Multipurpose Drive Tool With Telescoping Extension And Integrated Bit Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional tools require multiple devices for various fastener types, leading to increased costs and storage challenges in limited spaces, such as in vehicles and mechanical devices, where access to multiple tools is necessary but impractical due to space constraints.

Innovation Solution

A multipurpose drive tool with a lockable telescoping bit driver and handle, featuring biasing springs for secure storage and easy access to up to six double-end driver bits, providing twelve different configurations, and including common socket sizes and magnetized sockets for versatility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple conventional tools are used for different fastener types, then versatility is improved, but storage space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoidstorage space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple driver bits (Phillips, blade, hex, Torx, and other configurations) into a single multipurpose drive tool. The driver bits are stored in receptacles within the handle, allowing one tool to perform the functions of multiple separate tools, thereby reducing storage space requirements while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The drive tool is designed with universal functionality to accommodate various fastener types through different driver bit configurations. The handle contains multiple receptacles that can hold different driver bits, enabling a single tool to serve multiple purposes across different mechanical fastening applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple conventional tools are purchased for different fastener types, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent consolidates multiple driver bits into a single tool body with integrated receptacles. This merging approach reduces the total number of separate tools that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and distributed, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining adaptability to various fastener types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

By creating a universal tool that can accommodate multiple driver bit types through standardized receptacles, the patent eliminates the need to manufacture and stock multiple specialized tools, reducing overall manufacturing costs while preserving adaptability across different fastener applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a full tool set is acquired, then versatility is improved, but storage space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoidstorage space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the functionality of an entire tool set into a single compact device. Multiple driver bits that would traditionally require separate tool storage are integrated into receptacles within the handle, dramatically reducing the volume required for storage while maintaining full versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The driver bits are nested within the handle structure through receptacles that store the bits in an organized manner. This nesting arrangement allows multiple driver bits to be contained within the volume of a single tool handle, significantly reducing storage space requirements while preserving access to all driver bit types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Ease of operation

If driver bits are easily accessible, then ease of operation is improved, but secure retention may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of accessVSAvoidbit retention
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The receptacles incorporate spring-loaded or movable retention mechanisms that dynamically adjust to secure driver bits during storage and release them during operation. This dynamic system allows for easy insertion and removal of driver bits while maintaining secure retention when stored, balancing ease of operation with reliability.

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 tool reduces storage needs, lowers manufacturing costs, and enhances usability by allowing access to multiple fastener types with a single device, providing ergonomic handling and secure bit retention, while the telescoping mechanism and magnetization simplify tool operation and storage.

Implementation Method 1

Biasing springs are used to frictionally engage the driver bits while in a storage position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

including common socket sizes and magnetized sockets for versatility

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS11794317B2Multipurpose tool
Publication Date: 2023.10.24 SENSIBLE PRODUCTS INC
  • US11794317B2 patent drawing
  • US11794317B2 patent drawing
  • US11794317B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multipurpose drive tool having a handle to secure an extension driver between an extended position and a retracted position. The extension driver has a proximal end with a ¼ inch socket extending outwardly for use with a plurality of driver bits, and a distal end socket having a 5/16 inch socket. The drive tool further has a ⅜ inch and 7/16 inch socket secured to the handle, having a base member housing with biasing springs for frictionally engaging the driver bits. The extension driver has grooves that interact with a ball bearings positional placement thereof, and a pin for securing the extension driver in an extended or retracted position.