Adapter for a screwing tool, screwing tool and method for actuating a screwing tool

Abstract

The invention relates to an adapter (1) for a screwing tool (2), wherein the screwing tool (2) has an adapter connection (3) with a vacuum connection (4); wherein the adapter (1) extends along an axial direction (5) between two end faces (6, 7), has a receptacle (8) for a screw (9) on a second end face (7) and can be pushed onto the adapter connection (3) along the axial direction (5) via a first end face (6), so that the receptacle (8) is fluidically connected to the vacuum connection (4); wherein the adapter (1) comprises a first outer sleeve (10), a second outer sleeve (11) and an inner sleeve (12). The invention further relates to a screwing tool (2) and a method for actuating a screwing tool (2).

Description

[0001] Adapter for a screwing tool, screwing tool and method for actuating a screwing tool

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to an adapter for a screwing (screwdriving) tool, the screwing tool having an adapter connection with a vacuum connection, the adapter enabling screws to be securely received. A bit or screwdriver insert arranged in the adapter, which interacts with the corresponding profile on the screw head during screwing, should preferably not yet come into engagement with this profile when the screw is picked up.

[0003] A screwing tool with adapter as well as a method for operating the screwing tool is proposed.

[0004] Screwing tools may be used to facilitate the tightening of nuts on threaded shafts or of bolts or screws in threaded holes. Screwdrivers are typically used in an assembly line where it is desirable to screw large quantities of nuts or bolts, such as in the assembly of components. Pneumatic screwdrivers are powered by compressed air. Electric screwdrivers use a DC controller as the power source. Hydraulic screwdrivers are driven by hydraulic fluid.

[0005] The adapters of such screwing tools serve in particular to be able to use different screwdriver bits. The adapter can accommodate different bits that differ, for example, in terms of diameter, length or the shape of the bit (i. e. the geometry that interacts with the profile on the screw head).

[0006] Existing adapters or screwing tools tend to be inefficient and / or complex and / or not fail-safe in (automatic) use. It would be desirable to provide an adapter or screwing tool that allows quick and easy replacement of the bits or adapter. Furthermore, it would be desirable to facilitate the automatic pick-up of screws by the screwing tool.

[0007] Based on this, it is the task of the present invention to at least alleviate or even solve the problems mentioned in the prior art In particular, an adapter or a screwing tool with a more robust, but also simpler and / or more reliable structure is to be proposed.

[0008] In order to achieve these objectives, an adapter according to the features of independent claim 1 is proposed. Advantageous embodiments and an associated screwing tool as well as a method for actuating a screwing tool are the subject of the dependent claims. The features listed individually in the claims may be combined with one another in a technologically expedient manner and supplemented by explanatory features from the description and details from the figures, further embodiments of the invention being indicated.

[0009] An adapter for a screwing tool is proposed, wherein the screwing tool has an adapter connection with a vacuum connection. The adapter extends along an axial direction between two end faces. The adapter has a receptacle for a screw on a second end face and can be pushed onto the adapter connection along the axial direction via a first end face, so that the receptacle can be or is fluidically connected to the vacuum connection. The adapter has a first outer sleeve, a second outer sleeve and an inner sleeve. The inner sleeve has a first connection geometry for rotationally fixed connection with the adapter connection, a switchable first connection for axially fixed connection with the adapter connection and a switchable second connection for axially fixed connection with a screwdriver insert that can be pushed into the inner sleeve via the second end face. The first outer sleeve is arranged on the first end face of the adapter and can be arranged on the adapter connection so as to be displaceable along the axial direction, the second outer sleeve extending from the second end face along the axial direction via the second connection and the first connection to the first outer sleeve and being fixable by means with the first outer sleeve in (exactly) three different axial positions relative to one another. The screwing tool with the adapter connection and the vacuum connection can be designed in a known manner. Usually, the adapter connection is rotatably connected to the vacuum connection for screwing a screw, i. e. for driving the adapter. Air can be sucked in via the vacuum connection through the receptacle arranged on the second outer sleeve. Thus, a screw can be picked up via the receptacle and fixed to the receptacle.

[0010] The inner sleeve has, in particular, a first connection geometry for rotationally fixed connection with the adapter connection, a switchable first connection for axially fixed connection with the adapter connection and a switchable second connection for axially fixed connection with a screwdriver insert (bit) that can be pushed into the inner sleeve via the second end face. In particular, the receptacle is fluidly connected to the vacuum connection via the inner sleeve. The inner sleeve can be pushed onto the adapter connection and is then connected to it in a rotationally fixed manner. For this purpose, the adapter connection can have a polygonal design as usual, and the inner sleeve can have a corresponding shape. In particular, the inner sleeve can be arranged on the adapter connection in only one position (with respect to the axial direction).

[0011] The switchable axially fixed connections are switchable between two states in particular. The first connection is used for the axially fixed connection with the adapter connection, i. e. it can be switched between the states "axially fixed connection between inner sleeve and adapter connection established" and "axially fixed connection between inner sleeve and adapter connection released".

[0012] The second connection is used for the axially fixed connection with a screwdriver insert (bit) that can be inserted into the inner sleeve via the second end face, i. e. it can be switched back and forth between the states "axially fixed connection between inner sleeve and screwdriver insert established" and "axially fixed connection between inner sleeve and screwdriver insert released".

[0013] In particular, both mechanisms of the connections are designed the same. However, a different design is also possible. The mechanisms comprise, for example, elements (for example balls) which are displaceable along a radial direction running transversely to the axial direction. In particular, the elements are received in a guide of the inner sleeve. In particular, the elements are displaced by a switching mechanism or by an actuating geometry (in particular by a corresponding contour on the second outer sleeve, that is on a inner circumferential surface of the second outer sleeve). The switching mechanisms are in particular actuated by a relative movement along the axial direction between the second outer sleeve and the inner sleeve. The elements are thereby displaced inwards in the radial direction and engage in a corresponding contour on the screwdriver insert or on the adapter connection and thus form the axially fixed connection.

[0014] Such mechanisms are basically known, for example, as ball couplings.

[0015] The first outer sleeve is arranged on the first end face of the adapter and can be arranged on the adapter connection so as to be displaceable along the axial direction. In particular, the first outer sleeve forms the first end face of the adapter. In particular, the first outer sleeve and the vacuum port are arranged adjacent to each other along the axial direction.

[0016] In particular, the second outer sleeve extends from the second end face along the axial direction via the first connection and the second connection to the first outer sleeve and is fixable by means with the first outer sleeve in three different axial positions relative to each other.

[0017] In particular, the outer sleeves and the inner sleeve as well as the adapter connection are all arranged concentrically.

[0018] In particular, the first outer sleeve has a first groove on its inner circumferential surface for accommodating a first ball. The second outer sleeve has a second groove on its outer circumferential surface which provides for a ball track for the ball, wherein the ball track extends in the circumferential direction as well as in the axial direction in a stepped manner such that the at least three different axial positions for the second outer sleeve (relative to the first outer sleeve) are defined. The means for fixing the second outer sleeve to the first outer sleeve thus comprise the first groove, the second groove and the first ball.

[0019] The first ball is thus accommodated at all times in the first groove as well as in the second groove. By arranging the outer sleeves in three different axial positions relative to each other the first ball is moved along the second groove.

[0020] In particular, there is only one first groove and one second groove. As an alternative embodiment, two or more of each groove can be provided which are then arranged as corresponding pairs (of a first groove and a second groove) along the circumferential direction.

[0021] Between the three axial positions, the two outer sleeves are displaceable relative to each other along the axial direction. To change the axial position, it is in particular necessary to rotate the outer sleeves relative to each other so that the displacement can then take place along the axial direction.

[0022] The second groove has different sections which, in particular, each extend either exclusively in the circumferential direction or in the axial direction. The sections are interconnected so that the first ball can be moved along the second groove. In particular, the sections extending in the circumferential direction provide for a rotation of the second outer sleeve relative to the first outer sleeve by at least 25 angular degrees, in particular by at least 40 angular degrees, preferably by at most 180, at most 120 or at most 60 degrees. In particular, the sections extending in the axial direction provide for a displacement of the second outer sleeve relative to the first outer sleeve along the axial direction by a distance which corresponds to the diameter of the first ball multiplied by a factor of at least 1,5, preferably by a factor of at least 2,0 (in particular by a factor of less than 4,0).

[0023] In particular, the first outer sleeve has two parts which are arranged next to each other along the axial direction and are axially fixedly connected, wherein only the first part has the first groove, wherein the first groove extends only along the axial direction and into a first end face of the first part, wherein the first end face faces the second part.

[0024] The second part thus blocks the movement of the first ball along the first groove. An axial displacement of the first ball along the first groove is not necessary and in particular not foreseen. The two-part design of the first outer sleeve allows for assembly of the first outer sleeve on the second outer sleeve. The outer sleeves are thus interconnected by the first and second groove and the first ball which form a first connection geometry for connecting the outer sleeves.

[0025] In particular, the two parts have angular segments which provide for an overlap relative to the axial direction. The two parts can thus be placed next to each other so that the angular segments interlock with each other. The two parts can be secured in that position by a wire, for example, which extends circumferentially around the segments of the two parts.

[0026] In particular the second outer sleeve has a first actuating geometry for actuating the first connection and a second actuating geometry for actuating the second connection. In a first axial position of the outer sleeves both connections are unactuated, wherein in a second axial position only the first connection is actuated, wherein in a third axial position the first connection and the second connection are both actuated.

[0027] The actuating geometries comprise, in particular, a contour of the inner circumferential surface of the second outer sleeve, wherein this surface is inclined in each case between two diameters of different sizes. Via the actuation geometries, the aforementioned elements can be contacted and displaced in the radial direction.

[0028] In particular the outer sleeves, at least in a third axial position, are jointly displaceable relative to the inner sleeve along the axial direction. In particular, this displacement occurs when the second outer sleeve is contacted via the second end face (for example by a workpiece) and is displaced towards the adapter connection. In particular, an energy storage element (e. g. a spring) is arranged at least between the second outer sleeve and the inner sleeve, which stores the potential energy when these sleeves are displaced relative to each other. The displacement of these sleeves relative to each other can thus be reversed.

[0029] This displacement of the sleeves starting from the third axial position enables a screw to be initially arranged on the receptacle and the screwdriver insert to be arranged in the corresponding contour on the screw head only after the joint displacement of the outer sleeves.

[0030] In particular, the second outer sleeve is designed at least in two components, wherein a first component has a first connection geometry (in particular the second groove and the first ball) for connection to the (first groove of the) first outer sleeve and a second component forms the second end face, wherein the second component has a second connection geometry adapted to a screw or screw head.

[0031] In particular, the second outer sleeve may be of a multi-part design, wherein the individual parts are connected to each other, for example, via threads or other types of connection (e. g. bayonet lock, etc.). The multi-part design of the second outer sleeve enables the adapter to be adapted in a simple manner to differently shaped screwdriver inserts (e. g. longer or shorter) or screw heads (change in the geometry of the receptacle).

[0032] A screwing tool is further proposed, at least comprising an adapter connection with a vacuum connection and an adapter which can be arranged on the adapter connection in at least four arrangements, in particular as described above.

[0033] In each of the four arrangements, the adapter connection is in particular inserted to a maximum depth into the first connection geometry of the inner sleeve and the receptacle for the screw is fluidically connected to the vacuum connection. In a first arrangement of the adapter, the first outer sleeve is arranged along the axial direction spaced (at a distance) from an axial stop of the adapter connection (e. g. the vacuum connection) and the outer sleeves are fixed in a first axial position relative to each other (via the grooves and the first ball). In a second arrangement of the adapter, the first outer sleeve is still arranged spaced (at a distance) from the axial stop and the outer sleeves are fixed in a second axial position (via the grooves and the first ball) relative to each other. In a third arrangement of the adapter the first outer sleeve is still arranged spaced (ata distance) from the axial stop and the outer sleeves are fixed in a third axial position relative to each other. In a fourth arrangement of the adapter, the outer sleeves are still fixed in the third axial position and the first outer sleeve contacts the axial stop.

[0034] Between the third and the fourth arrangement, the outer sleeves are in particular displaced together with respect to the inner sleeve towards the adapter connection.

[0035] In particular, in the first arrangement the adapter is only non-positively connected to the adapter connection with respect to the axial direction and a screwdriver insert inserted into the inner sleeve via the second end face is only non-positively connected with respect to the axial direction. In the second arrangement the adapter is connected to the adapter connection via the first connection and the screwdriver insert is still only non-positively connected. In the third arrangement the adapter is connected to the adapter connection via the first connection and the screwdriver insert is connected to the inner sleeve via the second connection in each case in an axially fixed manner, wherein in this case the screwdriver insert is arranged retracted relative to the receptacle so that a screw with a screw head can be fixed in the receptacle via the vacuum connection. In the fourth arrangement the screwdriver insert extends into the receptacle and thus into the screw head of the screw arranged there.

[0036] It is further proposed a method for operating the described screwing tool. The method comprises at least the following steps: a) arranging the adapter on the adapter connection in the first arrangement, wherein the first outer sleeve is arranged along the axial direction spaced (at a distance) from an axial stop of the adapter connection and the outer sleeves are fixed in a first axial position relative to each other; b) arranging the adapter on the adapter connection in the second arrangement, the second outer sleeve being displaced along the axial direction relative to the inner sleeve and relative to the first outer sleeve, so that the first outer sleeve continues to be arranged at a distance from the axial stop and the outer sleeves are fixed in a second axial position relative to one another; c) arranging the adapter on the adapter connection in the third arrangement, the second outer sleeve being displaced along the axial direction relative to the inner sleeve and relative to the first outer sleeve, so that the first outer sleeve continues to be arranged at a distance from the axial stop and the outer sleeves are fixed in a third axial position relative to one another; d) arranging the adapter on the adapter connection in the fourth arrangement, whereby the outer sleeves are displaced together along the axial direction relative to the inner sleeve until the first outer sleeve contacts the axial stop.

[0037] The above (non-exhaustive) division of the process steps into a) to d) is primarily intended only for differentiation and does not enforce any sequence and / or dependence. The frequency of the process steps, e. g. during set-up and / or operation of the screwing tool, can also vary. It is also possible that process steps at least partially overlap in time. In particular, steps a) to d) are carried out in the order indicated.

[0038] In particular, a screwdriver insert is inserted into the inner sleeve via the second end face of the adapter before step c); wherein during step c) a screw is sucked in via the vacuum connection and arranged in the receptacle; wherein during step d) the screwdriver insert is moved into the receptacle and into a screw head of the screw arranged there and the screw is screwed.

[0039] In particular, the steps of the method are conducted manually. As an alternative, the steps of the method are conducted automatically.

[0040] In particular (especially in case the steps of the method are conducted automatically), at least one system for data processing is provided, comprising means suitably equipped, configured or programmed for carrying out the method, or carrying out the method.

[0041] In particular, the screwing tool comprises a system for data processing, e. g. a control device, which comprises means for carrying out the steps of the method and / or which comprises means which are suitably equipped, configured or programmed for carrying out the steps of the method or which carry out the method.

[0042] The means comprise, for example, a processor and a memory in which instructions to be executed by the processor are stored, as well as data lines or transmission devices which enable the transmission of instructions, measured values, data or the like between the elements mentioned.

[0043] The "means" may in particular comprise one or more of the following: controller(s), microcontroller, data memory, data link, display devices (such as a display), counter or timer, at least one other sensor, a power source, etc.

[0044] A computer program is further proposed comprising instructions which, when the computer program is executed by a computer, cause the computer program to execute the described method or the steps of the described method.

[0045] A computer-readable storage medium is further proposed, comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the described method or the steps of the described method.

[0046] In particular, the explanations concerning the method are transferable to the screwing tool, the adapter, the system for data processing and / or the computer- implemented method (i. e. the computer program and the computer-readable storage medium) and vice versa.

[0047] The use of indefinite articles ("a", "one", "one of and "one"), in particular in the patent claims and the description reproducing them, is to be understood as such and not as a numeral. Terms or components introduced accordingly with this are thus to be understood as being present at least once and in particular, however, may also be present several times.

[0048] As a precaution, it is pointed out that the numerical terms used here ("first", "second", etc.) primarily serve (only) to distinguish several similar objects, dimensions or processes, i. e. in particular they do not necessarily specify a dependency and / or sequence of the said objects, dimensions or processes. If a dependence and / or sequence is required, this is expressly indicated herein or results in an obvious manner for the person skilled in the art from studying the specifically described embodiment

[0049] The invention and the technical field are explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. It should be noted that the invention is not intended to be limited by the exemplary embodiments shown. In particular, unless explicitly shown otherwise, partial aspects of the specific subject matter may also be taken from the figures and / or combined with other general descriptions above. As a rule, the same reference signs are used to designate identical objects, so that explanations from other figures can be taken into account as a supplement, if necessary. The figures each show schematically:

[0050] Fig. 1 : a screwing tool in a first arrangement, in a side view in section;

[0051] Fig. 2: the screwing tool according to Fig. 1 in a second arrangement, in a side view in section,

[0052] Fig. 3: the screwing tool according to Fig. 1 and 2 in a third arrangement, in a side view in section;

[0053] Fig. 4: the screwing tool according to Fig. 1 to 3 in a fourth arrangement, in a side view in section;

[0054] Fig. 5 : an inner sleeve of the screwing tool according to Fig. 1 to 3 in a side view in section; Fig. 6: the inner sleeve according to Fig. 5 in a view along the axial direction in a section VI-VI;

[0055] Fig. 7: the inner sleeve according to Fig. 5 in a view along the axial direction in a section VII- VII;

[0056] Fig. 8: the inner sleeve according to Fig. 5 to 7 in a perspective view;

[0057] Fig. 9: the second outer sleeve of the screwing tool according to Fig. 1 to 3 in a side view in section;

[0058] Fig. 10: the second outer sleeve according to Fig. 9 in a side view;

[0059] Fig. 11: the second outer sleeve according to Fig. 9 and 10 in a perspective view;

[0060] Fig. 12: a second part of the first outer sleeve of the screwing tool according to Fig. 1 to 3 in a first side view in section;

[0061] Fig. 13: the second part according to fig. 12 in a second side view;

[0062] Fig. 14: the second part according to fig. 12 and 13 in a perspective view;

[0063] Fig. 15: a first part of the first outer sleeve of the screwing tool according to Fig.

[0064] 1 to 3 in a view along the axial direction, in section;

[0065] Fig. 16: the first part according to fig. 15 in a first side view in section;

[0066] Fig. 17: the first part according to fig. 15 in a second side view;

[0067] Fig. 18: the first part according to fig. 15 to 17 in a perspective view; Fig. 1 shows a screwing tool 2 in a first position 28, in a side view in section.

[0068] The screwing tool 2 comprises an adapter connection 3 with a vacuum connection 4 and an adapter 1 that can be arranged on the adapter connection 3 in at least four arrangements 36, 37, 38, 39.

[0069] The adapter 1 extends along an axial direction 5 between two end faces 6, 7. The adapter 1 has a receptacle 8 for a screw 9 (only shown via dotted line) on a second end face 6 and is arranged to be pushed onto the adapter connection 3 along the axial direction 5 via a first end face 6, so that the receptacle 8 can be or is fluidically connected to the vacuum connection 4. The adapter 1 has a first outer sleeve 10, a second outer sleeve 11 and an inner sleeve 12. The inner sleeve 12 has a first connection geometry 13 for rotationally fixed connection to the adapter connection 3, a switchable first connection 14 for axially fixed connection to the adapter connection 3 and a switchable second connection 15 for axially fixed connection to a screwdriver insert 16 which can be pushed into the inner sleeve 12 via the second end face 7. The first outer sleeve 10 is arranged on the first end face 6 of the adapter 1 and is arranged on the adapter connection 3 so as to be displaceable along the axial direction 5, the second outer sleeve 11 extending from the second end face 7 along the axial direction 5 via the first connection 14 and the second connection 15 to the first outer sleeve 10 and being fixable to the first outer sleeve 10 in three different axial positions 17, 18, 19 relative to one another.

[0070] The screwing tool 2 with the adapter connection 3 and the vacuum connection 4 is designed in a known manner. Usually, the adapter connection 3 is rotatably connected to the (fixed) vacuum connection 4 for screwing a screw 9, i. e. for driving the adapter 1. Air can be sucked in via the vacuum connection 4 through the receptacle 8 arranged on the second outer sleeve 11. Thus, a screw 9 can be received via the receptacle 8 and fixed to the receptacle 8.

[0071] The inner sleeve 12 has a first connection geometry 13 for rotationally fixed connection with the adapter connection 3, a switchable first connection 14 for axially fixed connection with the adapter connection 3 and a switchable second connection 15 for axially fixed connection with a screwdriver insert 16 (bit) which can be pushed into the inner sleeve 12 via the second end face 7. The receptacle 8 is fluidically connected to the vacuum connection 4 via the inner sleeve 12. The inner sleeve 12 can be pushed onto the adapter connection 3 and is then connected to it in a rotationally fixed manner. For this purpose, the adapter connection 3 can have a polygonal design as usual and the inner sleeve 12 can have a corresponding shape as connection geometry 13. The inner sleeve 12 can only be arranged on the adapter connection 3 in one axial position (with respect to the axial direction 5).

[0072] The switchable axially fixed connections 14, 15 are switchable between two states. The first connection 14 serves for the axially fixed connection with the adapter connection 3, i. e. it can be switched between the states "axially fixed connection between inner sleeve 12 and adapter connection 3 established" (see Figs. 2 to 4) and "axially fixed connection between inner sleeve 12 and adapter connection 3 released" (see Fig. 1).

[0073] The second connection 15 is used for the axially fixed connection with a screwdriver insert 16 (bit) which can be inserted into the inner sleeve 12 via the second end face 7, i. e. it can be switched back and forth between the states "axially fixed connection between inner sleeve 12 and screwdriver insert 16 established " (see Figs. 3 and 4) and "axially fixed connection between inner sleeve 12 and screwdriver insert 16 released" (see Fig. 1 and 2).

[0074] Both mechanisms of the connections 14, 15 are of the same design. The mechanisms comprise elements (here second balls 43) which are displaceable along a radial direction 44 extending transversely to the axial direction 5. The second balls 43 are received in a guide of the inner sleeve 12. The second balls 43 are displaced by a switching mechanism or by an actuating geometry 29, 30 (i. e. by a corresponding contour on the second outer sleeve 11). The balls 43 are thereby displaced inwards in the radial direction 44 and engage in a corresponding contour on the screwdriver insert 16 or on the adapter connection 3, thus forming the axially fixed connection 14, 15. This mechanism is basically known as a ball coupling. The first outer sleeve 10 is arranged on the first end face 6 of the adapter 1 and on the adapter connection 3 so as to be displaceable along the axial direction 5. The first outer sleeve 10 forms the first end face 6 of the adapter 1. The first outer sleeve 10 and the vacuum port 4 are arranged adjacent to each other along the axial direction 5.

[0075] The second outer sleeve 11 extends from the second end face 7 along the axial direction 5 via the first connection 14 and the second connection 15 to the first outer sleeve 10 and can be fixed with the first outer sleeve 10 in three different axial positions 17, 18, 19 relative to each other.

[0076] The first outer sleeve 10 has a first groove 20 on its inner circumferential surface 21 for accommodating a first ball 22. The second outer sleeve 11 has a second groove 23 on its outer circumferential surface 24 which provides for a ball track for the first ball 22, wherein the ball track extends in the circumferential direction 25 as well as in the axial direction 5 in a stepped manner (see fig. 10 and 11) such that the at least three different axial positions 17, 18, 19 for the second outer sleeve 11 (relative to the first outer sleeve 10) are defined.

[0077] The first ball 22 is thus accommodated at all times in the first groove 20 as well as in the second groove 23. By arranging the outer sleeves 10, 11 in three different axial positions 17, 18, 19 relative to each other the first ball 22 is moved along the second groove 23.

[0078] According to the embodiment shown in fig. 9 to 11 there are three pairs of grooves 20, 23 provided which are arranged along the circumferential direction 24.

[0079] Between the three axial positions 17, 18, 19, the two outer sleeves 10, 11 are displaceable relative to each other along the axial direction 5. To change the axial position 17, 18, 19, it is necessary to rotate the outer sleeves 10, 11 relative to each other so that the displacement can then take place along the axial direction 5. The first outer sleeve 10 has two parts 26, 27 which are arranged next to each other along the axial direction 5 and are axially fixedly connected, wherein only the first part 26 has the first groove 20, wherein the first groove 20 extends only along the axial direction 5 and into a first end face 28 of the first part 26, wherein the first end face 28 faces the second part 27.

[0080] The second part 27 thus blocks the movement of the first ball 22 along the first groove 20. An axial displacement of the first ball 22 along the first groove 20 is not necessary and not possible. The two-part design of the first outer sleeve 10 allows for assembly of the first outer sleeve 10 on the second outer sleeve 11. The outer sleeves 10, 11 are thus interconnected by the first groove 20 and second groove 23 and the first ball 22 which form a first connection geometry 34 for connecting the outer sleeves 10, 11.

[0081] The second outer sleeve 11 has a first actuating geometry 29 for actuating the first connection 14 and a second actuating geometry 30 for actuating the second connection 15. In a first axial position 17 of the outer sleeves 10, 11 (the outer sleeves 10, 11 are positioned relative to each other via the grooves 20, 23 and the first ball 22, see Fig. 1) both connections 14, 15 are unactuated, wherein in a second axial position 18 (see Fig. 2) only the first connection 14 is actuated, wherein in a third axial position 19 (see Fig. 3) the first connection 14 and the second connection 15 are both actuated.

[0082] The actuating geometries 29, 30 each comprise a contour of the inner circumferential surface of the second outer sleeve 11, whereby this in each case runs between two diameters of different sizes inclined with respect to the axial direction 5. Via the actuating geometries 29, 30, the aforementioned second balls 43 can be contacted and displaced in the radial direction 44.

[0083] The outer sleeves 10, 11, at least in a third axial position 19 (see fig. 3), are jointly displaceable relative to the inner sleeve 12 along the axial direction 5. This displacement occurs when the second outer sleeve 11 is contacted via the second end face 7 (for example by a workpiece) and is displaced towards the adapter connection 3. Between the second outer sleeve 11 and the inner sleeve 12 a spring is arranged as an energy storage element 31 which stores the potential energy when these sleeves 11, 12 are displaced relative to each other. The displacement of these sleeves 11, 12 relative to each other can thus be reversed.

[0084] This displacement of the sleeves 10, 11 starting from the third axial position 19 enables a screw 9 to be initially arranged on the receptacle 8 and the screwdriver insert 16 to be arranged in the corresponding contour on the screw head 42 only after the joint displacement of the outer sleeves 10, 11 (see fig. 4).

[0085] The second outer sleeve 11 is designed in two components 32, 33, wherein a first component 32 has a first connection geometry 34 (that is the second groove 23 and the first ball 22) for connection to the (first groove 20 of the) first outer sleeve 10 and a second component 33 forms the second end face 7, wherein the second component 33 has a second connection geometry 35 adapted to a screw 9 or screw head 42.

[0086] The individual components 32, 33 are connected to each other via a thread. The two components 32, 33 of the second outer sleeve 11 allow the adapter 1 to be easily adapted to differently shaped screwdriver inserts 16 (e. g. longer or shorter) or screw heads 42 (changing the geometry of the receptacle 8).

[0087] In each of the four arrangements 36, 37, 38, 39 (see Figs. 1 to 4), the adapter connection 3 is inserted to a maximum depth 40 into the first connection geometry 13 of the inner sleeve 12 and the receptacle 8 for the screw 9 is fluidly connected to the vacuum connection 4. In the first arrangement 36 of the adapter 1 shown in Fig. 1, the first outer sleeve 10 is arranged spaced (at a distance) along the axial direction 5 from an axial stop 41 of the adapter connection 3 (the vacuum connection 4) and the outer sleeves 10, 11 are fixed in a first axial position 17 relative to each other (via the grooves 20, 23 and the first ball 22).

[0088] In the first arrangement 36, the adapter 1 is non-positively / only frictionally connected to the adapter connection 3 with respect to the axial direction 5 and a screwdriver insert 16 inserted into the inner sleeve 12 via the second end face 7 is non-positively / only frictionally connected to the inner sleeve 12 with respect to the axial direction 5.

[0089] Fig. 2 shows the screwing tool 2 according to fig. 1 in a second arrangement 37, in a side view in section. Reference is made to the explanations on fig. 1.

[0090] In a second arrangement 37 of the adapter 1, the first outer sleeve 10 is is still arranged spaced (at a distance) from the axial stop 41, and the outer sleeves 10, 11 are fixed to each other in a second axial position 18 (via the grooves 20, 23 and the first ball 22) relative to each other.

[0091] In the second arrangement 37 the adapter 1 is connected to the adapter connection 3 via the first connection 14 and the screwdriver insert 16 is still only non-positively connected to the inner sleeve 12.

[0092] Fig. 3 shows the screwing tool 2 according to Fig. 1 and 2 in a third arrangement 38, in a side view in section. Reference is made to the explanations on fig. 1 and 2.

[0093] In the third arrangement 38 of the adapter 1 the first outer sleeve 10 is still arranged spaced (at a distance) from the axial stop 41 and the outer sleeves 10, 11 are fixed in a third axial position 19 relative to each other.

[0094] In the third arrangement 38 the adapter 1 is connected to the adapter connection 3 via the first connection 14 and the screwdriver insert 16 is connected to the inner sleeve 12 via the second connection 15 in each case in an axially fixed manner, wherein in this case the screwdriver insert 16 is arranged retracted relative to the receptacle 8 so that a screw 9 with a screw head 42 can be fixed in the receptacle 8 via the vacuum connection 4.

[0095] Fig. 4 shows the screwing tool 2 according to Fig. 1 to 3 in a fourth arrangement 39, in a side view in section. Reference is made to the explanations on fig. 1 to 3. In the fourth arrangement 39 of the adapter 1, the outer sleeves 10, 11 are still fixed in the third axial position 19 and the first outer sleeve 10 contacts the axial stop 41.

[0096] Between the third arrangement 38 and the fourth arrangement 39, the outer sleeves 10, 11 are displaced together with respect to the inner sleeve 12 towards the adapter connection 3.

[0097] Atleastin the third axial position 19, the outer sleeves 10, 11 are jointly displaceable relative to the inner sleeve 12 along the axial direction 5. This displacement occurs when the second outer sleeve 11 is contacted via the second end face 7 and displaced towards the adapter connection 3.

[0098] This displacement of the outer sleeves 10, 11 starting from the second axial position 18 enables a screw 9 to be initially arranged on the receptacle 8 and the screwdriver insert 16 to be arranged in the corresponding contour on the screw head 33 only after displacement of the outer sleeves 10, 11 along the axial direction 5.

[0099] In the fourth arrangement 39 the screwdriver insert 16 extends into the receptacle 8 and thus into the screw head 42 of the screw 9 arranged there.

[0100] According to step a) of the method for actuating the screwing tool 2 the adapter 1 is arranged on the adapter connection 3 in the first arrangement 36, whereby the first outer sleeve 10 is arranged along the axial direction 5 at a distance from an axial stop 41 of the adapter connection 3 and the outer sleeves 10, 11 are fixed to one another in a first axial position 17 via the grooves 20, 23 and the first ball 22 (fig. 1).

[0101] In step b), the adapter 1 is arranged on the adapter connection 3 in the second arrangement 37, the second outer sleeve 11 being displaced along the axial direction 5 relative to the inner sleeve 12 and relative to the first outer sleeve 10, so that the first outer sleeve 10 continues to be arranged ata distance from the axial stop 32 and the outer sleeves 10, 11 are fixed relative to one another in a second axial position 18 relative to one another (fig. 2).

[0102] In step c), the adapter 1 is arranged on the adapter connection 3 in the third arrangement 38, the second outer sleeve 11 being displaced along the axial direction 5 relative to the inner sleeve 12 and relative to the first outer sleeve 10, so that the first outer sleeve 10 continues to be arranged at a distance from the axial stop 41 and the outer sleeves 10, 11 are fixed in a third axial position 19 relative to one another (fi& 3).

[0103] In step d), the adapter 1 is arranged on the adapter connection 3 in the fourth arrangement 39, whereby the outer sleeves 10, 11 are displaced together along the axial direction 5 relative to the inner sleeve 12 until the first outer sleeve 10 contacts the axial stop 41 (fig. 4).

[0104] A screwdriver insert 16 is inserted into the inner sleeve 12 via the second end face 7 of the adapter 1 before step c) (that is during step a) or b) for example). During step c) a screw 9 is sucked in via the vacuum connection 4 and placed in the receptacle 8. During step d) the screwdriver insert 16 is moved into the receptacle 8 and into the screw head 42 of the screw 9 arranged there and the screw 9 is screwed.

[0105] Fig. 5 shows an inner sleeve 12 of the screwing tool 2 according to Fig. 1 to 3 in a side view in section. Fig. 6 shows the inner sleeve 12 according to Fig. 5 in a view along the axial direction 5 in a section VI-VI. Fig. 7 shows the inner sleeve 12 according to Fig. 5 in a view along the axial direction 5 in a section VII-VII. Fig. 8 shows the inner sleeve 12 according to Fig. 5 to 7 in a perspective view. Fig. 5 to 8 are jointly described. Reference is made to the explanations on fig. 1 to 4.

[0106] The inner sleeve 12 has a first connection geometry 13 for rotationally fixed connection with the adapter connection 3, a switchable first connection 14 for axially fixed connection with the adapter connection 3 and a switchable second connection 15 for axially fixed connection with a screwdriver insert 16 (bit) which can be pushed into the inner sleeve 12 via the second end face 7. The receptacle 8 is fluidically connected to the vacuum connection 4 via the inner sleeve 12. The inner sleeve 12 can be pushed onto the adapter connection 3 and is then connected to it in a rotationally fixed manner. For this purpose, the adapter connection 3 has a polygonal design as usual and the inner sleeve 12 has a corresponding shape as connection geometry 13 (fig. 7). The inner sleeve 12 can only be arranged on the adapter connection 3 in one axial position (with respect to the axial direction 5).

[0107] The switchable axially fixed connections 14, 15 are switchable between two states. The first connection 14 serves for the axially fixed connection with the adapter connection 3, i. e. it can be switched between the states "axially fixed connection between inner sleeve 12 and adapter connection 3 established" (see Figs. 2 to 4) and "axially fixed connection between inner sleeve 12 and adapter connection 3 released" (see Fig. 1).

[0108] The second connection 15 is used for the axially fixed connection with a screwdriver insert 16 (bit) which can be inserted into the inner sleeve 12 via the second end face 7, i. e. it can be switched back and forth between the states "axially fixed connection between inner sleeve 12 and screwdriver insert 16 established " (see Figs. 3 and 4) and "axially fixed connection between inner sleeve 12 and screwdriver insert 16 released" (see Fig. 1 and 2).

[0109] Both mechanisms of the connections 14, 15 are of the same design. The mechanisms comprise elements (second balls 43) which are displaceable along a radial direction 44 extending transversely to the axial direction 5. The second balls 43 are received in a guide (radially extending holes) of the inner sleeve 12. The second balls 43 are displaced by a switching mechanism or by an actuating geometry 29, 30 (i. e. by a corresponding contour on the second outer sleeve 11). The balls 43 are thereby displaced inwards in the radial direction 44 and engage in a corresponding contour on the screwdriver insert 16 or on the adapter connection 3, thus forming the axially fixed connection 14, 15. This mechanism is basically known as a ball coupling.

[0110] Fig. 9 shows (a first component 32 of) the second outer sleeve 11 of the screwing tool

[0111] 2 according to Fig. 1 to 3 in a side view in section. Fig. 10 shows the second outer sleeve 11 according to Fig. 9 in a side view. Fig. 11 shows the second outer sleeve 11 according to Fig. 9 and 10 in a perspective view. Fig. 9 to 11 are jointly described. Reference is made to the explanations on fig. 1 to 8.

[0112] The second outer sleeve 11 extends from the second end face 7 along the axial direction 5 via the first connection 14 and the second connection 15 to the first outer sleeve 10 and can be fixed with the first outer sleeve 10 in three different axial positions 17, 18, 19 relative to each other.

[0113] The second outer sleeve 11 has a second groove 23 on its outer circumferential surface 24 which provides for a ball track for the first ball 22, wherein the ball track extends in the circumferential direction 25 as well as in the axial direction 5 in a stepped manner (see fig. 10 and 11) such that the at least three different axial positions 17, 18, 19 for the second outer sleeve 11 (relative to the first outer sleeve 10) are defined.

[0114] The first ball 22 is thus accommodated at all times in the first groove 20 as well as in the second groove 23. By arranging the outer sleeves 10, 11 in three different axial positions 17, 18, 19 relative to each other the first ball 22 is moved along the second groove 23.

[0115] There are three pairs of grooves 20, 23 provided which are arranged along the circumferential direction 24.

[0116] Between the three axial positions 17, 18, 19, the two outer sleeves 10, 11 are displaceable relative to each other along the axial direction 5. To change the axial position 17, 18, 19, it is necessary to rotate the outer sleeves 10, 11 relative to each other so that the displacement can then take place along the axial direction 5.

[0117] The second outer sleeve 11 has a first actuating geometry 29 for actuating the first connection 14 and a second actuating geometry 30 for actuating the second connection 15. In a first axial position 17 of the outer sleeves 10, 11 (the outer sleeves 10, 11 are positioned relative to each other via the grooves 20, 23 and the first ball 22, see Fig. 1) both connections 14, 15 are unactuated, wherein in a second axial position 18 (see Fig. 2) only the first connection 14 is actuated, wherein in a third axial position 19 (see Fig. 3) the first connection 14 and the second connection 15 are both actuated.

[0118] The actuating geometries 29, 30 each comprise a contour of the inner circumferential surface of the second outer sleeve 11, whereby this in each case runs between two diameters of different sizes inclined with respect to the axial direction 5. Via the actuating geometries 29, 30, the aforementioned second balls 43 can be contacted and displaced in the radial direction 44.

[0119] The second outer sleeve 11 is designed in two components 32, 33 (see fig. 1 to 4), wherein the first component 32 has a first connection geometry 34 (that is the second groove 23 and the first ball 22} for connection to the (first groove 20 ofthe) firstouter sleeve 10.

[0120] The individual components 32, 33 are connected to each other via a thread 45.

[0121] The second groove 23 has different sections which each extend either exclusively in the circumferential direction 25 or in the axial direction 5. The sections are interconnected so that the first ball 22 can be moved along the second groove 23. The sections extending in the circumferential direction 25 provide for a rotation of the second outer sleeve 11 relative to the first outer sleeve 10 by 45 angular degrees. The sections extending in the axial direction 5 provide for a displacement of the second outer sleeve 11 relative to the first outer sleeve 10 along the axial direction 5 by a distance which corresponds to the diameter of the first ball 22 multiplied by a factor of about 2,0.

[0122] Fig. 12 shows a second part 27 of the first outer sleeve 10 of the screwing tool 2 according to Fig. 1 to 3 in a first side view in section. Fig. 13 shows the second part 27 according to fig. 12 in a second side view. Fig. 14 shows the second part 27 according to fig. 12 and 13 in a perspective view. Fig. 15 shows a first part 26 of the first outer sleeve 11 of the screwing tool 2 according to Fig. 1 to 3 in a view along the axial direction 5, in section. Fig. 16 shows the first part 26 according to fig. 15 in a first side view in section. Fig. 17 shows the first part 26 according to fig. 15 in a second side view. Fig. 18 shows the first part 26 according to fig. 15 to 17 in a perspective view. Fig. 12 to 18 are jointly described. Reference is made to the explanations on fig. 1 to 11.

[0123] The first outer sleeve 10 has two parts 26, 27 which are arranged next to each other along the axial direction 5 and are axially fixedly connected, wherein only the first part 26 has the first groove 20, wherein the first groove 20 extends only along the axial direction 5 and into a first end face 28 of the first part 26, wherein the first end face 28 faces the second part 27.

[0124] The second part 27 thus blocks the movement of the first ball 22 along the first groove 20. An axial displacement of the first ball 22 along the first groove 20 is not necessary and not possible. The two-part design of the first outer sleeve 10 allows for assembly of the first outer sleeve 10 on the second outer sleeve 11. The outer sleeves 10, 11 are thus interconnected by the first groove 20 and second groove 23 and the first ball 22 which form a first connection geometry 34 for connecting the outer sleeves 10, 11.

[0125] The two parts 26, 27 have angular segments 46 which provide for an overlap relative to the axial direction 5. The two parts 26, 27 can thus be placed next to each other so that the angular segments 46 interlock with each other (see fig. 1 to 4). The two parts 26, 27 can be secured in that position by a wire 47 (not shown, only the groove for accommodating the wire 47), which extends circumferentially around the segments 26 of the two parts 26, 27.

[0126] The present invention solves at least some of the problems of the prior art. In particular, an adapter 1 having a robust and / or simple and / or reliable construction is proposed. The system of the present disclosure enables rapid replacement of adapters 1 and of screwdriver inserts 16 with reduced complexity and / or improved fail-safe characteristics. With the given system, a manufacturing cell is enabled to tighten different types of screws 9 with the same screwing tool 2. In particular, it is possible to switch between several adapters 1 in a fully automated process without the involvement of an operator. Furthermore, the flexibility of use of a tool manipulator as well as its productivity can be increased. The adapter enables full automation of stations where different screwdriver inserts 16 or adapters 1 are required.

[0127] List of reference signs

[0128] 1 adapter

[0129] 2 screwing tool

[0130] 3 adapter connection

[0131] 4 vacuum connection

[0132] 5 axial direction

[0133] 6 first end face

[0134] 7 second end face

[0135] 8 receptacle

[0136] 9 screw

[0137] 10 first outer sleeve

[0138] 11 second outer sleeve

[0139] 12 inner sleeve

[0140] 13 first connection geometry

[0141] 14 first connection

[0142] 15 second connection

[0143] 16 screwdriver insert

[0144] 17 first axial position

[0145] 18 second axial position

[0146] 19 third axial position

[0147] 20 first groove

[0148] 21 inner circumferential surface

[0149] 22 first ball

[0150] 23 second groove

[0151] 24 outer circumferential surface

[0152] 25 circumferential direction

[0153] 26 first part

[0154] 27 second part

[0155] 28 first end face

[0156] 29 first actuating geometry

[0157] 30 second actuating geometry 31 energy storage element

[0158] 32 first component

[0159] 33 second component

[0160] 34 first connection geometry 35 second connection geometry

[0161] 36 first arrangement

[0162] 37 second arrangement

[0163] 38 third arrangement

[0164] 39 fourth arrangement 40 maximum depth

[0165] 41 axial stop

[0166] 42 screw head

[0167] 43 second ball

[0168] 44 radial direction 45 thread

[0169] 46 segment

[0170] 47 wire

Claims

Claims1. Adapter (1) for a screwing tool (2), wherein the screwing tool (2) has an adapter connection (3) with a vacuum connection (4); wherein the adapter (1) extends along an axial direction (5) between two end faces (6, 7), has a receptacle (8) for a screw (9) on a second end face (7) and can be pushed onto the adapter connection (3) along the axial direction (5) via a first end face (6), so that the receptacle (8) is fluidically connected to the vacuum connection (4); wherein the adapter (1) has a first outer sleeve (10), a second outer sleeve (11) and an inner sleeve (12); the inner sleeve (12) having a first connection geometry (13) for rotationally fixed connection to the adapter connection (3), a switchable first connection (14) for axially fixed connection to the adapter connection (3) and a switchable second connection (15) for axially fixed connection to a screwdriver insert (16) which can be pushed into the inner sleeve (12) via the second end face (7); wherein the first outer sleeve (10) is arranged on the first end face (6) of the adapter (1) and can be arranged on the adapter connection (3) so as to be displaceable along the axial direction (5), wherein the second outer sleeve (11) extends from the second end face (7) along the axial direction (5) via the second connection (15) and the first connection (14) to the first outer sleeve (10) and means are provided to fix the second outer sleeve (11) to the first outer sleeve (10) in at least three different axial positions (17, 18, 19) relative to one another.

2. Adapter (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first outer sleeve (10) has a first groove (20) on its inner circumferential surface (21) for accommodating a first ball (22); wherein the second outer sleeve (11) has a second groove (23) on its outer circumferential surface (24) which provides for a ball track for the first ball (22), wherein the ball track extends in a circumferential direction (25) as well as in the axial direction (5) in a stepped manner such that the at least three different axial positions (17, 18, 19) for the second outer sleeve (11) are defined.

3. Adapter (1) according to claim 2, wherein the first outer sleeve (10) has two parts (26, 27) which are arranged next to each other along the axial direction (5) and are axially fixedly connected, wherein only a first part (26) has the first groove (20), wherein the first groove (20) extends only alongthe axial direction (5) and into a first end face (28) of the first part (26), wherein the first end face (28) faces a second part (27).

4. Adapter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second outer sleeve (11) has a first actuating geometry (29) for actuating the first connection(14) and a second actuating geometry (30) for actuating the second connection(15); wherein in a first axial position (17) of the outer sleeves (10, 11) both connections (14, 15) are unactuated, wherein in a second axial position (18) only the first connection (14) is actuated, wherein in a third axial position (19) the first connection (14) and the second connection (15) are both actuated.

5. Adapter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer sleeves (10, 11), at least in a third axial position (18), in which the first connection (14) and the second connection (15) are both actuated, are jointly displaceable relative to the inner sleeve (12) along the axial direction (5).

6. Adapter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least between the second outer sleeve (11) and the inner sleeve (12) an energy storage element (31) is arranged, which stores the potential energy during a displacement of these sleeves (11, 12) relative to each other.

7. Adapter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second outer sleeve (11) is designed at least in two components (32, 33), wherein a first component (32) has a connection geometry (34) for connection to the first outer sleeve (10) and a second component (33) forms the second end face (7), wherein the second component (33) has a second connection geometry (35) adapted to a screw (9).

8. Screwing tool (2), at least comprising an adapter connection (3) with a vacuum connection (4) and an adapter (1) according to one of the preceding claims which can be arranged on the adapter connection (3) in at least four arrangements (36, 37, 38, 39); wherein in each of the arrangements (36, 37, 38, 39) the adapter connection (3) is inserted to a maximum depth (40) into the first connection geometry (13) of the inner sleeve (12) and the receptacle (8) for the screw (9) is fluidically connected to the vacuum connection (4); wherein in a first arrangement (36) of the adapter (1) the first outer sleeve (10) is arranged along the axial direction (5) spaced from an axial stop (41) of the adapter connection (3) and the outer sleeves (10, 11) are fixed in a first axial position (17) relative to each other; wherein in a second arrangement (37) of the adapter (1) the first outer sleeve (10) is still arranged spaced from the axial stop (41) and the outer sleeves (10, 11) are fixed in a second axial position (18) relative to each other; wherein in a third arrangement (38) of the adapter (1) the first outer sleeve (10) is still arranged spaced from the axial stop (41) and the outer sleeves (10, 11) are fixed in a third axial position (18) relative to each other; wherein in a fourth arrangement (39) of the adapter (1) the outer sleeves (10, 11) are still fixed in the third position (18) relative to each other and the first outer sleeve (10) contacts the axial stop (41).

9. Screwing tool (2) according to claim 8, wherein in the first arrangement (36) the adapter (1) is only non-positively connected to the adapter connection (3) with respect to the axial direction (5) and a screwdriver insert (16) inserted into the inner sleeve (12) via the second end face (7) is only non-positively connected with respect to the axial direction (5); wherein in the second arrangement (37) the adapter (1) is connected to the adapter connection (3) via the first connection (14) and the screwdriver insert (16) is still only non- positively connected; wherein in the third arrangement (38) the adapter (1) is connected to the adapter connection (3) via the first connection (14) and the screwdriver insert (16) is connected to the inner sleeve (12) via the second connection (15) in each case in an axially fixed manner, wherein in this case the screwdriver insert (16) is arranged retracted relative to the receptacle (8) so that a screw (9) with a screw head (42) can be fixed in the receptacle (8) via thevacuum connection (4); wherein in the fourth arrangement (39) the screwdriver insert (16) extends into the receptacle (8) and thus into the screw head (42) of the screw (9) arranged there.

10. Method of actuating a screwing tool (2) according to any one of the preceding claims 8 and 9; comprising at least the following steps: a) arranging the adapter (1) on the adapter connection (3) in the first arrangement (36), wherein the first outer sleeve (10) is arranged along the axial direction (5) spaced from an axial stop (41) of the adapter connection (3) and the outer sleeves (10, 11) are fixed in a first axial position (17) relative to each other; b) arranging the adapter (1) on the adapter connection (3) in the second arrangement (37), the second outer sleeve (11) being displaced along the axial direction (5) relative to the inner sleeve (12) and relative to the first outer sleeve (10), so that the first outer sleeve (10) continues to be arranged at a distance from the axial stop (41) and the outer sleeves (10, 11) are fixed in a second axial position (18) relative to one another; c) arranging the adapter (1) on the adapter connection (3) in the third arrangement (38), the second outer sleeve (11) being displaced along the axial direction (5) relative to the inner sleeve (12) and relative to the first outer sleeve (10), so that the first outer sleeve (10) continues to be arranged at a distance from the axial stop (41) and the outer sleeves (10, 11) are fixed in a third axial position (18) relative to one another d) arranging the adapter (1) on the adapter connection (3) in the fourth arrangement (39), whereby the outer sleeves (10, 11) are displaced together alongthe axial direction (5) relative to the inner sleeve (12) until the first outer sleeve (10) contacts the axial stop (41).

11. Method according to claim 10, wherein a screwdriver insert (16) is inserted into the inner sleeve (12) via the second end face (7) of the adapter (1) before step c); wherein during step c) a screw (9) is sucked in via the vacuum connection (4) and arranged in the receptacle (8); wherein during step d) thescrewdriver insert (16) is moved into the receptacle (8) and into a screw head

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