Intersecting Pathway Bit Holder for Secure Retention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bit holders are either difficult to insert bits into or do not securely retain them, and they inefficiently utilize space, leading to poor usability and storage capacity.

Innovation Solution

A bit holder design featuring intersecting pathways with an angle between them, allowing for an interference fit retention mechanism, where bits are inserted along one pathway and rotated into a locked position in the second pathway, with flexible protrusions for secure engagement and efficient spacing within a case.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional bit holder designs are used, then bits can be stored, but insertion is difficult and retention is insecure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of bit insertionVSAvoidbit retention security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a rotational dimension to the bit holder mechanism. Bits are inserted along a first pathway and then rotated 90 degrees into a second pathway that is perpendicular to the first. This dimensional change allows the bit to transition from an insertion state to a locked retention state, simultaneously achieving easy insertion and secure retention through the interference fit created in the final position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If traditional bit holder designs are used, then bits can be retained, but space utilization is inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebit retention securityVSAvoidspace utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

By utilizing three-dimensional space with intersecting pathways at right angles, the design allows bits to be stored more compactly. The vertical pathway allows bits to be inserted from the top, while the horizontal pathway provides secure retention, maximizing the use of available volume within the holder body and allowing for more bits to be stored in a given space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Volume of moving object

If intersecting pathways are used for bit retention, then space is optimized and retention is secure, but the mechanism becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidholder structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the insertion function and retention function into a single integrated cavity structure. The intersecting pathways are formed within one continuous body, eliminating the need for separate insertion mechanisms and retention mechanisms. This consolidation achieves secure retention and optimized space utilization while minimizing structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 solution enables easy insertion and secure retention of bits while optimizing space usage, allowing for more bits to be stored in a compact manner.

Implementation Method 1

The bit is retained by an interference fit with the body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInterference fit: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS8069984B2Bit holder
Publication Date: 2011.12.06 BLACK & DECKER CORP
  • US8069984B2 patent drawing
  • US8069984B2 patent drawing
  • US8069984B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bit holder comprises a body defining at least one cavity. The cavity includes a first pathway for receiving a bit and a second pathway for holding a bit. The first and second pathways intersect to define an open area between the first pathway and the second pathway such that a bit can be rotated between the first pathway and to a locked position in second pathway. The first pathway is disposed at an angle relative to the second pathway. The bit is retained by an interference fit with the body. The holder may be releasably retained in a case using mating structures on the case and holder. In a method for retaining a bit in a holder, the bit is inserted into the holder along the first pathway. The bit is rotated through the open area to position the bit in the second pathway where it is held.