Bit Coupling Device Slanted Face Follower Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bit coupling devices face difficulties in easily removing bits due to small exposed portions and are not adaptable to bits with varying notch depths or diameters, and they hinder screwdriver use in limited spaces.

Innovation Solution

A coupling device with a slanted inner periphery and a follower mechanism that uses a positioning member and elastic elements to securely clamp and release bits, allowing for easy removal and compatibility with different bit types, and a magnet for retention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a magnet is used to retain the bit by magnetic attraction, then the bit is retained in place, but the exposed portion of the bit outside the coupling section is relatively small, making removal difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebit retentionVSAvoidbit removal
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention employs a dynamic release mechanism where a release member can be actuated to move the follower and positioning member, dynamically changing the clamping state from secured to released, enabling easy bit removal while maintaining reliable retention during normal use

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a sleeve with balls is used to retain the bit, then the bit is retained securely, but the device cannot be used with bits of different types having different notch depths and/or diameter sizes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebit retentionVSAvoidcompatibility with different bit types
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The invention achieves universality through the slanted face design that allows the positioning member to engage with bits of various types. The slanted face geometry enables the positioning member to find its engagement point regardless of the bit's specific dimensions or groove depth, making the coupling device compatible with different bit types while maintaining secure retention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If a sleeve is mounted around the coupling portion, then the bit is retained securely, but the screwdriver cannot be used for driving a screw in a limited space such as a deep hole

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebit retentionVSAvoidoperation in limited space
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the retention function from a surrounding sleeve structure and implements it through internal components (follower, positioning member, and spring mechanism) located within the coupling section. This eliminates the need for an external sleeve, reducing the overall size and allowing the screwdriver to be used in limited spaces while maintaining secure bit retention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables secure retention and easy removal of bits with varying sizes and shapes, and allows for use in confined spaces without hindering screwdriver operation.

Implementation Method 1

A first spring is mounted in the compartment and biases the follower outward toward the receiving space

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

A magnet 2 is fixed in the coupling section 1 for retaining the bit 90 in place by magnetic attraction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS7954824B2Coupling device
Publication Date: 2011.06.07 HU BOBBY
  • US7954824B2 patent drawing
  • US7954824B2 patent drawing
  • US7954824B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A coupling device includes a body having an end for coupling with a handle. The body includes a compartment having a receiving space for receiving an object such as a bit. The receiving space includes a slanted face extending longitudinally outward and radially inward. A follower is slidably mounted in the compartment and includes an outer end having a restraining hole. A positioning member extends from a radially outer side through the restraining hole to a radially inner side of the follower and is slidable along the slanted face. The follower is biased outward by an elastic element toward the receiving space when the object is inserted into the receiving space and moves the follower longitudinally inward. A radial clamping force is imparted from the slanted face through the positioning member to securely clamp the object in the receiving space.