Multi-Drive Adapter for Universal Power Tool Accessory Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Variations in tool drive structures among different power tools limit the compatibility and secure connection of accessory tools across different power tool brands, preventing universal usage of accessories.
Innovation Solution
An adapter with multiple drive structures that can mate with distinct tool drive structures of various power tools, allowing accessory tools to be securely attached to different power tool models using a single adapter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a power tool is designed with a specific tool drive structure to ensure secure connection and reliable operation, then the connection reliability is improved, but the adaptability to different accessory tools from other power tool systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter body is designed with multiple adapter drive structures (first, second, and third adapter drive structures) that can mate with different tool drive structures from various power tool systems. This allows a single adapter to universally connect accessory tools with one drive structure type to power tools with different drive structure types, achieving multi-functionality and universality while maintaining secure connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter acts as an intermediary component between the power tool's tool drive structure and the accessory tool's accessory drive structure. By introducing this intermediate element with multiple adapter drive structures, the patent enables compatibility between otherwise incompatible systems without modifying the original power tool or accessory tool designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adapter with multiple drive structures is designed to accommodate various power tools, then the adaptability to different power tools is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed as a modular component with distinct adapter drive structures (first, second, third) that can be independently configured. Each adapter drive structure is segmented to mate with specific tool drive structures, allowing the adapter body to handle multiple connection types through organized segmentation of its coupling features.
Solution Approach 2:
Despite having multiple adapter drive structures, the adapter maintains a unified and relatively simple overall structure. The adapter body integrates all drive structures into a single component that attaches to one accessory tool, achieving multi-functionality without requiring multiple separate adapter components, thus limiting the increase in device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter is provided for coupling an accessory tool to any of a plurality of power tools wherein each of the plurality of power tools has a distinct tool drive structure. The adapter has body that includes a first side surface, and a second side surface positioned opposite to the first side surface. An inner peripheral surface extends from the first side surface to the second side surface that defines a central opening, and an outer peripheral surface extends from the first side surface to the second side surface. The first side surface has defined therein a plurality of recesses positioned around the central opening. In addition, the body has a first adapter drive structure and a second adapter drive structure. The first adapter drive structure and the second adapter drive structure define the plurality of recesses, and the first adapter drive structure and the second adapter drive structure each possesses a distinct configuration in comparison to each other. The first adapter drive structure is configured to mate with a first tool drive structure of a first power tool of the plurality of power tools, and the second adapter drive structure is configured to mate with a second tool drive structure of a second power tool of the plurality of power tools.