Telescoping Sleeve Driver Tool for Fastener Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing driver tools lack the ability to efficiently switch between engaging different sized fasteners without manual adjustment and securement, leading to inefficiencies in operation and tool usage.
Innovation Solution
A driver tool design featuring a main body with a tool coupling mechanism and a concentrically disposed sleeve, where the sleeve is axially displaceable and rotatable, allowing exposure of either a first or second fastener driving member depending on the position, with a spring bias and locking feature to maintain the sleeve in extended position for engaging larger fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a driver tool is designed with a single fastener driving member, then the structure is simple, but the tool cannot engage different sized fasteners without manual adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a telescoping sleeve that contains multiple fastener driving members of different sizes within a single driver tool body. The sleeve can be extended to expose different driving members (e.g., 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch hex drivers) nested inside it, allowing the tool to adapt to various fastener sizes without requiring multiple separate tools or manual adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamically adjustable telescoping sleeve that can be extended or retracted to expose different fastener driving members based on the fastener size being used. This dynamic mechanism allows the driver tool to change its configuration during operation, providing versatility while maintaining a compact stored state.
2Productivity
If a driver tool includes multiple fastener driving members, then versatility is improved, but manual adjustment and securement are required leading to operational inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a spring-loaded telescoping mechanism that automatically extends the sleeve to expose the appropriate fastener driving member when a fastener of corresponding size is inserted. The spring provides automatic engagement and securement, eliminating the need for manual adjustment or securement operations. The system serves itself by detecting the fastener size and automatically configuring the appropriate driving member.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping sleeve acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user and multiple fastener driving members. Instead of requiring direct manual selection and adjustment of different drivers, the sleeve mediates this interaction by automatically extending or retracting to present the correct driving member based on the fastener being engaged, thereby simplifying the operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a telescoping sleeve is used to expose different fastener driving members, then versatility is improved, but additional components like springs and locking features are required
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping sleeve is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a protective cover for the nested fastener driving members, provides the mechanical means for extending and retracting different drivers, incorporates spring-loaded automatic engagement, and includes locking features to secure the extended position. This multi-functional design consolidates several components into a single integrated mechanism, reducing overall device complexity 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
Enables seamless switching between engaging different sized fasteners, enhancing operational efficiency and user convenience by automatically exposing the appropriate driving member based on the tool's position, thereby improving the versatility and usability of the driver tool.
Implementation Method 1
a spring coupled between the sleeve and the main body to bias the sleeve toward a retracted position
Data Source
AI summary
An accessory driver tool connectable to a power tool includes a main body and a sleeve. The main body includes a first end, a second end, a tool coupling mechanism at the first end, and a first fastener driving member disposed at the second end. The sleeve, disposed concentrically about the main body, includes a second fastener driving member disposed adjacent the second end of the main body. The sleeve is axially displaceable along the main body between a retracted position, in which the first fastener driving member is exposed to engage a first fastener, and an extended position, in which the second fastener driving member is exposed to engage a second fastener. The sleeve is rotatable relative to the main body while in the extended position.