CA2970486C

CA2970486C - Bit and fastener holder assembly for a power tool

Info

Publication number: CA2970486C
Application number: CA2970486A
Authority: CA
Inventors: In Song Cho
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-06-14
Filing date: 2017-06-14
Publication date: 2019-04-09
Anticipated expiration: 2037-06-14
Also published as: CA2970486A1

Abstract

There is provided a bit holder assembly for connecting to a power tool. The assembly includes a bit holder connectable to the power tool. The bit holder has a plurality of sockets and a front facing outwards from the power tool when the bit holder is coupled thereto. The assembly includes a fastener holder coupled to the front of the bit holder. The fastener holder includes a pair of elongate members hingedly connected together. The fastener holder is moveable from a folded position, in which the elongate members substantially overlie each other, to an unfolded position in which the elongate members are angularly spaced-apart relative to each other.

Description

Agent's Ref. 5439P03CA
BIT AND FASTENER HOLDER ASSEMBLY FOR A POWER TOOL
Field of the Invention [0001] There is provided a bit and fastener holder assembly. In particular, there is provided a bit and fastener holder assembly for a power tool.
Description of the Related Art

[0002] United States Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0104735 to Zeller et al.
discloses carrying systems, connecting systems and methods. The system connects a power tool and a component. In some constructions and in some aspects, the power tool includes a housing and a U-shaped receptacle defined by the housing. In some constructions and in some aspects, the component includes a stud selectively engageable with the receptacle to connect the power tool and the component. A locking mechanism is positioned within the receptacle and includes a cam. The locking mechanism is engageable with the stud to restrict movement of the stud with respect to the receptacle.
The stud includes a recess at an end of the stud. The cam is selectively engageable with the recess to retain the stud within the receptacle. The cam is movable between a locked position and a released position. In the locked position, the cam extends into the recess and engages the stud. In the released position, the cam is retracted from the recess and is disengaged with the stud.

[0003] United States Patent No. 6,496,094 to May, III discloses a magnet clamp for use with a hand tool. The patent discloses a magnet that can be reversibly attached to an existing commercially-available hand-held tool without modification of the tool. This thereby provides a way to securely hold various small metal items associated with said hand tool, while making said items readily available for use. Drill bits, saw blades, nails, screws, bolts, tacks, chuck keys, or any small objects made of or alloyed with a ferromagnetic substance such as iron or steel may be securely held by the magnet clamp.
The device may be manufactured from common items, including an automotive hose clamp, and from common operations, such as soldering and gluing.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0004] There are accordingly provided herein improved bit and fastener holder assemblies for power tools.

[0005] According to one aspect, there is provided a bit holder assembly for a power tool. The assembly includes an elongate strap shaped to extend around and selectively couple to a portion of the power tool. The assembly includes a bit holder. The assembly includes a male member and a female member shaped to selectively receive and couple with the male member. A first one of the members operatively connects to and extends outwards from the strap. A second one of the members connects to and extends outwards from the bit holder.

[0006] According to another aspect, there is provided a bit holder assembly for a power tool. The assembly includes an elongate strap shaped to extend around and selectively couple to a portion of the power tool. The strap has a pair of longitudinal edge portions. The assembly includes a bit holder and a mounting member connectable with the bit holder. The mounting member has a pair of brackets each of which receives a respective one of the longitudinal edge portions of the strap.

[0007] According to a further aspect, there is provided a bit holder assembly for a power tool. The power tool has a slot for receiving a belt clip adjacent to a bottom portion thereof. The assembly includes a bit holder. The assembly includes a bracket connectable with the bit holder and the slot of the power tool.

[0008] According to yet a further aspect, there is provided a bit holder assembly for connecting to a bottom portion of a power tool. The assembly includes a bracket shaped to couple to the power tool. The assembly includes a bit holder having a top, a plurality of longitudinally spaced-apart sockets extending downwards from said top, a rear connectable to the bracket, and a front opposite the rear. The front faces outwards from the power tool when the bit holder is connected thereto. The assembly includes a fastener holder coupled to the front of the bit holder. The fastener holder includes a pair of elongate members hingedly connected together. The fastener holder is moveable from a folded position, in which the elongate members substantially overlie each other, to an unfolded position in which the elongate members are angularly spaced-apart relative to each other.

[0009] According to yet another aspect, there is provided a bit holder assembly for connecting to a power tool. The assembly includes a bit holder connectable to the power tool. The bit holder has a plurality of sockets and a front facing outwards from the power tool when the bit holder is coupled thereto. The assembly includes a fastener holder coupled to the front of the bit holder. The fastener holder includes a pair of elongate members hingedly connected together. The fastener holder is moveable from a folded position, in which the elongate members substantially overlie each other, to an unfolded position in which the elongate members are angularly spaced-apart relative to each other.

[0010] According to an additional aspect, there is provided a foldable fastener holder for a power tool. The fastener holder includes a pair of elongate members hingedly connected together. The elongate members are moveable from a folded position, in which the elongate members substantially overlie each other, to an unfolded position in which the elongate members are angularly spaced-apart relative to each other. A
first of the elongate members has at least one aperture extending therethrough. The fastener holder includes at least one magnet coupled to a second of the elongate members. The at least one magnet is shaped to at least partially extend through the at least one aperture of the first of the elongate members when the elongate members are in the folded position.

[0011] According to an even further aspect, there is provided a foldable fastener holder for a power tool. The fastener holder includes a pair of elongate members hingedly connected together. The elongate members are moveable from a folded position, in which the elongate members substantially overlie each other, to an unfolded position in which the elongate members are angularly spaced-apart relative to each other. The fastener holder includes a pair of spaced-apart magnets coupled to a first of the elongate members and aleast one magnet coupled to a second of the elongate members. The at least one magnet of the second of the elongate members is interposed between the magnets of the first of the elongate members when the pair of elongate members are in the folded position.

[0012] There is yet additionally provided, in combination, a power tool and any one of the above set out bit holder assemblies.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] The invention will be more readily understood from the following description of preferred embodiments thereof given, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a top, side perspective view of a power tool together with a magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly connected thereto, according to a first aspect, the assembly including a strap, a mounting member connected thereto, a bit holder and a fastener holder;
Figure 2 is a side perspective view of the magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly of Figure I, with the bit holder and the fastener holder being removed and not shown;
Figure 3 is a rear elevation view of the bit holder of Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 4 ¨4 of the bit holder of Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a front elevation view of the fastener holder of Figure 1;
Figure 6 is a rear elevation view of the fastener holder of Figure 5;
Figure 7 is a sectional view taken along lines 7 ¨ 7 of the fastener holder of Figure 6;
Figure 8 is a top, side perspective view of the magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 9 is a rear elevation view of a strap and a mounting member for a magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly according to a second aspect, the strap being shown in fragment;
Figure 10 is a sectional view taken along lines 10 ¨ 10 of the mounting member of Figure 9;
Figure 11 is a front elevation view of the strap and mounting member of Figure 9, the strap being shown in fragment;
Figure 12 is a top perspective view of the strap and mounting member of Figure together with a bit holder of the assembly connected thereto, the strap being shown in fragment;
Figure 13 is a front elevation view of a strap and a mounting member for a magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly according to a third aspect, the strap being shown in fragment;
Figure 14 is a top, side perspective view of a power tool and the magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly of Figure 13, with the bit holder laying on its side and being spaced-apart from the mounting member and with the power tool being shown in fragment;

Figure 15 is a top, side perspective view of a power tool together with a bit and fastener holder assembly connected thereto, according to a fourth aspect, the assembly including a strap, a bit holder and a fastener holder, the fastener holder being shown in a closed, folded position;
Figure 16 is a top, side perspective view of the strap of the assembly of Figure 15;
Figure 17 is a rear, top perspective view of the bit holder of the assembly of Figure 15;
Figure 18 is a front, top perspective view of the bit holder of the assembly of Figure 15;
Figure 19 is a rear elevation view of the fastener holder of the assembly of Figure 15, the fastener holder being shown in an open, fully unfolded position;
Figure 20 is a front elevation view of the fastener holder of the assembly of Figure 15, the fastener holder being shown in an open, partially unfolded position and being shown coupled to the bit holder of the assembly of Figure 15;
Figure 21 is a front elevation view of the fastener holder of the assembly of Figure 15, the fastener holder being shown in the closed, folded position and being shown coupled to the bit holder of the assembly of Figure 15;
Figure 22 is a top, side perspective view of the strap of the assembly of Figure 15, with the bit holder coupled thereto, and with the fastener holder coupled to the bit holder and being shown in a partially unfolded position;
Figure 23 is a top, front perspective view of a power tool together with a bit and fastener holder assembly connected thereto, according to a fifth aspect, the assembly including a strap, a bit holder coupled to the strap on a first side of the strap, and a fastener holder coupled to the strap on a second side of the strap, the fastener holder being shown in a closed, folded position, and the power tool being shown in fragment;
Figure 24 is a top, side perspective view of the strap of the assembly of Figure 23;
Figure 25 is a top, side perspective view of a power tool together with a bit and fastener holder assembly connected thereto, according to a sixth aspect, the assembly including a bit holder and a bracket connecting the bit holder and the power tool together;
Figure 26 is a rear, bottom perspective view of the bit holder and bracket of the assembly of Figure 25;
Figure 27 is a front, side perspective view of the bit holder and bracket of the assembly of Figure 25;
Figure 28 is a front elevation view of the bottom portion of the power tool of Figure 25, the power tool being shown in fragment;
Figure 29 is a front elevation view of the bottom portion of the power tool of Figure 25 with the bit holder of Figure 25 coupled thereto, the power tool being shown in fragment;
Figure 30 is a front, side perspective view of a bit holder and bracket of a bit and fastener holder assembly according to a seventh aspect, with a fastener holder thereof not being shown;
Figure 31 is a front, top perspective view of the bit holder and bracket of the bit and fastener holder assembly of Figure 30, with the fastener holder of the assembly being shown coupled to the bit holder and being shown in an open, partially unfolded position;

Figure 32 is a front elevation view of the bottom portion of a power tool for a bit and fastener holder assembly according to an eighth aspect, the power tool being shown in fragment;
Figure 33 is a front elevation view of the lottom portion of the power tool of Figure 32 and a bracket of the bit and fastener holder assembly according to the eighth aspect coupled thereto, the power tool being shown in fragment;
Figure 34 is a front, side perspective view of the bracket of the assembly of Figure 32;
Figure 35 is a rear, side perspective view of the bracket of the assembly of Figure 32;
Figure 36 is a front, side perspective view of the bracket of the assembly of Figure 32, with a bit holder connected thereto and a fastener holder coupled to the bit holder;
Figure 37 is an exploded, side perspective view of a bit and fastener holder assembly according to a ninth aspect;
Figure 38 is a rear, top perspective view of the assembly of Figure 37, with the assembly being shown as assembled;
Figure 39 is a front perspective view of the assembly of Figure 38;
Figure 40 is a top, rear perspective fragmented view of the bottom portion of a power tool, together with a top, side perspective view of the assembly of Figures 37 to 39 coupled thereto, the assembly including a fastener holder comprising a pair of elongate members hingedly connected together, with the elongate members being shown in an unfolded position; and Figure 41 is a top, side perspective fragmented view of the bottom portion of the power tool of Figure 40, together with a top, front perspective view of the assembly of Figures 37 to 40 coupled thereto, with the elongate members of the fastener holder being shown in a folded position.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] Referring to the drawings and first to Figure 1, there is shown a bit and fastener holder assembly 20 for a power tool 22. The power tool has a first side 23 and a second side 25 opposite the first side. The power tool 22 includes a battery pack 24 at a bottom portion 26 thereof. The power tool is a standard off-the-shelf rechargeable power drill in this example and is well known to those skilled in the art. Its parts and various functions will thus not be described in further detail.

[0015] The bit and fastener holder assembly 20 includes an elongate member, in this example a hose clamp 29. As seen in Figure 2, the clamp includes a fastening strap 28 which is hoop-like in this example. The strap has a longitudinally-extending length L and a width WsT. The strap is generally rectangular in shape when viewed from the top in this example and extends around a central aperture 30. Referring back to Figure 1, the strap 28 is shaped to selectively connect to and extend around a portion of the power tool 22, in this example, its battery pack 24. The hose clamp 29 has a fastening mechanism in this example in the form of a screw-type adjustment mechanism 32 for selectively adjusting the size of aperture 30 seen in Figure 2.

[0016] As seen in Figure 2, the strap 28 has a pair of spaced-apart sides 38 and 40 which extend in the longitudinal direction of the strap in this example. The sides of the strap are configured to abut and extend along spaced-apart sides of the battery pack. This is seen in Figure 1 by side 40 of strap 28 abutting side 42 of the battery pack 24.
Adjustment mechanism 32 is positioned between sides 38 and 40 of the strap and is located at a rear 54 of the battery pack 24. Side 38 of the strap aligns with side 23 of the power tool 22 in this example and side 40 of the strap aligns with side 25 of the power tool in this example. Referring back to Figure 2, the strap 28 has a pair of longitudinal edges 34 and 36 that extend in parallel with the length L thereof.

[0017] There are a plurality of spaced-apart threaded apertures 44 extending through sides 38 and 40 of the strap. The apertures are spaced-apart along the lengths of the sides 38 and 40 of the strap. The apertures 44 in this example are the apertures of respective nuts 46 coupled to the sides of the strap via an elastomeric material, in this example electrical tape 48; alternatively, heat-shrinkable tubing may be used. The elastomeric material and/or tubing may promote enhanced coupling of the strap 28 to the power tool 22 and may inhibit scratching of the power tool. The nuts abut interior surfaces 50 of strap 28 in this example. Alternatively they may be embedded within the strap.
The strap 28 includes an exterior surface 52 opposite its interior surface.

[0018] Referring to Figure 2, the assembly 20 has a pair of spaced-apart mounting members 56 and 58 connected to the exterior surfaces 52 of respective ones of the sides 38 and 40 of the strap 28. Each of the mounting members is substantially the same in parts and functions in this example and thus only mounting member 58 will be described in detail. Each of the mounting members includes a mounting plate in this example, as shown by mounting plate 60 for member 58. The plates are elongated and rectangular prisms in shape in this example. Each of the mounting plates 60 has an upper peripheral edge portion 61 which is adjacent to and aligns with longitudinal edge 34 of strap 28.
Each of the mounting plates has a lower peripheral edge portion 63 spaced-apart below portion 61 and which is adjacent to and aligned with longitudinal edge 36 of the strap.

[0019] The mounting plates 60 couple to respective ones of the sides of the strap via a pair of spaced-apart fasteners in this example, in this case in the form of bolts 62 and 64. The bolts extend through mounting plate 60 and couple with corresponding nuts 46.
Each of the bolts has a head, or male member or protrusion, as shown by protruding head 66 for bolt 62. Thus, each of the mounting members in this example may be said to include a pair of spaced-apart male members or protrusions. The heads 66 of the bolts are hemispherical in shape in this example. However, this is not strictly required and the heads of the bolts may have other shapes in other embodiments.

[0020] As seen in Figure 1, the assembly 20 includes a first bit holder 68. The bit holder is a rectangular prism in shape in this example. Referring to Figure 8, the bit holder 68 includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced-apart sockets 70 extending downwards from top 72 thereof. As seen in Figure 4, each of the sockets 70 has an interior 69 and is shaped to receive a bit for the power tool 22, as shown by bit 74, within its interior. Each of the sockets 70 is slightly larger in cross-section than that of the bit 74 received therein. This is shown by socket 70 having a socket width Wso which is larger than the bit width WB of bit 74. This inhibits any friction between the bit and socket and enables the bit to be readily received within or removed from the socket.

[0021] The bit holder 68 is configured to be magnetic at least in part in this example such that the bits 74 may magnetically couple to the bit holder via the sockets. In this example, the first bit holder 68 includes a plurality of magnets disposed within respective ones of the sockets, as seen by magnet 71 disposed within interior 69 of socket 70 in Figure 4. The magnets are positioned adjacent to bottom 73 of the bit holder in this example. The magnets 71 are configured to magnetically couple with and hold in place respective ones of the bits 74. The magnets draw the bits thereto when the bits are positioned adjacent to the magnets.

[0022] The top 72 and bottom of the bit holder are rectangular in shape in this example, as seen with references to Figures 1 and 8. Referring to Figure I, the bit holder has a front 75 that faces outwards from the power tool 22. As seen in Figure 3, the bit holder 68 includes a rear 76 opposite the front thereof. The front and rear are rectangular in this example and extend between the top 72 and bottom 73 of the bit holder.
The rear 76 of the bit holder 68 is configured to face and abut its corresponding mounting plate 60 seen in Figure 2. As seen in Figure 1, the bit holder has a pair of ends 77 and 79 which extend between front 75 and rear 76 thereof and which extend between top 72 and bottom 73 thereof. The ends of the bit holder are rectangular in this example.

[0023] As seen in Figure 3, the assembly 20 includes a pair of spaced-apart female members that are annular members in this example, and in this case in the form of washers 78 and 80. The washers are coupled to and extend from the rear 76 of the bit holder 68. The washers 78 and 80 are made of metal and are ferromagnetic in this example. The washers are shaped to selectively receive and magnetically connect to respective ones of the heads 66 of the bolts 62 and 64 seen in Figure 2. In this manner, bit holder 68 seen in Figure 3 may selectively connect to one of the sides 38 and 40 of the strap 28. As seen in Figure 1, the bit holder may thus selectively connect to the battery pack 24 of power tool 22 at side 25 of the power tool 22 in this example. The bit holder 68 so shaped and configured thus extends along and in parallel with side 25 of the power tool in a compact manner.

[0024] Referring now to Figures 5 and 6, the assembly 20 includes a second holder, which is capable of holding either a bit or fastener and which may thus be referred to either a bit holder or a fastener holder, but which in this case will be referred to as a fastener holder 82 going forward. As seen in Figure 5, the fastener holder has a top 83, bottom 85 spaced-apart from the top, and a pair of spaced-apart ends 87 and 89.

[0025] Referring to Figure 6, the fastener holder includes an inner portion configured to face the strap 28 of the assembly 20 as seen in Figure 8. The fastener holder 82 includes an outer portion 86, best seen in Figure 5, which is coupled to the inner portion. Each of the inner and outer portions of the fastener holder 82 is rectangular in profile in this example and made of fabric in this example.

[0026] As seen in Figure 7, the peripheral portions 88 of the inner and outer portions 84 and 86 are coupled together in this example via stitching 90 shown in Figure 6.
Stitching 92 connects inner and outer portions 84 and 86 together along the longitudinal centerline 93 of the holder 82. As seen in Figure 7, the fastener holder 82 includes a pair of longitudinally-extending interior regions 94 and 96 located above and below stitching 92. The assembly 20 includes a pair of longitudinally extending magnets, in this case an upper magnet 98 and lower magnet 100 in this example. The magnets are positioned within respective ones of interior regions 94 and 96 of the fastener holder 82. The magnets are rectangular prisms in shape in this example. The magnets 98 and 100 are thus interposed between the inner portion 84 and outer portion 86 of the fastener holder 82. The magnets are shown in ghost in Figure 6 and extend between sides 87 and 89.

[0027] As seen in Figure 6, the assembly 20 includes a further pair of spaced-apart female members which are annular members in this example, in this case in the form of washers 102 and 104. The washers are coupled to and extend outwards from the inner portion 84 of the fastener holder 82. The washers 102 and 104 are made of metal and are ferromagnetic in this example. As seen in Figure 7, the washers align with and are spaced-apart along lower magnet 100 in this example. The washers 102 and 104 magnetically couple to the inner portion 84 of the fastener holder 82 and are positioned in place thereon via the lower magnet in this example. Each of the washers is shaped to selectively receive and magnetically connect to one of the heads 66 of the bolts 62 and 64 seen in Figure 2. In this manner, fastener holder 82 seen in Figures 5 and 6 may selectively connect to another of the sides 38 of the strap 28 seen in Figure 8. The fastener holder may thus selectively operatively connect to the battery pack 24 of power tool 22 seen in Figure 1 at side 23 of the power tool 22 in this example. The fastener holder 82 so shaped and configured thus extends along and in parallel with side 23 of the power tool in a compact manner.

[0028] As seen in Figure 5, the fastener holder 82 further comprises a pair of longitudinally spaced-apart corrugated metal sheets 106 and 108 in this example. The sheets are coupled to and extend outwards from the outer portion 86 of the fastener holder. The sheets 106 and 108 extend from top 83 to bottom 85 of the fastener holder.
Sheet 106 is positioned adjacent to end 87 of the fastener holder 82 in this example and sheet 108 is positioned adjacent to end 89 of the fastener holder. The sheets are ferromagnetic in this example. The sheets 106 and 108 have magnets 103 and 105 coupled thereon adjacent to top 83 of the fastener holder 82 in this example.
The magnets are generally cylindrical in shape in this example.

[0029] The sheets 106 and 108 include a plurality of spaced-apart outwardly-convex protrusions 107 and concave channels 109 interposed between respective ones of said channels. The sheets are rectangular in profile in this example and are shaped to receive a plurality of fasteners and bits thereon within their channels 107 and/or therebetween. This is seen in Figure 5 by fastener 110 being received within a respective one of the channels 109 of sheet 106 and by drill bit 112 being received within respective ones of the channels of sheets 106 and 108. Fasteners and bits may also couple directly to the outer portion 86 of the fastener holder 82, as shown by fastener 114 thereon which is magnetically coupled to the outer portion of the fastener holder 82 via magnet 98 seen in Figure 7.

[0030] Figures 9 to 12 show a magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly 20.1 according to a second aspect for the power tool 22 seen in Figure 1. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the assembly 20 shown in Figures 1 to 8 with the addition of decimal extension ".1". Assembly 20.1 is substantially the same as the assembly 20 shown in Figures 1 to 8 with the following exceptions.

[0031] Each of the mounting members 58.1 of the assembly 20.1 is sleeve-like and shaped to extend at least partially around a portion 116 of the strap 28.1.
Each mounting member in this case includes an upper flange 118 which couples to and extends downwards from the upper peripheral edge portion 61.1 thereof. Each mounting member 58.1 includes a lower flange 120 which couples to and extends upwards from the lower peripheral edge portion 63.1 thereof. As seen in Figure 10, the flanges 118 and 120 are v-shaped in cross-section and are integrally connected to and formed with mounting plate 60.1 in this example. As seen in Figure 10, each mounting member 58.1 is thus c-shaped in lateral cross-section. Referring to Figure 9, an elongate, longitudinally extending slot 122 extends between distal ends 124 and 126 of the flanges 118 and 120. The mounting plate 60.1 and flanges are shaped to receive respective ones of the longitudinal edges 34.1 and 36.1 of strap 28.1. The mounting members 58.1 so shaped are selectively extendable about the strap and slidably moveable along the length of the strap.

[0032] Figures 13 and 14 show a magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly 20.2 for a power tool 22.2 according to a third aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the assembly 20.1 shown in Figures 9 to 12 with decimal extension ".2"
replacing decimal extension ".1" and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Assembly 20.2 is substantially the same as the assembly 20.1 shown in Figures 9 to 12 with the exception that, instead of a hose clamp, strap 28.2 is part of a cable tie 128.

[0033] As seen in Figure 13, the cable tie has a fastening mechanism in the form of a pawl 32.2 at a first end 127 of the cable tie. The cable tie has a free, second end 129 spaced-apart from end 127. Strap 28.2 includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced-apart, laterally extending protrusions, in this example gear racks 131 spaced between ends 127 and 129. The cable tie 128 extends about battery pack 24.2 seen in Figure 14 and free end 129 thereof is selectively insertable through the pawl 32.2 seen in Figure 13, with the pawl engaging selective ones of the gear racks in a ratchet manner to couple the cable tie to the bottom portion 26.2 of the power tool 22.2.

[0034] Figures 15 to 22 show a magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly 20.3 according to a fourth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the assembly shown in Figures 1 to 8 with the addition of decimal extension ".3" and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Assembly 20.3 is substantially the same as the assembly 20 shown in Figures 1 to 8 with the following exceptions.

[0035] In this case, bit holder 68.3 seen in Figure 17 selectively couples to strap 28.3 20 seen in Figure 16 via spaced-apart snap fasteners 130 and 132 located along side 40.3 of the strap. Each snap fastener comprises a male member or snap fastener stud, and a female member or snap socket shaped to selectively receive the male member.
The snap fasteners are made of stainless steel in this example. This is seen in Figure 17 by snap fastener stud 66.3 coupled to rear 76.3 of bit holder 68.3 via fastener 134, and seen in Figure 16 by snap socket 136 coupled to exterior surface 52.3 of strap 28.3 via fastener 138.

[0036] As seen in Figure 18, the assembly 20.3 includes a pair of spaced-apart male members, in this example protrusions or knobs 140 and 142 which are magnetic.
The knobs couple to and extend outwards from the front 75.3 of bit holder 68.3.
The knobs are partially spherical in this example. As seen with reference to Figures 17 and 18, knob 140 axially aligns with and is opposite fastener 130 in this example and knob 142 axially aligns with and is opposite fastener 132.

[0037] As seen in Figures 19 to 21, assembly 20.3 includes a foldable fastener holder 82.3 for temporary storage of metal screws, nails, washers, bolts, nuts, bit tip holders, drills and the like. The holder comprises a pair of elongate members 144 and hingedly connected together via hinge 149 located at centerline 93.3. The elongate members are flat, rectangular and rigid plates made of metal which is ferromagnetic, in this example. Fastener holder 82.3 is moveable from a folded position seen in Figure 21, in which the elongate members 144 and 146 overlie each other, to a partially unfolded position seen in Figure 20, in which the elongate members are angularly spaced-apart relative to each other.

[0038] As seen in Figure 19, inner portion 84.3 of elongate member 144 is shaped to selectively magnetically couple to the knobs 140 and 142 of bit holder 68.3 seen in Figure 18 via a pair of spaced-apart female members, in this example annular members, in this case washers 148 and 150. The washers are made of metal and are ferromagnetic in this example. Referring back to Figure 19, washer 148 is positioned adjacent to end 89.3 of the fastener holder 82.3 in this example.

[0039] The inner portion 84.3 of elongate member 144 also includes a pair of spaced-apart male members, in this case snap fastener studs 152 and 154. These snap fastener studs are configured to selectively connect directly to the snap fastener sockets 136 of the snap fasteners 130 and 132 of the strap 28.3 seen in Figure 16. The snap fastener studs 152 and 154 are coupled to elongate member 144 via fasteners 156 in this example. As seen in Figure 19, snap fastener stud 154 is positioned adjacent to end 87.3 of the fastener holder 82.3 in this example. Snap fastener stud 152 is interposed between washers 148 and 150 in this example and washer 150 is interposed between snap fastener studs 152 and 154. Fastener holder 82.3 is thus configured in this example to have an alternating arrangement of respective washers and snap fastener studs coupled to and extending outwards from the inner portion 84.3 of elongate member 144.

[0040] Thus, as seen in Figure 15, fastener holder 82.3 in this embodiment is configured to either selectively couple to bit holder 68.3 via washers 148 and 150 of the fastener holder seen in Figure 19 coupling to knobs 140 and 142 of the bit holder seen in Figure 18, or alternatively selectively couple directly to strap 28.3 via snap fastener studs 152 and 154 of the fastener holder seen in Figure 19 coupling to snap fastener sockets 136 of the strap. The former may be useful, for example, where a work task requires many fasteners and frequent changing of bits, whereas the latter may be useful, for example, for a work task in which only one bit is needed.

[0041] Referring to Figure 20, the assembly 20.3 includes a pair of spaced-apart nuts 157 and 158 abutting the outer portion 86.3 of elongate member 144 of the fastener holder 82.3 in this example. The nuts 157 and 158 couple to the threaded ends 145 of respective ones of the fasteners 156 which position in place the snap fastener studs 152 and 154 seen in Figure 19 in this example. As seen in Figure 20, nut 157 is positioned adjacent to end 87.3 of the fastener holder 82.3 in this example.

[0042] The elongate member 144 includes a further pair of annular members, in this example annular magnets 159 and 160 coupled to and extending outwards from the outer portion 86.3 thereof. As seen in Figure 20, the magnets are configured to receive fasteners 179 and the like. Magnet 159 has a centrally-disposed circular aperture 175 extending therethrough in this example and magnet 160 has a centrally-disposed circular aperture 177 extending therethrough. Aperture 175 is smaller than aperture 177 in this example. Magnet 160 is positioned adjacent to end 89.3 of the fastener holder 82.3 in this example and is axially aligned adjacent to and opposite washer 148 seen in Figure 19.
Referring back to Figure 20, magnet 159 is interposed between nuts 157 and 158 in this example and is axially aligned adjacent to and opposite washer 150 seen in Figure 19. As seen in Figure 20, nut 158 is interposed between magnets 159 and 160.

[0043] Fastener holder 82.3 includes a pair of spaced-apart magnets 151 and 153 coupled to elongate member 146 of the fastener holder 82.3 and aligned along upper peripheral edge portion 155 thereof. Each of the magnets is a rectangular prism in shape in this example and is configured to magnetically couple with drill bits 181 according to one preferred example; however, the magnets may also receive bit tip holders, fasteners and the like. The magnets are positioned such that when the fastener holder 82.3 is in its folded position seen in Figure 21, magnet 151 seen in Figure 20 is adjacent to and interposed between nut 157 and magnet 175, and magnet 153 is adjacent to and interposed between nut 158 and magnet 160.

[0044] As seen in Figure 22, the fastener holder 82.3 may be coupled to bit holder 68.3 upside down, with elongate member 146 generally extending outwards from elongate member 144. In this configuration the fastener holder may function as a base support bracket so that a large amount of hardware, such as screws 147, may be stored on the elongate members without falling therefrom.

[0045] As seen in Figure 20, elongate member 146 of fastener holder 82.3 has a pair of spaced-apart apertures 161 and 162 extending therethrough. The apertures are circular in this example, with aperture 162 being adjacent to end 89.3 of the fastener holder 82.3.
As seen in Figure 21, magnets 159 and 160 are shaped to at least partially extend through apertures 161 and 162, respectively, when the fastener holder is in its folded position in which elongate member 146 abuts elongate member 144 seen in Figure 20. The fastener holder 82.3 so shaped may enable the same to be folded in a more compact manner, for example. The fastener holder connects to bit holder 68.3 in a manner whereby elongate member 146 is selectively extendable upwards therefrom, as seen in and from the perspective of Figure 20, or downwards therefrom, as seen in and from the perspective of Figure 22. In this manner the effective storage area of the fastener holder 82.3 upon which fasteners, bits and the like are magnetically connectable, may be effectively enlarged or doubled as needed, and thereafter reduced to a compact form when such an enlarged area is no longer required for a given work task.

[0046] Figures 23 and 24 show a magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly 20.4 according to a fifth aspect for a power tool 22.4. Like parts have like numbers and .. functions as the assembly 20.3 shown in Figures 15 to 22 with decimal extension ".4"
replacing decimal extension ".3" and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Assembly 20.4 is substantially the same as the assembly 20.3 shown in Figures 15 to 22 with the following exceptions.

[0047] As seen in Figure 24, assembly 20.4 includes a further pair of spaced-apart .. snap fastener sockets 183 and 185 in this example coupled to and extending outwards from side 38.4 of strap 28.4. The snap fastener sockets are configured to couple with the corresponding snap fastener studs of bit holder 68.4 seen in Figure 23 in a like manner as described in Figures 15 to 22 for assembly 20.3. The bit holder may thus be positioned on side 25.4 of the power tool 22.4 in this embodiment.

[0048] Referring to Figure 24, snap fastener sockets 136.4 extending outwards from side 40.4 of strap 28.4 are configured to receive snap fastener studs of fastener holder 82.4 seen in Figure 23. The fastener holder may thus be positioned on side 23.4 of the power tool 22.4 in this example.

[0049] Straps 28 to 28.4 of Figures 1 to 24 so configured may enable assemblies 20 to 20.4 to be universally connectable to and compatible with a large variety of power tools of different types, models, brands and shape.

[0050] Figures 25 to 29 show a magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly 20.5 according to a sixth aspect for a power tool 22.5. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the assembly 20.3 shown in Figures 15 to 22 with decimal extension ".5"
replacing decimal extension ".3" and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Assembly 20.5 is substantially the same as the assembly 20.3 shown in Figures 15 to 22 with the following exceptions.

[0051] As seen in Figure 28, power tool 22.5 has a slot 166 for receiving a belt clip (not shown). The slot is located adjacent to the bottom portion 24.5 of the power tool.
The slot 166 extends from side 23.5 of the power tool 22.5 towards side 25.5 of the power tool seen in Figure 25. As seen in Figure 28, the power tool 22.5 further includes a fastener 167 that is selectively connectable to the power tool at a location 169 adjacent to and below slot 166 in this example.

[0052] As best seen in Figures 26 and 27, the assembly 20.5 includes a bracket 168 coupled to and extending outwards from the bit holder 68.5. In this example, the bracket couples to and extends upwards from top 72.5 of the bit holder. Also in this example the bracket 168 couples to the rear 76.5 of the bit holder 68.5 via a pair of spaced-apart fasteners, in this example screws 191 and 193 which threadably couple to female members in the form of nuts 195 and 197. As seen in Figure 27, the screws have heads 199 and 201 that abut the front 75.5 of the bit holder 68.5 in this example.

[0053] The bracket 168 extends from the rear of the bit holder in this example and is L-shaped in side cross-section, with a vertically-extending portion 170 coupled to and extending from the bit holder and a horizontally-extending portion 172 coupled to and extending outwards from portion 170. As seen in Figure 29, portion 170 of the bracket 168 longitudinally aligns with and is adjacent to head 199 of screw 191 in this example.
Portion 170 of the bracket is adjacent to end 79.5 of the bit holder in this example.

[0054] Referring to Figure 26, portion 172 of the bracket is generally a rectangular prism in shape in this example. Portion 172 of the bracket 168 is shaped to be selectively inserted within slot 166, as seen in Figure 25.

[0055] As seen in Figure 27, portion 170 of the bracket is an elongate s-shape in cross-section and includes an outwardly extending bend 171 as the bracket 168 extends from portion 172 thereof to bit holder 68.5. Portion 170 of the bracket is slightly outwardly concave and has an aperture 174 extending therethrough. As seen in Figure 29, portion 170 of the bracket 168 is shaped to extend laterally upwards from and perpendicular to battery pack 24.5 in this example. Portion 170 of the bracket is selectively connectable to the power tool 22.5 via a fastener, in this example a screw 167 which partially extends through aperture 174 seen in Figure 27 and threadably connects to the power tool. As seen in Figure 29, the bracket 168 is thus shaped to position bit holder 68.5 adjacent to and along side 42.5 of the battery pack 24.5.

[0056] Heads 199 and 201 of screws 191 and 193 may be used for connecting other holders thereon, such as fastener holder 82.3 seen in Figure 22 in a manner substantially similar as has been previously described.

[0057] Figures 30 and 31 show a magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly 20.6 according to a seventh aspect for the power tool 22.5 seen in Figure 25. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the assembly 20.5 shown in Figures 25 to 29 with decimal extension ".6" replacing decimal extension ".5" and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Assembly 20.6 is substantially the same as the assembly 20.5 shown in Figures 25 to 29 with the exception that bit holder 68.6, seen in Figure 30, has a pair of spaced-apart knobs 140.6 and 142.6 extending from front 75.6 thereof.
The knobs are substantially similar to knobs 140 and 142 seen in Figure 18 for assembly 20.3.
Knobs 140.6 and 142.6 selectively couple with washers 148.6 and 150.6 of fastener holder 82.5 seen in Figure 31.

[0058] Figures 32 to 36 show a magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly 20.7 and a power tool 22.7 according to an eighth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the assembly 20.5 shown in Figures 25 to 29 with decimal extension ".7"
replacing decimal extension ".5" and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Assembly 20.7 is substantially the same as the assembly 20.5 shown in Figures 25 to 29 with the following exceptions.

[0059] As seen in Figure 33, bracket 168.7 is T-shaped in this example in front profile. The bracket includes a lower portion 176 that is a plate-like rectangular prism in shape in this example. The lower portion of the bracket 168.7 aligns with and generally extends in parallel with side 42.7 of battery pack 24.7.

[0060] Assembly 20.7 includes a pair of spaced-apart connectors, in this example female members, in this case snap fastener sockets 130.7 and 132.7. The fastener sockets couple to and extend outwards from an outer surface 189 of portion 176 of the bracket 168.7. The snap fastener sockets 130.7 and 132.7 enable bit holder 68.7 or fastener holder 82.7 seen in Figure 36 to selectively couple to bracket 168.7 via respective ones of the corresponding snap fastener studs of the holders. The manner in which the bit holder and fastener holder otherwise connect and operate is substantially similar to that described in Figures 15 to 22 and thus will not be described in further detail.

[0061] As seen in Figure 34, portion 170.7 of bracket 168.7 is integrally connected to, integrally formed with and extends upwards from portion 176 of the bracket in this example. Portion 170.7 of the bracket couples to portion 172.7 of the bracket.
As seen in Figure 36, portion 170.7 of the bracket is an elongate s-shape in cross-section in this example and includes a bend 171.7 as the bracket 168.7 extends from portion 172.7 thereof downwardly to bit holder 68.7. Portion 170.7 of the bracket has an aperture 174.7 extending therethrough for receiving fastener 167.7 seen in Figure 32. As seen in Figure 33, the fastener threadably couples bracket 168.7 to the bottom portion 26.7 of power tool 22.7.

[0062] Referring to Figure 34, portion 170.7 of bracket 168.7 is centrally disposed relative to and extends upwards from portion 176 of the bracket in this example. As seen in Figure 33, snap fastener sockets 130.7 and 132.7 are positioned on portion 176 of the bracket to the left and right, respectively, of portion 170.7 of the bracket and slot 166.7 in this example.

[0063] Figures 37 to 41 show a magnetic bit and fastener holder assembly 20.8 and a power tool 22.8 according to a ninth aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the assembly 20.5 shown in Figures 25 to 29 with decimal extension ".8"
replacing decimal extension ".5" and being added for parts not previously having a decimal extension. Assembly 20.8 is substantially the same as the assembly 20.5 shown in Figures 25 to 29 with the following exceptions.

[0064] As seen in Figure 37, bracket 168.8 comprises a base member, in this example a base plate 190. The base plate is rectangular in this example and shaped to extend along the rear 76.8 of the bit holder 68.6. The base plate 190 has a pair of spaced-apart apertures 200 and 202 extending therethrough.

[0065] The bracket 168.8 includes a vertically-extending portion 192 which is also rectangular in this example and which couples to base plate 190 via horizontally-extending portion 172.8. As seen in Figure 40, the vertically-extending portion 192 of the bracket 168.8 is shaped to abut and extend along the power tool along side 23.8 of the power tool adjacent to the bottom portion 26.8 of the power tool and adjacent to battery pack 24.8 of the power tool.

[0066] Referring back to Figure 37, the assembly 20.8 includes a pair of fasteners .. 167.8 and 198 and portion 192 of the bracket has a pair of spaced-apart apertures 194 and 196 extending therethrough which are shaped to receive the fasteners. As seen in Figure 40, the fasteners in this example are parts of power tool 22.8 used for connecting to a belt clip (not shown). Portion 192 of the bracket 168.8 selectively couples to the power tool via fasteners 167.8 and 198.

[0067] As seen in Figure 37, bit holder 68.8 has a pair of spaced-apart side apertures 204 and 206 which extend from the front 75.8 through to the rear 76.8 thereof.
The side apertures of the bit holder align with respective ones of the apertures 200 and 202 of the base plate 190 of the bracket 168.8 in this example.

[0068] As seen in Figure 39, annular magnets of 159.8 and 160.8 couple to elongate member 144.8 of fastener holder 82.8 via fasteners 191.8 and 193.8. The fasteners partially extend through apertures 175.8 and 177.8 of the magnets, with the heads 199.8 and 201.8 of the fasteners being shaped to abut the magnets. Referring to Figure 37, the fasteners 191.8 and 193.8 are shaped to extend through apertures 204 and 206 of the bit holder 68.8 and apertures 200 and 202 of the base plate 190 of bracket 168.8, with nuts 195.8 and 197.8 seen in Figure 38 engaging with threaded ends of the fasteners. In this manner and as seen in Figure 38, assembly 20.8 thus comprises fastener holder 82.8, bit holder 68.8 and bracket 168.8 coupled together via fasteners 191.8 and 193.8 in this example.

[0069] Referring to Figure 39, magnets 151.8 and 153.8 of elongate member 146.8 of the fastener holder are annular in this example and couple to the elongate member via fasteners 208 and 210. The fasteners partially extend through respective ones of the apertures 212 and 214 of the magnets in this example. Magnet 151.8 is positioned adjacent to end 87.8 of the fastener holder 82.8 in this example. Magnet 153.8 is positioned between ends 87.8 and 89.8 of the fastener holder, between apertures 161.8 and 162.8 of elongate member 146.8 and between magnets 159.8 and 160.8 of elongate member 144.8 in this example.

[0070] As seen in Figure 37, upper peripheral edge portion 155.8 of the fastener holder 82.8 extends angularly outwards from elongate member 146.8 and in this example is ledge-shaped and arcuate-shaped in side profile. Referring to Figure 41, the edge portion of the fastener holder is shaped to further promote retention of bits 181.8 and the like on the fastener holder.

[0071]
The magnets described herein are rare earth, strong magnets in this example.
However, this is not strictly required and other magnets may be used in other embodiments.

[0072]
It will be appreciated that many variations are possible within the scope of the invention described herein. For example, while the assemblies described herein disclose male members extending from the mounting member, such male members may alternatively directly extend from the strap. As a further alternative, female members may couple to the mounting member and/or strap and protrusions may couple to and extend from the bit holders, for example.

[0073] Also, when the male and female members are described in the form of snap fasteners, they are strong, marine grade, stainless steel snaps in this example; however, this is not strictly required. For example, if a strong snap attachment is desired, one-way snaps may be used for example, which are configured to separate when pulled away from each other in one particular direction.

[0074] As seen in Figure 15, the coupling fastener holder 82.3 to bit holder 68.3 may result in the other side of the battery being free for users who may prefer a power tool configured in this manner. It also allows the user to use one of the assemblies 20.5 to 20.7 on the other side of the power tool if desired, for example.
ADDITIONAL DESCRIPTION

[0075] Examples of bit and fastener holder assemblies for a power tool have been described. The following clauses are offered as further description.
(1) A bit holder assembly for a power tool, the assembly comprising: an =
elongate strap shaped to extend around and selectively couple to a portion of the power tool; a bit holder; a male member; and a female member shaped to selectively receive and couple with the male member, a first one of the members operatively connecting to and extending outwards from the strap and a second one of the members connecting to and extending outwards from the bit holder.
(2) The bit holder assembly of clause 1 wherein the male member magnetically connects to the female member.
(3) The bit holder assembly of clause 1 wherein the female member is annular and shaped to extend about the male member and wherein the female member and the male member magnetically couple together.
(4) The bit holder assembly of clause 1 wherein the female member is a washer and wherein the male member is a protrusion.
(5) The bit holder assembly of clause 4 wherein the male member is a head of a fastener.
(6) The bit holder assembly of clause 1 wherein the male member and the female member are in the form of a snap fastener, the snap fastener selectively coupling the bit holder to the strap.
(7) The bit holder assembly of clause 1 including a further male member and a further female member, a first one of the further male member and the further female member operatively connecting to and extending outwards from the strap and a second one of the further male member and the further female member connecting to and extending outwards from the bit holder.
(8) The bit holder assembly of clause 1 wherein the bit holder selectively magnetically couples with a plurality of bits.

(9) The bit holder assembly of clause 1 wherein the bit holder is a rectangular prism in shape, wherein the bit holder includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced-apart sockets each being configured to receive a respective one of a plurality of bits, and wherein the bit holder includes a plurality of magnets disposed within respective ones of said sockets for selectively magnetically coupling to said bits.
(10) The bit holder assembly of clause 1 wherein the bit holder includes a magnetized corrugated metal sheet shaped to receive at least in part bits and fasteners.
(11) The bit holder assembly of clause 1 wherein the bit holder comprises a pair of elongate members hingedly connected together, the bit holder being moveable from a folded position, in which the elongate members substantially overlie each other, to an unfolded position in which the elongate members are angularly spaced-apart relative to each other.
(12) The bit holder assembly of clause 1 wherein the bit holder has a rear which couples to the strap and a front opposite the rear, and wherein the assembly further includes a fastener holder that is selectively connectable to the front of the bit holder.
(13) The bit holder assembly of clause 1 wherein the strap has a first side and a second side and wherein the strap is configured to selectively couple with one or more bit holders at either of the sides thereof via snap fasteners.
(14) A bit holder assembly for a power tool, the assembly comprising: an elongate strap shaped to extend around and selectively couple to a portion of the power tool, the strap having a pair of longitudinal edge portions; a bit holder; and a mounting member connectable with the bit holder and having a pair of brackets each of which receives a respective one of the longitudinal edge portions of the strap.
(15) In combination, a power tool and the bit holder assembly of any one of clauses 1 to 14.

[0076] It will be understood by someone skilled in the art that many of the details provided above are by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention which is to be determined with reference to at least the following claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A bit holder assembly for connecting to a power tool, the assembly comprising:
a bit holder connectable to the power tool, the bit holder having a plurality of sockets and the bit holder having a front facing outwards from the power tool when the bit holder is coupled thereto; and a fastener holder coupled to the front of the bit holder, the fastener holder including a pair of elongate members hingedly connected together, and the fastener holder being moveable from a folded position, in which the elongate members substantially overlie each other, to an unfolded position in which the elongate members are angularly spaced-apart relative to each other.

2. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the assembly is for connecting to a bottom portion of the power tool.

3. The assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the bit holder has a top, and wherein the sockets are longitudinally spaced-apart and extend downwards from the top of the bit holder.

4. The bit holder assembly as claimed in claim 1 to 3 wherein the bit holder is a rectangular prism in shape.

5. The assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the bit holder has a rear opposite the front thereof and wherein the assembly further includes a bracket shaped to couple to the power tool, the rear of the bit holder being connectable to the bracket.

6. The bit holder assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein the bracket is L-shaped.

'7. The bit holder assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein the bracket is t-shaped.

8. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 7, further including a fastener which couples the bracket to the power tool.

9. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 7 wherein the fastener holder, the bit holder and the bracket are coupled together via at least one fastener.

10. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 7 further including at least one snap fastener, the bit holder coupling to the bracket via said at least one snap fastener.

11. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 7 further including a pair of snap fasteners, the bit holder coupling to the bracket via said snap fasteners.

12. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the bit holder includes a first one of a male member and a female member disposed along the front thereof, and wherein the fastener holder includes a second one of the male member and the female member which selectively couples to said first one of the male member and the female member of the bit holder.

13. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein each said socket is shaped to receive a respective bit having a bit width, wherein each said socket has a socket width which is larger that said bit width and wherein the bit holder further includes a plurality of magnets disposed within respective ones of said sockets.

14. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, the power tool having a side and a battery pack, wherein the bit holder is configured to selectively connect to the battery back of the power tool at the side of the power tool, and wherein the bit holder is shaped to extend along and in parallel with the side of the power tool.

15. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the sockets are configured to receive a plurality of bits, and wherein the bit holder includes a plurality of magnets disposed within respective ones of said sockets for selectively magnetically coupling to said bits.

16. The bit holder assembly as claimed in claim 2, the power tool having a slot adjacent to the bottom portion thereof, wherein the bit holder has a rear opposite the front thereof, and wherein the assembly further includes a bracket shaped to couple to the power tool, the rear of the bit holder being connectable to the bracket, and the bracket being shaped to couple to the power tool via the slot.

17. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the fastener holder couples to the front of the bit holder via a first one of said elongate members and wherein the fastener holder connects to the bit holder in a manner whereby a second one of the elongate members is selectively extendable upwards from the first one of the elongate members.

18. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the fastener holder couples to the front of the bit holder via a first one of said elongate members and wherein the fastener holder connects to the bit holder in a manner whereby a second one of the elongate members is selectively extendable downwards from the first one of the elongate members.

19. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the elongate members are ferromagnetic.

20. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein each of the elongate members is a generally rectangular, flat and rigid plate of metal.

21. The bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the fastener holder further includes an outwardly-extending peripheral edge portion shaped to promote retention of bits thereon.

22. The bit holder assembly as claimed in claim 21, wherein the peripheral edge portion of the fastener holder is arcuate-shaped in side profile.

23. In combination, a power tool and the bit holder assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22.

24. A foldable fastener holder for a power tool, the fastener holder comprising:
a pair of elongate members hingedly connected together, the elongate members being moveable from a folded position, in which the elongate members substantially overlie each other, to an unfolded position in which the elongate members are angularly spaced-apart relative to each other, a first of the elongate members having at least one aperture extending therethrough; and at least one magnet coupling to a second of the elongate members, the at least one magnet being shaped to at least partially extend through the at least one aperture of the first of the elongate members when the elongate members are in the folded position.

25. The fastener holder as claimed in claim 24, wherein the elongate members are ferromagnetic.

26. The fastener holder as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 25, wherein each of the elongate members is a generally rectangular, flat and rigid plate of metal.

27. The fastener holder as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 26, further including at least one magnet coupling to the first of the elongate members.

28. The fastener holder as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the fastener holder has an effective storage area and is configured such that fasteners and bits are magnetically connectable thereto, and wherein a first one of the elongate members is selectively extendable upwards from a second one of the elongate members, whereby the effective storage area of the fastener holder is effectively enlarged as needed, and is thereafter reduceable to a compact form when such an enlarged area is no longer required for a given work task.

29. The fastener holder as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the fastener holder has an effective storage area and is configured such that fasteners and bits are magnetically connectable thereto, and wherein a first one of the elongate members is selectively extendable downwards from a second one of the elongate members, whereby the effective storage area of the fastener holder is effectively enlarged as needed, and is thereafter reduceable to a compact form when such an enlarged area is no longer required for a given work task.

30. In combination, a bit holder, at least one fastener and the fastener holder as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein the magnet is annular and has an aperture, wherein the fastener extends through said aperture of the magnet, and wherein the fastener holder and the bit holder are coupled together via the fastener.

31. A foldable fastener holder for a power tool, the fastener holder comprising:
a pair of elongate members hingedly connected together, the elongate members being moveable from a folded position, in which the elongate members substantially overlie each other, to an unfolded position in which the elongate members are angularly spaced-apart relative to each other;
a pair of spaced-apart magnets coupled to a first of the elongate members; and at least one magnet coupled to a second of the elongate members, the at least one magnet of the second of the elongate members being interposed between the magnets of the first of the elongate members when the elongate members are in the folded position.

32. The fastener holder as claimed in claim 31, wherein the first of the elongate members has a peripheral edge portion and wherein the magnets of the first of the elongate members align along said peripheral edge portion.

33. In combination, a power tool and the fastener holder as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 29, 31 and 32.