Dual-Size Reversible Socket Nut Driver With Detent Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nut drivers with reversible sockets are complex, costly, and require multiple components, complicating manufacturing and assembly.
Innovation Solution
A nut driver tool with an elongate drive shank and reversible socket featuring detent engagement features and stop surfaces allows the socket to be mounted in multiple positions, simplifying construction and enhancing reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple socket components are used to create a reversible socket nut driver, then the socket can be mounted in multiple positions with different orientations, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple socket functions into a single integrated reversible socket component. This socket can be mounted in multiple positions (first position with first orientation, second position with second orientation) and provides different socket sizes (first size, second size) without requiring multiple separate socket components. The single socket includes features like a first hex socket opening, second hex socket opening, through opening, and multiple detent engagement features that enable versatile functionality while reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The reversible socket is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: it can engage with hexagonal fasteners of different sizes (first size, second size), be mounted in different positions along the drive shank (first position, second position), and provide different orientations (first orientation, second orientation). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized socket components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a reversible socket with multiple mounting positions is implemented, then versatility is improved, but manufacturing and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple mounting position capabilities into a single socket component rather than requiring separate components for each position. The reversible socket includes integrated features such as detent engagement features, stop surfaces, and opening configurations that enable multiple mounting positions to be achieved within one manufacturable part, thereby simplifying both manufacturing and assembly processes while maintaining versatility
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 design simplifies the construction and enhances the reliability of the nut driver tool, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs while maintaining functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a first detent engagement feature configured to engage the detent with the socket at a first position along the length of the drive shank
Implementation Method 2
the socket stop surface is abutted against the second stop surface and the shank extends through the second hex socket opening with the socket-mounting end spaced from the first end by a second predetermined distance
Data Source
AI summary
A nut driver includes an elongate drive shank and a reversible socket. The socket has a first hex socket opening sized to engage a hexagonal profile of a first size, and a second hex socket opening sized to engage a hexagonal profile of a second size that is larger than the first size. The socket is mountable on the drive shank in either a first orientation that presents the first hex socket opening for use, or a second orientation that presents the second hex socket opening for use. Additionally, in the first orientation, the socket is mountable in either a screw head receiving position or a drive bit receiving position.