Clip-Attached Bit Holder for Preventing Bit Loss During Changes

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Multi-bit tools often face issues with bits being lost or misplaced during changes, making it difficult to keep track of different bits.

Innovation Solution

A holder system comprising a bearing and housing attached to a clip via a cable, allowing the bit to be securely held and mounted to a tool, with the option of a friction fit and identifier for easy identification, ensuring the bit remains attached to the clip even when removed from the tool.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a multi-bit tool is used with replaceable bits, then the tool provides expanded functionality for different screws and tools, but the bits are easily lost or misplaced when changed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexpanded functionalityVSAvoidbit retention
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A magnetic holder acts as an intermediary between the bit and the user/tool. The holder securely retains the bit through magnetic attraction and provides a attachment point (loop or cable) to prevent loss during bit changes, thus maintaining both versatility and reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If bits are kept separate for easy interchange, then bit changes are quick, but tracking and keeping track of different bits becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebit change speedVSAvoidbit tracking
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple bits are merged into a single organized system by attaching them to a common magnetic holder or storing them together in a magnetic case. This consolidation maintains quick access while eliminating the tracking problem through unified storage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If the bit is securely held in the tool during operation, then rotational functionality is maintained, but the bit cannot be easily removed for changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebit security during operationVSAvoidbit removal ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic holder replaces complex mechanical retention mechanisms. The bit is held securely by magnetic force during operation but can be easily removed by simply pulling it away from the magnetic field, eliminating the need for complicated locking or unlocking mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

The system prevents bit loss and facilitates quick retrieval by keeping the bit attached to the clip, allowing for easy switching between different bits and maintaining tool operation without compromising rotational functionality.

Implementation Method 1

an inner ring of the bearing may be shaped and sized to provide a friction fit to securely hold the bit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

the housing may be shaped and sized to provide a friction fit to securely hold the outer ring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS11878406B2Holder for a bit of a tool
Publication Date: 2024.01.23 ROYAL MASCH SOLUTIONS INC
  • US11878406B2 patent drawing
  • US11878406B2 patent drawing
  • US11878406B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A holder for a bit for a tool is provided. The holder comprises: a bearing shaped to securely hold the bit; and a housing attached to the bearing and to a clip. In the holder, when the housing is attached to the clip, the bit may be mounted to the tool and the tool may be operated to rotate the bit; and when the bit is removed from the tool, the bit is still attached to the housing which is still attached to the clip. The housing may be shaped and sized to provide a friction fit to securely hold the outer ring. A cable may attach the housing to the clip.