Rear ratchet drive multiple bit tool
US5894765A · kind A · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 5, 1996 |
| Grant date | Apr 20, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 5, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB25G1/085
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A ratcheting tool, such as a screwdriver having multiple reversible bits in which a ratchet assembly is located in the screwdriver handle closer to the rear end of the handle, being the end opposite the screwdriver shank. Extending from the ratchet in a direction toward the shank, but at least partially within the handle, is a ratchet drive tube having an interior cross-section which is hexagonal. The screwdriver shank is a tube with both ends,having hexagonal interior cross-sections into which interchangeable double-ended drive bits with mating hexagonal shoulders may be partially inserted, with a portion of each hexagonal shoulder remaining exposed. The exposed portion of the hexagonal shoulder opposite the bit selected for use is inserted into the mating hexagonal ratchet drive tube. Driving rotation of the handle is transmitted to the selected bit in use through the ratchet and ratchet drive tube to the shoulder of the unselected bit, to the screwdriver shank and to the shoulder of the selected bit. Each double-ended bit may be reversed in the shank and the shank may be reversed in the ratchet drive tube. Means are provided in a modified embodiment to restrain the ratchet from …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.