Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A retainer assembly and tool combination for holding and releasing the shank of a punch includes a triangular retainer body with a punch opening extending through the body. An elongated locking ball hole intersects the axis of the punch opening and a locking ball is movable in the hole to engage tear-drop shaped ball receiving recess formed on the shank of a punch. A generally rectangular ball release access slot is formed in the retainer body through one side wall of the retainer in intersecting relation with the ball receiving hole with its longer axis aligned parallel with the axis of the shank opening. A notch is formed in the wall of the ball hole in opposed relation to the access slot and forms a latching ledge. A ball release tool is proportioned to fit within the access slot and has a pointed end with a ball lifting tapered surface. The terminal end is undercut to form a latching surface which is proportioned to be received in resting relation on the notch ledge. The tool may be inserted within the retainer body for holding the ball elevated by the tool at a released hands-free position.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim