Sleeve retainer for drilling insert

Abstract

A drilling insert includes a body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The body also has a cutting head at the second end, a shank positioned at the first end, a shaft extending between the shank and the cutting head, and a groove between the shank and the cutting head. The shank is configured to be received by a tool. The drilling insert further includes a sleeve surrounding the shaft and a sleeve retainer engaging the groove. The sleeve has a flute, and the sleeve retainer is configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve on the shaft.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001SLEEVE RETAINER FOR DRILLING INSERTCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 782,652, filed April 3, 2025, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 726,010, filed November 27, 2024, the entire contents of all of which are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to drill bits, such as drilling inserts. In particular, the present invention relates to a sleeve retainer for maintaining a sleeve on a drilling insert.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Drilling inserts such as tunnel bits, may be used in a variety of applications and industries to drill deep holes in concrete, concrete with rebar, brick, block, and other similar materials.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] In one aspect, the present invention provides a drilling insert including a body, a sleeve, and a sleeve retainer. The body has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The body also includes a cutting head at the second end, a shank positioned at the first end, a shaft extending between the shank and the cutting head, and a groove between the shank and the cutting head. The shank is configured to be received by a tool. The sleeve surrounds the shaft and includes a flute. The sleeve retainer engages the groove and is configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve on the shaft.

[0005] In another aspect, the present invention provides a drilling insert including a body, a sleeve, and a sleeve retainer. The body defines a central longitudinal axis and has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The body also includes a cutting head at the second end, a shank positioned at the first end, a shaft extending between the shank and the cutting head, and a stepped portion on the shaft between the shank and the cutting head. The shank is configured to1MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 be received by a tool. The sleeve surrounds the shaft and includes a flute. The sleeve retainer engages the stepped portion and is configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve on the shaft.

[0006] In another aspect, the present invention provides a drilling insert including a body and a sleeve. The body defines a central longitudinal axis and has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The body also includes a cutting head at the second end, a shank positioned at the first end, and a shaft extending between the shank and the cutting head. The cutting head includes a plurality of threads. The shank is configured to be received by a tool. The sleeve surrounds the shaft and includes a flute. The sleeve is threaded onto the plurality of threads formed in the cutting head.

[0007] Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. l is a perspective view of a drilling insert and a sleeve in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the drilling insert and the sleeve taken along line 2- 2 in FIG. 1.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a side view of the drilling insert of FIG. 1.

[0011] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a sleeve retainer positioned on the drilling insert ofFIG. 1.

[0012] FIG. 4B is a schematic, cross-sectional view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 4A positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.

[0013] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a sleeve retainer positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 5B is a schematic, cross-sectional view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 5 A positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.2MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001

[0015] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of another embodiment of a flange for use with the sleeve retainer of FIG. 5 A.

[0016] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a sleeve retainer positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1, illustrating the sleeve retainer in a locked position.

[0017] FIG. 6B is another perspective view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 6A, illustrating the sleeve retainer in an unlocked position.

[0018] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a sleeve retainer positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.

[0019] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 7A with one clamp member removed.

[0020] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a sleeve retainer positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.

[0021] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 8A positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.

[0022] FIG 9A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a sleeve retainer.

[0023] FIG 9B is a side view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 9A in a locked position.

[0024] FIG 9C is a side view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 9A in an unlocked position.

[0025] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 9A positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1 with the sleeve retainer in the locked position.

[0026] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 9 A positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1 with the sleeve retainer in the unlocked position.

[0027] FIG. 12A is a front view of another embodiment of a sleeve retainer.

[0028] FIG. 12B is a schematic, cross-sectional view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 12A positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.3MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001

[0029] FIG. 13 A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a sleeve retainer positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.

[0030] FIG. 13B is a schematic, cross-sectional view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 13A positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.

[0031] FIG. 14A is a schematic, cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a drilling insert.

[0032] FIG. 14B is a perspective view of a stepped portion of the drilling insert of FIG. 14A.

[0033] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a partially assembled sleeve retainer on the drilling insert of FIG. 14A.

[0034] FIG. 15B is a side view of the fully assembled sleeve retainer of FIG. 15A on the drilling insert of FIG. 14 A.

[0035] FIG. 15C is a schematic, cross-sectional view of a retainer cover of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 15 A.

[0036] FIG. 16 is a side view of a stepped portion of another embodiment of a drilling insert.

[0037] FIG. 17 is a side, schematic view of a cutting head of another embodiment of a drilling insert.

[0038] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a sleeve retainer positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.

[0039] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the drilling insert and the sleeve of FIG. 1.

[0040] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a collar of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 18 positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.

[0041] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of an O-ring of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 18 positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.4MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001

[0042] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 18 partially assembled on the drilling insert of FIG. 1.

[0043] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a sleeve retainer positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1, illustrating the sleeve retainer in a locked position.

[0044] FIG. 24A is a cross-sectional view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 23 positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1 with the sleeve retainer in the locked position.

[0045] FIG. 24B is a cross-sectional view of the sleeve retainer of FIG. 23 positioned on the drilling insert of FIG. 1 with the sleeve retainer in an unlocked position.

[0046] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. As used herein, terms such as “approximately,” “substantially,” “about,” and the like are meant to encompass values within a rounding value and / or manufacturing tolerance of the value stated.

[0048] FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a drilling insert 10 and a sleeve 14 mounted on the drilling insert 10. The drilling insert 10 may also be referred to as a drill bit or a tunnel bit. Together, the drilling insert 10 and the sleeve 14 may be referred to as a drilling insert assembly, a drill bit assembly, or a tunnel bit assembly. The drilling insert 10 includes a body 18 and a cutting insert5MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W00122. The drilling insert 10 is configured for drilling relatively deep holes in a workpiece, such as concrete, concrete with rebar, brick, block, and other similar materials.

[0049] The body 18 has a first end 18 A, a second end 18B opposite the first end 18 A, and a length LI measured between the first end 18A and the second end 18B. The length LI may also be referred to as a total length or an overall length of the drilling insert 10. In some embodiments, the length LI may range between about 12 inches and about 24 inches. In other embodiments, the drilling insert 10 may be longer or shorter. The body 18 is configured to rotate about a central longitudinal axis Al that extends through the first end 18A and the second end 18B. The length LI is measured parallel to the central longitudinal axis AL The body 18 includes a cutting head 26 positioned at the first end 18A, a shank 30 positioned at the second end 18B, a shaft 34 extending between the cutting head 26 and the shank 30, and a groove 36 between the shank 30 and the shaft 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the cutting head 26, the shank 30, and the shaft 34 are integrally formed as a single piece. In other embodiments, the cutting head 26, the shank 30, and / or the shaft 34 may be separate pieces that are secured (e.g., welded) together.

[0050] The cutting head 26 is configured to receive the cutting insert 22 and engage a workpiece for performing a cutting operation. The cutting head 26 has a first maximum outer diameter DI which is measured perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis AL In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter of the cutting head 26 continuously increases from the shaft 34 to the first maximum outer diameter DI . In other embodiments, the diameter of the cutting head 26 may abruptly increase (e.g., via one or more steps) or the diameter of the cutting head 26 may increase in a non-continuous manner. Additionally, with the cutting insert 22 coupled to the cutting head 26, the cutting insert 22 and the cutting head 26 have a combined length L4. The combined length L4 is measured parallel to the central longitudinal axis AL The combined length L4 is defined from the portion of the cutting head 26 that is adjacent, or touching, the shaft 34 to a tip of the cutting insert 22. In some embodiments, the combined length L4 of the cutting insert 22 and the cutting head 26 may be less than a quarter (i.e., 25%) of the total length LI of the drilling insert 10. In other embodiments, the combined length L4 of the cutting insert 22 and the cutting head 26 may be less than a fifth (i.e., 20%) of the total length LI of the6MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 drilling insert 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the combined length L4 of the cutting insert 22 and the cutting head 26 is less than 10% of the total length LI of the drilling insert 10.

[0051] The shank 30 is configured to be inserted in and engaged by any number of different tools, adapters, or components to receive torque from the tool, adapter, or component to rotate the bit. For example, the drilling insert 10 may be utilized with a power tool, such as a driver or hammer drill including a socket. The shank 30 is the portion of the body 18 that is inserted into and supported in the power tool. In the illustrated embodiment, the shank 30 is configured as an SDS-style shank, such as an SDS shank, and SDS Plus shank, or an SDS Max shank, and includes slots 30A and detent recesses 30B for receive coupling features from a power tool. For example, a quick-release structure, such as a ball-detent mechanism, may be employed to axially secure the drilling insert 10 to the driver. In other embodiments, the shank 30 may be formed as a hex shank that is configured to engage a hex-shaped socket in a power tool. In still other embodiments, the shank 30 may have other configurations suitable for other styles of chucks or adapters.

[0052] The shank 30 has a shank length L2 and a second maximum outer diameter D2. The shank length L2 is measured parallel to the central longitudinal axis Al. The second maximum outer diameter D2 is measured perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis Al . In the illustrated embodiment, the shank length L2 is no more than a quarter (i.e., 25%) of the total length LI of the drilling insert 10. In some embodiments, the shank length L2 may be no more than a fifth (i.e., 20%) of the total length LI of the drilling insert 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the second maximum outer diameter D2 is smaller than the first maximum outer diameter DI. For example, the first maximum outer diameter DI of the cutting head 26 is at least two times greater than the second maximum outer diameter D2 of the shank 30. In some embodiments, the first maximum outer diameter DI may be between two times greater and five times greater than the second maximum outer diameter D2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first maximum outer diameter DI may be about three times greater than the second maximum outer diameter D2.

[0053] The shaft 34 extends from the shank 30 to the cutting head 26. As such, the shaft 34 may be understood to be a portion of the body 18 that extends between the portion of the body7MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W00118 that is inserted into and supported in the power tool, and where the body 18 begins to increase in diameter for the cutting head 26. The shaft 34 has a shaft length L3 and a third maximum outer diameter D3. The shaft length L3 is measured parallel to the central longitudinal axis Al. The third maximum outer diameter D3 is measured perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis Al. In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft length L3 may be more than half (i.e., 50%) of the total length LI of the drilling insert 10. As such, the shaft 34 extends, or spans, a majority of the total length LI of the body 18 of the drilling insert 10. In some embodiments, the shaft length L3 may be more than two-thirds (i.e., 66%) of the total length LI of the drilling insert 10. In further embodiments, the shaft length L3 may be more than three-quarters (i.e., 75%) of the total length LI of the drilling insert 10. In some embodiments, the shaft length L3 may be between 50% and 90% of the total length LI of the drilling insert 10.

[0054] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the groove 36 extends around the entire circumference of the body 18. The illustrated groove 36 is formed between the shank 30 and the shaft 34. In particular, the groove 36 is recessed relative to outer surfaces of the shank 30 and the shaft 34. In some embodiments, the groove 36 may be formed on a stepped portion (e.g., larger diameter portion) or other structure between the shank 30 and the shaft 34. In other embodiments, the groove 36 may be formed in a portion of the shank 30 or the shaft 34. In further embodiments, the groove 36 may only partially extend along the circumference of the body 18 or may be one or more machined flat surface on the body 18. The groove 36 gives the body 18 a diameter D4 less than the diameters DI, D2, and D3 of the cutting head 26, the shank 30, and the shaft 34, respectively. As discussed in greater detail below, the groove 36 is configured to receive and axially retain a sleeve retainer 100. In embodiments where the groove 36 is formed in a stepped portion, the diameter D4 may not be less than the diameter D2 of the shank 30 and / or the diameter D3 of the shaft 34, depending on the diameter of the stepped portion and depth of the groove 36. In other embodiments, the body 18 may include a stepped portion without a groove. In such embodiments, an edge of the stepped portion would act as a stop or ledge to axially retain the sleeve retainer 100.

[0055] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the sleeve 14 includes a sleeve body 58 and a plurality of sleeve lands 62 wrapped helically around the sleeve body 58. The sleeve 14 may be formed of a different material than the drilling insert 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the8MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 sleeve 14 is formed of a plastic material. In other embodiments, the sleeve 14 may be formed of a rubber or another type of elastic material. In further embodiment, the sleeve 14 may be formed of a rigid material (e.g., aluminum, steel, or stainless steel). The sleeve body 58 is configured to be mounted onto the body 18 of the drilling insert 10 such that the sleeve 14 radially surrounds the body 18 of the drilling insert 10. When mounted to the drilling insert 10, the sleeve 14 extends from the sleeve retainer 100 to the cutting head 26. As such, the sleeve 14 generally spans over the shaft length L2. The plurality of sleeve lands 62 defines a plurality of sleeve flutes 66. In other embodiments, the sleeve body 58 may only include a single land 62 and / or a single flute 66. The sleeve flutes 66 help transfer material away from the cutting head 26 during a cutting operation. At a forward end of the sleeve 14 that is adjacent to the cutting head 26, a forward portion of each of the sleeve lands 62 extends parallel to the central longitudinal axis Al of the drilling insert 10. Specifically, each of the lands 62 extends through a corresponding one of the flutes 42 defined by the lands 38 of the cutting head 26. The lands 62 help align the sleeve 14 on the body 18 and inhibit the sleeve 14 from rotating relative to the body 18. The sleeve 14, however, may shift or slide axially a small amount along the body 18 between the sleeve retainer 100 and the cutting head 26.

[0056] By providing the sleeve 14 separately from the drilling insert 10, the drilling insert 10 is able to transfer energy between the first end 18A and the second end 18B of the body 18 more efficiently. For example, when the drilling insert 10 is connected to a hammer drill, the hammer drill may impact the second end 18B of the body 18. The impacts travel or propagate through the body 18 to the first end 18A and, thereby, to a workpiece. Since the sleeve 14 is not fixed to the drilling insert, the impacts do not need to also travel through the mass of the sleeve 14. As such, as energy is transferred between the first end 18A and the second end 18B of the body 18, the energy does not travel through the plurality of sleeve lands 62 and the plurality of sleeve flutes 66. In addition, since the impacts travel along the drilling insert 10 as waves, and the body 18 is designed to minimize the number of changes in cross-sectional areas, the impacts do not become attenuated or distorted as they travel down the body. Therefore, the energy travels a more direct route, and thus a more efficient route, between the first end 18A and the second end 18B. Additionally, the plurality of sleeve lands 62 and the plurality of sleeve flutes 66 have an increased lifespan over typical drilling inserts. Specifically, the removal of energy transfer from the power tool through the plurality of sleeve lands 62 and the plurality of sleeve flutes 669MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 reduces the stress and risk of fracture for the plurality of sleeve lands 62 and the plurality of sleeve flutes 66.

[0057] FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate a sleeve retainer 100 for use with a drilling insert, such as the drilling insert 10 described above. The sleeve retainer 100 is configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the body 18 of the drilling insert 10. The sleeve retainer 100 is positioned between an end of the sleeve 14 and the second end 18B of the body 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve retainer 100 is positioned partially in or engages the groove 36 (or stepped portion) of the drilling insert 10. The illustrated sleeve retainer 100 includes an O-ring 104 formed of an elastomeric material. At rest, the O-ring 104 has an inner diameter less than diameter D2 of the shank 30 and the diameter D4 of the groove 36.

[0058] To install the sleeve retainer 100, the O-ring 104 is stretched to expand the inner diameter to be greater than D2 of the shank 30. When stretched, the O-ring 104 is slid over the shank 30 towards the groove 36. Once the O-ring 104 reaches the groove 36, the O-ring 104 is released and subsequently contracts to reduce the inner diameter to a size between the diameter D4 of the groove 36 and the diameter D2 of the shank 30. When positioned in the groove 36, the O-ring 104 is adjacent to or abuts the sleeve 14 and has an outer diameter greater than the diameter D2 of the shank 30 and the diameter D3 of the shaft 34, which limits axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the central longitudinal axis Al . During testing, the sleeve retainer 100 was able to retain the sleeve 14 on the shaft 34 when the drilling insert 10 was performing a cutting operation on concrete and when the drilling insert 10 experiences axial impacts from a hammer drill.

[0059] FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate another embodiment of a sleeve retainer 200 for use with a drilling insert, such as the drilling insert 10 described above. The sleeve retainer 200 is also configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the body 18 of the drilling insert 10. The sleeve retainer 200 is positioned between an end of the sleeve 14 and the second end 18B of the body 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve retainer 200 is positioned partially in or engages the groove 36 (or stepped portion) of the drilling insert 10. The illustrated sleeve retainer 200 includes a flange 204 and an O-ring 208. In the illustrated embodiment, the flange 204 has a circular profile with a central aperture 212 and an inner groove (not shown) formed in10MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 the central aperture 212. Additionally, the flange 204 is formed of a rigid material (e g., HDPE, Delrin, ABS, aluminum, or steel). The O-ring 208 is formed of an elastomeric material (e.g., rubber, etc.). The O-ring 208 is positioned in the inner groove of the flange 204 and extends partially into the central aperture 212. Additionally, the O-ring 208 has an inner diameter less than D2 of the shank 30 and the D4 of the groove 36.

[0060] To install the sleeve retainer 200, the O-ring 208 is first inserted into the O-ring groove of the flange 204. Then, the shank 30 of the drilling insert 10 is inserted into the inner diameter of the O-ring 208. When inserted, the O-ring 208 is compressed against the inner surface of the O-ring groove to expand the inner diameter to at least the diameter D2 of the shank 30. When expanded, the O-ring 208 and the flange 204 may axially move along the shank 30, until the O-ring 208 is received in the groove 36. When received in the groove 36, the O-ring 208 decompresses until the inner diameter is less than the diameter D2 of the shank 30 and greater than the diameter D4 of the groove 36. Now, the flange 204 and the O-ring 208 are axially retained in the groove 36 and are adjacent to or abut an end of the sleeve 14. The outer diameter of the flange 204 is greater than the diameter D2 of the shank 30 and the diameter D3 of the shaft 34, which limits axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the central longitudinal axis Al. During testing, the sleeve retainer 200 was able to retain the sleeve 14 on the shaft 34 when the drilling insert 10 was performing a cutting operation on concrete and rebar.

[0061] FIG. 5C illustrates an alternate embodiment of a flange 204’ for use with the sleeve retainer 200. The illustrated flange 204’ includes a plurality of wings 216. In the illustrated embodiment, the flange 204' includes two wings 216 extending from an outer edge or circumference of the flange 204’. One of the wings 216 is circumferentially offset from the other one of the wings 216 by 180 degrees. In other embodiments, the flange 204' may include more than two wings offset by less than 180 degrees, or the flange 204’ may only include a single wing 216. In use, the wings 216 help a user to move the flange 204' along the shank 30.

[0062] FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate another embodiment of the sleeve retainer 300 for use with a drilling insert, such as the drilling insert 10 described above. The sleeve retainer 300 is also configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the body 18 of the drilling insert 10. The sleeve retainer 300 is positioned between an end of the sleeve 14 and the second end 18B of11MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 the body 18. Tn the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve retainer 300 is positioned partially in or engages the groove 36 (or stepped portion) of the body 18. The illustrated sleeve retainer 300 includes a receiving member 304, a plurality of detents 308 (e.g., ball bearings), a spring (not shown), and an outer collar 312. The receiving member 304 includes a central aperture 316 sized to receive the shank 30 and a plurality of detent openings 320. The plurality of detents 308 are positioned in the plurality of detent openings 320 and are moveable radially in and out of the central aperture 316. Although the illustrated embodiment includes a plurality of detents 308 and detent openings 320, in other embodiments, the sleeve retainer 300 may only include one detent 308 and detent opening 320. The spring surrounds the receiving member 304 and is configured to bias the outer collar 312. The outer collar 312 surrounds the receiving member 304 and is moveable relative to the receiving member 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer collar 312 is axially moveable relative to the receiving member 304. In other embodiments, the collar 312 may be rotatable or moveable in other manners relative to the receiving member 304. The outer collar 312 may include a textured outer surface (e.g., knurling, laser-etching, or rubber over-molding) to provide additional grip for a user.

[0063] The sleeve retainer 300 is moveable between a locked position (FIG. 6A) and an unlocked position (FIG. 6B). In the locked position, the ends of the receiving member 304 and the outer collar 312 are aligned with one another and the detents 308 extend into the central aperture 316 of the receiving member 304. In the unlocked position, the ends of the receiving member 304 and the outer collar 312 are axially offset from one another. When the outer collar 312 is offset from the receiving member 304, additional space is present in line with the outer collar 312. The additional space allows the detents 308 to move radially outward, until the detents 308 are no longer extend into the central aperture 316. To transition between the locked position and the unlocked position, the outer collar 312 is moved against a biasing force of the spring relative to the receiving member 304. To transition between the unlocked and locked positions, the outer collar 312 is released and the biasing force of the spring returns the outer collar 312 to be aligned with the receiving member 304.

[0064] In use, the user inserts the shank 30 into the central aperture 316 of the receiving member 304. In one scenario, the user moves the outer collar 312 to transition the sleeve retainer 300 into the unlocked position, before inserting the shank 30 into the central aperture12MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001316. When in the unlocked position, the detents 308 do not extend into (or are movable out of) the central aperture 316 to reduce the effective diameter of the central aperture 316 and allow the shank 30 to freely move through the receiving member 304. In another scenario, the sleeve retainer 300 is in the locked position when the shank 30 is inserted into the central aperture 316. When the second end 18B contacts the detents 308 extending into the central aperture 316, the detents 308 move radially outward through the plurality of detent openings 320. The movement of the detents 308 applies a force to displace the outer collar 312 against the biasing force of the spring and transition the sleeve retainer 300 into the unlocked position. Next, the sleeve retainer 300 is moved until the detents 308 are aligned with the groove 36 of the body 18. Now, the user may release the outer collar 312 to transition the sleeve retainer 300 into the locked position. When in the locked position, the detents 308 extend from the plurality of detent openings 320 into the groove 36 and inhibit axial movement of the sleeve retainer 300 along the body 18. Now, the sleeve retainer 300 is adjacent to or abuts the sleeve 14 and has outer diameter larger than the diameter D3 of the shaft 34 and the diameter D3 of the shank 30, which limits axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the central longitudinal axis Al.

[0065] FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate another embodiment of a sleeve retainer 400 for use with a drilling insert, such as the drilling insert 10 described above. The sleeve retainer 400 is also configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve 14. The sleeve retainer 400 is positioned between one end of the sleeve 14 and the second end 18B of the body 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve retainer 200 is positioned partially in or engages the groove 36 (or stepped portion) of the drilling insert 10. The illustrated sleeve retainer 400 includes a bushing 404, a first clamp member 408, and a second clamp member 412. In some embodiments, the sleeve retainer 400 may include more than two clamp members. The bushing 404 includes a bushing sleeve 416, a bushing flange 420 formed at one end of the bushing sleeve 416, and a central aperture 424 extending through the bushing sleeve 416 and the bushing flange 420. The central aperture 424 is sized to receive the shank 30 of the drilling insert 10 and includes a plurality of detent openings 428. Each of the plurality of detent openings 428 is configured to receive a detent 430 (e.g., a ball bearing). Although the illustrated embodiment includes a plurality of detent openings 428 and detents 430, in other embodiments, the sleeve retainer 400 may only include one detent opening 428 and detent 430. The detents 430 are moveable radially in or out of the central aperture 424 through the detent openings 428. The first clamp member13MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001408 and the second clamp member 412 include a bushing recess 432 and a plurality of fastener openings 436. The bushing recess 432 is sized to receive the bushing sleeve 416 and the detents 430 positioned in the plurality of detent openings 428.

[0066] To assemble the sleeve retainer 400, the detents 430 are inserted into the plurality of detent openings 428. Next, the bushing sleeve 416 is positioned in the bushing recess 432 of the first clamp member 408. Then, the second clamp member 412 is positioned on top of the first clamp member 408 to align the bushing recesses 432 and the plurality of fastener openings 436 of both the first clamp member 408 and the second clamp member 412. In another embodiment, the first clamp member 408 may be positioned on top of the second clamp member 412. Now, a fastener 440 (e.g., a bolt) is inserted into each of the plurality of fastener openings 436 and a nut 444 is secured to an exposed threaded end (not shown) of the fastener 440. In other embodiments, the sleeve retainer 400 may include other suitable types of fasteners, such as screws, cotter pins, and the like. Each fastener 440 is not fully tightened to allow for axial displacement of the first clamp member 408 relative to the second clamp member 412 along a length of the fastener 440. The amount of axial displacement of the first clamp member 408 relative the second clamp member 412 is dependent on the degree to which the fastener 440 is tightened.

[0067] In use, the shank 30 is inserted into the central aperture 424 of the bushing 404. As the shank 30 is being inserted, the second end 18B contacts the detents 430 in the central aperture 424 and moves the detents 430 radially outward, which causes the first clamp member 408 and the second clamp member 412 to be axially displaced. In some scenarios, the fasteners 440 are tightened to a degree, where the displacement distance of the first clamp member 408 and the second clamp member 412 is not adequate to move the detents 430 completely out of the central aperture 424. In this case, a user may have to loosen the fasteners 440 to allow greater displacement of the first clamp member 408 and the second clamp member 412. Once the shank 30 is inserted into the central aperture 424, the sleeve retainer 400 is moved to align the detents 430 with the groove 36 of the drilling insert 10. Once aligned, the fasteners 440 are tightened and axial displacement of the first clamp member 408 and second clamp member 412 is limited. When the fasteners 440 are fully tightened, the detents 430 are moved radially inward and into the groove 36. When the detents 430 are in the groove 36, the axial movement of the sleeve14MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 retainer 400 along axis Al is limited, which limits axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the central longitudinal axis Al.

[0068] FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate another embodiment of a drilling insert 10', another embodiment of a sleeve 14', and another embodiment of a sleeve retainer 500. The drilling insert 10' is similar in some respects to the drilling insert 10, with like parts have like reference numerals plus “ One of the differences between the drilling insert 10' over the drilling insert 10 is the inclusion of a set of notches 40' formed in a shaft 34'. The notches 40' are orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis Al and are configured to receive a portion of the sleeve retainer 500. The sleeve 14' is similar in some aspects to the sleeve 14, with like parts having like reference numerals plus One of the differences between the sleeve 14' and the sleeve 14 is the inclusion of a set of protrusions 16'. The protrusions 16' are configured to be received by the sleeve retainer 500, as described in greater detail below.

[0069] The sleeve retainer 500 is configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve 14' and is positioned between one end of the sleeve 14' and the second end 18B' of the drilling insert 10'. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve retainer 500 is positioned in the notches 40' of the drilling insert 10'. Alternatively, the sleeve retainer 500 may be positioned between the sleeve 14’ and a stepped portion on the drilling insert 10’. The sleeve retainer 500 includes a set of plates 504 selectively coupled together. In the illustrated embodiment, each plate 504 includes a bit slot 512, a set of protrusion slots 516, and a set of fastener openings 520. The bit slot 512 extends from an edge of the plate 504 towards a center of the plate 504 and is configured to be inserted into the notches 40' of the drilling insert 10'. The protrusion slots 516 are parallel to the bit slot 512 and are formed on either side of the bit slot 512. The protrusion slots 516 are configured to receive the protrusions 16' of the sleeve 14'. In the illustrated embodiment, each plate 504 includes two fastener openings 520 spaced 180° apart from one another. Each fastener opening 520 is configured to receive a pin 524. Although the illustrated embodiment includes two fastener openings 520 and pins 524, in other embodiments, the sleeve retainer 500 may include only one fastener opening 520 and pin 524 or more than two fastener openings 520 and pins 524. When the pins 524 are inserted into the fastener openings 520 of both plates 504, the plates 504 are not movable relative to one another. In other embodiment, the fastener openings 520 are configured to receive bolts, screws, or detent pins.15MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001

[0070] In use, the sleeve 14' is rotated to orient the protrusions 16' to be parallel with the notches 40' of the drilling insert 10'. Next, one of the plates 504 is slid onto the drilling insert 10’ (e.g., leftward in FIG. 8A) to insert the drilling insert 10' and the protrusions 16' into the bit slot 512 and the set of protrusion slots 516 respectively. Then, the other plate 504 is slid onto the drilling insert 10’ in an opposite direction that the first plate 504 was slid onto the drilling insert 10’ (e.g., rightward in FIG. 8B) to insert the drilling insert 10' and the protrusions 16' into the bit slot 512 and the set of protrusion slots 516. Once both plates 504 are received on the drilling insert 10', the fastener openings 520 of both plates 504 become aligned. Now, the pins 524 may be inserted through the fastener openings 520 of both plates 504 to limit axial movement along the central longitudinal axis Al and axial movement in a direction orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis Al. When the sleeve retainer 500 is secured to the drilling insert 10', the axial movement of the sleeve 14' is limited.

[0071] FIGS. 9A-11 illustrate another embodiment of a sleeve retainer 600 for use with a drilling insert, such as the drilling insert 10 described above. The sleeve retainer 600 is also configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the body 18. The sleeve retainer 600 is positioned between an end of the sleeve 14 and the second end 18B of the body 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve retainer 600 is positioned partially in or engages the groove 36 (or stepped portion) of the drilling insert 10. The illustrated sleeve retainer 600 includes a receiving member 604, a plurality of detents 608 (e.g., ball bearings), and an outer collar 612. The receiving member 604 includes a central aperture 616, a plurality of detent openings 620, a first retaining member recess 624, and a second retaining member recess 628. The central aperture 616 is configured to receive the shank 30 of the drilling insert 10. The detent openings 620 extend into the central aperture 616 and are configured to receive the detents 608. The detents 608 are moveable radially inward or outward in the plurality of detent openings 620 to either extend into the central aperture 616 or be positioned between the receiving member 604 and the outer collar 612. Although the illustrated embodiment includes a plurality of detents 608 and detent openings 620, in other embodiments, the sleeve retainer 600 may only include one detent 608 and detent opening 620. The first retaining member recess 624 is configured to receive a first retaining member 632 (e.g., a retaining ring, a C-clip, or an O-ring), and the second retaining member recess 628 is configured to receive a second retaining member 634 (e.g., a retaining ring, a C-clip, or an O-ring). The first and second retaining members 632, 63416MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 can be the same type of retaining member or can be different types of retaining members. Additionally, the first and second retaining member recesses 624, 628 are formed on the receiving member 604. In the illustrated embodiment, the first retaining member recess 624 is axially spaced apart from the second retaining member recess 628 on the receiving member 604. In some embodiments, the sleeve retainer 600 may only include one retaining member that is moved between the first retaining member recess 624 and the second retaining member recess 628. In other embodiments, the sleeve retainer 600 may only include one retaining member recess and retaining member. The outer collar 612 surrounds the receiving member 604 and is moveable relative to the receiving member 604. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer collar 612 is moveable axially relative to the receiving member 604 along the central longitudinal axis Al . In other embodiments, the outer collar 612 may be rotatable or movable in other manners relative to the receiving member 604. The outer collar 612 includes a first detent engaging portion 636 and a second detent engaging portion 640, which are both formed on an inner wall of the outer collar 612. The first detent engaging portion 636, or first detent engaging surface, has a diameter D5. The second detent engaging portion 640, or second detent engaging surface, has a diameter D6, which is larger than the diameter D5. In a first position of the outer collar 612 relative to the receiving member 604, the first detent engaging portion 636 is aligned with the detent openings 620, and the detents 608 are urged radially inward into the central aperture 616. In a second position of the outer collar 612 relative to the receiving member 604, the second detent engaging portion 640 is aligned with the detent openings 620, and the detents 608 are radially moveable both inward and outward.

[0072] The sleeve retainer 600 is moveable between a locked position (FIGS. 9B and 10) and an unlocked position (FIG. 9C and 11). In the locked position, an end of the outer collar 612 is adjacent to or abuts the first retaining member 632 positioned in the first retaining member recess 624. In this position, the first detent engaging portion 636 of the outer collar 612 is aligned with the detent openings 620, which urges the detents 608 radially inward and into engagement with the drilling insert 10. In the unlocked position, the end of the outer collar 612 is adjacent to or abuts the second retaining member 634 in the second retaining member recess 628. In this position, the second detent engaging portion 640 of the outer collar 612 is aligned with the detent openings 620, and the detents 608 are moveable radially outward. To transition between the locked position and the unlocked position, the first retaining member 632 in the first17MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 retaining member recess 624 is removed and the outer collar 612 is moved (e.g., axially along the central longitudinal axis Al towards the second retaining member 634). In situations where only one retaining member is used, the retaining member may be moved from the first retaining member recess 624 to the second retaining member recess 628. When the outer collar 612 is moved, the detents 608 go from being aligned with the first detent engaging portion 636 to being aligned with the second detent engaging portion 640. To transition between the unlocked position and the locked position, the outer collar 612 is moved away the second retaining member recess 628, until the end of the outer collar 612 is beyond the first retaining member recess 624. Once the outer collar 612 is beyond the first retaining member recess 624, the first retaining member 632 is installed in the first retaining member recess 624 to limit the axial movement of the outer collar 612. In situations where only one retaining member is used, the retaining member may be moved from the second retaining member recess 628 to the first retaining member recess 624. Additionally, the detents 608 are directed from the second detent engaging portion 640 towards the first detent engaging portion 636.

[0073] In use, the sleeve retainer 600 is initially transitioned into the unlocked state by removing the first retaining member 632 in the first retaining member recess 624 and moving the outer collar 612 relative to the receiving member 604. Next, the shank 30 of the drilling insert 10 is inserted into the central aperture 616 of the receiving member 604. When the second end 18B of the drilling insert 10 contacts the detents 608 extending into the central aperture 616, the detents 608 are moved radially out of the central aperture 616 and towards the walls of the second detent engaging portion 640. Then, the sleeve retainer 600 is moved along the shank 30, until the groove 36 is aligned with the detents 308. Now, the sleeve retainer 600 is transitioned from the unlocked position into the locked position. As a result, the detents 308 move radially inward through the detent openings 620 and into the groove 36. When the detents 308 are in the groove 36, the axial movement of the sleeve retainer 600 along the central longitudinal axis Al is limited, which also limits axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the central longitudinal axis Al. During testing, the sleeve retainer 600 was able to retain the sleeve 14 on the shaft 34 when the drilling insert 10 was performing a cutting operation on rebar.

[0074] FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate another embodiment of a sleeve retainer 700 for use with a drilling insert, such as the drilling insert 10 described above. The sleeve retainer 700 is also18MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve 14. The sleeve retainer 700 is positioned between an end of the sleeve 14 and the second end 18B of the body 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve retainer 700 is positioned in the groove 36 of the drilling insert 10. Alternatively, the sleeve retainer 700 may be captured between the sleeve 14 and a stepped portion on the body 18. The illustrated sleeve retainer 700 includes a C-clip 704 formed of an elastically deformable material (e.g., steel, aluminum, plastic, etc.). The C-clip 704 includes a bit slot 708 sized to receive the groove 36 of the drilling insert 10. When a force is applied to deform the C-clip 704, the bit slot 708 changes size accordingly. When the force is no longer applied, the bit slot 708 returns to an original size.

[0075] To install the sleeve retainer 700, a force is applied to the C-clip 704 to increase the size of the bit slot 708 to receive the groove 36. Once the bit slot 708 is larger than the diameter D4 of the groove 36, the drilling insert 10 is slid into the bit slot 708 at the groove 36. Then, the C-clip 704 is released so the bit slot 708 shrinks to fit around the groove 36. When the C-clip 704 surrounds the groove 36, the axial movement of the sleeve retainer 700 along the central longitudinal axis Al is limited, which also limits axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the central longitudinal axis Al.

[0076] FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate another embodiment of a sleeve retainer 800 for use with a drilling insert, such as the drilling insert 10 described above. The sleeve retainer 800 is also configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve 14. The sleeve retainer 800 is positioned between an end of the sleeve 14 and the second end 18B of the body 18. The illustrated sleeve retainer 800 includes a flange 804. The flange 804 may be made of a relatively rigid material (e g., steel, aluminum, etc.). The flange 804 includes a central aperture (not shown) in which the drilling insert 10 is received. The flange 804 may be received in a groove or adjacent a stepped portion of the body 18. Once the flange 804 is received on the drilling insert 10 and positioned adjacent to or abutting the sleeve 14, the flange 804 is secured onto the drilling insert 10 to inhibit axial movement of the flange 804. For example, the flange 804 may be brazed to the drilling insert 10. FIGS. 13B illustrates the flange 804 positioned in the groove 36 of the drilling insert 10. In other embodiments, the flange 804 may be positioned on the shank 30 or the shaft 34. FIGS. 13 A-13B also shows filler material 808 used in the brazing process, which joins the flange 804 and the drilling insert 10. In other embodiments, the flange 804 may be welded or19MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 attached with adhesives. Since the flange 804 is no longer moveable axially once attached to the shank 30, the axial movement of the sleeve 14 on the shaft 34 is limited.

[0077] FIGS. 14A-14B illustrate an alternate embodiment of a drilling insert 1410 able to receive the sleeve 14. The drilling insert 1410 is similar in some aspects to the drilling insert 10, with like parts having like reference numerals plus “1400.” Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily on differences between the drilling insert 1410 and the drilling insert 10. The drilling insert 1410 includes a body 1418 and a cutting insert 22.

[0078] The body 1418 has a first end 1418A, a second end 1418B opposite the first end 1418A, and a length L5 measured between the first end 1418A and the second end 1418B. The body 1418 is also configured to rotate about a central longitudinal axis A2. The body 1418 includes a cutting head 1426 positioned at the first end 1418A, a shank 1430 positioned at the second end 1418B, a shaft 1434 extending between the cutting head 1426 and the shank 1430, and a stepped portion 1432.

[0079] The cutting head 1426 is configured to receive the cutting insert 22 and engage a workpiece for performing a cutting operation. The cutting head 1426 has a first maximum outer diameter D6 which is measured perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis A2. Additionally, with the cutting insert 22 coupled to the cutting head 1426, the cutting insert 22, and the cutting head 1426 have a combined length L6. The combined length L6 is measured parallel to the central longitudinal axis A2. The combined length L6 is defined from the portion of the cutting head 1426 that is adjacent, or touching, the shaft 1434 to a tip of the cutting insert 22.

[0080] The shank 1430 is configured to be inserted in and engaged by any number of different tools, adapters, or components to receive torque from the tool, adapter, or component to rotate the bit. For example, the drilling insert 10 may be utilized with a power tool, such as a driver or hammer drill including a socket. The shank 1430 is the portion of the body 1418 that is inserted into and supported in the power tool. The shank 1430 has a shank length L7 and a second maximum outer diameter D7. The shank length L7 is measured parallel to the central longitudinal axis A2. The second maximum outer diameter D7 is measured perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis A2.20MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001

[0081] The shaft 1434 extends from the shank 1430 to the cutting head 1426. As such, the shaft 1434 may be understood to be a portion of the body 1418 that extends between the portion of the body 1418 that is inserted into and supported in the power tool, and where the body 1418 begins to increase in diameter for the cutting head 1426. The shaft 1434 has a shaft length L8 and a third maximum outer diameter D8. The shaft length L8 is measured parallel to the central longitudinal axis A2. The third maximum outer diameter D8 is measured perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the third maximum outer diameter D8 of the shaft 1434 is equal to the second maximum outer diameter D7.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 14B, the stepped portion 1432 is formed between the shank 1430 and the shaft 1434. In the illustrated embodiment, the stepped portion 1432 is integrally formed on the body 1418. However, in other embodiments, the stepped portion 1432 may be formed separately and coupled to the body 1418 using methods such as brazing, welding, or adhesives. The stepped portion 1432 has a maximum outer diameter D9 that is measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the maximum outer diameter D9 is greater than both the maximum outer diameters D7 and D8 of the shank 1430 and shaft 1434 and is less than the maximum outer diameter D6 of the cutting head 1426.

[0083] With continued reference to FIG. 14B, the stepped portion 1432 includes a set of grooves 1436 extending non-uniform distances from an outer circumferential surface of the stepped portion 1432. The grooves 1436 form two flat surfaces in a plane parallel to the central longitudinal axis A2. In other embodiments, the stepped portion 1432 may include more or less than two grooves 1436 forming an equivalent number of flat surfaces parallel to the central axis A2. In further embodiments, the stepped portion 1432 may include a single groove or multiple grooves 1436 that form one or more circumferential surfaces parallel to the central axis A2. As further shown in FIG. 14B, the two flat surfaces formed by the grooves 1436 are separated by a distance D10. In the illustrated embodiment, the distance D10 is greater than the maximum outer diameters D7 and D8 of the shank 1430 and the shaft 1434. In other embodiments, the distance D10 may be equal to or less than the maximum outer diameters D7 and D8. As discussed in greater detail below, the grooves 1436 are configured to receive and axially retain a sleeve retainer assembly 1500.21MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001

[0084] FIGS. 15A-15C illustrate the sleeve retainer assembly 1500 for use with a drilling insert, such as the drilling insert 1410 described above. The sleeve retainer assembly 1500 is also configured to limit axial movement of a sleeve (such as the sleeve 14) along the body 1418 of the drilling insert 1410. The sleeve retainer assembly 1500 is positioned between an end of the sleeve 14 and the second end 1418B of the body 1418. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve retainer assembly 1500 is positioned partially in or engages the stepped portion 1432 of the body 1418. The illustrated sleeve retainer assembly 1500 includes a retainer body 1504, a plurality of pins 1508, and a retainer cover 1512.

[0085] As shown in FIGS. 15A-15B, the retainer body 1504 at least partially surrounds the stepped portion 1432 and the shank 1430 of the drilling insert 1410. The retainer body 1504 defines a first end 1506A and a second end 1506B opposite to the first end 1506A. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer body 1504 has an outer diameter that varies along the length of the retainer body 1504. More specifically, the outer diameter at the first end 1506A, adjacent the shaft 1434, is larger than an outer diameter at the second end 1506B, adjacent the shank 1430. Additionally, the larger outer diameter at the first end 1506A is greater than the shank 1430 and the shaft 1434 to limit axial movement of the sleeve 14 when installed around the shaft 1434. The retainer body 1504 includes a central aperture 1516, a plurality of pin apertures 1520, a plurality of locking slots 1524, and a plurality of protrusions 1528.

[0086] The central aperture 1516 has a variable diameter along the length of the retainer body 1504. The diameter at the first end 1506A of the retainer body 1504 of the central aperture 1516 is larger than the maximum outer diameter D9 of the stepped portion 1432. The diameter of the central aperture 1516 at the second end 1506B is large enough to accommodate the maximum outer diameter D7 of the shank 1430 with minimal play. Additionally, the central aperture 1516 varies in size if a radially compressive force is applied to the retainer body 1504, as discussed in greater detail below.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 15 A, the plurality of pin apertures 1520 extend through the retainer body 1504 in a direction orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of pin apertures 1520 are substantially rectangularly shaped, and each receives the pin 1508. Additionally, when the retainer body 1504 is fully installed on the body22MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W0011418, the plurality of pin apertures 1520 are aligned with the set of grooves 1436 in the stepped portion 1432. Thus, when the pins 1508 are inserted into the plurality of pin apertures 1520, the pins 1508 are also at least partially inserted into the set of grooves 1436 to limit rotation of the plurality of pins 1508 about the central longitudinal axis A2.

[0088] As shown in FIGS. 15A-15B, the plurality of locking slots 1524 is formed on an outer circumferential surface of the retainer body 1504. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking slots 1524 are substantially T-shaped. In other embodiments, the locking slots 1524 may be substantially L-shaped. In use, the plurality of locking slots 1524 receives a portion of the retainer cover 1512, which prevents axial movement of the retainer cover 1512 along the central longitudinal axis A2.

[0089] With continued reference to FIGS. 15A-15B, the plurality of protrusions 1528 extend from a first end 1506A of the retainer body 1504 towards the shaft 1434. In the illustrated embodiment, two protrusions 1528 are spaced 180 degrees apart from one another. In other embodiments, more or less than two protrusions 1528 may be formed on the front face of the retainer body 1504 and may be radially separated by equal or distinct amounts. In use, the plurality of protrusions 1528 engage the sleeve 14 and limit rotation of the sleeve 14 about the central longitudinal axis A2.

[0090] FIG. 15A illustrates the plurality of pins 1508 positioned within the plurality of pin apertures 1520 of the retainer body 1504. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of pins 1508 each have a rectangular cross-section, which corresponds to the shape of the pin apertures 1520. Additionally, the pins 1508 are sized to fit in the set of grooves 1436 of the stepped portion 1432. In use, the plurality of pins 1508 prevents rotation and axial movement of the retainer body 1504 about and along the central longitudinal axis A2. In other embodiments, the plurality of pins 1508 may be shaped differently to correspond with differently shaped pin apertures 1520 and differently shaped grooves 1436.

[0091] As shown in FIGS. 15B-15C, the retainer cover 1512 at least partially surrounds the retainer body 1504. The retainer cover 1512 applies a radially compressive force to the retainer body 1504 and blocks the plurality of pin apertures 1520 to maintain the plurality of pins 1508 in position. The retainer cover 1512 includes a plurality of key protrusions 1536 configured to be23MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 received in the locking slots 1524. FIG. 15C illustrates two key protrusions 1536 formed on an inner surface of the retainer cover 1512 and are separated by 180 degrees. In other embodiments, the retainer cover 1512 may have more or less than two key protrusions 1536 radially separated by equal or distinct angular distances.

[0092] To install the sleeve retainer assembly 1500 onto the drilling insert 1410, the user begins by inserting the shank 1430 into the central aperture 1516 of the retainer body 1504. The retainer body 1504 is moved axially towards the stepped portion 1432 until the stepped portion 1432 engages the inner surface of the central aperture 1516. Now, the plurality of pins 1508 are inserted into the plurality of pin apertures 1520. Then, the retainer cover 1512 is installed around the retainer body 1504 by aligning the plurality of key protrusions 1536 with the locking slots 1524. Once aligned, the key protrusions 1536 are inserted into the locking slots 1524, and the retainer cover 1512 is moved axially along the central longitudinal axis A2 and rotated about the central longitudinal axis A2. The resulting motion of the plurality of key protrusions 1536 in the locking slots 1524 is illustrated by paths Pl or P2, shown in FIG. 15B. Once installed, the retainer cover 1512 applies a radial compressive force to the retainer body 1504, which compresses the inner surface of the central apertures 1516 against the stepped portion 1432. Additionally, the radially compressive force causes the pins 1508 to be received within the grooves 1436. The compression of the retainer body 1504 around the stepped portion 1432 and the pins 1508 being received in the grooves 1436 assist in maintaining the position of the sleeve retainer assembly 1500. Now, the sleeve retainer assembly 1500 is adjacent to or abuts the sleeve and has an outer diameter larger than the diameter D8 of the shaft 1434 and the diameter D7 of the shank 1430, which limits axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the central longitudinal axis A2.

[0093] FIG. 16 illustrates a portion of another embodiment of a drilling insert 1610, which is similar in some aspects to the drilling insert 1410, with like parts having reference numerals plus “1600.” Accordingly, the following description focuses on the differences between the drilling insert 1610 and the drilling insert 1410.

[0094] FIG. 16 focuses on a stepped portion 1632 formed at the intersection of a shank 1630 and a shaft 1634 of the drilling insert 1610. The stepped portion 1632 is integrally formed on a24MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 body 1618 and has a maximum outer diameter DI 1 that is measured perpendicular to a longitudinal axis A3 defined by the body 1618. In the illustrated embodiment, the maximum outer diameter DI 1 of the stepped portion 1632 is greater than a maximum outer diameter D12 of the shaft 1634 or a maximum outer diameter D13 of the shank 1630. As shown in FIG. 16, the stepped portion 1632 has a groove 1636. The groove 1636 extends a uniform depth from the outer circumferential surface of the stepped portion 1632 to form a region with a maximum outer diameter D14. In use, the groove 1636 receives and limits the axial movement of a sleeve retainer 1700. In the illustrated embodiment, the maximum outer diameter D14 of the groove 1636 is substantially equal to the maximum outer diameters D12 and D13 of the shaft 1634 and the shank 1630, respectively. In another embodiment, the maximum outer diameter of the groove 1636 is greater than or less than the maximum outer diameters D12 and D13 of the shaft 1634 and the shank 1630, respectively.

[0095] As shown in FIG. 16, the sleeve retainer 1700, is similar in some aspects to the sleeve retainer 100, with like parts having reference numerals plus “1700.” The sleeve retainer 1700 is for use with a drilling insert, such as the drilling insert 1610 describe above. The sleeve retainer 1700 is configured to limit axial movement of a sleeve (such as the sleeve 14) along the body 1618 of the drilling insert 1610. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve retainer 1700 is positioned in the groove 1636 of the stepped portion 1632. The illustrated sleeve retainer 1700 includes an O-ring 1704 formed of an elastomeric material. At rest, the O-ring 1704 has an inner diameter less than diameter D13 of the shank 1630 and the diameter D14 of the groove 1636. In other embodiments, the sleeve retainer 1700 may be a different type of retaining member, such as a C-clip.

[0096] To install the sleeve retainer 1700, the O-ring 1704 is stretched to expand the inner diameter to be greater than D13 of the shank 1630 and the stepped portion 1632. When stretched, the O-ring 1704 is slid over the shank 1630 and the stepped portion 1632 towards the groove 1636. Once the O-ring 1704 reaches the groove 1636, the O-ring 1704 is released and subsequently contracts to reduce the inner diameter to a size between the diameter D14 of the groove 1636 and the diameter DI 1 of the stepped portion 1632. When positioned in the groove 1636, the O-ring 1704 is adjacent to or abuts the sleeve 14 and has an outer diameter greater than25MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 the diameter DI 3 of the shank 1630 and the diameter DI 2 of the shaft 1634, which limits axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the central longitudinal axis A3.

[0097] FIG. 17 illustrates a portion of another embodiment of a drilling insert 1810, which is similar in some aspects to the drilling insert 10, with like parts having reference numerals plus “1800.” Accordingly, the following description focuses on the differences between the drilling insert 1810 and the drilling insert 10.

[0098] The illustrated drilling insert 1810 includes a shaft 1834 and one or more support features 1837 extending from the shaft 1834. The support feature 1837 extends from the outer circumferential surface of the shaft 1834. The support feature 1837 may be a flange that extends less than 360 degrees around a circumference of the shaft to allow, for example, dust and other debris to pass. In other embodiments, the support feature 1837 may include multiple raised features or projections that are spaced apart to allow dust and other debris to pass. In use, the support feature 1837 provides a support for vacuum parts that may be coupled to the drilling insert 1810. This support feature 1837 (or a similar support feature) may be used with or part of any of the drilling inserts described herein, including the drilling insert 10, the drilling insert 10’, the drilling insert 1410, and the drilling insert 1610. In configurations where the drilling inserts include support features and are connected to vacuum parts, the sleeves of the drilling inserts may or may not include flutes.

[0099] FIG. 17 focuses on a cutting head 1826 formed at a second end 1818A of a drilling insert 1810. The cutting head 1826 is configured to receive the cutting insert 22 and engage a workpiece for performing a cutting operation. The cutting head 1826 has a first maximum outer diameter D15 which is measured perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis A4, which is defined by a body 1818. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter of the cutting head 1826 increases from a shaft 1834 to the first maximum outer diameter D15. As shown in FIG. 17, the cutting head 1826 includes a threaded portion 1827 configured to receive a threaded opening in a sleeve (such as the sleeve 14). The threaded portion 1827 has an outer diameter D17 that is less than the maximum outer diameter DI 5 of the cutting head 1826. In use, the sleeve is threaded onto the threaded portion 1827 to limit the axial movement of the sleeve along the central26MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 longitudinal axis A4. In other embodiments, the threaded portion 1827 may be replaced by a bayonet mechanism or a twist lock mechanism to limit the axial movement of the sleeve.

[0100] FIGS. 18-22 illustrate another embodiment of a sleeve retainer assembly 1900 for use with a drilling insert, such as the drilling insert 10 described above. The sleeve retainer assembly 1900 is configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the body 18 of the drilling insert 10. The sleeve retainer assembly 1900 is positioned between an end of the sleeve 14 and the second end 18B of the body 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve retainer assembly 1900 engages the groove 36 (or stepped portion) of the drilling insert 10. The sleeve retainer assembly 1900 includes a collar 1904, an O-ring 1908, and a spacer 1912. In some embodiments, the spacer 1912 may be formed of metal. In other embodiments, the spacer 1912 may be formed of rubber. In additional embodiments, the spacer 1912 may be a spring.

[0101] With reference to FIGS. 19 and 20, the collar 1904 is slidably coupled to the body 18 of the drilling insert 10. When coupled to the body 18, the collar 1904 is positioned to partially surround the groove 36. The collar 1904 has a central aperture 1916 and a recess 1920 defined therein. The recess 1920 is positioned around the central aperture 1916 and faces away from the sleeve 14. The body 18 of the drilling insert 10 is configured to extend through the central aperture 1916 of the collar 1904 as the recess 1920 extends around the entire circumference of the body 18. When the collar 1904 is initially coupled to the drilling insert 10, the collar 1904 is positioned such that an end face 1924 of the collar 1904 abuts the sleeve 14.

[0102] With reference to FIGS. 21 and 22, the O-ring 1908, or other retainer, is slidably coupled to the body 18 of the drilling insert 10 after arranging the collar 1904 along the body 18. The O-ring 1908 is positioned in the groove 36 such that a space is defined between the O-ring 1908 and the recess 1920 of the collar 1904. A user then slides the collar 1904 over the O-ring 1908 to position the O-ring 1908 within the recess 1920 of the collar 1904. The end face 1924 of the collar 1904 disengages the sleeve 14 so that a gap 1928 is provided between the collar 1904 and the sleeve 14. The spacer 1912 is then positioned within the gap 1928 to be arranged between the collar 1904 and the sleeve 14 to ensure that the O-ring 1908 is retained within the recess 1920 of the collar 1904 and the groove 36. As the O-ring 1908 is positioned within the27MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 groove 36, the sleeve retainer assembly 1900 is able to retain the sleeve 14 on the shaft 34 during a cutting operation.

[0103] FIGS. 23, 24A, and 24B illustrate another embodiment of a sleeve retainer assembly 2000 for use with a drilling insert, such as the drilling insert 10 described above. The sleeve retainer assembly 2000 is configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve 14 along the body 18 of the drilling insert 10. The sleeve retainer assembly 2000 is positioned between an end of the sleeve 14 and the second end 18B of the body 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve retainer assembly 2000 is positioned to engage a first set of grooves 2002a and a second set of grooves 2002b defined within the shaft 34, rather than the groove 36 illustrated in the embodiment of the drilling insert 10 of FIGS. 1-3. The second set of grooves 2002b is axially spaced along the shaft 34 from the first set of grooves 2002a. The first set of grooves 2002a includes two grooves that are spaced diametrically across from each other. Also, the second set of grooves 2002b includes two grooves that are spaced diametrically across from each other. The first set of grooves 2002a and the second set of grooves 2002b are spaced from each other along a direction extending parallel to the longitudinal axis Al (FIG. 2). In some embodiments, each set of grooves 2002a, 2002b may include fewer or more grooves. In other embodiments, the sleeve retainer assembly 2000 may be positioned to engage a first groove and a second groove that extend around the entire circumference of the body 18. The sleeve retainer assembly 2000 includes a first collar 2004, a second collar 2008, a biasing member (e g., a spring 2012) positioned between the first collar 2004 and the second collar 2008, and a plurality of detents 2016a-d (e.g., ball bearings) aligned with the first collar 2004 and the second collar 2008. Although the illustrated embodiment includes a plurality of detents 2016a-d aligned with each collar 2004, 2008, in other embodiments, the sleeve retainer assembly 2000 may only include one detent aligned with each collar 2004, 2008. Each collar 2004, 2008 has a cylindrical body. A detent opening 2020, 2024 is respectively defined within the collars 2004, 2008.

[0104] The sleeve retainer assembly 2000 is movable between a locked position (FIG. 24A) and an unlocked position (FIG. 24B). In the locked position, the spring 2012 biases the first collar 2004 and the second collar 2008 away from each other. In particular, the spring 2012 biases the first collar 2004 such that the first collar 2004 is disposed around the body 18 at the location of the first set of grooves 2002a. The first collar 2004 engages a first detent 2016a and a28MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 second detent 2016b to urge the detents 2016a, 2016b radially inward and into engagement with the drilling insert 10. The spring 2012 also biases the second collar 2008 such that the second collar 2008 is disposed around the body 18 at the location of the second set of grooves 2002b. The second collar 2008 engages a third detent 2016c and a fourth detent 2016d to urge the detents 2016c, 2016d radially inward and into engagement with the drilling insert 10. As such, the first and second detents 2016a, 2016b are respectively received within the first set of grooves 2002a, while the third and fourth detents 2016c, 2016d are respectively received within the second set of grooves 2002b to axially retain the sleeve retainer assembly 2000 along the drilling insert 10.

[0105] To transition from the locked position to the unlocked position, a user axially displaces (e.g., squeezes) the collars 2004, 2008 towards each other and against a biasing force of the spring 2012. In the unlocked position, the first collar 2004 and the second collar 2008 are axially displaced to a location that permits each detent 2016a-d to move radially outward and disengage the drilling insert 10. The first and second detents 2016a, 2016b move out of the first set of grooves 2002a and into the detent opening 2020 of the first collar 2004. The third and fourth detents 2016c, 2016d move out of the second set of grooves 2002b and into the detent opening 2024 of the second collar 2008. When the detents 2016a-d disengage the drilling insert 10, the sleeve retainer assembly 2000 is permitted to be removed from the body 18 to also permit movement and removal of the sleeve 14. To transition back to the locked position, the user releases the collars 2004, 2008 and the biasing force of the spring 2012 returns the collars 2004, 2008 to the locations of the grooves 2002a, 2002b.

[0106] The sleeve retainers described herein may have relatively low profiles to reduce interference with the cutting inserts. In particular, the sleeve retainers may have outer diameters (see D16 in FIG. 2) that are less than the maximum outer diameter DI of the cutting head 26, but large enough to block and retain the sleeve 14 on the drilling insert 10. In some embodiments, the sleeve retainers may have outer diameters that are 30 mm or less. In other embodiments, the sleeve retainers may have outer diameters that are 25 mm or less. In still other embodiments, the sleeve retainers may have outer diameters that are 23 mm or less.29MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001

[0107] Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the invention as described.

[0108] Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.30MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A drilling insert comprising: a body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the body including: a cutting head at the second end, a shank positioned at the first end, the shank configured to be received by a tool, a shaft extending between the shank and the cutting head, and a groove between the shank and the cutting head; a sleeve surrounding the shaft; and a sleeve retainer engaging the groove, the sleeve retainer configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve on the shaft.

2. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the sleeve retainer includes an O-ring.

3. The drilling insert of claim 2, wherein the sleeve retainer also includes a collar positioned between the sleeve and the O-ring, and wherein the collar defines a recess that receives the O- ring.

4. The drilling insert of claim 3, wherein the sleeve retainer also includes a spacer positioned between the collar and the sleeve.

5. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the sleeve retainer includes a flange defining a central aperture and an O-ring inserted in the central aperture of the flange, and wherein the O- ring engages the groove of the body.

6. The drilling insert of claim 5, wherein the flange includes a wing extending from an outer edge of the flange.

7. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the sleeve retainer includes:31MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 a receiving member surrounding the shaft, the receiving member including a central aperture and a detent opening extending into the central aperture, a detent positioned and moveable within the detent opening, the detent configured to selectively engage the groove of the body, and an outer sleeve surrounding the receiving member, the outer sleeve movable relative to the receiving member, the outer sleeve configured to engage and move the detent into the central aperture.

8. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the sleeve retainer includes: a bushing surrounding the shaft, the bushing including a central aperture and a detent opening extending into the central aperture, a detent positioned and movable within the detent opening, the detent configured to selectively engage the groove of the body, and a set of clamp members surrounding the bushing, the clamp members including a bushing recess configured to receive the bushing, wherein the clamp members are configured to engage the detent to move the detent into the central aperture of the bushing.

9. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the sleeve retainer includes: a set of plates including a first slot configured to receive a portion of the body, and a fastener configured to couple the set of plates together.

10. The drilling insert of claim 9, wherein the set of plates also includes a second slot configured to receive a portion of the sleeve.

11. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the sleeve retainer includes: a receiving member including a central aperture, a detent opening, and a retaining member recess, a detent positioned and moveable within the detent opening, the detent configured to selectively engage the groove of the body,32MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 an outer collar surrounding the receiving member, the outer collar moveable relative to the receiving member, the outer collar including a first detent engaging portion having a first diameter, and a second detent engaging portion having a second diameter larger than the first diameter, a retaining member received within the retaining member recess.

12. The drilling insert of claim 11, wherein the retaining member recess is a first retaining member recess and the receiving member also includes a second retaining member recess, and wherein the retaining member is selectively movable between the first retaining member recess and the second retaining member recess.

13. The drilling insert of claim 11, wherein the retaining member recess is a first retaining member recess and the receiving member also includes a second retaining member recess, wherein the sleeve retainer also includes a second retaining member received within the second retaining member recess, and wherein the first retaining member is selectively removable from the first retaining member recess.

14. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the sleeve retainer includes a C-clip.

15. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the sleeve retainer includes a flange fixedly coupled to the body.

16. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the groove is a first groove, wherein the body also includes a second groove formed in the shaft and axially spaced from the first groove, and wherein the sleeve retainer includes a first collar, a second collar, a biasing member positioned between the first collar and the second collar to bias the first collar and the second collar away from each other, a first detent engaged by the first collar and urged radially inward to engage the first groove, and33MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 a second detent engaged by the second collar and urged radially inward to engage the second groove.

17. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the sleeve retainer includes: a retainer body configured to receive the body, the retainer body including: a central aperture shaped to receive the body, a pin aperture extending through the retainer body, a locking slot formed on an outer circumferential surface of the retainer body, and a protrusion extending in a direction orthogonal to a central longitudinal axis; a pin positioned in the pin aperture; and a retainer cover coupled to and surrounding the retainer body, the retainer cover configured to bias the retainer body radially inward towards the central longitudinal axis.

18. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the groove is recessed relative to an outer surface of the shaft.

19. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the body also includes a stepped portion on the shaft between the shank and the cutting head, and wherein the groove is formed in the stepped portion.

20. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the body further includes a support feature extending from the shaft, the support feature configured to support a vacuum part coupled to the body.

21. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the sleeve includes a flute.

22. The drilling insert of claim 1, wherein the cutting head has a maximum outer diameter, and wherein the sleeve retainer has an outer diameter that is less than the maximum outer diameter of the cutting head.34MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W00123. The drilling insert of claim 22, wherein the outer diameter of the sleeve retainer is 30 mm or less.

24. The drilling insert of claim 22, wherein the outer diameter of the sleeve retainer is 25 mm or less.

25. The drilling insert of claim 22, wherein the outer diameter of the sleeve retainer is 23 mm or less.

26. A drilling insert comprising: a body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the body defining a central longitudinal axis, the body including: a cutting head at the second end, a shank positioned at the first end, the shank configured to be received by a tool, a shaft extending between the shank and the cutting head, and a stepped portion on the shaft between the shank and the cutting head; a sleeve surrounding the shaft; and a sleeve retainer engaging the stepped portion, the sleeve retainer configured to limit axial movement of the sleeve on the shaft.

27. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the stepped portion includes two grooves extending a non-uniform depth from an outer circumference of the stepped portion.

28. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the stepped portion includes a single groove extending a uniform depth from an outer circumference of the stepped portion.

29. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the sleeve retainer includes: a retainer body configured to receive the body, the retainer body including: a central aperture shaped to receive the body, a pin aperture extending through the retainer body, a locking slot formed on an outer circumferential surface of the retainer body, and35MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 a protrusion extending in a direction orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis; a pin positioned in the pin aperture; and a retainer cover coupled to and surrounding the retainer body, the retainer cover configured to bias the retainer body radially inward towards the central longitudinal axis.

30. The drilling insert of claim 29, wherein the retainer cover includes a key protrusion extending radially inward from an inner circumferential surface of the retainer cover, and wherein the key protrusion is received in the locking slot of the retainer body to limit axial movement of the retainer cover.

31. The drilling insert of claim 29, wherein the pin has a rectangular cross-section, and wherein the pin engages a groove formed on the stepped portion of the body.

32. The drilling insert of claim 29, wherein the locking slot is substantially T-shaped.

33. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the body further includes a support feature extending from the shaft, the support feature configured to support a vacuum part coupled to the body.

34. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the sleeve retainer includes an O-ring.

35. The drilling insert of claim 34, wherein the sleeve retainer also includes a collar positioned between the sleeve and the O-ring, and wherein the collar defines a recess that receives the O-ring.

36. The drilling insert of claim 35, wherein the sleeve retainer also includes a spacer positioned between the collar and the sleeve.

37. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the sleeve retainer includes a flange defining a central aperture and an O-ring inserted in the central aperture of the flange, and wherein the O- ring engages the stepped portion of the body.36MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W00138. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the sleeve retainer includes: a receiving member surrounding the shaft, the receiving member including a central aperture and a detent opening extending into the central aperture, a detent positioned and moveable within the detent opening, the detent configured to selectively engage the stepped portion of the body, and an outer sleeve surrounding the receiving member, the outer sleeve movable relative to the receiving member, the outer sleeve configured to engage and move the detent into the central aperture.

39. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the sleeve retainer includes: a bushing surrounding the shaft, the bushing including a central aperture and a detent opening extending into the central aperture, a detent positioned and movable within the detent opening, the detent configured to selectively engage the stepped portion of the body, and a set of clamp members surrounding the bushing, the clamp members including a bushing recess configured to receive the bushing, wherein the clamp members are configured to engage the detent to move the detent into the central aperture of the bushing.

40. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the sleeve retainer includes: a set of plates including a first slot configured to receive a portion of the body, and a fastener configured to couple the set of plates together.

41. The drilling insert of claim 40, wherein the set of plates also includes a second slot configured to receive a portion of the sleeve.

42. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the sleeve retainer includes: a receiving member including a central aperture, a detent opening, and a retaining member recess,37MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 a detent positioned and moveable within the detent opening, the detent configured to selectively engage the stepped portion of the body, an outer collar surrounding the receiving member, the outer collar moveable relative to the receiving member, the outer collar including a first detent engaging portion having a first diameter, and a second detent engaging portion having a second diameter larger than the first diameter, a retaining member received within the retaining member recess.

43. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the sleeve retainer includes a C-clip.

44. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the sleeve retainer includes a flange fixedly coupled to the body.

45. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the sleeve includes a flute.

46. The drilling insert of claim 26, wherein the cutting head has a maximum outer diameter, and wherein the sleeve retainer has an outer diameter that is less than the maximum outer diameter of the cutting head.

47. The drilling insert of claim 46, wherein the outer diameter of the sleeve retainer is 30 mm or less.

48. The drilling insert of claim 46, wherein the outer diameter of the sleeve retainer is 25 mm or less.

49. The drilling insert of claim 46, wherein the outer diameter of the sleeve retainer is 23 mm or less.

50. A drilling insert compri sin : a body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the body defining a central longitudinal axis, the body including:38MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25Attorney Docket No. 066042-1958-W001 a cutting head at the second end, the cutting head including a plurality of threads, a shank positioned at the first end, the shank configured to be received by a tool, and a shaft extending between the shank and the cutting head; and a sleeve surrounding the shaft, the sleeve threaded onto the plurality of threads formed in the cutting head.

51. The drilling insert of claim 50, wherein the cutting head has a maximum outer diameter measured perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis, and wherein a diameter of the cutting head increases from the shaft to the maximum outer diameter.

52. The drilling insert of claim 50, wherein the body further includes a support feature extending from the shaft, the support feature configured to support a vacuum part coupled to the body.

53. The drilling insert of claim 50, wherein the sleeve includes a flute.

54. The drilling insert of claim 50, wherein the cutting head has a maximum outer diameter, and wherein the plurality of threads has an outer diameter that is less than the maximum outer diameter of the cutting head.39MBF\066042\1958\51962919.vl-l 1 / 24 / 25

Images