Drill accessory and drill assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to a drill accessory for fitting to a drill, screwdriver or impact driver. The drill accessory allows for two or more bits or tools to be mounted on the drill accessory. The drill accessory allows for the two tools to be swivelled into position and alignment with the drill chuck for quick and convenient changing between tools. The drill accessory includes a connecting arrangement for connecting the drill accessory to the drill. The drill accessory further includes a plurality of tool holders and a rotating holder mechanism. The drill accessory further includes a moving mechanism that facilitates the coupling and decoupling of the tools to the drill chuck.

Description

DRILL ACCESSORY AND DRILL ASSEMBLYField of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a drill accessory and in particular to a drill accessory for facilitating the switching of bits on a drill, and a drill assembly including the drill accessory.

[0002] The invention has been developed primarily for use in / with hand drills and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.Background of the Invention

[0003] At present, when construction workers such as carpenters, electricians, or the like are using power drills, such as corded and / or cordless drills, they are required to switch bits in the drill frequently, for example where a pilot hole is initially required to be drilled before screwing in a screw into the pilot hole. This requires changing of the bits in the hand drill from a drill bit to a screwing bit. Where multiple pilot holes need to be drilled, and screws screwed into the pilot holes, this process of constantly changing the bits can be tiresome.

[0004] US 2019 / 009398 discloses a handheld power tool that has a built in working component that includes two working chucks that are rotatable to allow two different bits to be used by rotating the working component. However, this is a dedicated power tool originally manufactured with this functionality in mind, and does not allow this functionality to be transferred to existing power drills.

[0005] Any discussion of the background art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such background art is prior art, nor that such background art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field in Australia or any other country.Summary of the Invention

[0006] The invention seeks to provide a drill accessory which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[0007] According to a first aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a drill accessory for securing to a power drill including a drill chuck to facilitate convenient interchanging of a plurality of bits, the drill accessory including: a. a connecting arrangement adapted for connecting the drill accessory to a drill; b. a plurality of tool holders, each tool holder being configured for securely holding a tool; and c. a rotating holder mechanism configured for mounting the plurality of tool holders to rotate between at least two positions.

[0008] In one embodiment, the drill accessory further includes a moving mechanism configured for facilitating coupling and decoupling of the tool holders to one or more selected from the drill chuck and a chuck engaging member in use.

[0009] In one embodiment, in one of the positions of the rotating holder mechanism one of the plurality of tool holders is receivable in a chuck of the drill.

[0010] In one embodiment, the rotating holder mechanism includes a mounting arrangement configured for mounting the plurality of tool holders, and the mounting arrangement is configured for mounting the plurality of tool holders to be movable between a. a first position in which at least one of the plurality of tool holders is in alignment with the drill chuck and use; and b. a second position and it which none of the plurality of tool holders is in alignment with the drill chuck in use.

[0011] In one embodiment, the mounting arrangement is configured for mounting the plurality of tool holders to be movable relative to the drill chuck in use between a. an inserted position in which the tool holders are rotatably coupled with the chuck of the power drill or an extension thereof; and b. a rotatable position in which the rotating holder mechanism is rotatable between the at least two positions.

[0012] In one embodiment, the connecting arrangement includes a body on which the rotating holder mechanism is mounted.

[0013] In one embodiment, the body is configured for mounting to the drill in use.

[0014] In one embodiment, the connecting arrangement includes a camming arrangement configured for moving the tool holders between their inserted positionand their rotatable position as the rotating holder mechanism rotates relative to the connecting arrangement.

[0015] In one embodiment, the drill accessory includes a ratchet and pawl arrangement configured for allowing rotational movement of the rotating holder mechanism on the body in one direction.

[0016] In one embodiment, the drill accessory includes a chuck engaging member configured for engaging with the chuck of a drill.

[0017] In one embodiment, the moving mechanism is configured for allowing movement of the body relative to one or more selected from the track and the chuck engaging member between a plurality of positions.

[0018] In one embodiment, the moving mechanism is configured for allowing movement of the body relative to one or more selected from the chuck and the chuck engaging member between at least an engaging position in which tool holder is rotatably coupled to the drill chuck, and a disengaged position in which the tool holder is rotatably disengaged from the drill chuck.

[0019] In one embodiment, the moving mechanism includes one or more selected from: a. a resiliently flexible connector member; b. a track; c. a lever; d. a cam; and e. a piston and cylinder arrangement.

[0020] In one embodiment, the moving mechanism is biased to either of the engaging position or the disengaged position.

[0021] In one embodiment, the tool holders include a connecting mechanism for securely connecting a tool.

[0022] In one embodiment, the connecting mechanism includes a latching mechanism configured for preventing the withdrawal of the tool from the recess in the toolholder.

[0023] According to a first aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a drill accessory for securing to a power drill including a chuck to facilitate convenient interchanging of a plurality of bits, the drill accessory including: a. a connecting arrangement adapted for connecting the drill accessory to a drill;b. a plurality of tool holders, each tool holder being configured for securely holding a bit; and c. a rotating holder mechanism configured for mounting a plurality of tool holders to rotate between at least two positions.

[0024] In one embodiment, the drill accessory includes a moving mechanism configured for allowing coupling of the tool holders to the drill chuck.

[0025] In one embodiment, the moving mechanism is configured for facilitating the coupling of the tool holders to the drill chuck.

[0026] In one embodiment, in one of the positions of the rotating holder mechanism the tool holder is receivable in a chuck of the drill.

[0027] In one embodiment, the rotating holder mechanism includes a mounting arrangement configured for mounting the plurality of bits holders.

[0028] In one embodiment, the mounting arrangement is configured for mounting the plurality of tool holders to be movable between a. an inserted position in which the tool holders are connected to the chuck of the power drill or an extension thereof; and b. a rotatable position in which the rotating holder mechanism is rotatable between the at least two positions.

[0029] In one embodiment the rotating mounting arrangement includes a biasing arrangement for biasing the plurality of bits holders to their inserted position.

[0030] In one embodiment, the connecting arrangement includes a body on which the rotating holder mechanism is mounted.

[0031] In one embodiment, the connecting arrangement includes a camming arrangement configured for moving the tool holders between their inserted position and their rotatable position as the rotating holder mechanism rotates relative to the connecting arrangement.

[0032] In one embodiment, the camming arrangement includes a cam formation.

[0033] In one embodiment, the cam formation is mounted to the connecting arrangement.

[0034] In one embodiment, the camming arrangement includes a cam follower associated with the each tool holder.

[0035] In one embodiment, a cam follower is connected to each of the tool holders.

[0036] In one embodiment, the drill accessory includes a ratchet and pawl arrangement configured for allowing rotational movement of the rotating holder mechanism in one direction.

[0037] In one embodiment, the connecting arrangement includes a webbing arrangement for securing the drill accessory to the drill.

[0038] In one embodiment, the webbing arrangement includes at least one fastener.

[0039] In one embodiment, the fastener is one or more selected from a: a. hook and loop arrangement; and b. a buckle.

[0040] In one embodiment, the drill accessory includes a moving mechanism configured for allowing the decoupling of the tool holder from the drill chuck.

[0041] In one embodiment, the drill accessory includes a moving mechanism configured for allowing movement of the tool holder relative to the chuck.

[0042] In one embodiment, the drill accessory includes a tool holder moving mechanism configured for allowing movement of the tool holder relative to an extension of the chuck.

[0043] In one embodiment, the drill accessory includes a chuck engaging member configured for engaging with the chuck of a drill.

[0044] In one embodiment, the chuck engaging member is configured for continuous engagement with the chuck of a drill.

[0045] In one embodiment, the drill accessory includes a body moving mechanism configured for allowing movement of the body relative to the chuck engaging member between a plurality of positions.

[0046] In one embodiment, the drill accessory includes a moving mechanism configured for allowing movement of the body relative to the chuck engaging member between at least an engaging position in which the chuck engaging member is an engagement with a bit holder, and a disengaged position in which the chuck engaging member is disengaged from the bit holder.

[0047] In one embodiment, the connecting arrangement includes the moving mechanism.

[0048] In one embodiment, the moving mechanism includes one or more selected from: a. a resiliently flexible connector member; b. a track;c. a lever; d. a cam; e. a piston and cylinder arrangement; and f. any other moving mechanism.

[0049] In one embodiment, the moving mechanism includes a track on which the body is movable and a fixed base configured for connection to the drill.

[0050] In one embodiment, the moving mechanism is biased to either of the engaging position or the disengaged position.

[0051] In one embodiment, the tool holders include a recess for receiving a tool.

[0052] In one embodiment, the tool holders include a connecting mechanism for securely connecting a tool.

[0053] In one embodiment, the connecting mechanism includes a spring biased latching mechanism.

[0054] In one embodiment, the latching mechanism is configured for preventing the withdrawal of the tool from the recess in the toolholder.

[0055] In one embodiment, the plurality of tool holders extend through apertures in the rotating holder mechanism.

[0056] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a drill assembly, the drill assembly including: a. a drill including a drill chuck; and b. a drill accessory as described above.

[0057] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a method of interchanging drill bits on a drill with a drill chuck, the method including the steps of: a. providing a drill accessory as described above and a drill including a drill chuck; b. securing the drill accessory to the drill using the connecting arrangement; c. inserting a drill bit into each tool holder; d. rotating the rotating holder mechanism until a first tool holder is aligned with the drill chuck; and e. coupling the drill chuck to the first tool holder to turn the first toolholder in use.

[0058] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. loosening the drill chuck.

[0059] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. decoupling the first tool holder from the drill chuck.

[0060] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. rotating the rotating holder mechanism until a second drill bit holder is aligned with the drill chuck.

[0061] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. tightening the drill chuck.

[0062] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. coupling the drill chuck to the second tool holder to turn the second toolholder in use.

[0063] A general principle of operation of the present invention is the use of a retrofittable mechanism to a drill that allows for convenient switching of tools for different operations by the same drill.

[0064] A further general principle of operation of the present invention is the use of a moving mechanism to allow movement of the body of a drill assembly and a reciprocating fashion to allow for the engagement and disengagement of the drill chuck and / or an extension of the drill chuck with one of a plurality of tool holders, the tool holders being rotatable to align with the drill chuck and / or an extension of the drill chuck.

[0065] For the purposes of this specification, the term “drill” shall be construed to include other torquing tools with chucks or other appropriate tool connecting interfaces for connecting the drill accessory such as screwdrivers, impact drivers or the like.

[0066] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0067] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0068] Figure 1 shows a top perspective schematic view of a first embodiment of a drill accessory;

[0069] Figure 2 shows a cutaway schematic side view of the drill accessory of figure 1 ;

[0070] Figure 3 shows a side schematic view showing hidden detail of a second embodiment of a drill accessory mounted to a drill;

[0071] Figure 4 shows a side schematic view of the second embodiment of a drill accessory mounted to a drill; and

[0072] Figures 5 shows a side wireframe schematic view of a third embodiment of a drill accessory;

[0073] Figure 6 shows a top perspective schematic view of a body showing the track arrangement and camming arrangement of figure 5;

[0074] Figure 7 shows a bottom perspective schematic view of the rotating holder mechanism of figure 5;

[0075] Figure 8 shows a top perspective schematic view of the tool holder of the drill accessory of figure 5;

[0076] Figure 9 shows a cutaway side schematic view of the track arrangement of the drill accessory of figure 5;

[0077] Figure 10 shows a top perspective view of a bit holder;

[0078] Figure 11 shows a right side view of a second embodiment of a drill accessory;

[0079] Figure 12 shows a top right front perspective view of the drill accessory of figure 11;

[0080] Figure 13 shows a cutaway side view of the drill accessory of figure 11 ;

[0081] Figure 14 shows a top right rear exploded assembly perspective view of the drill accessory of figure 11 ;

[0082] Figure 15 shows a bottom right rear perspective view of the drill accessory of figure 11;

[0083] Figure 16 shows a bottom left front perspective view of the body of the drill accessory of figure 11 ;

[0084] Figure 17a shows a rear view of the body of the drill accessory of figure 11 ;

[0085] Figure 17b shows a cutaway right side view of the body of the drill accessory of figure 11 at section K - K in figure 17a;

[0086] Figure 18 shows a bottom view of the body of the drill accessory of figure 11 ;

[0087] Figure 19a shows a top view of the rotating holder mechanism of the drill accessory of figure 11 ;

[0088] Figure 19b shows a side cutaway view of the rotating holder mechanism of the drill accessory of figure 11 at section P - P of figure 19 a;

[0089] Figure 20a shows a side view of a tool holder of the drill accessory of figure 11 ;

[0090] Figure 20b shows a cutaway side view of a tool holder of the drill accessory of figure 11 at section LI-LI of figure 20a;

[0091] Figure 21 a shows a side view of a chuck engaging member of a drill accessory of figure 11 ;

[0092] Figure 21 b shows a side view of a track engaging member of a drill accessory of figure 11 at section Y - Y of figure 21a;

[0093] Figure 22 shows a side view of a drill accessory of figure 11 attached to a drill by a first embodiment of a connecting arrangement;

[0094] Figure 23 shows a top left front perspective view of figure 22;

[0095] Figure 24 shows a side view of a drill accessory of figure 11 attached to a drill by a second embodiment of a connecting arrangement;

[0096] Figure 25 shows a side view of a drill accessory of figure 11 attached to a drill by a third embodiment of a connecting arrangement, shown in a first position with the body being in an engaged position;

[0097] Figure 26 shows a side view of a drill accessory of figure 11 attached to a drill by a third embodiment of a connecting arrangement, shown in a second position with the body being in a disengagement position.Description of Embodiments

[0098] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

[0099] In a first aspect a drill accessory is denoted by the reference numeral 1000 and multiples thereof, and in a second aspect a drill assembly is generally denoted by reference numeral 500.

[0100] Now described with reference to figures 1 to 4, there is provided a drill assembly 500 including a power drill 100 and a drill accessory 1000. The drill accessory 1000 is configured for being secured to a power drill 100. The power drill includes a chuck 110 as is known in the art.

[0101] The drill accessory 1000 comprises a connecting arrangement 1100 that is adapted for connecting the drill accessory 1000 to the drill 100. To this end, the connecting arrangement 1100 includes a body 1110 that is adapted for beingsecurely mounted to the front of the drill 100, and a webbing arrangement 1120 including one or more straps 1122 and a buckle 1124.

[0102] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the webbing arrangement 1120 can also include a hook and loop type fastener.

[0103] The webbing arrangement 1120 can be used for securing the drill accessory 1000 to the drill 100 by passing the strap around the rear of the drill 100 and fastening it back to the body 1110 with the buckle 1124.

[0104] An alternative embodiment (not shown), it is envisaged that the connecting arrangement can include a steel strap. The steel strap can be fastened to the drill 100 by a fastening arrangement that preferably includes a threaded arrangement, similar to those used in pipe clamps.

[0105] The drill accessory 1000 further includes a rotating holder mechanism 1200 that is configured for mounting a plurality of tool holders 1400 in a movable fashion as will be described below. The rotating holder mechanism 1200 is configured for being rotatable relative to the body 1110. The rotating holder mechanism 1200 is movably connected to the body 1110, preferably by a track arrangement 1300 (shown in figure 9).

[0106] The track arrangement 1300 preferably includes engaging formations on the body that are engageable with complementary engaging formations on the rotating holder mechanism 1200 that allow for rotational movement of the rotating holder mechanism 1200 relative to the body 1110. In the embodiment shown in figure 9, the track arrangement 1300 the engaging formations are shown as being a slot 1310 on the body 1110 into which complementary engaging formations in the form of a head and neck formation 1320 on the rotating holder mechanism 1200 is receivable. It is envisaged that in alternative embodiments (not shown) the track arrangement can be of a wide variety of alternative configurations.

[0107] Each of the tool holders 1400 is configured for securely holding a bit, such as a Phillips head screwdriver bit, flat screwdriver head bit, square driver bit, drill bit or the like, that would ordinarily be inserted into a drill chuck. The tool holders 1400 preferably include a female hexagonally shaped recess 1410 into which male hexagonally shaped bits are receivable, as are known in the art.

[0108] The tool holders 1400 are mounted on the rotating holder mechanism 1200 to rotate with the rotating holder mechanism. The rotating holder mechanism 1200 is movable between a first position (shown in figure 3) in which a bit holder is inalignment with the chuck 110 of the drill 100, and in which the tool holder 1400 is receivable within the truck of the drill, and a second position in which the same tool holder 1400 is not in alignment with the chuck 110.

[0109] In the embodiments shown in figures 1 - 4, 5 and 7, the pair of tool holders 1400 that are provided that are located at opposed sides of the rotating holder mechanism.

[0110] It is envisaged in alternative embodiments (not shown) that three or more bit holders may be provided, preferably spaced at regular angular around the circumference of the rotating holder mechanism. In such embodiments, the bit holders are movable between any number of positions.

[0111] In order to mount the plurality of bit holders, the rotating holder mechanism includes a mounting arrangement 1210 for each of the tool holders 1400. Each mounting arrangement 1210 preferably includes an aperture 1212 for the tool holder 1400 to extend through the rotating holder mechanism 1200 in a slidable fashion. Each bit holder is preferably slidably movable through the rotating holder mechanism 1200 between an inserted position in which the bit holder is received within the truck 110 (shown in figure 4), and a rotatable position in which the bit holder is not received within the truck, and the rotating holder mechanism is rotatable (shown in figure 3).

[0112] Each tool holder 1400 is preferably biased to its inserted position by a biasing arrangement in the form of a spring 1420. As shown in figure 1 , the spring 1420 is preferably connected between an engaging formation 1430 on the tool holder 1400, and an engaging formation 1220 on the rotating holder mechanism 1200.

[0113] The drill accessory 1000 preferably includes a camming arrangement 1500 including a cam follower formation 1510 on the tool holder 1400, as shown in figure 2. The cam follower formation 1510 is configured for following a cam formation 1520 on the body 1110 (shown in figure 6).

[0114] Additionally, the drill accessory 1000 includes a ratchet and pawl arrangement 1700. The ratchet and pawl arrangement 1700 is configured for ensuring that the rotating holder mechanism 1200 can only be rotated in one direction relative to the body 1110 on the track arrangement 1300.

[0115] The ratchet and pawl arrangement 1700 includes a series of ratchet teeth 1710 (shown in figure 7) that are preferably located on the rotating holder mechanism 1200, and a spring biased pawl 1720 that is preferably located on thebody 1110. As the rotating holder mechanism 1200 is rotated manually, the pawl 1720 traverses the ratchet teeth 1710, allowing the teeth to move in one direction. However, if the rotating holder mechanism is rotated in the opposed direction, the pawl will act to prevent rotation in that direction.

[0116] The effect of the ratchet and pawl arrangement 1700 is to ensure that rotation only occurs in the direction that allows the cam follower formation 1510 to traverse slowly up to the top of the cam step 1522, so that when the cam follower formation 1510 moves off the cam step 1522, it will cause the tool holder 1400 to be dropped into the chuck 110.

[0117] One embodiment of a tool holder 1400 is now described with reference to figure 8. The tool holder 1400 includes an elongate shaft 1440 that extends from a head 1450 at a distal end 1402 to a chuck engaging formation 1460 at a proximal end 1404. The head 1450 includes the hexagonally shaped recess 1410 for receiving bits as described above. The chuck engaging formation 1460 is preferably hexagonally shaped in cross-section, and is configured for insertion into, and to be securely engaged by, the drill chuck 110 or the bit holder 700 as described below.

[0118] The tool holder 1400 further includes a spring engaging formation 1430 as described above to which one end of spring 1420 can be attached to. The tool holder 1400 also preferably includes cam follower formation 1510 as described above. Lastly, the tool holder 1400 can preferably include a detent in the form of flange 1470 that can stop movement of the tool holder 1400 through the rotating holder mechanism 1200 to define an endpoint for its movement in the direction of bias of the spring.

[0119] It is further envisaged that the drill assembly 500 can include a separate bit holder 700. The bit holder can include a preferably hexagonally shaped shaft 710 and a head 720 including a preferably hexagonally shaped recess 730 that is configured for receiving the chuck engaging formation 1460 of the tool holder 1400. The recess 700 and that is preferably tapered to be slightly larger at the mouth of the recess, allowing the chuck engaging formation 1460 of the drill accessory 1000 to be readily received into the recess 730, but engaging the tech engaging formation 1460 more snugly as it is further received into the recess. The bit holder 700 is preferably firmly secured into the chuck 110 with the key or similar in use, allowing the chuck engaging formation 1460 to be inserted into the recess without the need for tightening the chuck.

[0120] Another embodiment of a drill accessory 1000 is shown in figures 11 - 23. In this embodiment, the drill accessory 1000 includes a body 1110 that is configured to be connected to a drill 100 by a connecting arrangement 1100. A rotating holder mechanism 1200 is rotatable about axis A relative to the body 1110 about an axle 1900, shown in the form of a bolt 1910 in figure 13. The body 1110 may define an aperture or bore 1112 through it for receiving an axle 1900. The body 1110 further includes a housing 1114.

[0121] The holder mechanism 1200 includes a plurality of mounting arrangements 1210, in the form of a pair of cylindrical apertures or bores 1212. A tool holder 1400 can be mounted in each of the mounting arrangement 1210. The tool holders 1400 are rotatable within the mounting arrangement 1210. In this embodiment, the tool holders 1400 are not slidably movable within the apertures 1212 as they were previously.

[0122] The rotating holder mechanism 1200 is movable between a first position in which at least one of the tool holders 1400 are in alignment with the drill chuck 110, and a second position in which at least one of the tool holders 1400 are not in alignment with the drill chuck 110.

[0123] In this embodiment, the drill accessory 1000 includes a chuck engaging member 1700 that is mounted to the body 1110 in a slidable and rotatable fashion. As may be seen in figure 13, the chuck engaging member 1700 includes a stem 1710 that is configured to be securely engaged by a drill chuck 110, for example by clamping the jaws of the drill chuck securely on to the stem 1710. The chuck engaging member 1700 further includes an engaging formation in the form of a recess 1720 that is configured for engaging with a complementary engaging formation in the form of protrusion 1480 on the tool holder 1400.

[0124] The chuck engaging member 1700 is both rotatably and slidably moveable within an aperture or bore 1112 in the body 1110. The chuck engaging member 1700 may include a shaft 1705 that is configured to be slidably received within the aperture 1112 of the body 1110.

[0125] Each of the tool holders 1400 preferably includes a connecting mechanism 1490 for securely connecting a tool 50 such as a drill bit, a screw driver head, or similar. The tool holders 1400 each preferably include a shaft 1440 with a recess 1442 in a distal end, into which a tool 50 is receivable. A flange 1444 is provided on the proximal end of the shaft 1442 prevent the shaft 1440 falling through

[0126] The connecting mechanism 1490 can include a spring biased latching mechanism 1491 as is known in the art. The spring biased latching mechanism 1491 may include an annular member 1492 that is movable between a latching position and an open position. The annular member 1492 may preferably be biased by a spring 1493 towards its latching position. In the latching position, the annular member 1492 serves to retain a plurality of ball bearings 1494 within an annular recess 1495 in the tool 50, preventing the retraction of the tool 50 from the tool holder 1400. When the annular member 1492 is moved by a user against the action of the bias to its open position, the ball bearings 1494 are not retained within the annular recess in the tool 50, thereby allowing the retraction of the tool 50 from the tool holder 1400.

[0127] The chuck engaging member 1700 may be preferably slidably movable relative to the body 1110 between an engaging position in which the recess 1720 of the chuck engaging member 1700 is engaging with a complementary protrusion 1480 on an aligned tool holder 1400 when the tool holder 1400 is in an aligned position, and a disengaged position in which the chuck engaging member 1700 is disengaged with the aligned bit holder, allowing the tool holders 1400 to be moved rotated between an aligned position and a misaligned position.

[0128] It is envisaged that in alternative embodiments (not shown) the chuck engaging member 1700 could include an alternative formation such as a protrusion at its distal end for engagement with a complementary recess on the toolholder 1400. A wide variety of shapes and configurations may be envisaged by a person skilled in the art.

[0129] The chuck engaging member 1700 is allowed to move relative to the body 1110 by a coupling mechanism or moving mechanism 1800. Moving mechanism 1800 allows movement of the body 1100 relative to the drill 100, as well as the secured chuck engaging member 1700. In the embodiments shown in figures 11 - 23, and 24, the moving mechanism 1800 is in the form of a flexing connecting member 1810 disposed between clamp 1140 and the body 1110. The moving mechanism facilitates movement of the body 1110 relative to the chuck 110. Clamp 1140 may be configured for secure clamping to the drill 100, and preferably around the handle 120 of the drill. Flexing connecting member 1810 is securely connected to the clamp 1140 at its proximal end, and extends to a distal end where it is secured to the body 1110. Flexing connecting member 1810 may be resilient and flexible,and allows for movement of the body 1110 relative to the drill chuck 110 between an engaging position in which the body 1110 is closer to the drill chuck 110, and a disengaged position in which the body 1110 is further away from the drill chuck 110. The engaging position of the body 1110 will correspond in practice to the engaging position of the chuck engaging member 1700, and the disengaged position of the body 1110 will correspond in practice to the disengaged position of the chuck engaging member 1700.

[0130] It is further envisaged that the flexing connecting member may provide a bias of the body 1110 towards either the engaging position or the disengaged position. If the flexing connecting member 1810 provides a bias of the body 1110 towards its engaging position, then a user will push the body against the bias to move the body to its disengaged position before rotating the rotating holder mechanism 1202 exchange tools 50 that are being utilised. If the flexing connecting member 1810 provides a bias of the body 1110 towards its disengaged position, then in order to get the chuck engaging member 1700 to engage with the aligned toolholder, the user will place the tool 50 against the surface it is intended to be used on, and push on the drill 100 to move the body 1110 into its engaging position.

[0131] Figure 24 shows an alternative embodiment of a drill accessory 1000 that is similar to the embodiment shown in figures 11 - 23, however the flexing connector member 1810 is curved to further facilitate the movement of the body 1110 towards and further away from the drill chuck 110.

[0132] Figures 25 and 26 show another embodiment of a drill accessory 1000 that includes a trigger operated moving mechanism 1800 that moves the body 1110 between its engaging position and its disengaged position. The embodiment shown in figures 25 and 26 is otherwise identical to the embodiment shown in figure 24. The moving mechanism includes a trigger 1820 that may be operable by the hand of the user that is operating the drill. The trigger 1820 is connected to a lever arm 1830 by a trigger connector arm 1840 at pivot joints. A fulcrum arm 1850 is rigidly connected to the drill handle 120 by a clamp 1140. The lever arm 1830 is pivotably connected to the fulcrum arm 1850 at a central pivot axis. The opposed end of the lever arm 1830 is in turn pivotably connected to the body 1110 by a body connector arm 1860, so that when the trigger 1820 is pulled, this pushes the body 1110 a distance d (shown in figure 26) away from the drill 100 and causes the body to move from its engaging position to its disengaged position. This in turn correlateswith the chuck engaging member 1700 moving from its engaging position to its disengaged position. In this way, one hand can be used to disengage chuck engaging member 1700 from the aligned tool holder 1400, while another hand is used to turn the rotating holder mechanism 1200.

[0133] In alternative embodiments (not shown), it is envisaged that a resiliently flexible connecting member may not be used, and instead the body may be movable between its engaging position and its disengaged position on a track or other mechanical moving mechanism. Examples of other moving mechanisms include levers, hydraulic and / or pneumatic pumps, cams, or any other suitable moving mechanism.

[0134] In alternative embodiments (not shown), it is envisaged that any of the features shown in the embodiments can be provided on any of the other embodiments where it is possible to do so. For example, the embodiments shown in figures 11 - 24 may be secured to the drill by a webbing strap, with an alternative moving mechanism being provided to allow the chuck engaging member 1700 to be disengaged from the aligned tool holder 1400.

[0135] It is further envisaged that three or more tool holders may be provided in a single drill accessory.In use

[0136] It is envisaged that the drill accessory 1000 and drill assembly 500 will be used as described below with reference to figures 1-10.

[0137] Initially, the shaft 710 of the bit holder 700 will be inserted into the chuck 110 of the drill 100 and secured in the chuck. Then drill accessory 1000 will be securely mounted to the drill 100 by positioning the drill accessory on the front of the drill 100, and securing strap 1122 around the rear of the drill 100 using the buckle 1124. In order to ensure that the drill accessory 1000 is correctly mounted on the drill 100, initially the rotating holder mechanism 1200 will be rotated until the cam follower formation 1510 of a tool holder 1400 drops off cam step 1522. The chuck engaging formation 1460 of that tool holder 1400 will then be inserted into either the chuck 110 or the recess 730 of the bit holder 700. The drill accessory will then be securely mounted to the drill 100 with the chuck engaging formation 1460 inserted into the chuck 110 or the recess 730.

[0138] Alternatively, it is envisaged that where a pipe clamp type connecting arrangement is used, the threaded arrangements may be turned until the drill accessory 1000 is securely mounted to the drill 100 in this position.

[0139] The bits that are to be used will then be inserted into the tool holders 1400. The drill 100 can then be operated using the bit that is secured in the bit holder that is secured in the chuck 110 or the bit holder 700.

[0140] In order to change the bit being used, the rotating holder mechanism 1200 needs to be rotated until the cam follower formation 1510 of another of the tool holders 1400 drops off the cam step 1522 of the cam formation 1520.

[0141] In order to manually rotate the rotating holder mechanism 1200, the tool holder 1400 will preferably be required to be manually moved to its rotatable position against the action of the spring 1420, until the tool holder 1400 is clear of the chuck 110 and the rotating holder mechanism 1200 is able to be rotated. This movement is shown as arrow A in figure 3.

[0142] The rotating holder mechanism 1200 is then rotated in the direction allowed by the ratchet and pawl arrangement 1600. As the rotating holder mechanism 1200 is rotated, the cam follower will follow the cam formation 1510. The cam follower following the cam formation 1510 will cause the bit holder 1410 to move distally as the rotating holder mechanism 1200 rotates relative to the body 1110. This movement is shown by arrow B in figure 2, with the original position of the tool holder 1400 shown in solid lines and the raised position of the tool holder 1400 shown in broken lines. The cam follower formation 1510 follows the cam formation 1520 against the biasing action of the spring 1420. When the rotating holder mechanism 1200 has moved the tool holder 1400 to the first position in which the tool holder 1400 is in alignment with the chuck 110, the cam follower formation 1510 will be in alignment with cam step 1522 in the cam formation 1520. When the cam follower formation 1510 moves over the cam step 1522, the tool holder 1400 will move in the direction shown as arrow C in figure 4, moving into its inserted position in the chuck 110, or alternatively into the recess 730 of the bit holder 700.

[0143] If a bit holder is not being used, then the chuck 110 of the drill 100 will then need to be tightened up to engage the chuck engaging formation 1460 of the tool holder 1400.

[0144] Use of the drill accessory 1000 and drill assembly 500 will now be described with reference to figures 11 - 24. Initially the clamp 1140 will be used to clamp thedrill accessory 1000 to the drill 100. Preferably the clamp 1140 will be clamped around the handle 120 of the drill 100. This will align the chuck engaging member 1700 with the chuck 110 of the drill 100. The stem 1710 of the chuck engaging member 1700 will then be inserted into the drill chuck, and the drill chuck will be tightened. As explained previously, the body 1110 may be held in its engaging position or its disengaged position by the flexing connector member 1810. Preferably, the body 1110 will be held in its engaging position as this will facilitate the insertion of the chuck engaging member 1700 into the drill chuck 110.

[0145] The rotating holder mechanism 1200 will then be moved into its first position in which at least one of the tool holders 1400 is in alignment with the chuck. The chuck engaging member 1700 will then be biased to move towards its engaging position in which the protrusion 1480 of the tool holder 1400 is received within the recess 1720 of the chuck engaging member to thereby couple the drill chuck to the tool holder.

[0146] Suitable tools 50 may then be inserted into each of the tool holders 1400, preferably using the connecting mechanism 1490 secure the tool 50 in place. Initially the annular member 1492 will be moved against the action of its bias to its open position, allowing a tool 50 to be inserted into recess 1442 in the shaft 1440. The annular member 1492 will then be allowed to move under the action of the spring bias to its latching position, thereby locking the tool 50 in place.

[0147] The tool 50 will then be usable by operation of the drill 100, as the body 1110 will be in its engaging position, corresponding with the chuck engaging member 1700 being in its engaging position. It is envisaged that the preferably hexagonal cross-section protrusion 1480 may not initially be properly aligned with the complementarily shaped recess 1720. However, as the drill is operated and the chuck rotates, the protrusion 1480 and the recess 1720 will become aligned and the protrusion 1480 will then locate itself into the recess 1720.

[0148] Rotation of the chuck 110 will cause rotation of the chuck engaging member 1700, and in turn rotation of the tool holders 1400 within the mounting arrangement 1210 of the rotating holder mechanism 1200. The tool 50 can be operated in this condition.

[0149] In order to swap tools, the body 1110 will be moved to its disengaged position by pushing the body against the bias of the flexing connector member 1810 of the moving mechanism 1800, corresponding to the movement of the chuck engagingmember 1700 moving to its disengaged position relative to the engaged tool holder 1400. Once the tool holder 1400 has been disengaged from the chuck engaging member 1700, the rotating holder mechanism 1200 can be rotated about axle 1900 until the other of the tool holders 1400 is in alignment with the drill chuck 110. The body 1110 can then be released so that the advising action of the flexing connector member 1810 will cause the chuck engaging member 1700 to engage with the stem protrusion 1480 of the aligned tool holder 1400. Again, as the drill is operated and the chuck rotates, the protrusion 1480 and the recess 1720 will become aligned and the protrusion 1480 will then locate itself into the recess 1720.

[0150] In this manner, different tools 50 can be easily and conveniently switched for different jobs without the time-consuming requirement of unlocking the drill chuck, locating the new tool in the drill chuck, and re-locking in the drill chuck.

[0151] It is further envisaged that where a moving mechanism 1800 such as a lever or similar mechanism is used, this may allow for disengagement of the aligned tool holder 1400 from the chuck engaging member 1700 using one-handed operation, preferably by the same hand that is using the drill.

[0152] It is further envisaged that the drill accessory 1000 will allow for convenience in changing tools while still allowing for trades people to use their preferred makes and models of drills.Interpretation

[0153] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. For the purposes of the present invention, additional terms are defined below. Furthermore, all definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms unless there is doubt as to the meaning of a particular term, in which case the common dictionary definition and / or common usage of the term will prevail.

[0154] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular articles “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise and thus are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e. to “at least one”) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, the phrase “an element” refers to one element or more than one element.

[0155] The term “about” is used herein to refer to quantities that vary by as much as 30%, preferably by as much as 20%, and more preferably by as much as 10% to a reference quantity. The use of the word ‘about’ to qualify a number is merely an express indication that the number is not to be construed as a precise value.

[0156] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the words “comprise”, “comprises” and “comprising” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated step or element or group of steps or elements but not the exclusion of any other step or element or group of steps or elements.

[0157] The term “real-time” for example “displaying real-time data,” refers to the display of the data without intentional delay, given the processing limitations of the system and the time required to accurately measure the data.

[0158] As used herein, the term “exemplary” is used in the sense of providing examples, as opposed to indicating quality. That is, an “exemplary embodiment” is an embodiment provided as an example, as opposed to necessarily being an embodiment of exemplary quality for example serving as a desirable model or representing the best of its kind.

[0159] The phrase “and / or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and / or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only(optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

[0160] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and / or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and / or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e. , the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of’ or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of’ will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0161] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and / or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.Embodiments:

[0162] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic describedin connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0163] Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[0164] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.Specific Details

[0165] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

[0166] It will be appreciated that the methods / apparatus / devices / systems described / illustrated above at least substantially provide a drill accessory and / or drill assembly.

[0167] The drill accessory and / or drill assembly described herein, and / or shown in the drawings, are presented by way of example only and are not limiting as to the scope of the invention. Unless otherwise specifically stated, individual aspects and components of the drill accessory and / or drill assembly may be modified, or may have been substituted therefore known equivalents, or as yet unknown substitutes such as may be developed in the future or such as may be found to be acceptable substitutes in the future. The drill accessory and / or drill assembly may also be modified for a variety of applications while remaining within the scope and spirit of the claimed invention, since the range of potential applications is great, and since it is intended that the present invention be adaptable to many such variations.Terminology

[0168] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.Different Instances of Objects

[0169] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.Combinations of features in embodiments

[0170] Different features are described in different embodiments in this specification, however it is envisaged that any features shown in any embodiment described may be used with any other features in any other embodiment in any combination, unless this is not logically possible.Comprising and Including

[0171] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[0172] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements / features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.Scope of invention

[0173] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[0174] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.Chronological order

[0175] For the purpose of this specification, where method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps are to be carried out in chronological order in that sequence, unless there is no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence.Markush groups

[0176] In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognise that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.Industrial Applicability

[0177] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the trade and / or tool industries.

Claims

1. Claims1. A drill accessory for securing to a power drill including a drill chuck to facilitate convenient interchanging of a plurality of bits, the drill accessory including: a. a connecting arrangement adapted for connecting the drill accessory to a drill; b. a plurality of tool holders, each tool holder being configured for securely holding a tool; and c. a rotating holder mechanism configured for mounting the plurality of tool holders to rotate between at least two positions.

2. The drill accessory of claim 1 , further including a moving mechanism configured for facilitating coupling and decoupling of the tool holders to one or more selected from the drill chuck and a chuck engaging member in use.

3. The drill accessory of either of claims 1 or 2 , wherein in one of the positions of the rotating holder mechanism one of the plurality of tool holders is receivable in a chuck of the drill.

4. The drill accessory of any one of claims 13, wherein the rotating holder mechanism includes a mounting arrangement configured for mounting the plurality of tool holders, and the mounting arrangement is configured for mounting the plurality of tool holders to be movable between a. a first position in which at least one of the plurality of tool holders is in alignment with the drill chuck and use; and b. a second position and it which none of the plurality of tool holders is in alignment with the drill chuck in use.

5. The drill accessory of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the mounting arrangement is configured for mounting the plurality of tool holders to be movable relative to the drill chuck in use between a. an inserted position in which the tool holders are rotatably coupled with the chuck of the power drill or an extension thereof; and b. a rotatable position in which the rotating holder mechanism is rotatable between the at least two positions.

6. The drill accessory of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the connecting arrangement includes a body on which the rotating holder mechanism is mounted.

7. The drill accessory of claim 6, wherein the body is configured for mounting to the drill in use.

8. The drill accessory of any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the connecting arrangement includes a camming arrangement configured for moving the tool holders between their inserted position and their rotatable position as the rotating holder mechanism rotates relative to the connecting arrangement.

9. The drill accessory of any one of claim 6 to 8, wherein the drill accessory includes a ratchet and pawl arrangement configured for allowing rotational movement of the rotating holder mechanism on the body in one direction.

10. The drill accessory as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the drill accessory includes a chuck engaging member configured for engaging with the chuck of a drill.

11. The drill accessory as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the moving mechanism is configured for allowing movement of the body relative to one or more selected from the track and the chuck engaging member between a plurality of positions.

12. The drill accessory as claimed in claim 11 , wherein the moving mechanism is configured for allowing movement of the body relative to one or more selected from the chuck and the chuck engaging member between at least an engaging position in which tool holder is rotatably coupled to the drill chuck, and a disengaged position in which the tool holder is rotatably disengaged from the drill chuck.

13. The drill accessory as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein the moving mechanism includes one or more selected from: a. a resiliently flexible connector member; b. a track; c. a lever; d. a cam; and e. a piston and cylinder arrangement.

14. The drill accessory as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 13, wherein the moving mechanism is biased to either of the engaging position or the disengaged position.

15. The drill accessory as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the tool holders include a connecting mechanism for securely connecting a tool.

16. The drill accessory as claimed in claim 15, wherein the connecting mechanism includes a latching mechanism configured for preventing the withdrawal of the tool from the recess in the toolholder.

17. A drill assembly, the drill assembly including: a. a drill including a drill chuck; and b. a drill accessory as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16.END

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