Modular Tool Bit Holder Assembly for Difficult-to-Reach Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tool bit holders struggle to access difficult-to-reach workpiece regions and experience instability and high vibration when used in combination.

Innovation Solution

A modular tool bit holder system comprising an angle tool bit holder and a flexible shaft tool bit holder, with a connection assembly allowing them to be used in various configurations, including combined operation to enhance accessibility and stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If existing tool bit holders are used to access difficult-to-reach workpiece regions, then accessibility is improved, but stability deteriorates and high vibration stresses occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessibility to workpiece regionsVSAvoidstability and vibration resistance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The tool bit holder is divided into separate modular components: a first tool bit holder with a first bit, a second tool bit holder with a second bit, and a connection assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall stability through precise connection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connection assembly enables nesting of the first and second tool bit holders in a compact configuration, where the bit holders are positioned within proximity of each other, allowing access to difficult-to-reach regions while maintaining structural integrity and reducing vibration through coordinated positioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple tool bit holders are used in combination, then versatility and accessibility are improved, but operational stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctionality combinationsVSAvoidoperational stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connection assembly serves multiple functions: it connects the first and second tool bit holders, positions them relative to each other, and provides a stable interface with the power tool. This multi-functionality enables versatile configurations while maintaining operational stability through a single integrated connection mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection assembly acts as an intermediary element between the power tool and the multiple tool bit holders, distributing forces and motions evenly across all components. This intermediary structure prevents instability by mediating the interaction between multiple bit holders and the power tool, reducing vibration stresses.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If a rigid connection between tool bit holders is implemented, then stability is improved, but flexibility and adaptability to different configurations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidconfiguration flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The connection assembly incorporates movable and adjustable elements that allow dynamic reconfiguration of the tool bit holders. The connection can adapt between different positional configurations while maintaining stable force transmission, enabling both rigidity when needed and flexibility for repositioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 provides better access to difficult-to-reach areas and reduces vibration and instability, offering versatile functionality through multiple combinations of tool bit holders.

Implementation Method 1

a flexible intermediate shaft assembly bendable into a plurality of curved, straight, and/or curvilinear configurations, and configured to transmit rotation from the second input shaft to the second tool bit holder

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFlexible shaft transmission:

Implementation Method 2

a first angle gear rotatably drivable by the input shaft about the first axis, a second angle gear rotatably drivable by the first angle gear about a second axis at an angle to the first axis

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGear mechanism: Gear

Data Source

PatentUS12434359B2Modular tool bit holder system

Publication Date: 2025.10.07 BLACK & DECKER CORP

AI summary

A modular tool bit holder system includes an angle tool bit holder, a flexible shaft tool bit holder. The angle tool bit holder includes a housing containing a first input shaft, a first angle gear rotatably drivable about a first axis, a second angle gear, and a first bit holder rotatably drivable by the first angle gear about a second axis at an angle to the first axis. The flexible shaft tool bit holder includes a second input shaft, a flexible intermediate shaft rotatably drivable by the second input shaft, and a second tool bit holder rotatably drivable by the flexible intermediate shaft. The angle tool bit holder and the flexible shaft tool bit holder are operable separately or in combination. A connection assembly is configured to non-rotatably couple the angle tool bit holder and the flexible shaft tool bit holder when they are operable in combination.