CN108698216B

CN108698216B - Multi-tool

Info

Publication number: CN108698216B
Application number: CN201680071063.3A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 杰勒德.格朗
Original assignee: Jie LedeGelang
Current assignee: Jie LedeGelang
Priority date: 2015-10-04
Filing date: 2016-10-04
Publication date: 2021-07-02
Anticipated expiration: 2036-10-04
Also published as: EP3383588A1; CN108698216A; EP3383588A4; EP3383588B1; WO2017059519A1; CA2944086A1

Abstract

A multi-tool comprising a chuck having a tool receiving opening and rotatably mounted on a housing, wherein a rotation locking mechanism is interposed between the chuck and the housing. The implements are retained within the housing, and each implement is for pivotal movement between a staggered pivotal orientation in which the handle of the implement is pivotally staggered from the implement receiving opening and an aligned pivotal orientation in which the handle of the implement is pivotally aligned with the implement receiving opening, and for longitudinal movement between a retracted position and a use position. The pivot inducing deflector is disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis of the appliance. Deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the implement by the pivot-inducing deflector causes the implement to pivot from the misaligned pivot orientation to the aligned pivot orientation as the implement moves from its retracted position to its use position to thereby allow the chuck to engage the implement in torque-transmitting relationship.

Description

Multi-tool

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a multi-tool, and more particularly to a ratcheting multi-tool.

Background

Various types of multi-instrument tools, such as screwdrivers, have been widely used by the public for many years. The multiple instrument tool provides a convenient way to make various types of instruments easy to use.

It is known to include ratchet mechanisms in multi-instrument tools. It has been found that one such challenge exists in developing multi-appliance tools: that is, the tool or tool holder is brought into rotational alignment with the chuck, wherein the tool or tool assembly is movable between a retracted position and a use position in which the tool is received in torque transmitting relationship by the chuck.

U.S. patent 6,148,696 issued on 21/11/2000 discloses a ratchet screwdriver having a plurality of bits and including a barrel with a stud engaged into a handle and having a pair of opposed channels for slidably receiving a pair of pawls. A gear is rotatably received in the barrel and has a bore for receiving various types of drive rods. A spring is engaged on the barrel and has two end beads engaged with the pawl for biasing the pawl into engagement with the gear. The barrel includes an arcuate slot for receiving an actuator engaged in the arcuate slot of the barrel and located between the pawls for moving the pawls against the spring.

U.S. patent 6,260,445 issued on 7/17 of 2001 discloses a ratcheting composite screwdriver including an elongated composite shank formed of an electrically insulating material and provided with a bit holder at its working end. The other end portion of the shank portion has an axial groove in which one end portion of a hexagonal connecting pin is disposed, and the other end portion of the hexagonal connecting pin is press-fitted in an axial hole in one end portion of the metal coupler for coupling the coupler to the shank portion. The metal coupler is removably received within a container formed in a ratchet mechanism disposed in one end of an elongated electrically insulated handle.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a multi-tool having a plurality of bit assemblies and also having a ratchet function wherein the tool or tool assembly is movable between a retracted position and a use position in which the tool is received by the chuck in a torque transmitting relationship wherein the tool or tool holder is automatically rotationally aligned with the chuck.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a multi-tool having a plurality of reconfigurable bit assemblies that move from a retracted position generally within the body of a screwdriver and an extended position where a selected one of the moving bits of one of the reconfigurable bit assemblies is in a forwardly extended use position wherein the tool extends forwardly from the chuck, and having a bi-directional rotational locking mechanism that allows selection of rotation in a first rotational direction and locking of rotation to prevent rotation in a second rotational direction and selection of rotation in the second rotational direction and locking of rotation to prevent rotation in the first rotational direction.

Disclosure of Invention

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a novel multi-instrument tool is disclosed that includes a housing and a plurality of instruments operatively retained within the housing. Each implement defines a pivot axis and has a handle and a deflector receiving portion disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis. The chuck has a tool receiving opening for individually receiving the shank of each tool in torque transmitting relation. The chuck is mounted on the housing for rotation of the chuck and the housing relative to each other about an axis of rotation. Each implement is retained within the housing for pivotal movement about a pivot axis between a staggered pivot orientation, in which a handle of the implement is pivotally staggered about the pivot axis relative to an implement receiving opening of the chuck, and an aligned pivot orientation, in which the handle of the implement is pivotally aligned about the pivot axis with the implement receiving opening of the chuck, and for longitudinal movement between a retracted position, in which the implement is generally retained within the housing, and an in-use position, in which the handle of the implement is received in torque transmitting relationship by the chuck and the implement extends through the implement receiving opening. There are also means for moving the implement between the retracted position and the use position individually as selected, and means for selectively retaining the implement in the use position. A rotation locking mechanism is operatively disposed between the housing and the chuck. The pivot inducing deflector is disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis of the appliance. Deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the implement by the pivot-inducing deflector causes the implement to pivot about the pivot axis from the misaligned pivot orientation to the aligned pivot orientation to thereby allow the chuck to engage the implement in torque-transmitting relation as the implement is moved from its retracted position to its use position.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a novel multi-instrument tool is disclosed that includes a housing and a plurality of instrument assemblies, each instrument assembly including an instrument that is held by an instrument holder and operatively held within the housing. Each appliance assembly defines a pivot axis and has a deflector receiving portion disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis. The chuck has a tool receiving opening for individually receiving the shank of each tool in torque transmitting relationship and is mounted on the housing such that the chuck and the housing rotate relative to each other about an axis of rotation. Each tool assembly is retained within the housing for pivotal movement about a pivot axis between a staggered pivotal orientation, in which the tool holder is pivotally staggered about the pivot axis relative to the tool receiving opening of the chuck, and an aligned pivotal orientation, in which the tool holder is pivotally aligned about the pivot axis with the tool receiving opening of the chuck, and for longitudinal movement between a retracted position, in which the tool is generally retained within the housing, and an in-use position, in which the tool holder is received by the chuck in torque transmitting relationship and the tool extends through the tool receiving opening. There is also means for selectively moving the implement assembly individually between the retracted position and the use position, and means for selectively retaining the implement assembly in the use position. A rotation locking mechanism is operatively disposed between the housing and the chuck. The pivot inducing deflector is disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis of the instrument holder. When the tool assembly is moved from its retracted position to its use position, deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the tool holder by the pivot-inducing deflector causes the tool holder to pivot about the pivot axis from the misaligned pivot orientation to the aligned pivot orientation to thereby allow the chuck to engage the tool in torque-transmitting relationship.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a novel multi-instrument tool is disclosed that includes a housing and a plurality of instrument holders operatively retained within the housing. Each appliance holder defines a pivot axis and has a deflector receiving portion disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis. The chuck has a tool receiving opening for individually receiving each tool holder in torque transmitting relationship and is mounted on the housing such that the chuck and the housing rotate relative to each other about the axis of rotation. Each tool holder is retained within the housing for pivotal movement about a pivot axis between a staggered pivotal orientation, in which the tool holder is pivotally staggered about the pivot axis relative to the tool receiving opening of the chuck, and an aligned pivotal orientation, in which the tool holder is pivotally aligned about the pivot axis with the tool receiving opening of the chuck, and for longitudinal movement between a retracted position, in which the tool holder is generally retained within the housing, and an in-use position, in which the tool holder is received by the chuck in torque transmitting relationship. There are also means for moving the tool holder selectively individually between the retracted position and the use position, and means for selectively holding the tool holder in the use position. A rotation locking mechanism is operatively disposed between the housing and the chuck. The pivot inducing deflector is disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis of the instrument holder. When the tool holder is moved from its retracted position to its use position, deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the tool holder by the pivot-inducing deflector causes the tool holder to pivot about the pivot axis from the misaligned pivot orientation to the aligned pivot orientation to thereby allow the chuck to engage the tool in torque-transmitting relationship.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a novel chuck is disclosed for use in a multi-tool for individually receiving at least one of a tool and a tool holder therein in torque transmitting relationship. The chuck includes a body having a free end and a connected end. At the free end of the body, there is an implement receiving opening in the body for receiving in torque transmitting relationship at least one of a handle of an implement and an implement holder of an implement assembly. There is also an instrument channel in the body extending from the instrument receiving opening to the connection end. The pivot inducing deflector is disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the appliance channel. When one of the implement and the implement holder is moved from its retracted position to its use position, deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the implement by the pivot-inducing deflector causes the implement to pivot about its pivot axis relative to the implement receiving opening from the misaligned pivot orientation to the aligned pivot orientation to thereby allow the chuck to engage the implement in torque-transmitting relation.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a novel multi-instrument tool is disclosed in which a plurality of instruments are operatively retained within the housing. Each utensil defines a pivot axis and has a deflector receiving portion disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis. The pivot inducing deflector is disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis of the appliance. Deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the implement by the pivot-inducing deflector causes the implement to pivot about the pivot axis from the misaligned pivot orientation to the aligned pivot orientation to thereby allow the chuck of the tool to engage the implement in torque-transmitting relation as the implement is moved from its retracted position to its use position.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a novel multi-instrument tool is disclosed in which multiple instrument assemblies are operatively retained within the housing. Each appliance assembly defines a pivot axis and has a deflector receiving portion disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis. The pivot inducing deflector is disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis of the appliance assembly. As the implement assembly is moved from its retracted position to its use position, deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the implement assembly by the pivot-inducing deflector causes the implement assembly to pivot about the pivot axis from the misaligned pivot orientation to the aligned pivot orientation to thereby allow the chuck of the tool to engage the implement assembly in torque-transmitting relation.

Other advantages, features, and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, the latter being briefly described herein.

Drawings

The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the multi-instrument tool in accordance with the present invention, both as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of example. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a first illustrated embodiment of a multi-instrument tool according to the present invention, with all instruments in their respective retracted positions;

FIG. 1A is an exploded perspective view similar to FIG. 1;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1, but with the selected implement in its extended use position;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the first illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 1 with all of the instruments in their respective retracted positions;

FIG. 4 is a side view similar to FIG. 3, but with the selected implement in its extended use position;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of the first illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 1, taken along section line A-A of FIG. 1, with all of the instruments in their respective retracted positions;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged, cross-sectional, perspective view, from the side and from the rear, of the first illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 1, taken along section line A-A of FIG. 1, with all of the instruments in their respective retracted positions;

FIG. 7A is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the front portion of the first illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 1, taken along section line A-A of FIG. 1, with all of the instruments in their respective retracted positions;

FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional rear view of the front portion of the first illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 7A, taken along section line B-B of FIG. 7A, with all instruments in their respective retracted positions, and showing hexagonal instrument receiving openings without instruments therein;

FIG. 8A is an enlarged cross-sectional side view similar to FIG. 7A taken along section line A-A of FIG. 1, but with the selected implement having moved forwardly toward its extended use position and the deflector receiving portion of the selected implement operatively engaged with the pivot inducing deflector;

FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional rear view of the front portion of the first illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 8A taken along section line B-B of FIG. 8A and showing selected ones of the selected instruments in the hexagonal instrument receiving openings;

FIG. 9A is an enlarged cross-sectional side view similar to FIG. 8A taken along section line A-A of FIG. 1, but with the selected implement having moved even more forwardly toward its extended use position and the deflector-receiving portion of the selected implement having moved further along the pivot-inducing deflector and the implement having rotated slightly counterclockwise about its pivot axis;

FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional rear view of the front portion of the first illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 9A taken along section line B-B of FIG. 9A and showing a selected hexagonal instrument of the selected instruments in the hexagonal instrument receiving opening with the instrument having been slightly rotated counterclockwise about its pivot axis;

FIG. 10A is an enlarged cross-sectional side view similar to FIG. 9A taken along section line A-A of FIG. 1, but with the selected implement having moved even more forwardly toward its extended use position, and with the deflector-receiving portion of the selected implement having moved even further along the pivot-inducing deflector, and with the implement having rotated even more counterclockwise about its pivot axis;

FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional rear view of the front portion of the first illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 10A taken along section line B-B of FIG. 10A and showing a selected hexagonal instrument of the selected instruments in the hexagonal instrument receiving opening and the instruments having been rotated about their pivot axes even more counterclockwise;

FIG. 11A is an enlarged cross-sectional side view similar to FIG. 10A taken along section line A-A of FIG. 1, but with the selected implement having moved even more forwardly toward its extended use position, and with the deflector-receiving portion of the selected implement having moved all the way along the pivot-inducing deflector, and with the implement having been fully rotated counterclockwise about its pivot axis to its aligned pivotal orientation;

FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional rear view of the front portion of the first illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 11A taken along section line B-B of FIG. 11A and showing a selected hexagonal instrument of the selected instruments in the hexagonal instrument receiving opening and the instrument having been fully rotated counterclockwise about its pivot axis to its aligned pivotal orientation;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view similar to FIG. 11A taken along section line A-A of FIG. 1, but with the selected implement assembly moved even more all the way to its extended use position;

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of a second illustrated embodiment of a multi-instrument tool according to the present invention with selected instruments in their extended use positions;

FIG. 13A is an exploded perspective view similar to FIG. 13;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged, cross-sectional, perspective view, from the side and back, of the second illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 13, taken along section line C-C of FIG. 13, with all instrument assemblies in their respective retracted positions;

FIG. 15A is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the forward portion of the second illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 13, taken along section line C-C of FIG. 13, with all instrument assemblies in their respective retracted positions;

FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional rear view of the front portion of the second illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 15A, taken along section line D-D of FIG. 15A, with all instrument assemblies in their respective retracted positions, and showing the hexagonal instrument receiving opening without an instrument therein;

FIG. 16A is an enlarged cross-sectional side view similar to FIG. 15A taken along section line A-A of FIG. 13, but with the selected implement assembly having moved somewhat forwardly toward its extended use position and with the deflector-receiving portion of the selected implement assembly operatively engaged with the pivot-inducing deflector;

FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional rear view of the front portion of the second illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 16A taken along section line D-D of FIG. 16A and showing a selected hexagonal instrument of the selected instrument assembly in the hexagonal instrument receiving opening;

FIG. 17A is an enlarged cross-sectional side view similar to FIG. 16A taken along section line A-A of FIG. 13, but with the selected implement assembly having moved even more forwardly toward its extended use position and the deflector-receiving portion of the selected implement assembly having moved further along the pivot-inducing deflector and the implement having rotated slightly counterclockwise about its pivot axis;

FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional rear view of the forward portion of the second illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 17A taken along section line D-D of FIG. 17A and showing a selected hexagonal instrument of the selected instrument assembly in the hexagonal instrument receiving opening and the instrument having been slightly rotated counterclockwise about its pivot axis;

FIG. 18A is an enlarged cross-sectional side view similar to FIG. 17A taken along section line A-A of FIG. 13, but with the selected implement assembly having moved even more forwardly toward its extended use position, and with the deflector-receiving portion of the selected implement assembly having moved even further along the pivot-inducing deflector, and with the implement having rotated even more counterclockwise about its pivot axis;

FIG. 18B is a cross-sectional rear view of the front portion of the second illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 18A taken along section line D-D of FIG. 18A and showing a selected hexagonal instrument of the selected instrument assembly in the hexagonal instrument receiving opening and the instrument having been rotated about its pivot axis even more counterclockwise;

FIG. 19A is an enlarged cross-sectional side view similar to FIG. 18A taken along section line A-A of FIG. 13, but with the selected implement assembly having moved even more forwardly toward its extended use position and the deflector-receiving portion of the selected implement assembly having moved all the way along the pivot-inducing deflector and the implement having been fully rotated counterclockwise about its pivot axis to its aligned pivot orientation;

FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional rear view of the forward portion of the second illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool of FIG. 19A taken along section line D-D of FIG. 19A and showing a selected hexagonal instrument of the selected instrument assembly in the hexagonal instrument receiving opening and the instrument having been fully rotated counterclockwise about its pivot axis to its aligned pivoted orientation; and

FIG. 20 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view similar to FIG. 19A taken along section line A-A of FIG. 13, but with the selected implement assembly having moved even further forward to its extended use position.

Detailed Description

Referring to fig. 1 to 20 of the drawings, it will be noted that fig. 1 to 12 show a first illustrative embodiment of a multi-tool according to the present invention, and fig. 13 to 20 illustrate a second illustrative embodiment of a multi-tool according to the present invention.

Reference will now be made to fig. 1-12, which show a first illustrative embodiment of a multi-instrument tool, such as that designated by the general reference numeral 100, in accordance with the present invention. The multi-tool 100 according to the first illustrated embodiment of the invention includes a housing 110, which in the first illustrated embodiment is the handle of the multi-tool 100. As shown, multi-instrument tool 100 is a screwdriver; however, the multi-tool 100 may be any type of tool or the like having a plurality of tools 131 that are engaged by the chuck 120 such that a selected tool is received by the chuck 120 in torque transmitting relation, such as will be discussed in greater detail subsequently.

Briefly, the first illustrated embodiment of the multi-instrument tool 100 includes a housing 110, a chuck 120, a plurality of instruments 131, a means 140 for moving the instruments 131, a means 150 for selectively retaining the instruments 131 in their forwardly extending use positions, a rotational locking mechanism 160, and a pivot inducing deflector 170.

More specifically, multi-tool 100 includes a housing 110 that serves as a handle for multi-tool 100 and is made of a suitable plastic material or other synthetic material or made of a suitable metal material, or is supported by any other suitable material or combination or combinations thereof. As shown, the housing 110 extends between a front end 112 and a rear end 114, and defines a longitudinal axis "L" that is generally centrally disposed relative to the housing 110 and extends along the length of the housing 110. Housing 110 is preferably elongated to accommodate implements such as tools up to six inches (15 cm) in length or possibly longer, and of a suitable diameter to be comfortably held by a user's hand. Other suitable sizes and shapes may alternatively be used for the housing.

Front fitting 116 has a body 117 with a rearward facing implement guide surface 118 and a forwardly extending cylindrical wall 119 and is secured to housing 110 using suitable threaded fasteners (not expressly shown) or any other suitable means. Front fitting 116 blocks the front end of housing 110 except for an instrument-receiving opening 125 through which instrument 131 can extend, such as will be discussed in more detail subsequently. Rear cap 111 is secured to rear end 114 of housing 110 by suitable threaded fasteners (not expressly shown) or any other suitable means to close rear end 114 of housing 110.

A plurality of implements 131 are operatively held within the housing 110 in general longitudinal alignment with the elongated housing 110. Each of the plurality of utensils 131 is fixedly mounted within a utensil holder 135 having a circular disc 136 at a rear end thereof, which is pivotally mounted at a base 137. The base 137 has a rear extension 138 and a lateral pivot pin 139 for pivotal attachment to a means 140 for moving the implement 131, such as discussed in more detail subsequently. Each utensil 131 defines a pivot axis "P" about which the respective utensil 131 can pivot. More specifically, the implement 131 is fixedly connected to the implement holder 135 to rotate therewith. The instrument holder 135 and the circular disk 136 may be integrally formed with each other. The tool 131, the tool holder 135, and the circular disk 136 constituting the tool assembly 130 all rotate simultaneously with each other.

The plurality of implements 131 are retained within the housing 110 such that the pivot axis "P" is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis "L"; however, this particular alignment is generally a function of the shape of the housing 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 110 has been manufactured with a small diameter so that most users can comfortably grip the housing 110 with their hands.

As can be readily observed, for example, in fig. 2, 4, 5, 6, 7A, 8A, 9A, 10A, 11A and 12, each utensil 131 has a shank 132 that is generally flat and integrally formed with a blade 133. As shown, the shank 132 is hexagonal in cross-section as is the case with most screwdriver bits. The deflector receiving portion 134 is disposed in laterally spaced relation, or in other words at a lateral distance from, the pivot axis "P" which is located at the center of the utensil 131. Thus, a force acting on the deflector receiving portion 134 will cause the appliance 131 being acted upon to pivot about its pivot axis "P", which force has a component directed transverse and oblique to the pivot axis "P" and not passing through the pivot axis "P".

As can be readily observed, for example, in fig. 2, 4, 5, 6, 7A, 8A, 9A, 10A, 11A and 12, the chuck 120 is intended to receive the implements 131 one at a time, or in other words individually, in torque-transmitting relation by the chuck 120. The chuck 120 has a forward tapered portion 121, a rearwardly extending handle engaging portion 122, and a rearwardly extending cylindrical wall portion 123. The rearwardly extending handle engaging portion 122 and the rearwardly extending cylindrical wall portion 123 together define an annular channel 124 that receives the forwardly extending cylindrical wall 119 of the front fitting 116. A clamp 129 securely holds chuck 120 in rotatable relation to front fitting 116 to accommodate the ratcheting function of multi-instrument tool 100. The ratchet selector collar 109 is mounted in captured but rotatable relation between the rearwardly extending handle engaging portion 122 of the chuck 120 and the forward edge 110f of the housing 110 via a flange 109 a.

The chuck 120 defines a tool receiving opening 125 for individually receiving the shank 132 of each tool 131 in torque transmitting relationship by the chuck 120. More specifically, the forward end portion of the instrument receiving opening 125 is partially defined by a torque transmitting section 126, which in the first illustrated embodiment includes six triangular surfaces 126 that together define a regular hexagonal shape that is just slightly larger in size than the regular hexagonal shape of the shank 132 of the instrument 131. The six triangular surfaces 126 on the chuck 120 transmit torque to the hexagonal shank 132 of the forwardly extending tool 131. When the selected utensil 131 extends through the utensil receiving opening 125, the selected utensil 131 is in its extended use position. As shown, six triangular surfaces 126 adjacent the front end of the implement receiving opening 125 form a hexagonal shape to receive the shank 132 of the extended implement 131 in torque transmitting relation. Other suitable cross-sectional shapes may also be used for the implement receiving opening 125 and the handle 132 of the implement 131.

As can be better seen, for example, in fig. 1-6, and as indicated, for example, by the double-headed arrow "a" in fig. 1, the chuck 120 is mounted on the housing 110 for rotation of the chuck 120 and the housing 110 relative to one another about the axis of rotation "". Such rotation is used to accommodate the ratcheting function of the multi-instrument tool 100. The ratchet function is accomplished by a rotation locking mechanism 160 operatively interposed between the housing 110 and the chuck 120. In the first illustrated embodiment, the rotation locking mechanism 160 includes a bi-directional rotation locking mechanism 160, and even more specifically a bi-directional ratchet mechanism 160, for selectively allowing axial rotation of the chuck 120 relative to the housing 110 about the rotation axis "R" in a first rotational direction and preventing axial rotation of the chuck 120 relative to the housing 110 in a second rotational direction in a first configuration, and selectively allowing axial rotation of the chuck 120 relative to the housing 110 in the second rotational direction and preventing axial rotation of the chuck 120 relative to the housing 110 in the first rotational direction in a second configuration. Any suitable rotational locking mechanism can be used.

In the respective retracted positions of the implements 131, the implements are generally retained within the housing 110 so as to be in non-interfering relationship with one another, or in other words, to leave sufficient space at the front region of the housing 110 immediately behind the chuck 120. As described above, the plurality of implements 131 are operatively held within the housing 110 in general longitudinal alignment with the elongated housing 110 so as to be easily movable to their respective use positions.

In their respective use positions, the shank 132 of a selected one of the implements 131 is received in torque-transmitting relation by the torque-transmitting section 126 (or rather the six triangular surfaces 126) on the chuck 120 and extends through the implement-receiving opening 125 so as to be able to engage a fastener or the like. In use, when a user manually rotates the housing about the longitudinal axis "L", torque generated by such rotation about the longitudinal axis "L" is transferred through the housing 110, through the chuck 120, and to the handle 132 of the extension instrument 131. The direction of rotation of the force transmission may be clockwise or counterclockwise depending on the selected direction of the bi-directional rotational lock mechanism 160.

In the first illustrated embodiment, the means 140 for moving the implements 131 individually between the retracted and use positions on a selective basis comprises an actuator mechanism 140 for each implement 131, and specifically comprises six actuator mechanisms 140. Each actuator mechanism 140 includes a main body 141, a thumb engageable portion 142 disposed on the exterior of the main body 110, a lever portion 143, a forwardly extending hook portion 144 having a rearward facing surface 144a, a rearwardly extending hook portion 146 having a forward facing surface 146a, and a pivot pin 147. The actuator mechanisms 140 are operatively connected to their respective implements 131 at the implement holders 135 via interconnecting members 149 that are pivotally connected to the base 137 at pivot pins 139 and are also pivotally coupled to the actuator mechanisms 140 at pivot pins 147.

The lever portion 143 of the actuator mechanism 140 extends through the slot 113 in the body 110 and interconnects the body 141 and the thumb-engageable portion 142. The forward facing surface 146a of the rearwardly extending hook portion 146 engages the cooperating surface at or near a rearward location.

The means 150 for selectively retaining the utensil 131 (or rather, a selected utensil 131) in the forwardly extending use position includes a forward abutment surface 115 disposed on the inner wall surface 116 of the housing 110. A co-operating rearwardly facing surface 144a on a forwardly extending hook portion 144 of the actuator mechanism 140 securely engages the forwardly abutting surface 115 to thereby retain the selected utensil 131 in its forwardly extending use position.

Further, a plurality of implements 131 are operatively held by the housing 110, each for free rotation about its respective pivot axis "P" as described above, and for longitudinal movement between a retracted position (best seen, for example, in fig. 1, 3, 5, 6 and 7A) and a forwardly extending use position (best seen, for example, in fig. 2, 4 and 12). As best seen in fig. 8B, 9B and 10B, for example, in the staggered pivotal orientation of each implement 131, the shank 132 of the implement 131 is pivotally staggered about a pivot axis "P" relative to the torque transmitting section 126 of the chuck 120 adjacent the front of the implement receiving opening 125 of the chuck 120. In contrast, as best seen in fig. 11B, for example, in the aligned pivot orientation, the shank 132 of the tool 131 is pivotally aligned about a pivot axis "P" relative to the torque transmitting section 126 of the chuck 120 adjacent the tool receiving opening 125 of the chuck 120. The pivoting of the selected implement 131 is described in more detail later.

As best seen in fig. 8B, 9B and 10B, for example, in the staggered pivotal orientation of each implement 131, the shank 132 of the implement 131 is pivotally staggered about a pivot axis "P" relative to the torque transmitting section 126 of the chuck 120 adjacent the implement receiving opening 125 of the chuck 120. In contrast, as best seen in fig. 11B, for example, in the aligned pivot orientation, the shank 132 of the tool 131 is pivotally aligned about a pivot axis "P" relative to the torque transmitting section 126 of the chuck 120 adjacent the tool receiving opening 125 of the chuck 120. The pivoting of the selected implement 131 is described in more detail later.

As can be readily observed, for example, in fig. 5-11B, the pivot inducing deflector 170 is operatively mounted on the chuck 120 so as to be disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis "P", as described above. More specifically, the pivot inducing deflector 170 is disposed on the chuck 120, and even more specifically, the pivot inducing deflector 170 is integrally formed on the chuck 120. It can be readily observed, for example, that the pivot inducing deflector 170 includes an obliquely angled guide surface 174, and more specifically includes a plurality of angled guide surfaces 170, and as observed in the illustrated embodiment, for example, includes six obliquely angled guide surfaces 170. The number of guide surfaces 170 (i.e., six) corresponds to the number of deflector receiving portions 134 (i.e., six) on the fixture 131. The lateral distance between the pivot inducing deflector 170 and the longitudinal axis "L" serves as a moment arm for causing the implement to rotate about the longitudinal axis "L".

Further, each pivot inducing deflector 170 is inclined along a portion of the longitudinal axis "L" from a first end 171 of the pivot inducing deflector 170 at a first radial angular position to a second end 172 of the pivot inducing deflector 170 at a second radial angular position. For example, it can be readily observed that the second end 172 of the pivot inducing deflector 170 is closer to the chuck 120 than the first end 171 of the pivot inducing deflector 170. Preferably, the first end 171 includes a back apex 171a that is substantially non-circular, or in other words angled and non-circular. Further, the pivot inducing deflector 170 is substantially flat and only tilts in one direction. Thus, in case the first end of the pivot inducing deflector 170 is shaped as described, the possibility that the selected utensil 131 abuts against the first end 171 of the pivot inducing deflector 170 and cannot easily be moved further forward or even further forward is substantially excluded.

Further, the pivot inducing deflector 170 is disposed adjacent the chuck's utensil receiving opening 125 to be in a favorable position to pivotally deflect a selected utensil 131 just prior to the utensil 131 entering the torque transmitting section 126 of the chuck 120 adjacent the front of the utensil receiving opening 125.

The pivot inducing deflector 170 is for engaging the selected appliance 131 being moved to its forwardly extending use position to thereby cause the selected appliance 131 to pivot about its pivot axis "P" to thereby cause the appliance 131 to be pivotally aligned about the pivot axis "P" relative to the torque transmitting section 126 of the chuck 120 adjacent the appliance receiving opening 125 of the chuck 120 when the selected appliance 131 is moved to its extended use position to thereby allow the chuck 120 to engage the selected appliance 131 in torque transmitting relationship. As can be clearly seen in the drawings, for example, deflection of the deflector receiving portion 134 of the selected implement 131 by the pivot inducing deflector 170 as the selected implement 131 moves from its retracted position to its use position causes the selected implement 131 to pivot about its pivot axis "P" from its misaligned pivoted orientation (best seen in fig. 8B, 9B and 10B, for example) to its aligned pivoted orientation (best seen in fig. 11B, for example) to thereby allow the chuck 120 to engage the selected implement 131 in torque transmitting relationship.

Reference will now be made to fig. 6 to 12, which will illustrate the pivotal alignment of the selected implement 131 when moved forwardly from its retracted position to its forwardly extending use position. In fig. 6, 7A and 7B, it can be seen that the pivot inducing deflector 170 is in position to receive the deflector receiving portion 134 of the selected implement 131 as the selected implement 131 is moved forwardly from its retracted position to its forwardly extending use position. More specifically, six obliquely angled guide surfaces 174 are positioned to receive six deflector receiving portions 134 of a selected utensil 131. The six deflector receiving portions 134 of the handle 132 of the selected appliance 131 are adjacent to the top of the hexagonal handle 132. One deflector receiving portion 134 is received by each of the obliquely angled guide surfaces 174. No part of the selected utensil 131 remains in the utensil receiving opening 125 and therefore the utensil receiving opening is unoccupied. Fig. 7A shows the unoccupied implement receiving opening 125 and the pivot inducing deflector 170, or more precisely, six obliquely angled guide surfaces 174 shown from the rear, substantially from the perspective of the implement, as the selected implement is moved forward from its retracted position.

It should also be noted that there may also be only one pivot inducing deflector surface 174 that covers one sixth (60 degrees) of the circumference of the instrument receiving opening 125, since there are six deflector receiving portions 134 equally spaced radially around the perimeter of the hexagonal shank 132 of each instrument 131. Alternatively, there may also be only one deflector receiving portion 134 on the handle 132 of each implement 131, with six pivot inducing deflector surfaces 174.

Further, it is contemplated that six deflector receiving portions 134 equally radially spaced about the perimeter of the hexagonal handle 132 of each implement 131 may each cover one sixth (60 degrees) of the circumference of the implement 131, and if desired, one single pivot inducing deflector surface 174 may cover a minimal radial area.

Reference will now be made to fig. 8A and 8B, which show that the selected implement 131 has been advanced from its retracted position forward toward its extended use position by the rearwardly facing implement guide surface 118 and directed inwardly toward the longitudinal axis "L". The deflector receiving portions 134 of the selected fixtures 131 are each operatively engaged with the pivot inducing deflector 174 (although only two are visible), and the selected hexagonal fixtures 131 are shown in the hexagonal fixture receiving openings 125. The tool 131 has not yet pivoted about its pivot axis "P" and, therefore, the shank 132 of the selected bit 131 is still angularly staggered relative to the torque transmitting section 126 of the chuck 120, which is adjacent the front of the tool receiving opening 125 of the chuck 120.

Reference will now be made to fig. 9A and 9B, which will show that the selected implement 131 has moved slightly more forwardly toward its extended use position. As the selected utensil 131 is moved forward toward its fully extended use position, each of the six deflector-receiving portions 134 contacts a corresponding one of the pivot-inducing deflector surfaces 174 of the pivot-inducing deflector 170. The deflector receiving portions 134 of the selected implements 131 each still operatively engage the pivot inducing deflector surfaces 174 (although only two may be viewed) by sliding along the respective pivot inducing deflector surfaces 174. The hexagonal shank 132 of the selected utensil 131 is about to enter the hexagonal utensil receiving opening 125. The pivot inducing deflector 170 causes the selected appliance 131 to pivot about its pivot axis "P" in a counter-clockwise rotational direction, for example, as indicated by arrow "PI". Thus, the shank 132 of the selected tool 131 is still angularly offset relative to the torque transmitting section 126 of the chuck 120 adjacent the front of the tool receiving opening 125 of the chuck 120. As shown, the deflector receiving portion 134 is approximately at a mid-point along each corresponding pivot inducing deflector surface 174.

As the selected utensil 131 continues to move even further forward toward its fully extended use position (as shown in fig. 10A and 10B), the deflector-receiving portions 134 of the selected utensil 131 still each still operatively engage the pivot-inducing deflector surfaces 174 (although only two are observable) by sliding along the respective pivot-inducing deflector surfaces 174. The selected hexagonal instrument 131 is still about to enter the hexagonal instrument receiving opening 125. The pivot inducing deflector 170 continues to cause the selected appliance 131 to pivot about its pivot axis "P" in a counterclockwise rotational direction, for example, as indicated by arrow "P2". Thus, the shank 132 of the selected tool 131 is still angularly offset relative to the torque transmitting section 126 of the chuck 120 adjacent the front of the tool receiving opening 125 of the chuck 120. As shown, the deflector receiving portion 134 passes through an intermediate point along each corresponding pivot inducing deflector surface 174.

Finally, as the selected utensil 131 continues to move forward toward its fully extended use position (as shown in fig. 11A and 11B), the pivot inducing deflector 170 continues to cause the selected utensil 131 to pivot about its pivot axis "P" a final amount in the counterclockwise rotational direction as indicated by arrow "P3". As shown, the deflector receiving portion 134 has reached the end of the respective pivot inducing deflector surface 174 and is aligned with the correspondingly shaped top of the appliance receiving opening 125. Thus, the hexagonal shank 132 of the selected implement 131 is now pivotally aligned with the hexagonal implement receiving opening 125, and the selected implement 131 can now be moved forward all the way to its fully extended use position (as shown in fig. 12).

Reference is now made to fig. 12-20, which illustrate a second illustrative embodiment of a multi-instrument tool, such as that designated by the general reference numeral 200, in accordance with the present invention. The multi-tool 200 according to the second illustrated embodiment of the invention includes a housing 210, which in the second illustrated embodiment is the handle of the multi-tool 200. As shown, multi-instrument tool 200 is a screwdriver; however, multi-tool 200 may be any type of tool or the like having a plurality of tool assemblies 230 that are engaged by chuck 220 such that a selected tool is received by chuck 220 in torque transmitting relationship.

Briefly, the multi-instrument tool 200 of the second illustrated embodiment includes a housing 210, a chuck 220, a plurality of instrument assemblies 230, a means 240 for moving the instrument assemblies 230, a means 250 for selectively retaining the instrument assemblies 230 in their forwardly extending use positions, a rotational locking mechanism 260, and a pivot inducing deflector 270.

More specifically, multi-instrument tool 200 includes a housing 210 that serves as a handle for multi-instrument tool 200 and is made of a suitable plastic material or other synthetic material or made of a suitable metal material, or is supported by any other suitable material or combination or combinations thereof. As shown, the housing 210 extends between a first end 212 and a second end 214, and defines a longitudinal axis "L" that is generally centrally disposed relative to the housing 210 and extends along the length of the housing 210. The housing 210 is preferably elongated to accommodate implements such as tools up to six inches (15 cm) in length or possibly longer, and of a suitable diameter to be comfortably held by a user's hand. Other suitable sizes and shapes may alternatively be used for the housing.

Front fitting 216 has a body 217 with a rearward facing implement guide surface 218 and a forwardly extending cylindrical wall 219, and is secured to housing 210 using suitable threaded fasteners (not expressly shown) or any other suitable means. Front fitting 216 blocks the front end of housing 210 except for an instrument receiving opening 225 through which instrument assembly 230 can extend, such as will be discussed in more detail subsequently. The rear cap 211 is secured to the rear end 214 of the housing 210 by suitable threaded fasteners (not expressly shown) or any other suitable means to close the rear end 214 of the housing 210.

A plurality of instrument assemblies 230 are operatively held within the housing 210 in general longitudinal alignment with the elongated housing 210. Each of the plurality of utensil assemblies 230 includes a utensil 231 securely mounted within a utensil holder 235 having a circular disk 236 at a rear end thereof. A circular disk 236 is pivotally mounted within base 237. Base portion 237 has a rear extension 238 and a lateral pivot pin 239 for pivotal attachment to a means 240 for moving implement assembly 230, such as discussed in more detail subsequently. Each implement assembly 230 defines a pivot axis "P" about which the respective implement assembly 230 is pivotable. More specifically, in each instrument assembly 230, instrument 231 is fixedly attached to instrument holder 235 to rotate therewith. The utensil retainer 235 and the circular disk 236 may be integrally formed with each other. The tool 231, the tool holder 235, and the circular disk 236, which constitute the tool assembly 230, all rotate simultaneously with each other.

A plurality of utensil assemblies 230 are retained within housing 210 such that pivot axis "P" is generally parallel to longitudinal axis "L"; however, this particular alignment is generally a function of the shape of the housing 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 210 has been manufactured with a small diameter so that most users can comfortably grip the housing 210 with their hands.

As more readily seen, for example, in fig. 13, 14, 15A, 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A and 20, for each implement assembly 230, the implement 231 has a shank 232 that is generally straight and integrally formed with a blade 233. As shown, the shank 232 is hexagonal in cross-section as is the case with most screwdriver bits. The deflector receiving portion 234 is disposed in laterally spaced relation, or in other words at a lateral distance from, the pivot axis "P" which is located at the center of the appliance assembly 230. Thus, a force acting on the deflector-receiving portion 234 will cause the implement assembly 230 being acted upon to pivot about its pivot axis "P", the force having a component directed transverse and oblique to the pivot axis "P" and not passing through the pivot axis "P".

As more readily seen in fig. 13, 14, 15A, 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A and 20, for example, chuck 220 is for receiving instruments 231 of instrument assembly 230 one at a time, or in other words individually, in torque-transmitting relation by chuck 220. The chuck 220 has a forward tapered portion 221, a rearwardly extending handle engaging portion 222, and a rearwardly extending cylindrical wall portion 223. The rearwardly extending handle engaging portion 222 and the rearwardly extending cylindrical wall portion 223 together define an annular channel 224 that receives the forwardly extending cylindrical wall 219 of the front fitting 216. Clamp 229 securely holds chuck 220 in rotatable relation to front fitting 216 to accommodate the ratcheting function of multi-instrument tool 200. The ratchet selector collar 209 is mounted in captured but rotatable relation between the rearwardly extending handle engaging portion 222 of the chuck 220 and the front edge 210f of the housing 210 via the flange 209 a.

The chuck 220 defines a tool receiving opening 225 for individually receiving a shank 232 of each tool assembly 230 in torque transmitting relation by the chuck 220. More specifically, a forward end portion of the instrument receiving opening 225 is partially defined by a torque transmitting section 226 that includes six generally triangular surfaces 226 that together define a regular hexagonal shape that is just slightly larger in size than the hexagonal shank 232 of the instrument 231. The six triangular surfaces 126 on the chuck 220 transmit torque to the hexagonal shank 232 of the tool 231 of the forwardly extending tool assembly 230. When the selected instrument assembly 230 extends through the instrument-receiving opening 225, the selected instrument assembly 230 is in its extended use position. As shown, six generally triangular surfaces 226 forming torque transmitting sections 226 near the front of the implement receiving opening 225 form a hexagonal shape to receive a shank 232 of an extended implement assembly 230 in torque transmitting relation. Other suitable cross-sectional shapes may also be used for the implement receiving opening 225 and the handle 232 of the implement 231.

As can best be seen, for example, in fig. 13 and 14, and as indicated, for example, by the double arrow "B" in fig. 13, the chuck 220 is mounted on the housing 210 for rotation of the chuck 220 and the housing 210 relative to one another about the axis of rotation "R". Such rotation is used to accommodate the ratcheting function of multi-instrument tool 200. The ratchet function is accomplished by a rotation lock mechanism 260 that is operatively interposed between the housing 210 and the chuck 220. In the second illustrated embodiment, the rotation locking mechanism 260 includes a bi-directional rotation locking mechanism 260, and even more specifically a bi-directional ratchet mechanism 260, for selectively allowing axial rotation of the chuck 220 relative to the housing 210 about the rotation axis "R" in a first rotational direction and preventing axial rotation of the chuck 220 relative to the housing 210 in a second rotational direction in a first configuration, and selectively allowing axial rotation of the chuck 220 relative to the housing 210 in the second rotational direction and preventing axial rotation of the chuck 220 relative to the housing 210 in the first rotational direction in a second configuration. Any suitable rotational locking mechanism can be used.

In the respective retracted positions of the tool assemblies 230, these tool assemblies are generally retained within the housing 210 so as to be in a non-interfering relationship with one another, or in other words, to leave sufficient space at the front region of the housing 210 immediately behind the chuck 220. As described above, a plurality of instrument assemblies 230 are operatively held within the housing 210 generally in longitudinal alignment with the elongated housing 210 so as to be easily movable to their respective use positions.

In their respective use positions, the shank 232 of the tool 231 of one selected tool assembly 230 is received in torque-transmitting relation by the torque-transmitting section 226 (or rather the six triangular surfaces 226) on the chuck 220 and extends through the tool-receiving opening 225 so as to be able to engage a fastener or the like. In use, when a user manually rotates the housing about the longitudinal axis "L", torque generated by such rotation about the longitudinal axis "L" is transmitted through the housing 210, through the chuck 220, and to the handle 232 of the tool 231 of the extended tool assembly 230. The direction of rotation of the force transmission may be clockwise or counterclockwise depending on the selected direction of the bi-directional rotational lock mechanism 260.

In the second illustrated embodiment, the means 240 for selectively moving the implement assemblies 230 individually between the retracted position and the use position includes an actuator mechanism 240 for each implement assembly 230, and specifically includes six actuator mechanisms 240. The actuator mechanism 240 includes a main body 241, a thumb-engageable portion 242 disposed outside the main body 210, a stem portion 243, a forwardly extending hook portion 244 having a rearward facing surface 244a, a rearwardly extending hook portion 246 having a forward facing surface 246a, and a pivot pin 247. The actuator mechanisms 240 are operatively connected to their respective implement assemblies 230 at the implement holders 235 via interconnecting members 249 that are pivotally connected to the base 237 at pivot pins 239 and are also pivotally coupled to the actuator mechanisms 240 at pivot pins 247.

A lever portion 243 of the actuator mechanism 240 extends through the slot 213 in the body 210 and interconnects the body 241 and the thumb-engageable portion 242. The forward facing surface 246a of the rearwardly extending hook portion 246 engages the cooperating surface at or near the rear end 212 of the housing 210 in a removable relationship to retain the respective utensil assemblies 230 in their retracted positions.

The means 250 for selectively retaining the implement assembly 230 (or rather a selected implement assembly 230) in the forwardly extending use position includes a forward abutment surface 215 disposed on the inner wall surface 216 of the housing 210. A co-operating rearward facing surface 244a on a forwardly extending hook portion 244 of the actuator mechanism 240 securely engages the forward abutment surface 215 to thereby retain the selected utensil assembly 230 in its forwardly extending use position.

Further, a plurality of instrument assemblies 230 are operatively held by the housing 210, each for free rotation about its respective pivot axis "P" as described above, and for longitudinal movement between a retracted position (best seen, for example, in fig. 14 and 15A) and a forwardly extending use position (best seen, for example, in fig. 13 and 20). As best seen in fig. 16B, 17B and 18B, for example, in the staggered pivotal orientation of each tool assembly 230, the shank 232 of the tool 231 is pivotally staggered about a pivot axis "P" relative to the torque transmitting section 226 of the chuck 220 adjacent the front of the tool receiving opening 225 of the chuck 220. In contrast, as best seen in fig. 19B, for example, in the aligned pivot orientation, the shank 232 of the tool 231 of the tool assembly 230 is pivotally aligned about a pivot axis "P" relative to the torque transmitting section 226 of the chuck 220 adjacent the front of the tool receiving opening 225 of the chuck 220. The pivoting of the selected implement assembly 230 is described in more detail subsequently.

As best seen in fig. 16B, 17B, and 18B, for example, in the staggered pivotal orientation of each tool assembly 230, the shank 232 of the tool 231 of the tool assembly 230 is pivotally staggered about pivot axis "P" relative to the torque transmitting section 226 of the chuck 220 adjacent the front of the tool receiving opening 225 of the chuck 220. In contrast, as best seen in fig. 19B, for example, in the aligned pivot orientation, the shank 232 of the tool 231 of the tool assembly 230 is pivotally aligned about a pivot axis "P" relative to the torque transmitting section 226 of the chuck 220 adjacent the front of the tool receiving opening 225 of the chuck 220. The pivoting of the selected implement assembly 230 is described in more detail subsequently.

As can be readily observed, for example, in fig. 13-20, the pivot inducing deflector 270 is operatively mounted on the chuck 220 to be disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis "P", as described above. More specifically, the pivot inducing deflector 270 is disposed on the chuck 220, and even more specifically, the pivot inducing deflector 270 is integrally formed on the chuck 220. It can be readily observed, for example, that the pivot inducing deflector 270 includes an obliquely angled guide surface 274, and more specifically, a plurality of angled guide surfaces 270, and as observed in the illustrated embodiment, for example, includes six obliquely angled guide surfaces 270. The number of guide surfaces 270 (i.e., six) corresponds to the number of deflector receiving portions 234 (i.e., six) on the instrument assembly 230. The lateral distance between the pivot inducing deflector 270 and the longitudinal axis "L" serves as a moment arm for causing the implement to rotate about the longitudinal axis "L".

Further, each pivot inducing deflector 270 is inclined along a portion of the longitudinal axis "L" from a first end 271 of the pivot inducing deflector 270 at a first radial angular position to a second end 272 of the pivot inducing deflector 270 at a second radial angular position. For example, it can be readily observed that the second end 272 of the pivot inducing deflector 270 is closer to the chuck 220 than the first end 271 of the pivot inducing deflector 270. Preferably, the first end 271 comprises a back top 271a which is substantially non-circular, or in other words, furthermore, the pivot inducing deflector 270 is substantially flat and inclined in one direction only. Thus, in case the first end of the pivot inducing deflector 270 is shaped as described, the possibility that the selected utensil assembly 230 abuts against the first end 271 of the pivot inducing deflector 270 and cannot easily be moved further forward or even further forward is substantially excluded.

In addition, pivot inducing deflector 270 is disposed adjacent to chuck's implement receiving opening 225 to be in a favorable position to pivotally deflect a selected implement assembly 230 just prior to the implement assembly entering the torque transmitting section 226 of chuck 220 adjacent to the front of implement receiving opening 225.

The pivot inducing deflector 270 is for engaging the selected appliance assembly 230 being moved to its forwardly extending use position to thereby cause the selected appliance assembly 230 to pivot about its pivot axis "P" to thereby cause the appliance assembly 230 to be pivotally aligned about the pivot axis "P" relative to the torque transmitting section 226 of the chuck 220 adjacent the forward portion of the appliance receiving opening 225 of the chuck 220 when the selected appliance assembly 230 is moved to its extended use position to thereby allow the chuck 220 to engage the selected appliance assembly 230 in torque transmitting relationship. As can be clearly seen in the drawings, for example, deflection of the deflector receiving portion 234 of the selected appliance assembly 230 by the pivot inducing deflector 270 causes the selected appliance assembly 230 to pivot about its pivot axis "P" from its misaligned pivotal orientation (best seen in fig. 16B, 17B and 18B, for example) to its aligned pivotal orientation (best seen in fig. 19B, for example) as the selected appliance assembly 230 moves from its retracted position to its use position, to thereby allow the chuck 220 to engage the selected appliance assembly 230 in torque transmitting relationship.

Reference will now be made to fig. 13-20, which will illustrate the pivotal alignment of the selected implement assembly 230 as it is moved forwardly from its retracted position to its forwardly extending use position. In fig. 13, 14, it can be seen that the pivot inducing deflector 270 is positioned to receive the deflector receiving portion 234 of the selected implement assembly 230 as the selected implement assembly 230 is moved forwardly from its retracted position to its forwardly extending use position. More specifically, six obliquely angled guide surfaces 274 are positioned to receive six deflector receiving portions 234 of a selected implement assembly 230. The six deflector receiving portions 234 of the shank 232 of the selected implement assembly 230 are adjacent to the top of the hexagonal shank 232. One deflector receiving portion 234 is received by each of the obliquely angled guide surfaces 274. No portion of the selected utensil assembly 230 remains in the utensil receiving opening 225, and therefore the utensil receiving opening is unoccupied. Fig. 15A shows the unoccupied implement receiving opening 225 and the pivot inducing deflector 270, or more precisely, six obliquely angled guide surfaces 274 from the rear, substantially from the perspective of the implement, as the selected implement is moved forward from its retracted position.

It should also be noted that there may also be only one pivot inducing deflector surface 274 that covers one sixth (60 degrees) of the circumference of the instrument receiving opening 225, since there are six deflector receiving portions 234 equally spaced radially about the perimeter of the hexagonal shank 232 of each instrument assembly 230. Alternatively, there may also be only one deflector receiving portion 234 on the handle 232 of each implement 231 of each implement assembly 230, with six pivot inducing deflector surfaces 274.

Further, it is contemplated that six deflector receiving portions 234 equally radially spaced about the perimeter of the hexagonal handle 232 of each implement 231 of each implement assembly 230 may each cover one sixth (60 degrees) of the circumference of the implement assembly 230, and that one single pivot inducing deflector surface 274 may cover a minimal radial area, if desired.

Reference will now be made to fig. 16A and 16B, which illustrate selected implement assemblies 230 having been advanced from their retracted positions toward their extended use positions by rearward-facing implement guide surfaces 218 and directed inwardly toward longitudinal axis "L". The deflector receiving portions 234 of the selected fixture assembly 230 are each operatively engaged with the pivot inducing deflector 274 (although only two are visible), and the selected hexagonal fixture assembly 230 is shown in the hexagonal fixture receiving opening 225. The tool assembly 230 has not yet pivoted about its pivot axis "P" and, therefore, the shank 232 of the tool of the selected tool assembly 230 is still angularly staggered relative to the torque transmitting section 226 of the chuck 220 adjacent the front of the tool receiving opening 225 of the chuck 220.

Reference will now be made to fig. 17A and 17B, which illustrate the selected implement assembly 230 moving slightly more forwardly toward its extended use position. As the selected implement assembly 230 is moved forward toward its fully extended use position, each of the six deflector-receiving portions 234 contacts a corresponding one of the pivot-inducing deflector surfaces 274 of the pivot-inducing deflector 270. The deflector receiving portions 234 of the selected appliance assembly 230 each still operatively engage the pivot-inducing deflector surfaces 274 (although only two may be viewed) by sliding along the respective pivot-inducing deflector surfaces 274. The hexagonal handle 232 of the implement 231 of the selected implement assembly 230 is about to enter the hexagonal implement receiving opening 225. The pivot inducing deflector 270 causes the selected appliance assembly 230 to pivot about its pivot axis "P" in a counterclockwise rotational direction, for example, as indicated by arrow "PI". Thus, the shank 232 of the tool of the selected tool assembly 230 is still angularly offset relative to the tool receiving opening 225 of the chuck 220. As shown, the deflector receiving portion 234 is substantially at a mid-point along each corresponding pivot inducing deflector surface 274.

As the selected implement assembly 230 continues to move even further forward toward its fully extended use position (as shown in fig. 18A and 18B), the deflector-receiving portions 234 of the selected implement assembly 230 still each still operatively engage the pivot-inducing deflector surfaces 274 (although only two are visible) by sliding along the respective pivot-inducing deflector surfaces 274. The hexagonal handle 232 of the implement of the selected implement assembly 230 is still about to enter the hexagonal implement receiving opening 225. The pivot inducing deflector 270 continues to cause the selected appliance assembly 230 to pivot about its pivot axis "P" in a counterclockwise rotational direction, such as indicated by arrow "P2". Thus, the shank 232 of the tool 231 of the selected tool assembly 230 is still angularly staggered relative to the torque transmitting section 226 of the chuck 220 adjacent the front of the tool receiving opening 225 of the chuck 220. As shown, the deflector receiving portion 234 passes through an intermediate point along each corresponding pivot inducing deflector surface 274.

Finally, as the selected appliance assembly 230 continues to move forward toward its fully extended use position (as shown in fig. 19A and 19B), the pivot inducing deflector 270 continues to cause the selected appliance assembly 230 to pivot about its pivot axis "P" a final amount in the counterclockwise rotational direction as indicated by arrow "P3". As shown, the deflector receiving portion 234 has reached the end of the respective pivot inducing deflector surface 274 and is aligned with the correspondingly shaped top of the instrument receiving opening 225. Thus, the hexagonal shank 232 of the tool 231 of the selected tool assembly 230 is now pivotally aligned relative to the torque transmitting section 226 of the chuck 220 adjacent the front of the hexagonal tool receiving opening 225 of the chuck 220. The selected implement assembly 230 can now be moved all the way forward to its fully extended use position (as shown in fig. 20).

Other variations of the above-described principles will be apparent to those of skill in the art to which the invention pertains, and such variations are considered to be within the scope of the invention. In addition, other modifications and substitutions may be made in the design and manufacture of the mounting device of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Other variations are within the spirit of the invention. Accordingly, while the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and have been described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (rather in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising," "having," "including," and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,") unless otherwise noted. The term "connected to" is understood to be partially or completely contained within, attached to, or joined together even if there is some access. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. Any methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as," "for example") provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

Illustrative embodiments of the invention are described herein. Variations of those illustrative embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Other variations of the above-described principles will be apparent to those of skill in the art to which the invention pertains, and such variations are considered to be within the scope of the invention. In addition, other modifications and substitutions may be made in the design and manufacture of the multi-instrument tool of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A multi-instrument tool comprising:

a housing;

a plurality of implements operatively retained within the housing and each defining a pivot axis and having a handle and a deflector receiving portion disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis;

a chuck having a tool receiving opening for individually receiving the shank of each tool in torque transmitting relation and mounted on the housing for rotation of the chuck and the housing relative to each other about an axis of rotation;

wherein each implement is retained within the housing for pivotal movement about the pivot axis between a staggered pivot orientation in which the handle of the implement is pivotally staggered about the pivot axis relative to the implement receiving opening of the chuck and for longitudinal movement between a retracted position in which the implement is generally retained within the housing and an in-use position in which the handle of the implement is received in torque transmitting relationship by the chuck and the implement extends through the implement receiving opening;

means for moving the implement individually between the retracted position and the use position as selected;

means for selectively retaining the appliance in the use position;

a rotation locking mechanism operatively interposed between the housing and the chuck; and

a pivot inducing deflector disposed in said laterally spaced relationship relative to said pivot axis of said appliance;

wherein deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the implement by the pivot inducing deflector causes the implement to pivot about the pivot axis from the staggered pivot orientation to the aligned pivot orientation as the implement moves from its retracted position to its use position to thereby allow the chuck to engage the implement in torque transmitting relationship.

2. The multi-instrument tool of claim 1, wherein the pivot inducing deflector is disposed on the chuck.

3. The multi-instrument tool of claim 2, wherein the pivot inducing deflector is integrally formed on the chuck.

4. The multi-instrument tool of claim 1, wherein the pivot inducing deflector comprises an obliquely angled guide surface.

5. The multi-instrument tool of claim 1, wherein the rotational locking mechanism comprises a bi-directional rotational locking mechanism.

6. The multi-instrument tool of claim 1, wherein the housing defines a longitudinal axis, and wherein the pivot inducing deflector is inclined along a portion of the longitudinal axis from a first end of the pivot inducing deflector at a first radial angular position to a second end of the pivot inducing deflector at a second radial angular position, wherein the second end of the pivot inducing deflector is closer to the chuck than the first end of the pivot inducing deflector.

7. The multi-instrument tool of claim 6, wherein the first end portion comprises a rear top portion.

8. The multi-instrument tool of claim 7, wherein the rear top is non-circular.

9. The multi-instrument tool of claim 6, wherein the pivot inducing deflector is substantially planar.

10. The multi-instrument tool of claim 9, wherein the pivot inducing deflector tilts in only one direction.

11. The multi-instrument tool of claim 1, wherein the pivot inducing deflector is disposed adjacent to the instrument receiving opening of the chuck.

12. The multi-instrument tool of claim 11, wherein the pivot inducing deflector is disposed immediately rearward of the instrument receiving opening of the chuck.

13. The multi-instrument tool of claim 1, wherein the pivot inducing deflector comprises a plurality of obliquely angled guide surfaces to provide balance.

14. The multi-instrument tool of claim 13, wherein each of the plurality of obliquely angled guide surfaces are similar to each other.

15. A multi-instrument tool comprising:

a housing;

a plurality of instrument assemblies, each instrument assembly including an instrument retained by an instrument retainer and operatively retained within the housing, and each defining a pivot axis and having a deflector receiving portion disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis;

wherein each tool assembly is retained within the housing for pivotal movement about the pivot axis between a staggered pivotal orientation in which the tool holder is pivotally staggered about the pivot axis relative to the tool receiving opening of the chuck and for longitudinal movement between a retracted position in which the tool is generally retained within the housing and an in-use position in which the tool holder is received in torque transmitting relationship by the chuck and the tool extends through the tool receiving opening;

means for moving the implement assembly individually between the retracted position and the use position as selected;

means for selectively retaining the appliance assembly in the use position;

a pivot inducing deflector disposed in said laterally spaced relationship relative to said pivot axis of said instrument holder;

wherein deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the tool holder by the pivot inducing deflector causes the tool holder to pivot about the pivot axis from the misaligned pivot orientation to the aligned pivot orientation to thereby allow the chuck to engage the tool holder in torque transmitting relationship when the tool assembly is moved from its retracted position to its use position.

16. A multi-instrument tool comprising:

a housing;

a plurality of instrument holders operatively retained within the housing and each defining a pivot axis and having a deflector receiving portion disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis;

a chuck having a tool receiving opening for individually receiving each tool holder in torque transmitting relation and mounted on the housing for rotation of the chuck and the housing relative to each other about an axis of rotation;

wherein each tool holder is retained within the housing for pivotal movement about the pivot axis between a staggered pivotal orientation in which the tool holder is pivotally staggered about the pivot axis relative to the tool receiving opening of the chuck and for longitudinal movement between a retracted position in which the tool holder is generally retained within the housing and an in-use position in which the tool holder is received by the chuck in torque transmitting relationship;

means for moving the implement holder individually between the retracted position and the use position as selected;

means for selectively retaining the instrument holder in the use position;

wherein deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the instrument holder by the pivot inducing deflector causes the instrument holder to pivot about the pivot axis from the staggered pivot orientation to the aligned pivot orientation to thereby allow the chuck to engage the instrument holder in torque transmitting relationship when the instrument holder is moved from its retracted position to its use position.

17. A chuck for use in a multi-tool to individually receive at least one of a tool and a tool holder therein in torque transmitting relationship, the chuck comprising:

a body having a free end and a connected end;

an implement receiving opening in the body at the free end of the body for individually receiving in torque transmitting relationship at least one of a handle of the implement and the implement holder of an implement assembly;

an instrument channel in the body from the instrument receiving opening to the connection end;

a pivot inducing deflector disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the instrument channel;

wherein deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the implement by the pivot-inducing deflector causes the implement to pivot about its pivot axis relative to the implement receiving opening from a staggered pivot orientation to an aligned pivot orientation as one of the implement and the implement holder is moved from its retracted position to its use position to thereby allow the chuck to engage the implement in torque-transmitting relationship.

18. A multi-instrument tool comprising:

a plurality of instrument holders operatively retained within the housing, each instrument defining a pivot axis and having a deflector receiving portion disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis; and

a pivot inducing deflector disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis of the appliance;

wherein deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the implement by the pivot-inducing deflector causes the implement to pivot about the pivot axis from a staggered pivot orientation to an aligned pivot orientation as the implement moves from its retracted position to its use position to thereby allow the chuck of the tool to engage the implement in torque-transmitting relation.

19. A multi-instrument tool comprising:

a plurality of appliance assemblies operatively retained within the housing, each appliance assembly defining a pivot axis and having a deflector receiving portion disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis; and

a pivot inducing deflector disposed in laterally spaced relation relative to the pivot axis of the appliance assembly;

wherein deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the tool assembly by the pivot inducing deflector causes the tool assembly to pivot about a pivot axis from a staggered pivot orientation to an aligned pivot orientation as the tool is moved from its retracted position to its use position to thereby allow the chuck to engage the tool assembly in a torque transmitting relationship.