Interchangeable Tool Bit Holder

Abstract

Other devices and systems are disclosed that include an apparatus for holding a replacement tool bit, the apparatus including a body including inner walls defining a first bit holding space and a second bit holding space configured to receive the first bit holding space and a second bit holding space, and an elastically deformable bit holder coupled to the body and separating the first bit holding space and the second bit holding space, the first bit holding space being surrounded adjacent to an inner surface region of the elastically deformable bit holder and the second bit holding space being adjacent to an outer surface region of the elastically deformable bit holder, such that when the first and second replacement tool bits are within the first and second bit holding spaces, the inner surface region and the outer surface region of the elastically deformable bit holder are deformed relative to the first bit holding space and the second bit holding space and are configured to hold the first and second replacement tool bits, respectively.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 487,402, entitled “INTERCHANGEABLE TOOL BIT HOLDER,” filed Sep. 28, 2021, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. [Technical field]

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to interchangeable tool bits, and more particularly, to holding interchangeable tool bits. [Background technology]

[0003] Some known devices for holding replacement tool bits may include a tool bit holder configured to hold the tool bit. In some devices, the tool bit may be switched in and out of a drive bit holder. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, some such known devices may not be configured for efficient and / or effective use. For example, some known devices may not be configured for efficient use of space within the device for holding tool bits, and / or some such known devices may include many different components and / or may not make efficient use of the components included in the device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to various embodiments, there is provided an apparatus for holding a replacement tool bit, the apparatus including: a body including an inner wall defining a first bit holding space and a second bit holding space configured to receive a first replacement tool bit and a second replacement tool bit; and an elastically deformable bit holder coupled to the body and separating the first bit holding space and the second bit holding space, the first bit holding space being surrounded adjacent an inner surface region of the elastically deformable bit holder and the second bit holding space being adjacent an outer surface region of the elastically deformable bit holder such that when the first replacement tool bit and the second replacement tool bit are within the first bit holding space and the second bit holding space, the inner surface region and the outer surface region of the elastically deformable bit holder are configured to deform relative to the first replacement tool bit and the second replacement tool bit, respectively, to hold the first replacement tool bit and the second replacement tool bit.

[0006] The inner wall of the body may include at least one planar wall adjacent to the second bit retaining space, the at least one planar wall configured to engage and align with at least one flat side of the second replaceable tool bit when the second replaceable tool bit is within the second bit retaining space.

[0007] The at least one planar wall may include a first planar wall opposite an outer surface region of the resiliently deformable bit holder across the second bit retaining space.

[0008] The at least one planar wall may include a second generally planar wall and a third generally planar wall adjacent the second bit retaining space, each of the second generally planar wall and the third generally planar wall extending at an angle of approximately 120 degrees from the first planar wall.

[0009] The inner wall of the body may define a bit retaining cavity having a first bit retaining space and a second bit retaining space, and the resiliently deformable bit holder may be retained within the bit retaining cavity.

[0010] The inner wall of the body may define a third bit retaining space configured to receive a third replacement tool bit, the outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder being a first outer surface area, the elastically deformable bit holder may separate the first and third bit retaining spaces, the third bit retaining space being adjacent to a second outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder such that the second outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder is configured to deform relative to the third replacement tool bit to retain the third replacement tool bit within the third bit retaining space.

[0011] The second bit retaining space and the third bit retaining space may be disposed on opposite sides of the elastically deformable bit holder.

[0012] The inner wall of the body may define a bit retaining cavity having a first bit retaining space, a second bit retaining space, and a third bit retaining space, and the resiliently deformable bit holder may be retained within the bit retaining cavity.

[0013] The apparatus may include a third replacement tool bit held in the third bit-holding space.

[0014] The apparatus may include a holder mount configured to couple the elastically deformable bit holder to the body, the holder mount including a wall defining a first opening configured to receive and retain a first end of the elastically deformable bit holder.

[0015] The holder mount may include a wall defining a second opening configured to receive and hold a second end of the elastically deformable bit holder, the second end being opposite the first end of the elastically deformable bit holder.

[0016] The holder mount may be integral with the body.

[0017] The resiliently deformable bit holder may include an O-ring.

[0018] The apparatus may include a drive bit holder configured to receive and hold a drive replaceable tool bit, such that when the drive replaceable tool bit is held by the drive bit holder, the drive replaceable tool bit is drivable by rotation of the body.

[0019] The elastically deformable bit holder may be a first elastically deformable bit holder, and the drive bit holder may include an inner wall defining a drive bit holding space, the inner wall configured to hold and rotationally lock the drive replacement tool bit within the drive bit holding space, and a second elastically deformable bit holder configured to deform relative to the drive replacement tool bit to hold the drive replacement tool bit when the drive replacement tool bit is held by the drive bit holder.

[0020] The drive bit retaining space may be generally axially aligned with the first bit retaining space.

[0021] The drive bit retaining space is surrounded adjacent to an inner surface region of the second elastically deformable bit holder, and an inner wall of the body defines a transition bit retaining space extending from the second bit retaining space, the transition bit retaining space being adjacent to an outer surface region of the second elastically deformable bit holder, such that when the drive replacement tool bit and the transition replacement tool bit are within the drive bit retaining space and the transition bit retaining space, respectively, the inner surface region and outer surface region of the second elastically deformable bit holder are configured to deform relative to the drive replacement tool bit and the transition replacement tool bit to retain the drive replacement tool bit and the transition replacement tool bit, respectively.

[0022] The first resiliently deformable bit holder and the second resiliently deformable bit holder can have generally similar dimensions.

[0023] The apparatus may include a driven interchangeable tool bit held by a driven bit holder.

[0024] The apparatus may include a first and a second interchangeable tool bit held in the first and second bit retaining spaces, respectively.

[0025] Other aspects and features of the embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following description of specific embodiments of the present disclosure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a first perspective view of an apparatus for holding an interchangeable tool bit according to various embodiments. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a second perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 1 according to various embodiments. [Diagram 3] 2 is a side view of the device shown in FIG. 1 according to various embodiments. [Figure 4] 2 is a top view of the device shown in FIG. 1 according to various embodiments. [Diagram 5] 2 is a front view of the device shown in FIG. 1 according to various embodiments. [Figure 6] 2 is a rear view of the device shown in FIG. 1 according to various embodiments. [Figure 7] 2 is a top cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 1 according to various embodiments. [Figure 8] 2 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 1 according to various embodiments. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a system including the device shown in FIG. 1, according to various embodiments. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a side view of the system shown in FIG. 9 in accordance with various embodiments. [Figure 11] 10 is a top cross-sectional view of the system shown in FIG. 9 according to various embodiments. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a system including the device shown in FIG. 1, according to various embodiments. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a side view of the system shown in FIG. 12 in accordance with various embodiments. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a top cross-sectional view of the system shown in FIG. 12 in accordance with various embodiments. [Figure 15] 2 is a top cross-sectional view of a system including the device shown in FIG. 1, according to various embodiments. [Figure 16] 1 is a perspective view of an apparatus for holding a replacement tool bit according to various embodiments; [Figure 17] 17 is a side view of the device shown in FIG. 16 according to various embodiments. [Figure 18] 17 is a top cross-sectional view of the system shown in FIG. 16 in accordance with various embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] Referring to FIG. 1, a first perspective view of a device 10 for holding replacement tool bits is shown, according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, the device 10 may facilitate holding replacement tool bits with efficient use of space, economy of materials, ease of use, and / or ease of manufacture. In some embodiments, for example, the replacement tool bits may include driver bits. In some embodiments, the device 10 may be configured to hold replacement tool bits for use. For example, in some embodiments, the device 10 may be configured to hold driver bits for use and function as a driver to drive the held driver bits. In various embodiments, the device 10 configured to hold bits for both future and current use may facilitate changing bits by a user.

[0028] With reference to Figures 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, there are shown a second perspective view, a side view, a top view, a front view, and a back view of the device 10 of Figure 1, according to various embodiments. With reference to the side view shown in Figure 3, there is shown at 7 an illustration of a cross section of the device 10, from which the top cross section shown in Figure 7 and the perspective cross section shown in Figure 8 are taken, according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, the device 10 can be generally symmetrical across the cross section plane 7 shown in Figure 3.

[0029] 7 and 8, in various embodiments, the device 10 may include a body 20 including an interior wall or surface that defines a first bit retaining space 40 and a second bit retaining space 42 configured to receive a first and a second interchangeable tool bit. In various embodiments, the interior wall of the body 20 may define a bit retaining cavity 30 having the first bit retaining space 40 and the second bit retaining space 42. In various embodiments, the bit retaining cavity 30 may be open at one or more ends and thus may include one or more passageways. In various embodiments, the body 20 may be made of a strong, rigid material, such as, for example, plastic, steel, aluminum, alloyed aluminum, injection molded plastic, and / or another strong, rigid material.

[0030] 9 and 10, there is shown a system 100 in a first holding configuration or storage mode including an apparatus 10 and a first replacement tool bit 102, a second replacement tool bit 104, and a third replacement tool bit 106 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11) held by the apparatus 10, according to various embodiments. With reference to the side view shown in FIG. 10, there is shown at 11 a cross-sectional illustration of the system 100, according to various embodiments, from which the top cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 11 is taken.

[0031] 7 and 8, the apparatus 10 includes a first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 coupled to the body 20. In various embodiments, the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 may be retained within the bit retaining cavity 30. In various embodiments, the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 may separate the first bit retaining space 40 and the second bit retaining space 42. In various embodiments, the first bit holding space 40 may be adjacent to and surrounded or enclosed by the inner surface region 52 of the first elastically deformable bit holder 50, and the second bit holding space 42 may be adjacent to the first outer surface region 54 of the first elastically deformable bit holder 50, such that the inner surface region 52 and the first outer surface region 54 of the first elastically deformable bit holder are configured to deform relative to the first and second replacement tool bits 102 and 104, respectively (as shown, for example, in FIG. 11 ) and hold the first and second replacement tool bits 102 and 104 when they are in the first and second bit holding spaces 40 and 42.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first bit retaining space 40 and the second bit retaining space 42 may include bit retaining passages configured to receive the first and second replacement tool bits 102, 104 by sliding them axially while restraining them in the other direction, respectively.

[0033] In various embodiments, the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 adjacent to and separating the first bit retaining space 40 and the second bit retaining space 42 may facilitate its use in retaining both the first replacement tool bit 102 and the second replacement tool bit 104. In various embodiments, the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 may form a ring or loop such that the inner surface region 52 surrounds or encircles the opening of the first resiliently deformable bit holder. In various embodiments, using the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 to retain bits at both the inner surface region 52 and the first outer surface region 54 may facilitate efficient use of the first resiliently deformable bit holder or / and efficient use of space within the apparatus 10.

[0034] In some embodiments, the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 may be hollow with an opening therethrough such that the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 has an inner surface area 52 configured to surround the first bit holding space 40. In some embodiments, the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 may be generally circular, but in some embodiments may include another shape, such as, for example, a polygonal shape or another non-circular shape. In some embodiments, the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 may include an O-ring. In various embodiments, the use of an O-ring as the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 may promote elasticity and deformability in holding a replacement tool bit, ease of manufacture, and / or reduced manufacturing costs. In some embodiments, the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 may be made of an elastically deformable material, such as, for example, rubber, polyurethane, another elastomer, or another elastically deformable material. In various embodiments, the O-ring acting as the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 can have an inner diameter of 0.234 inches and an outer diameter of 0.512 inches, for example.

[0035] 7 and 8, in various embodiments, the inner wall of the body 20 may define a third bit retaining space 44 configured to receive a third replacement tool bit 106 (e.g., shown in FIG. 11 ). In various embodiments, the inner wall of the body 20 may define a bit retaining cavity 30 having a first bit retaining space, a second bit retaining space, and a third bit retaining space, and a first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 may be retained within the bit retaining cavity 30. In various embodiments, the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 may separate the first bit retaining space 40 and the third bit retaining space 44, with the third bit retaining space adjacent the second outer surface region 56 of the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 such that the second outer surface region 56 of the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 is configured to deform relative to the third replacement tool bit 106 to retain the third replacement tool bit 106 within the third bit retaining space 44 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11 ). In various embodiments, including the third bit retaining space 44 configured to retain the third replacement tool bit 106 (as shown in FIG. 11 ) may provide the capability to retain an additional replacement tool bit, thereby providing the user with improved selection of tool bits when using the apparatus 10.

[0036] 7 and 8, in some embodiments, the second bit holding space 42 and the third bit holding space 44 may be disposed on opposite sides of the first elastically deformable bit holder 50. In some embodiments, the second bit holding space 42 and the third bit holding space 44 are on opposite sides of the first elastically deformable bit holder 50, and thus the first outer surface area 54 and the second outer surface area 56 disposed on opposite sides of the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 may facilitate the counter force applied to the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 when the second replacement tool bit 104 and the third replacement tool bit 106 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11 ) engage with the first elastically deformable bit holder 50, thereby facilitating the retention of the second replacement tool bit 104 and the third replacement tool bit 106 within the second bit holding space 42 and the third bit holding space 44. In some embodiments, this can facilitate retaining the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 within the cavity 30 while providing the first bit retaining space 40 through the opening in the resiliently deformable bit holder 50.

[0037] 2, in various embodiments, the apparatus 10 can include a holder mount 140 configured to couple the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 to the body 20, the holder mount 140 including a wall defining a first opening 142 configured to receive and retain a first end of the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50. In various embodiments, the first opening 142 can facilitate loading and retaining the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50.

[0038] In various embodiments, the holder mount 140 includes a second opening 144 configured to receive and hold a second end of the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50, the second end being opposite the first end of the first resiliently deformable bit holder. In various embodiments, the second opening 144 may be generally similar to the first opening 142, but may be mirrored on the opposite side of the body 20. In various embodiments, including the first opening 142 and the second opening 144 may facilitate loading and holding the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50. In some embodiments, the first opening 142 and the second opening 144 may facilitate observing whether the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 is damaged and / or missing. In some embodiments, the first opening 142 and the second opening 144 may facilitate providing the first bit holding space 40 within the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50.

[0039] In various embodiments, the first and second ends of the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 held by the holder mount may be generally disposed on the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 between the first and second outer regions of the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50. In various embodiments, the first and second openings 142, 144 may be generally identical (mirror images). In some embodiments, the first and second openings 142, 144 may each measure 0.382 inches by 0.142 inches. In various embodiments, the thickness of the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 may be 0.139 inches, and thus the difference between the thickness of the first and second openings 142, 144 and the thickness of the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 may be approximately 0.003 inches. In various embodiments, this difference helps to accommodate manufacturing variations.

[0040] In some embodiments, the holder mount 140 may be integral with the body 20. For example, in some embodiments, the holder mount 140, including the first opening 142 and the second opening 144, may be molded together with the body 20 from a single piece of material. In some embodiments, the holder mount and / or the walls defining the first opening 142 and the second opening 144 being integral with the body 20 may facilitate manufacturing of the device 10.

[0041] 7 and 8, in various embodiments, the apparatus 10 includes a driving bit holder 180 configured to receive and hold a driving interchangeable tool bit such that when the driving interchangeable tool bit is held by the driving bit holder, the driving interchangeable tool bit is drivable by rotation of the body 20. In various embodiments, when a driving interchangeable tool bit is held, the driving interchangeable tool bit and the body 20 may share an axis of rotation about which both the body 20 and the driving interchangeable tool bit may rotate to drive the bit.

[0042] 12-14, a system 100 is shown including the device 10 in a second holding configuration, in which a first replacement tool bit 102 operates as a driving replacement tool bit and is held by a driving bit holder 180 of the device 10, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, the second holding configuration may be referred to as an "in-use mode." With reference to the side view shown in FIG. 13, at 14, a cross-sectional illustration is shown, in accordance with various embodiments, from which the top cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 14 of the system 100 is taken. With reference to FIG. 14, the system 100 includes the device 10, a first replacement tool bit 102 that functions as a driving replacement tool bit and is held by a driving bit holder 180, a second replacement tool bit 104 that is held in the second bit holding space 42, and a third replacement tool bit 106 that is held in the third bit holding space 44.

[0043] 7, in various embodiments, the drive bit holder 180 may include an inner wall defining a drive bit retaining space 184 configured to retain and rotationally lock a drive replacement tool bit within the drive bit retaining space 184. For example, in various embodiments, the inner wall defining the drive bit retaining space 184 may have a hexagonal cross-sectional shape complementary to an outer shape of a replacement tool bit used with the apparatus 10. In some embodiments, the drive bit holder 180 may include a second resiliently deformable bit holder 190 configured to deform against and retain the drive replacement tool bit when the drive replacement tool bit is retained by the drive bit holder.

[0044] In some embodiments, the second elastically deformable bit holder 190 may be generally similar to the first elastically deformable bit holder 50. Referring to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the drive bit holder 180 may include a holder mount 220 generally similar to the holder mount 140 for holding the second elastically deformable bit holder 190. In various embodiments, the body 20 may be integrally molded including the body 20, the holder mount 140, and the holder mount 220. In various embodiments, the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 and the second elastically deformable bit holder 190 have generally similar dimensions. For example, in some embodiments, the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 and the second elastically deformable bit holder 190 may be O-rings having generally the same inner and outer diameters. Thus, in various embodiments, the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 and the second elastically deformable bit holder 190 may be interchangeable, which may facilitate ease of manufacturing and / or reduced manufacturing costs.

[0045] 7 , in various embodiments, the drive bit retaining space 184 may be generally axially aligned with the first bit retaining space 40. In various embodiments, this may facilitate alignment of the drive replacement tool bit and the replacement tool bit retained within the first bit retaining space 40. In various embodiments, aligning the drive bit retaining space and the first bit retaining space may facilitate efficient use of space, symmetry in driving and retaining the bit, and / or a compact design of the device 10.

[0046] 7, in various embodiments, the drive bit holder may include a magnet 230 disposed between the drive bit retaining space 184 and the first bit retaining space 40. In various embodiments, the magnet 230 may be disposed near a proximal end of the drive bit retaining space 184. In various embodiments, the magnet 230 may be configured to attract and axially retain the drive replacement tool bit when the drive replacement tool bit is within the drive bit retaining space 184. In various embodiments, the magnet 230 may be retained within the body 20 using a press fit.

[0047] In various embodiments, the second resiliently deformable bit holder 190 may function generally similarly to the first resiliently deformable bit holder by providing a holding function for more than one replacement tool bit. 7, in various embodiments, the drive bit retaining space 184 is adjacent to and may be surrounded or enclosed by an inner surface region 192 of the second elastically deformable bit holder 190, and the inner wall of the body 20 defines a transition bit retaining space 200 extending from the second bit retaining space 42, the transition bit retaining space 200 being adjacent to an outer surface region 194 of the second elastically deformable bit holder 190, such that the inner surface region 192 and the outer surface region 194 of the second elastically deformable bit holder 190 deform relative to the drive replacement tool bit and the transition replacement tool bit, respectively, to retain the drive replacement tool bit and the transition replacement tool bit when the drive replacement tool bit and the transition replacement tool bit are in the drive bit retaining space 184 and the transition bit retaining space 200, respectively.

[0048] In various embodiments, during operation, a user may take the empty configuration of the device 10, for example as shown in Fig. 2, and insert a first replacement tool bit 102, a second replacement tool bit 104, and a third replacement tool bit 106 into the first bit holding space 40, the second bit holding space 42, and the third bit holding space 44, respectively, to create the system 100 in the first holding configuration shown in Figs. 9-11. To insert the first replacement tool bit 102, the second replacement tool bit 104, and the third bit holding space 106, the user may push the bits from the bit insertion end 250 of the device 10 into the first bit holding space 40, the second bit holding space 42, and the third bit holding space 44, causing the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 to deform onto the bits, as shown in Fig. 11. In the first holding configuration, the system 100 shown in Figs. 9-11 may be stored or carried for later use. For example, in some embodiments, in the first holding configuration, a user may wish to carry the system 100 in a pocket. In the first holding configuration, the sharp and / or working ends of the first replacement tool bit 102, the second replacement tool bit 104, and the third replacement tool bit 106 may be safely stored and / or protected within the body 20 of the device 10.

[0049] In various embodiments, when a user wants to use one of the first replacement tool bit 102, the second replacement tool bit 104, and the third replacement tool bit 106 shown in FIG. 11, or another replacement tool bit, the user can insert the bit into the drive bit holder 180 to form the system 100 in the second holding configuration, for example, as shown in FIGS. 12-14. With reference to FIGS. 11 and 14, in various embodiments, the user can remove the first replacement tool bit 102 from the first bit holding space 40 and insert the first replacement tool bit 102 into the drive bit holder 180 to the second holding configuration as shown in FIGS. 12-14. In various embodiments, to remove the first replacement tool bit 102, the user can simply pull the bit out of the bit insertion end 250 of the device 10. In various embodiments, the second holding configuration can function as a drive configuration in which the user can drive the first replacement tool bit 102 with the device 10.

[0050] In some embodiments, a user may wish to insert the second replacement tool bit 104 (or the third replacement tool bit 106) into the drive bit holder 180 for use. In some embodiments, a user may be able to see what type of bits the second replacement tool bit 104 and the third replacement tool bit 106 are by viewing the second replacement tool bit 104 and the third replacement tool bit 106 through the openings 260 and 262 of the body 20 shown in FIG. 11 . In various embodiments, when a user wishes to use the second replacement tool bit 104, the user may push the second replacement tool bit 104 from the bit insertion end 250 of the device 10 with the first replacement tool bit 102 (or, for example, another replacement tool bit). In various embodiments, this may cause the second replacement tool bit 104 to disengage from the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 and engage with the second resiliently deformable bit holder 190. In various embodiments, when the first replacement tool bit 102 is inserted into the second bit holding space 42, the second replacement tool bit 104 may be held in the transition bit holding space 200 adjacent to the second elastically deformable bit holder 190 and extend partially from the body 20. In various embodiments, this may function as a third holding configuration of the system 100 as shown in the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 15. In various embodiments, the user may then pull the second replacement tool bit 104 out of the transition bit holding space 200 and insert the second replacement tool bit 104 into the drive bit holder 180 for use. In various embodiments, the second elastically deformable bit holder 190 configured to hold the second replacement tool bit 104 in the transition bit holding space 200 during this process may facilitate reducing the risk of dropping the second replacement tool bit 104.

[0051] 7 and 8, in various embodiments, the apparatus 10 may include a first bit retaining space retainer 300 between the first bit retaining space 40 and the second bit retaining space 42. In various embodiments, the first bit retaining space retainer 300 may be configured to retain the first replacement tool bit 102 (e.g., shown in FIG. 11 ) in the first bit retaining space 40 and the second replacement tool bit 104 (e.g., shown in FIG. 11 ) in the second bit retaining space 42. In some embodiments, the apparatus 10 may include a second bit retaining space retainer 302 between the second bit retaining space 40 and the third bit retaining space 44. In some embodiments, the first bit retaining space retainer 300 and the second bit retaining space retainer 302 may include ridges on the inner surfaces that define the cavity 30. In some embodiments, the first bit retaining space maintainer 300 and the second bit retaining space maintainer 302 may be configured to engage the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 to maintain the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 within the holder mount 140 (e.g., shown in FIG. 2 ), for example, by providing front and rear support for the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50. In some embodiments, the apparatus 10 may include third and fourth bit retaining space maintainers that are generally similar to the first and second bit retaining space maintainers 300, 302, but disposed on opposite sides (mirrored on the cutaway plane 7 shown in FIG. 3 ) and spaced apart from the first and second bit retaining space maintainers 300, 302 within the cavity 30.

[0052] 7 and 8, in various embodiments, the interior wall of the body 20 includes a first planar wall or surface 320 adjacent the second bit retaining space 42, the first planar wall configured to engage and align with a first flat side of the second replacement tool bit 104 (e.g., shown in FIG. 11 ) when the second replacement tool bit is within the second bit retaining space 42. In various embodiments, the first planar wall 320 may be across the second bit retaining space 42 and opposite the first outer surface region 54 of the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50. In various embodiments, the first planar wall 320, together with the bias from the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50, rotates the second replacement tool bit 104 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11 ) such that the first planar side of the second replacement tool bit 104 abuts and aligns against the first planar wall 320, such that the opposite second planar side of the second replacement tool bit 104 faces and engages the first outer surface region 54 of the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50. In various embodiments, this may be particularly desirable in an apparatus 10 where a first replacement tool bit 102 may be held within a first bit holding space 40 of the apparatus 10, thereby reducing tolerances, by accommodating a consistent width dimension of the second replacement tool bit across the first planar side and the second planar side.

[0053] In various embodiments, this may promote predictable uniformity of friction and force applied to the replacement tool bit. In some embodiments, this may promote high friction because the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 may support a flat side that may allow for more contact than if the first resiliently deformable bit holder 50 was supported by a point or end of the bit. In various embodiments, this flat-to-flat-to-flat orientation of the replacement tool bit may facilitate a reduction in the width of the apparatus 10.

[0054] In some embodiments, the interior wall of the body 20 can include second and third planar walls 322 and 324 (e.g., shown in FIG. 6 ) adjacent the second bit retaining space 42, with the second and third planar walls each extending at an angle of approximately 120 degrees from the first planar wall 320. In various embodiments, the second and third planar walls 322 and 324 can facilitate a consistent rotational orientation of the second replacement tool bit 104 within the second bit retaining space 42.

[0055] In various embodiments, the interior wall of the body 20 may include a wall adjacent the third bit retaining space 44 having generally similar (but mirror image) features.

[0056] In various embodiments, the device 10 may be configured to be used with any tool bit, such as any type of driver bit, including, but not limited to, ¼ inch hex body bits, Phillips bits, Robertson bits (square drive), slotted bits, Torx® bits, hex key bits, Pozidriv bits, spanner bits, clutch, other driver bits, colored pencil bits, hex mount drill bits, and / or another tool bit.

[0057] In various embodiments, devices generally similar to device 10 described herein and shown in Figures 1-15 may include additional bit holding spaces for holding additional replacement tool bits. For example, in some embodiments, the device may include a bit holding space surrounding the elastically deformable bit holder such that additional replacement tool bits may engage and / or deform and be held by the elastically deformable bit holder. For example, in some embodiments, the device may include 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or another number of bit holding spaces surrounding the elastically deformable bit holder.

[0058] In various embodiments, the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 may include a circular or non-circular ring such that a cross-section of the inner or outer surface of the first elastically deformable bit holder 50 forms a circular or non-circular shape, such as an ellipse, an oval, a triangle, a square, a pentagon, a hexagon, an octagon, a different polygon, or another shape.

[0059] In various embodiments, the body 20 of the device 10 described herein and shown in FIGS. 1-15 may be made from a single, integral piece or from separate pieces that are joined together to form the interior walls that define the bit-retaining space.

[0060] 1-15 may be generally similar to device 10, but without magnet 230. In various embodiments, the magnet mount or opening for holding magnet 230 may have a diameter smaller than the diameter of the replacement tool bit, so that the bit may be held (stopped from rearward movement) in the same position within drive bit holding space 184 regardless of the presence of magnet 230. In various embodiments, this may facilitate reduced manufacturing complexity and cost, and may facilitate device 10 being used in applications where a user would particularly prefer a non-magnetic version.

[0061] 16, 17, and 18, there is shown a diagram illustrating an apparatus 340 for holding replacement tool bits, according to various embodiments, the apparatus 340 including several elements generally similar to the apparatus 10 shown in Figures 1-15. With reference to Figure 18, there is shown a perspective cross-sectional view of the apparatus 340. With reference to Figure 18, the apparatus 340 includes a body 342 including interior walls defining first and second bit holding spaces 360, 362 configured to receive first and second replacement tool bits. In various embodiments, the device 340 includes a first elastically deformable bit holder 400 coupled to the body 342 and separating a first bit holding space 360 ​​and a second bit holding space 362, the first bit holding space 360 ​​being adjacent to and surrounded by an inner surface region 402 of the first elastically deformable bit holder 400, and the second bit holding space 362 being adjacent to a first outer surface region 404 of the first elastically deformable bit holder 400, wherein the inner surface region 402 and the first outer surface region 404 of the first elastically deformable bit holder 400 are configured to deform relative to the first and second replacement tool bits, respectively, and to hold the first and second replacement tool bits when the first and second replacement tool bits are within the first and second bit holding spaces 360 and 362.

[0062] In various embodiments, the inner wall of the body 342 may define a third bit retaining space 364 configured to receive a third replacement tool bit, and the first elastically deformable bit holder 400 may separate the first bit retaining space 360 ​​and the third bit retaining space 364, the third bit retaining space 364 being adjacent to a second outer surface region 406 of the first elastically deformable bit holder 400 such that the second outer surface region 406 of the first elastically deformable bit holder 400 is configured to deform relative to the third replacement tool bit to retain the third replacement tool bit within the third bit retaining space 364.

[0063] Further referring to FIG. 18, in various embodiments, the apparatus 340 may include a first bit-holding space maintainer 420 and a second bit-holding space maintainer 422 configured to separate the first bit-holding space 360 ​​and the second bit-holding space 362, as well as the first bit-holding space 360 ​​and the third bit-holding space 364.

[0064] Although particular embodiments of the present disclosure have been described and illustrated, such embodiments should be considered as merely illustrative of the present disclosure and not limiting of the present disclosure as construed by the appended claims.

[0065] Exemplary Combinations and Additional Examples This section describes additional aspects and features of devices for holding interchangeable tool bits, presented without limitation as a series of paragraphs, some or all of which may be designated alphanumeric for clarity and efficiency. Each of these paragraphs may be combined in any suitable manner with one or more of the other paragraphs, and / or with disclosure from elsewhere in this application. Some of the following paragraphs explicitly refer to and further qualify other paragraphs, providing, without limitation, some examples of suitable combinations.

[0066] A0. An apparatus for holding a replacement tool bit, comprising: a body including an inner wall defining a first bit holding space and a second bit holding space configured to receive a first replacement tool bit and a second replacement tool bit; and an elastically deformable bit holder coupled to the body and separating the first bit holding space and the second bit holding space, the first bit holding space being surrounded adjacent an inner surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder and the second bit holding space being adjacent an outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder, such that when the first replacement tool bit and the second replacement tool bit are within the first bit holding space and the second bit holding space, the inner surface area and the outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder are configured to deform relative to the first replacement tool bit and the second replacement tool bit, respectively, to hold the first replacement tool bit and the second replacement tool bit.

[0067] A1. The apparatus described in paragraph A0, wherein the inner wall of the body includes at least one planar wall adjacent to the second bit retaining space, the at least one planar wall configured to engage and align with at least one flat side of the second replaceable tool bit when the second replaceable tool bit is within the second bit retaining space.

[0068] A2. The apparatus of paragraph A1, wherein the at least one planar wall includes a first planar wall opposite the outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder across the second bit retaining space.

[0069] A3. The apparatus described in paragraph A2, wherein the at least one planar wall includes a second generally planar wall and a third generally planar wall adjacent the second bit retaining space, each of the second generally planar wall and the third generally planar wall extending at an angle of approximately 120 degrees from the first planar wall.

[0070] A4. The device described in any one of paragraphs A0 to A3, wherein the inner wall of the body defines a bit retaining cavity having the first bit retaining space and the second bit retaining space, and the elastically deformable bit holder is retained within the bit retaining cavity.

[0071] A5. The apparatus of any one of paragraphs A0-A3, wherein an inner wall of the body defines a third bit retaining space configured to receive a third replacement tool bit, the outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder is a first outer surface area, the elastically deformable bit holder separates the first bit retaining space and the third bit retaining space, the third bit retaining space is adjacent to a second outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder, such that the second outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder is configured to deform relative to the third replacement tool bit to retain the third replacement tool bit within the third bit retaining space.

[0072] A6. The apparatus described in paragraph A5, wherein the second and third bit retaining spaces are disposed on opposite sides of the elastically deformable bit holder.

[0073] A7. The apparatus described in paragraph A5 or paragraph 6, wherein the inner wall of the body defines a bit retaining cavity having the first bit retaining space, the second bit retaining space, and the third bit retaining space, and the elastically deformable bit holder is retained within the bit retaining cavity.

[0074] A8. The apparatus of any one of paragraphs A5-A7, including a third replacement tool bit retained within the third bit retaining space.

[0075] A9. The apparatus of any one of paragraphs A0-A8, comprising a holder mount configured to couple the resiliently deformable bit holder to the body, the holder mount including a wall defining a first opening configured to receive and retain a first end of the resiliently deformable bit holder.

[0076] A10. The apparatus of paragraph A9, wherein the holder mount includes a wall defining a second opening configured to receive and retain a second end of the elastically deformable bit holder, the second end being opposite the first end of the elastically deformable bit holder.

[0077] A11. The apparatus of paragraphs A9 or A10, wherein the holder mount is integral with the body.

[0078] A12. The apparatus of any of paragraphs A0-A11, wherein the resiliently deformable bit holder includes an O-ring.

[0079] A13. The apparatus of any one of paragraphs A0-A12, comprising a drive bit holder configured to receive and hold a drive replaceable tool bit, the drive replaceable tool bit being drivable by rotation of the body when the drive replaceable tool bit is held by the drive bit holder.

[0080] A14. The apparatus of paragraph A13, wherein the elastically deformable bit holder is a first elastically deformable bit holder, the drive bit holder comprising: an inner wall defining a drive bit holding space, the inner wall configured to hold and rotationally lock the drive replacement tool bit within the drive bit holding space; and a second elastically deformable bit holder configured to deform relative to the drive replacement tool bit and hold the drive replacement tool bit when the drive replacement tool bit is held by the drive bit holder.

[0081] A15. The apparatus of paragraph A14, wherein the drive bit retaining space is generally axially aligned with the first bit retaining space.

[0082] A16. The apparatus of paragraphs A14 or A15, wherein the drive bit retaining space is enclosed adjacent to an inner surface region of the second elastically deformable bit holder, an inner wall of the body defines a transition bit retaining space extending from the second bit retaining space, the transition bit retaining space being adjacent to an outer surface region of the second elastically deformable bit holder, such that when the drive replaceable tool bit and the transition replaceable tool bit are within the drive bit retaining space and the transition bit retaining space, respectively, the inner surface region and the outer surface region of the second elastically deformable bit holder are configured to deform relative to the drive replaceable tool bit and the transition replaceable tool bit, respectively, to retain the drive replaceable tool bit and the transition replaceable tool bit.

[0083] A17. The apparatus of any of paragraphs A14-A16, wherein the first and second resiliently deformable bit holders have generally similar dimensions.

[0084] A18. The apparatus of any of paragraphs A13-A17, including the drive interchangeable tool bit held by the drive bit holder.

[0085] A19. The apparatus of any one of paragraphs A0-A18, comprising the first and second resiliently deformable bit holders held in the first and second bit retaining spaces, respectively.

Claims

1. 1. A device for holding an interchangeable tool bit, comprising: a body including an inner wall defining a first bit retaining space and a second bit retaining space configured to receive a first interchangeable tool bit and a second interchangeable tool bit; an elastically deformable bit holder coupled to the body and separating the first bit holding space and the second bit holding space, the first bit holding space being adjacent and surrounded by an inner surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder and the second bit holding space being adjacent to an outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder, such that when the first and second replacement tool bits are within the first and second bit holding spaces, the inner surface area and the outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder are configured to deform relative to the first and second replacement tool bits, respectively, to hold the first and second replacement tool bits; An apparatus comprising:

2. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the inner wall of the body includes at least one planar wall adjacent the second bit retaining space, the at least one planar wall configured to engage and align with at least one flat side of the second interchangeable tool bit when the second interchangeable tool bit is within the second bit retaining space.

3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the at least one planar wall includes a first planar wall opposite the outer surface area of ​​the resiliently deformable bit holder across the second bit retaining space.

4. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the at least one planar wall includes a second generally planar wall adjacent the second bit retaining space and a third generally planar wall, each of the second generally planar wall and the third generally planar wall extending at an angle of approximately 120 degrees from the first planar wall.

5. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein an inner wall of the body defines a bit retaining cavity having the first bit retaining space and the second bit retaining space, and the resiliently deformable bit holder is retained within the bit retaining cavity.

6. an inner wall of the body defining a third bit retaining space configured to receive a third interchangeable tool bit; the outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder is a first outer surface area; 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the elastically deformable bit holder separates the first bit retaining space and the third bit retaining space, the third bit retaining space being adjacent a second outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder such that the second outer surface area of ​​the elastically deformable bit holder is configured to deform relative to the third replacement tool bit to retain the third replacement tool bit within the third bit retaining space.

7. The device of claim 6 , wherein the second bit retaining space and the third bit retaining space are disposed on opposite sides of the elastically deformable bit holder.

8. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the inner wall of the body defines a bit retaining cavity having the first bit retaining space, the second bit retaining space, and the third bit retaining space, and the resiliently deformable bit holder is retained within the bit retaining cavity.

9. The apparatus of claim 6 including the third replacement tool bit held in the third bit holding space.

10. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising a holder mount configured to couple the resiliently deformable bit holder to the body, the holder mount including a wall defining a first opening configured to receive and retain a first end of the resiliently deformable bit holder.

11. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the holder mount includes a wall defining a second opening configured to receive and hold a second end of the resiliently deformable bit holder, the second end being opposite the first end of the resiliently deformable bit holder.

12. The apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the holder mount is integral with the body.

13. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the resiliently deformable bit holder comprises an O-ring.

14. 2. The device of claim 1, further comprising a drive bit holder configured to receive and hold a drive replaceable tool bit such that when the drive replaceable tool bit is held by the drive bit holder, the drive replaceable tool bit is drivable by rotation of the body.

15. The elastically deformable bit holder is a first elastically deformable bit holder, The drive bit holder includes: an inner wall defining a drive bit retaining space, the inner wall being configured to retain and rotationally lock the drive replacement tool bit within the drive bit retaining space; a second resiliently deformable bit holder configured to deform relative to the drive replacement tool bit and hold the drive replacement tool bit when the drive replacement tool bit is held by the drive bit holder; The apparatus of claim 14 , comprising:

16. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the drive bit retaining space is generally axially aligned with the first bit retaining space.

17. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the drive bit retaining space is surrounded adjacent to an inner surface region of the second elastically deformable bit holder, an inner wall of the body defines a transition bit retaining space extending from the second bit retaining space, the transition bit retaining space being adjacent to an outer surface region of the second elastically deformable bit holder, such that when the drive replacement tool bit and the transition replacement tool bit are within the drive bit retaining space and the transition bit retaining space, respectively, the inner surface region and the outer surface region of the second elastically deformable bit holder are configured to deform relative to the drive replacement tool bit and the transition replacement tool bit, respectively, to retain the drive replacement tool bit and the transition replacement tool bit.

18. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the first resiliently deformable bit holder and the second resiliently deformable bit holder have generally similar dimensions.

19. The apparatus of claim 14 including the driven replacement tool bit held by the driven bit holder.

20. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising the first and second interchangeable tool bits held in the first and second bit holding spaces, respectively.

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