rotates with the rotatable sleeve 1044, and the lifter arms 1182 engage the claw arms 1178. As a result, the claw arms 1178 are moved radially outward away from the ratchet teeth 1176 of the ratchet plate 1170. The lock assembly 1041 is now in the unlocked state, and rotation of the collar assembly 1040 in the loosening direction is allowed.

[0137] Next, the rotatable sleeve 1044 is further rotated until the internal rotation configuration 1153 engages with the external rotation configuration 1151 of the collar 1042. When the internal rotation configuration and the external rotation configurations 1153, 1151 are in contact, both the rotatable sleeve 1044 and the collar 1042 are rotatable together about the central axis A1. Additionally, rotation of the collar 1042 in the loosening direction also results in simultaneous rotation of the plate 1046 in the loosening direction. The rotatable sleeve 1044 and the collar 1042 are rotated until the internally threaded portion 1162 of the plate 1046 disengages from the externally threaded portion 1067 and moves into the gap 1069 to an extent limited by contact with the limiting arm 1049 of the rotation limiter 1048 (FIG. 23). When the internally threaded portion 1162 contacts the limiting arm 1049, the internally threaded portion 1162 of the plate 1046 is aligned with the gap 1069.

[0138] When the internally threaded portion 1162 of the plate 1046 is aligned with the gap 1069, the plate 1046 and the collar assembly 1040 are movable forward along the central axis A1 relative to the chuck body 1034 against the biasing force of the spring 1096 (FIG. 22A). When the collar assembly 1040 moves forward, a gap is formed between the jaw engagement portion 1106 and the outer side 80 of each jaw 38. Next, the user can insert the shank 18 of the tool bit 14 into the tool bit hole 1062 of the body 1034. When the tool bit 14 is inserted, the rear end of the shank 18 engages with the jaw 38 and displaces the jaw 38 outwardly enough to accommodate the outer dimension of the shank 18. Thereafter, the shank 18 may be fully inserted into the chuck assembly 1010.

[0139] Once inserted, the user may release the color assembly 1040 that moves rearward under the influence of the spring 1096. The color assembly 1040 can move rearward without rotating because the internally threaded portion 1162 of the plate 1046 remains aligned with the gap 1069. When the color assembly 1040 moves rearward, the jaw engagement portion 1106 abuts against the jaw 38 and moves the jaw 38 to a position corresponding to one of the first, second, or third nominal sizes 22, 26, 30 radially inward within the tool bit opening 1062. The jaw 38 continues to move radially inward until the tool engagement side 82 contacts the tool bit 14. In addition, the protruding rib 86 engages the groove 20 of the tool bit 14, and the groove 20 limits the axial movement of the tool bit 14 in the chuck assembly 1010.

[0140] Next, the color assembly 1040 is rotated in the tightening direction about the central axis A1 by the user (e.g., by gripping and rotating the sleeve 1044 in the tightening direction). The claw arm 1187 overrides the ratchet teeth 1176 in the tightening direction but is configured to engage the ratchet teeth 1176 to prevent loosening. Rotation of the color 1042 (and the plate 1046 together with the color 1046) screws the internally threaded portion 1162 onto the externally threaded portion 1067, and the plate 1046 and the color assembly 1040 move axially rearward guided by the engagement of the screwed portions 1067, 1162. The additional rearward axial movement further presses the jaw engagement portion 1106 of the color 1042, holds the tool bit 14, and increases the clamping force on the tool bit 14. Here, since the tool bit 14 is inserted and held in the tool bit hole 1062 by the jaw 38 and the lock assembly 1041 is in a locked state, rotation in the loosening direction is restricted.

[0141] Figures 30-34 illustrate another embodiment of a chuck assembly 1210 configured to quickly receive and secure a tool bit having a shank of three different predetermined nominal sizes (e.g., 1 / 4 inch, 3 / 8 inch, and 7 / 16 inch). In other embodiments, chuck assembly 1210 may receive and secure a tool bit having two standard size shanks or four or more size shanks. Chuck assembly 1210 is similar to chuck assembly 1010 in several aspects, and like parts have like reference numerals with "1200" added. Accordingly, the following description will primarily focus on the differences between chuck assembly 1210 and chuck assembly 1010. The illustrated chuck assembly 1210 includes a body 1034, a plurality of jaws 38, a collar assembly 1240, a plate 1246, a rotation limiter 1048, a spring 1096, and a lock assembly 1241.

[0142] Figures 30 and 31 show the collar assembly 1240. The collar assembly 1240 includes a collar 1242 and a rotatable sleeve 1244. The collar 1242 surrounds the body 1034 and includes an inner jaw engagement portion 1306 and at least one pin slot (not shown) formed in the outer surface of the collar 1242. The rotatable sleeve 1244 surrounds at least a portion of the collar 1042 and supports a pin 1243 that extends into the interior of the collar 1242 through a circumferential slot in the collar 1242. The pin 1243 is rotatable with the sleeve 1244 to unlock the lock assembly 1241, as described in more detail below.

[0143] Figures 31 to 33 show a plate 1246 positioned within the collar 1242 and surrounding the shaft portion 1058 of the main body 1034. The plate 1246 includes a central hole 1354, a plurality of first ratchet teeth 1357, and a plurality of protrusions 1358. The central hole 1354 is configured to receive the shaft portion 1058 of the main body 1034 and includes a plurality of internally threaded portions 1362. The plurality of internally threaded portions 1362 are configured to engage with a plurality of externally threaded portions 1067 or to be received within a gap 1069 between the externally threaded portions 1067. The first ratchet teeth 1357 are formed on the rear surface of the plate 1246 and extend parallel to the central axis A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first ratchet teeth 1357 are inclined in a first direction. The plurality of protrusions 1358 are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the plate 1246 and are received within a plurality of recesses 1150 formed on the inner peripheral surface of the collar 1242. When the plurality of protrusions 1358 are received within the plurality of recesses 1150, the plate 1246 and the collar 1242 are coupled to each other and movable in both the axial and rotational directions. In addition, the position of the plate 1046 relative to the collar 1242 is further restricted by a retaining ring 1053 fitted into a retaining ring groove formed within the collar 1242.

[0144] Figures 31 and 32 show a lock assembly 1241 positioned within color 1242 and behind plate 1246. The lock assembly 1241 is movable between a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, the lock assembly 1241 is configured to prevent rotation of the color assembly 1240 relative to the body 1034 in the loosening direction while allowing rotation in the tightening direction. In the unlocked state, the color assembly 1240 is freely rotatable relative to the body 1034 in both the loosening and tightening directions. In one exemplary use, the lock assembly 1241 prevents the rotational inertia of the chuck assembly 1210 from unintentionally rotating the color assembly 1040 relative to the body 1034 in the loosening direction (e.g., when the output member of a tool suddenly stops). The lock assembly 1241 includes a first plurality of ratchet teeth 1357 of plate 1246, a ratchet plate 1370, and a guide plate 1375.

[0145] As shown in FIGS. 31, 32, and 34, the ratchet plate 1370 is positioned within and rearward of the collar 1242 of the plate 1246. The ratchet plate 1370 is further biased to contact the plate 1246 by a lock spring (not shown). The ratchet plate 1370 includes a plurality of second ratchet teeth 1371, a lock cam profile 1373, and a plurality of guide slots 1377. The second ratchet teeth 1371 are formed on the surface of the ratchet plate 1370 facing forward and are configured to selectively engage with a plurality of first ratchet teeth 1357 of the plate 1346. In the illustrated embodiment, the second ratchet teeth 1371 are inclined in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The lock cam profile 1373 is also formed on the surface of the ratchet plate 1370 facing forward and is configured to be engaged by a pin 1243 attached to the collar assembly 1040. In other embodiments, the lock cam profile 1373 may be formed on the circumferential surface of the ratchet plate 1370. The plurality of guide slots 1377 are formed in a hole disposed at the center of the ratchet plate 1370 and are configured to receive a portion of the guide plate 1375.

[0146] As shown in FIG. 31, the guide plate 1375 is positioned within the collar 1242 and coupled to a plurality of alignment recesses 1071 formed on the rear surface of the body 1034. The guide plate 1375 includes a plurality of axial guides 1379 formed on the outer peripheral surface. As shown in FIG. 31, the axial guides 1379 are received within the plurality of guide slots 1377 of the ratchet plate 1370. The axial guides 1379 limit the rotation of the ratchet plate 1370 with respect to the body 1034 but are configured to allow axial movement of the ratchet plate 1370 along the central axis A1.

[0147] In use, the user selects the tool bit 14 and inserts it into the tool bit hole 1062 of the tool chuck assembly 1210. The user begins by rotating the rotatable sleeve 1244 of the color assembly 1240 about the central axis A1 in the loosening direction. At the same time, the pin 1243 rotates with the rotatable sleeve 1044 until the pin 1243 contacts one end of the pin slot formed in the color 1242. As the pin 1243 moves within the pin slot, the pin 1243 also engages the lock cam profile 1373 of the ratchet plate 1370. The movement of the pin 1243 in the lock cam profile 1373 in the loosening direction causes the ratchet plate 1370 to move axially rearward away from the plate 1246 along the axial guide 1379. The rearward axial movement of the ratchet plate 1370 disengages the second ratchet tooth 1371 from the first ratchet tooth 1357. Now, the lock assembly 1241 is in an unlocked state, and the color assembly 1240 is rotatable relative to the body 1034 in the loosening direction.

[0148] Now, the rotatable sleeve 1244 and the color 1242 are rotated together in the loosening direction, resulting in the simultaneous rotation of the plate 1246 in the loosening direction. The rotatable sleeve 1244 and the color 1242 are rotated until the internally threaded portion 1362 of the plate 1246 contacts the limiting arm 1049 of the rotation limiter 1048. When the internally threaded portion 1362 contacts the limiting arm 1049, the internally threaded portion 1362 of the plate 1246 is aligned with the gap 1069.

[0149] When the internally threaded portion 1362 of the plate 1246 is aligned with the gap 1069, the plate 1246 and the color assembly 1240 are movable forward along the central axis A1 against the biasing force of the spring 1096. When the color assembly 1240 is moved forward, a gap is formed between the jaw engagement portion 1306 and the outer side 80 of each jaw 38. Next, the user can insert the shank 18 of the tool bit 14 into the tool bit hole 1062 of the body 1034. When the tool bit 14 is inserted, the rear end of the shank 18 engages the jaw 38 and displaces the jaw 38 outwardly enough to accommodate the outer dimension of the shank 18. Thereafter, the shank 18 may be fully inserted into the chuck assembly 1210.

[0150] Once inserted, the user may release the color assembly 1240 which moves rearward under the influence of the spring 1096. As the color assembly 1240 moves rearward, the jaw engagement portion 1306 abuts the jaw 38 and moves the jaw 38 to a position corresponding to one of the first, second, or third nominal sizes 22, 26, 30 radially inward within the tool bit hole 1062. The jaw 38 continues to move radially inward until the tool engagement side 82 contacts the tool bit 14. In addition, the protruding rib 86 engages the groove 20 of the tool bit 14 which limits the axial movement of the tool bit 14 within the chuck assembly 1210.

[0151] Next, the color assembly 1240 is rotated in the tightening direction about the central axis A1. The rotation of the color assembly 1240 starts by rotating only the rotatable sleeve 1244 and the pin 1243 in the tightening direction until the pin 1243 contacts the other end of the pin slot formed in the color 1242. Once the pin 1243 contacts the other end of the pin slot, the rotation of the rotatable sleeve 1244 causes the rotation of the color 1242 as well. The rotation of the color 1242 is transmitted to the plate 1246, which slides the internally threaded portion 1362 into the axial space between the externally threaded portion 1067 from the gap 1069. Further rotation of the plate 1246 screws the internally threaded portion 1362 onto the externally threaded portion 1067, and the plate 1246 and the color 1242 move axially rearward guided by the pitch of the externally threaded portion 1067. Additional rearward axial movement further presses the jaw engagement portion 1106 of the color 1242 against the jaw 38 to hold the tool bit 14. Now, the tool bit 14 is inserted and held in the tool bit hole 1062 by the jaw 38, and since the lock assembly 1041 is in the locked state, rotation in the loosening direction is restricted.

[0152] Figures 35 - 39 show another embodiment of a chuck assembly 1410 configured to quickly receive and secure tool bits having standard size shanks of three different predetermined nominal sizes (e.g., 1 / 4 inch, 3 / 8 inch, and 7 / 16 inch). In other embodiments, the chuck assembly 1410 may receive and secure tool bits having two standard size shanks or four or more sizes of shanks. The chuck assembly 1410 is similar to the chuck assembly 1010 in several aspects, and like parts have the same reference numbers with "1400" added. Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily on the differences between the chuck assembly 1410 and the chuck assembly 1010. The illustrated chuck assembly 1410 includes a body 1034, a plurality of jaws 38, a color 1442, a plate 1446, a rotation limiter 1048, a spring 1096, and a lock assembly 1441.

[0153] Figures 35 and 36 show a collar 1442 that surrounds the body 1034 and includes a jaw engagement portion 1506 on the inside. The collar 1442 is configured to be rotated about a central axis A1 and axially movable along the central axis A1.

[0154] Figures 36, 37, and 38 show a plate 1446 that is positioned within the collar 1442 and surrounds the shaft portion 1058 of the body 1034. The plate 1446 includes a central hole 1554, a plurality of plate teeth 1557, and a plurality of protrusions 1558. The central hole 1554 is configured to receive the shaft portion 1058 of the body 1034 and includes a plurality of internally threaded portions 1562. The plurality of internally threaded portions 1562 are configured to engage with a plurality of externally threaded portions 1067 of the body 1034 or to be received within a gap 1069 between the externally threaded portions 1067. The plate teeth 1557 are formed on a surface facing the rear of the plate 1246 and extend in a direction parallel to the central axis A1. The plurality of protrusions 1558 are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the plate 1446 and are received within a plurality of recesses 1550 formed on the inner peripheral surface of the collar 1442. When the plurality of protrusions 1558 are received within the plurality of recesses 1550, the plate 1446 and the collar 1442 are coupled to each other and movable in both the axial and rotational directions. In addition, the axial movement of the plate 1446 relative to the collar 1442 is further restricted by a retaining ring 1453 mounted in a retaining ring groove formed in the collar 1442.

[0155] Figures 36 and 37 show a lock assembly 1441 positioned within color 1442 and behind plate 1446. The lock assembly 1441 is configured to increase the torque required to rotate the color 1442 about central axis A1. In one exemplary use, the additional torque required to rotate the color 1442 prevents the rotational inertia of the chuck assembly 1410 from unintentionally rotating the color 1442 relative to the body 1034. The lock assembly 1041 includes plate teeth 1557 of plate 1446, a lock plate 1470, and a lock spring 1581.

[0156] As shown in FIGS. 36, 37, and 39, the lock plate 1470 is positioned within the color 1442 and behind the plate 1446 on the body 1034. The lock plate 1470 includes a plurality of lock teeth 1583 and a plurality of guide protrusions 1585. The plurality of lock teeth 1583 are formed on a surface facing forward of the lock plate 1470 and are configured to engage the plurality of plate teeth 1557 of the plate 1446. The guide protrusions 1585 extend inwardly into a hole disposed at the center of the lock plate 1470 and are received within a plurality of channels 1073 formed in the body 1034. The guide protrusions 1585 are configured to limit rotation of the lock plate 1470 relative to the body 1034 while allowing axial movement of the lock plate 1470.

[0157] As shown in FIGS. 36 and 37, the lock spring 1581 is positioned within the color and surrounds the body 1034. Additionally, the lock spring 1581 is positioned between the lock plate 1470 and a spring retaining clip 1587 coupled to the color 1442. In the illustrated embodiment, the lock spring 1581 is a wave spring, although in other embodiments, the lock spring 1581 may be a coil spring, an elastomeric spring, or a Belleville spring. The lock spring 1581 is configured to bias the lock plate 1470 toward the plate 1446 to ensure engagement between the lock teeth 1583 and the plate teeth 1557.

[0158] In use, the user selects the tool bit 14 to be inserted into the tool bit hole 1062 of the tool chuck assembly 1410. The user applies torque in the loosening direction to the collar 1442 and must overcome the torque threshold set by the lock assembly 1441. If the torque is greater than the torque threshold, the collar 1442 and the plate 1446 rotate about the central axis A1 in the loosening direction. When the user applies a torque greater than the torque threshold to the collar 1442, the plate teeth 1557 of the plate 1446 begin to slide out of engagement with the lock teeth 1583, and then the lock teeth 1583 move the lock plate 1470 rearward, compressing the lock spring 1581. As the collar 1442 continues to rotate, the plate teeth 1557 slide out of engagement with the lock teeth 1583 and further slide until the plate teeth 1557 slide past the tip of the lock teeth 1583. Now, since the lock spring 1581 biases the lock plate 1470 forward, the lock teeth 1583 re-engage with the adjacent plate teeth 1557. The disengagement and re-engagement of the plate teeth 1557 and the lock teeth 1583 occur repeatedly while the collar 1442 is rotated. The collar 1442 and the plate 1446 are rotated until the internally threaded portion 1562 of the plate 1446 contacts the limiting arm 1049 of the rotation limiter 1048. When the internally threaded portion 1562 contacts the limiting arm 1049, the internally threaded portion 1562 of the plate 1246 is aligned with the gap 1069.

[0159] When the internally threaded portion 1562 of the plate 1446 is aligned with the gap 1069, the plate 1446 and the collar 1442 are movable forward along the central axis A1 against the biasing force of the spring 1096. When the collar 1442 is moved forward, a gap is formed between the jaw engagement portion 1306 and the outer side 80 of each jaw 38. Next, the user can insert the shank 18 of the tool bit 14 into the tool bit hole 1062 of the main body 1034. When the tool bit 14 is inserted, the rear end of the shank 18 engages the jaw 38 and displaces the jaw 38 outwardly enough to accommodate the outer dimension of the shank 18. Thereafter, the shank 18 may be fully inserted into the chuck assembly 1410.

[0160] Once inserted, the user may release the collar 1442 which moves rearward under the influence of the spring 1096. When the collar 1442 moves rearward, the jaw engagement portion 1506 abuts the jaw 38 and moves the jaw 38 to a position corresponding to one of the first, second, or third nominal sizes 22, 26, 30 radially inward within the tool bit hole 1062. The jaw 38 continues to move radially inward until the tool engagement side 82 contacts the tool bit 14. Additionally, the protruding rib 86 engages the groove 20 within the tool bit 14 which restricts the axial movement of the tool bit 14 within the chuck assembly 1410.

[0161] Next, the user applies a tightening torque to the collar 1442 and must overcome the torque threshold set by the lock assembly 1441. If the torque is greater than the torque threshold, the collar 1442 and the plate 1446 rotate about the central axis A1 in the tightening direction. When the user applies a torque greater than the torque threshold to the collar 1442, the plate teeth 1557 disengage from the engagement with the lock teeth 1583 and begin to slide, moving the lock teeth and then the lock plate 1470 rearward and compressing the lock spring 1581. As described above, the rotation of the collar 1442 repeatedly causes the disengagement and re-engagement of the plate teeth 1557 and the lock teeth 1583. The rotation of the plate 1446 in the tightening direction slides the internally threaded portion 1562 into the axial space between the externally threaded portion 1067 from the gap 1069. Further rotation of the plate 1446 screws the internally threaded portion 1562 onto the externally threaded portion 1067, and the plate 1446 and the collar 1442 move axially rearward as guided by the pitch of the externally threaded portion 1067. The additional rearward axial movement further presses the jaw engagement portion 1506 of the collar 1442 against the jaw 38 to hold the tool bit 14. Now, the tool bit 14 is inserted and held in the tool bit hole 1062 by the jaw 38.

[0162] Figure 40 shows another embodiment of a chuck assembly 1610 configured to quickly receive and secure a tool bit having a shank of three different predetermined nominal sizes (e.g., 1 / 4 inch, 3 / 8 inch, and 7 / 16 inch) of standard size. In other embodiments, the chuck assembly 1610 may receive and secure a tool bit having a shank of two standard sizes or four or more sizes. The chuck assembly 1610 is similar to the chuck assembly 1010 in several aspects, and like parts have the same reference numbers with "1600" added. Accordingly, the following description will focus primarily on the differences between the chuck assembly 1610 and the chuck assembly 1010. The illustrated chuck assembly 1610 includes a body 1034, a plurality of jaws 38, a collar 1642, a plate 1046, a rotation limiter 1048, a spring 1096, and a lock assembly 1641.

[0163] As shown in FIG. 40, the collar 1642 surrounds the body 1034 and includes an inner jaw engagement portion 1706. The collar 1642 is rotatable about a central axis A1 and axially movable along the central axis A1. Additionally, the collar 1642 receives a portion of the lock assembly 1641.

[0164] Continuing to refer to FIG. 40, the lock assembly 1641 is positioned within the collar 1642 and behind the plate 1046. The lock assembly 1641 is configured to increase the torque required to rotate the collar 1642 about the central axis A1. In one exemplary use case, the additional torque required to rotate the collar 1642 prevents the rotational inertia of the chuck assembly 1610 from unintentionally rotating the collar 1642 relative to the body 1034. The lock assembly 1641 includes a lock spring 1781 and a spring retaining clip 1787. The lock spring 1781 applies an axial force to the plate 1046 to press the internally threaded portion 1162 against the externally threaded portion 1067 of the body 1034. The axial force pressing the internally threaded portion 1162 against the externally threaded portion 1067 increases the static friction between the plate 1046 and the body 1034. The spring retaining clip 1787 is coupled to the collar 1642 and axially retains the lock spring 1781 within the collar 1642. In some embodiments, the spring retaining clip 1787 may include a spring boss configured to maintain the position of the lock spring 1781.

[0165] In use, the user selects a tool bit 14 for insertion into the tool bit hole 1062 of the tool chuck assembly 1610. The user applies a torque in the loosening direction to the collar 1642 and must overcome a torque threshold set by the lock assembly 1641. The torque threshold is based on the static friction between the plate 1046 and the body 1034 and depends on the spring force of the lock spring 1781. When the user applies a torque greater than the torque threshold to the collar 1642, the collar 1642 and the plate 1046 are rotated until the internally threaded portion 1162 of the plate 1046 contacts the limiting arm 1049 of the rotation limiter 1048. When the internally threaded portion 1162 contacts the limiting arm 1049, the internally threaded portion 1162 of the plate 1046 is aligned with the gap 1069.

[0166] When the internally threaded portion 1162 of the plate 1046 is aligned with the gap 1069, the plate 1046 and the collar 1642 are movable forward along the central axis A1 against the biasing force of the spring 1096. When the collar 1642 is moved forward, a gap is formed between the jaw engagement portion 1706 and the outer side 80 of each jaw 38. Next, the user can insert the shank 18 of the tool bit 14 into the tool bit hole 1062 of the body 1034. When the tool bit 14 is inserted, the rear end of the shank 18 engages with the jaw 38 and displaces the jaw 38 outwardly enough to accommodate the outer dimension of the shank 18. Thereafter, the shank 18 may be fully inserted into the chuck assembly 1610.

[0167] Once inserted, the user may release the collar 1642 which moves rearward under the influence of the spring 1096. When the collar 1642 moves rearward, the jaw 1506 abuts against the jaw 38 and moves the jaw 38 to a position corresponding to one of the first, second, or third nominal sizes 22, 26, 30 radially inward within the tool bit hole 1062. The jaw 38 continues to move radially inward until the tool engagement side 82 contacts the tool bit 14. In addition, the protruding rib 86 engages the groove 20 of the tool bit 14 which restricts the axial movement of the tool bit 14 within the chuck assembly 1210.

[0168] Next, the collar 1642 and the plate 1046 are rotated in the tightening direction. Rotation of the plate 1046 in the tightening direction slides the internally threaded portion 1162 into the axial space between the gap 1069 and the externally threaded portion 1067. Further rotation of the plate 1046 screws the internally threaded portion 1162 onto the externally threaded portion 1067 and the plate 1046 and the collar 1642 move axially rearward guided by the pitch of the externally threaded portion 1067. The additional rearward axial movement further presses the jaw engagement portion 1706 of the collar 1642 against the jaw 38 to hold the tool bit 14. Now, the tool bit 14 is inserted and held within the tool bit hole 1062 by the jaw 38.

[0169] Various configurations and aspects of the present disclosure are described in the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A chuck assembly for a rotary power tool, comprising: a body rotatable about a central axis and including a plurality of openings and a first set of threads; a plurality of jaws received within the plurality of openings in the body; a collar surrounding the body and including a stepped portion configured to engage the plurality of jaws to limit radial movement of the plurality of jaws; a second set of threads coupled for co-rotation with the collar and engaged with the first set of threads on the body such that rotation of the collar relative to the body moves the collar axially along the body; and a spring biasing the collar such that the stepped portion is biased into engagement with the plurality of jaws. Chuck assembly.

2. The chuck assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a plate coupled for co-rotation with said collar, said plate including a central bore, said body extending through said central bore.

3. The chuck assembly of claim 2 , wherein the second set of threads are formed in the plate centered about the central hole.

4. The chuck assembly of claim 3 , wherein the spring has a first end that engages the body and a second end that engages the plate.

5. The chuck assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the spring is a conical coil spring.

6. The chuck assembly of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the plate has a non-uniform thickness.

7. The chuck assembly of claim 6 , wherein the plate has a greater thickness adjacent the central hole than adjacent an outer periphery of the plate.

8. 5. The chuck assembly of claim 3 or 4, wherein each thread of the second set of threads includes a recess configured to receive an end of a respective thread of the first set of threads.

9. The chuck assembly of claim 8 , wherein axial movement of the collar is restricted when the ends of the respective threads are received within the recesses.

10. The chuck assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each jaw of the plurality of jaws includes a stepped outer surface engageable with the stepped portion of the collar.

11. 1. A chuck assembly for a rotary power tool, comprising: a body rotatable about a central axis and including a plurality of openings and an externally threaded portion; a plurality of jaws received within the plurality of openings in the body; a collar surrounding the body and including a stepped portion configured to engage the plurality of jaws; a plate coupled for co-rotation with the collar, the plate having an internally threaded portion configured to engage an externally threaded portion of the body such that, when engaged, rotation of the collar and the plate relative to the body causes the collar and the plate to move axially along the body; and a locking assembly configured to selectively prevent rotation of the collar and the plate relative to the body. Chuck assembly.

12. 12. The chuck assembly of claim 11, further comprising a sleeve surrounding the collar, the sleeve being rotatable relative to the collar a first distance and rotatable with the collar when the sleeve is rotated a distance greater than the first distance.

13. 13. The chuck assembly of claim 12, further comprising a rotation limiter coupled to the body, the rotation limiter including an arm extending along the externally threaded portion and engageable with the internally threaded portion of the plate to limit the rotation of the plate.

14. The chuck assembly of any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising a spring biasing the collar such that the stepped portion is biased into engagement with the plurality of jaws, the spring being a conical spring.

15. The locking assembly includes: A ratchet plate and a prong ring positioned within the collar; a plurality of lifter arms coupled to the sleeve; the ratchet plate includes a plurality of ratchet teeth formed on an outer surface of the ratchet plate; the pawl ring includes a plurality of pawl arms configured to engage the plurality of ratchet teeth of the ratchet plate; the plurality of lifter arms are configured to disengage the pawl arm from the plurality of ratchet teeth in response to rotation of the sleeve; the locking assembly includes a locked state, in which the pawl arm engages the plurality of ratchet teeth and rotation of the collar relative to the body is permitted in a first direction about the central axis and prevented in a second direction opposite the first direction about the central axis; the locking assembly includes an unlocked condition, in which a locking arm moves the pawl arm out of engagement with the plurality of ratchet teeth and rotation of the collar relative to the body is permitted in both the first direction and the second direction about the central axis. The chuck assembly according to any one of claims 12 to 13.

16. The locking assembly includes: a first plurality of teeth formed on the plate; a locking plate coupled to the body for co-rotation and axially movable along the body and including a plurality of second teeth configured to selectively engage the first plurality of teeth; a locking spring that biases the locking plate along the central axis into contact with the plate. The chuck assembly according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

17. 17. The chuck assembly of claim 16, wherein rotation of the collar with a torque greater than a torque threshold moves the locking plate axially away from the plate against the bias of the locking spring to allow the first plurality of teeth to slide over the second plurality of teeth.

18. 1. A chuck assembly for a rotary power tool, comprising: a body rotatable about a central axis, the body including a plurality of openings and a plurality of sizing groove sets formed in the body, each sizing groove set including a plurality of spiral grooves; a plurality of jaws received within the plurality of openings in the body; a collar configured to surround the body, rotate about the central axis, and move axially along the central axis relative to the body, and to engage the plurality of jaws; a plurality of protrusions coupled to the collar and configured to move with the collar relative to the body and configured to engage the plurality of sizing groove sets; Chuck assembly.

19. The chuck assembly of claim 18 , wherein each of the plurality of sizing groove sets includes an axial groove extending through the plurality of helical grooves.

20. 20. The chuck assembly of claim 19, wherein each protrusion of the plurality of protrusions is configured to slide along the axial groove of a respective one of the plurality of sizing groove sets as the collar moves axially along the central axis.

Images