Rolling-Element Tool Bit Connector for Drop-Free Swapping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional tool part attachment systems face challenges such as tool bits being easily dropped during changes and difficult storage, especially when multiple tools are needed for various fastener heads.

Innovation Solution

A tool part attachment assembly featuring a connector with rolling elements and a bungee cord or metallic wire, allowing tool bits to be securely retained and easily swapped without tools, with the connector's design preventing accidental dropping and facilitating storage by hanging from the tool's handle grip.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If tool bits are removably connected to the tool using conventional chuck methods, then the tool can accommodate various fastener heads and drill bits, but the tool bits can be easily dropped during the changing process and storage becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to accommodate various fastener heads and drill bitsVSAvoidrisk of tool bits being dropped during changing
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment assembly is divided into separate components: a connector that attaches to the tool bit, a retaining structure with rolling elements, and a magnetic retention mechanism. This segmentation allows the tool bit to be securely held while enabling easy detachment and storage of individual bits without dropping them during the changing process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector acts as an intermediary between the tool bit and the tool, providing a secure attachment mechanism with rolling elements and magnetic retention. This intermediary structure prevents the tool bit from being dropped during changing while maintaining the ability to accommodate various fastener heads and drill bits

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If tool bits are removably connected to the tool using conventional chuck methods, then the tool can accommodate various fastener heads and drill bits, but storage of tool bits after removal becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to accommodate various fastener heads and drill bitsVSAvoidconvenience of storing tool bits after removal
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connector serves as an intermediary that provides an integrated storage solution. The retaining structure with rolling elements and magnetic retention mechanism allows tool bits to be securely stored in the connector itself or easily carried along with the tool, eliminating the need for separate storage containers and making bit storage convenient and organized

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If a connector with rolling elements is used to retain tool bits, then tool bit retention security is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool bit retention securityVSAvoidcomplexity of connector structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rolling elements in the retaining structure automatically engage with the tool bit to provide secure retention. The magnetic mechanism self-activates to hold the tool bit in place without requiring additional fastening actions, providing reliable retention while keeping the structure relatively simple and easy to operate

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enhances tool bit retention and storage convenience by ensuring secure attachment and easy swapping, reducing the risk of loss and simplifying the process of switching between different tool bits.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of rolling element disposed radially between the first and second parts

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

a magnetic element integrated into the connector and configured to engage a ferrous tool part

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS12076793B2Tool part attachment assembly, tool part connector and tool assembly
Publication Date: 2024.09.03 9359-0602 QUEBEC INC
  • US12076793B2 patent drawing
  • US12076793B2 patent drawing
  • US12076793B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tool part attachment assembly for a tool is disclosed. The tool part attachment assembly has a tool part connector and a line. The tool part connector, which is configured for selectively retaining a tool part, has first and second parts and rolling elements disposed radially therebetween. The first part defines a connecting aperture configured to receive a portion of the tool part, is rotationally fixed relative to the tool part when the tool part is received in the connecting aperture, and is disposed inside the second part. The second part is rotationally connected to the first part. The line has a first end connected to the tool part connector, and a second end. In response to the tool part rotating, the first part rotates with the tool part relative to the second part. A tool part connector and a tool assembly are also disclosed.