Abstract:
A multi-tool adaptor which enhances overall performance of the multi-tools on which the adaptor is intended and the punch presses with which the multi-tools are desired to interface. The intermediary components relating to the functioning of the multi-tool involve one area of consideration regarding the adaptor design. Another area of consideration for the adaptor design involves the manner by which the stripper plate is operably coupled to the punch holder.

Description:
FIELD OF INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention relates generally to tooling used with fabrication equipment or machines. More particularly, this invention relates to multi-tools and an adaptor configured therefor so the multi-tools are made compatible with one or more designs of fabrication equipment or machines. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Sheet metal and other workpieces can be formed into a wide range of useful products. Fabrication equipment or machines are often used for such processes. For example, in the case of punch presses, the press is typically configured to hold a plurality of tools for forming a variety of shapes and sizes of indentations and/or holes in the sheet metal and workpieces. Tools of this sort commonly include at least one punch assembly and corresponding die. 
         [0003]    A conventional punch assembly typically includes a punch guide, a punch holder, and a punch. When the punch assembly is mounted in a punch press, and located in a working position of the press, i.e., beneath a ram (or integrally connected to the ram) and vertically aligned with a corresponding die, the punch and holder can be driven out from the punch guide, through an opening in a stripper plate, in order to form an indentation or a hole through a sheet workpiece with the tip of the punch. The stripper plate, which is attached to an end of the punch guide, prevents the workpiece from following the punch, upon its retraction back into the punch guide. 
         [0004]    In contrast to the above-described conventional designs of punch assemblies, many presses have been designed to function with multi-tools. As is known, a multi-tool has a plurality of tool-receipt openings adapted to receive respective tools. Thus, as opposed to only a single tool being available at a single tool-mount location of a punch press, a multi-tool allows any of the differing tools (e.g., punches) it carries to be available. As such, configuring a press to accommodate a multi-tool enables the press to have enhanced versatility with regard to deformation and/or punching processes. 
         [0005]    One type of punch press designed to accommodate multi-tools is the multiple-station turret press; however, a variety of other presses are further known to have been configured for multi-tools, such as single-station presses or other presses not having turrets. Punch press manufacturers (of which there are many) routinely design their machines so as to normally accommodate and function with tools of their own design and specification. However, it is often the case that purchasers of these presses are interested in using tooling, including multi-tools, of other manufacturers. As such, adaptors have been designed for such purpose, i.e., to interface the alternate tooling (of one manufacturer) with the press machine (of other manufacturer). 
         [0006]    To date, adaptors have been commercialized to enable interfacing between multi-tools and particular punch presses. However, in many cases, the overall functioning of the multi-tools and/or punch presses has been limited based on the design of the adaptors. Embodiments of the invention focus on a multi-tool adaptor which enhances overall performance of the multi-tools on which the adaptor is intended and the punch presses with which the multi-tools are desired to interface. 
       SUMMARY OF INVENTION 
       [0007]    In certain embodiments, the invention provides an adaptor for a multi-tool. The adaptor comprises a tool shank holder configured to be operably coupled to a tool shank of a multi-tool, and a locking ring configured to engage a tool selection wheel of the multi-tool. The locking ring is configured to be operably coupled yet rotatable relative to the tool shank holder, whereby the locking ring extends from the tool shank holder and is defined with a plurality of slots. The adaptor further comprises an index ring configured to be operably joined to the locking ring via a plurality of cam keys. The cam keys are rigidly held to the index ring and extend inward from a periphery of the index ring so as to correspondingly align with the slots of the locking ring, wherein when at least one of the cam keys is inserted within one of the slots of the locking ring, the locking ring is rotationally coupled to the index ring, while the tool shank holder and locking ring are free to move vertically relative to the index ring. 
         [0008]    In additional embodiments, the invention provides a multi-tool with adaptor, comprising a multi-tool that comprises a tool shank, a tool selection wheel, and a tool holder including a plurality of tools. The tool shank is operably coupled to the tool holder, and the tool selection wheel is held between the tool shank and the tool holder, wherein the tool selection wheel has a central opening into which a segment protrudes from a periphery of the wheel. The multi-tool with adaptor further comprises an adaptor that comprises a tool shank holder, a locking ring, and an index ring. The tool shank holder is operably coupled to the tool shank and the locking ring, yet the locking ring is rotatable relative to the tool shank holder. The locking ring extends from the tool shank holder and is engaged with the tool selection wheel such that the wheel is rotationally coupled to the locking ring. The locking ring further defines a plurality of slots therein. The index ring is operably joined to the locking ring via a plurality of cam keys. The cam keys are rigidly held to the index ring and extend inward from a periphery of the index ring so as to correspondingly align with the slots of the locking ring. At least one of the cam keys is inserted within one of the slots of the locking ring at all times so as to rotationally couple the locking ring to the index ring, while the tool shank holder and locking ring are free to move vertically relative to the index ring. 
         [0009]    In further embodiments, the invention provides a method of using a multi-tool with adaptor with fabrication equipment, wherein the multi-tool comprises a tool shank, a tool selection wheel, a tool holder including a plurality of tools, and a stripper plate defined with a plurality of apertures corresponding to a quantity of tool-receipt areas of the tool holder. The tool shank is operably coupled to the tool holder, and the tool selection wheel is held between the tool shank and the tool holder, wherein the tool selection wheel has a central opening into which a segment protrudes from a periphery of the wheel. The adaptor comprises a tool shank holder, a locking ring, an index ring, and a stripper plate holder. The tool shank holder is operably coupled to the tool shank and the locking ring, yet the locking ring is rotatable relative to the tool shank holder. The locking ring extends from the tool shank holder and is engaged with the tool selection wheel such that the wheel is rotationally coupled to the locking ring. The locking ring further defines a plurality of slots therein. The index ring is operably joined to the locking ring via a plurality of cam keys. The cam keys are rigidly held to the index ring and extend inward from a periphery of the index ring so as to correspondingly align with the slots of the locking ring. At least one of the cam keys is inserted within one of the slots of the locking ring at all times so as to rotationally couple the locking ring to the index ring, while the tool shank holder and locking ring are free to move vertically relative to the index ring. The stripper plate holder is operably coupled to the tool shank holder, and is oriented to align the apertures of the stripper plate with the quantity of tool-receipt areas of the tool holder. The method of using the multi-tool with adaptor with fabrication equipment comprises the steps of locking position of the index ring via first mechanism of the fabrication equipment, thereby locking position of the tool selection wheel; rotating the tool shank holder via second mechanism of the fabrication equipment, thereby rotating the plurality of tools about the tool selection wheel until a desired tool is aligned with the segment of the tool selection wheel; and applying force on the tool shank via third mechanism of the fabrication equipment, such that desired tool is vertically extended through corresponding aperture of the stripper plate. The operable coupling of the stripper plate and the tool shank holder being provided internal to the multi-tool enables the rotation of the tool shank holder to be at least 360 degrees while positioning of the first mechanism can be maintained with respect to the multi-tool. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         [0010]      FIG. 1  is an exploded view of components of an exemplary multi-tool. 
           [0011]      FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view of the components of  FIG. 1  as assembled or situated for collective use as a multi-tool. 
           [0012]      FIG. 3  is an exploded view of components of an adaptor for the multi-tool assembly of  FIG. 2 . 
           [0013]      FIG. 4A  is a side perspective view of the multi-tool components of  FIG. 1  and the adaptor components of  FIG. 3  as assembled for use in particular design of punch press. 
           [0014]      FIG. 4B  is a top perspective view of the assembly of  FIG. 4A  shown as being actuated via mechanisms of punch press. 
           [0015]      FIG. 5  is a sectional view of the assembly of  FIG. 4A . 
           [0016]      FIG. 6  is an exploded view of components of further adaptor for the multi-tool assembly of  FIG. 2 , in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. 
           [0017]      FIG. 7A  is a side perspective view of the multi-tool components of  FIG. 1  and the adaptor components of  FIG. 6  as assembled for use in particular design of punch press, in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. 
           [0018]      FIG. 7B  is a top perspective view of the assembly of  FIG. 7A  shown as being actuated via mechanisms of punch press, in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. 
           [0019]      FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional view of the assembly of  FIG. 7A . 
           [0020]      FIG. 9  is a side perspective view of the assembly of  FIG. 7A  as situated in punch press in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. 
           [0021]      FIG. 10  is a flowchart listing general steps with regard to an operation exemplified in  FIG. 9  in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0022]    The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings, in which like elements in different drawings are numbered identically. The drawings depict selected embodiments (unless otherwise described), and thus are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. It will be understood that embodiments shown in the drawings and described below are merely for illustrative purposes, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. 
         [0023]    As described above, adaptors have been designed for multi-tools to facilitate their interfacing (i.e., functioning) with particular designs of punch presses. As further described, the typical reason why the multi-tools would not normally function with the particular press designs is because the presses and multi-tools originate from different manufacturers. In order to appreciate the general design and functioning of known adaptors, elements of a multi-tool are initially described below. However, before proceeding, it is noted that although embodiments described herein make reference to punch presses, the invention is applicable to any type of fabrication equipment or machinery designed to function with multi-tools. Also, while the embodiments are described with regard to downwardly-oriented multi-tools, the invention is also applicable to upwardly-oriented multi-tools. Further, while the tools of the multi-tools described herein are depicted as punches, the embodied adaptor designs should not be limited to only punch-carrying multi-tools. 
         [0024]      FIG. 1  illustrates various components of a multi-tool  10  in exploded view. These same components are described herein later with regard to one known adaptor as well an adaptor in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. The multi-tool components shown include a tool shank  12 , a tool selection wheel  14 , a tool holder  16 , and a stripper plate  18 . Regarding the tool selection wheel  14 , it is defined to have a central opening into which a segment  14   a  protrudes from the periphery of the wheel  14 . The tool holder  16  includes a plurality of tools  16   a  (e.g., punches) extending from one planar face thereof. The tools  16   a , as illustrated, are spaced about a periphery of the holder  16  so as to correspond to apertures  18   a  defined about an inner circular base of the stripper plate  18 . 
         [0025]      FIG. 2  shows a cross-sectional view of the components of the multi-tool  10  as assembled and/or situated for collective use. Particularly, the tool shank  12  is operatively coupled to the tool holder  16 , e.g., via a threaded bolt  20 , while the shank  12  and holder  16  are prevented from rotating relative to each other, e.g., via a dowel  22  that is lodged there between. The tool selection wheel  14  is held between the tool shank  12  and tool holder  16 , such that the wheel  14  is rotatable relative to the shank  12  and holder  16 . Although, as will be later detailed below, the tool selection wheel  14  is most often retained from rotating during tool selection processes, while the tool shank  12  and the tool holder  16  (along with its tools  16   a ) are collectively rotated about the wheel  14 . While not shown, hardware (e.g., a secondary ram of the punch press in which the multi-tool is provided) is utilized for operably coupling the stripper plate  18  to the tool holder  16 . As a consequence of such coupling, the stripper plate  18  is rotationally locked relative to the holder  16  (such that the plate&#39;s apertures  18   a  align and rotate with corresponding of the holder&#39;s tools  16   a ). However, such coupling further permits the stripper plate  18  to be movable vertically relative to the holder  16  (and its tools  16   a ) for stripping functionality during the deforming/punching processes of the press. 
         [0026]    As alluded to above, and with continued reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the tools  16   a  of the multi-tool  10  are collectively rotatable relative to the tool selection wheel  14  (via collective rotation of the tool shank  12  and the tool holder  16 ). To that end, by initial locking the position of the tool selection wheel  14  (e.g., via external geared key of the punch press; not shown) and subsequently rotating the tool shank  12 , the tool holder  16  and its tools  16   a  correspondingly rotate about the tool selection wheel  14 , such that a selected one of the tools  16   a  can be positioned to underlie the protruding segment  14   a  of the wheel  14 . In turn, when the tool shank  12  is subsequently forced downward (e.g., via ram stroke of the punch press), the selected tool  16   a  is the only one of the tools  16   a  that maintains a lowered profile in the holder  16  (via the contact between the one of the tools  16   a  and the segment  14   a ). As such, application of force on the tool shank  12  (e.g., via ram of the press) is transmitted from shank  12  through the segment  14   a  of the tool selection wheel  14 , through the selected tool  16   a , and then into the material to be deformed or punched. In contrast, upon contacting the material, the other tools  16   a  move upward, back within the central opening of the tool selection wheel  14 . 
         [0027]    As described above, adaptors have been created for multi-tools in order for them to be interfaced with particular punch press designs. Known multi-tool adaptors generally involve a plurality of components designed to partially overlay, underlay, and/or surround different portions of the multi-tools. The components from one known multi-tool adaptor  30  are illustrated in exploded form in  FIG. 3 . As shown, the components include a top retainer ring  32 , a tool shank holder  34 , an index ring  36 , and a stripper plate holder  38 . Some distinctive features of these components should be noted. For example, the tool shank holder  34  defines a central channel  34   a  and includes an external connecting arm  34   b  that initially protrudes outward and then downward from an outer periphery of the holder  34 . In addition, the tool shank holder  34  includes a lever arm  34   c  that further protrudes outward from the holder&#39;s outer periphery. The index ring  36  defines a central opening into which a toothed locking key  36   a  protrudes. Also regarding the index ring  36 , a cavity is defined therein, and is used to accommodate a plurality of spring members  36   b  aligned along the entire curvature of the ring  36 . Further regarding the index ring  36 , there are a pair of grooves  36   c  (only one of which is visible) on its outer periphery. Turning to the stripper plate holder  38 , as shown, it is generally shaped in the form of a “C” and at an outer midpoint of such curved shape, a pocket  38   a  is defined. 
         [0028]    With reference back to  FIGS. 1 and 2 ,  FIG. 4A  shows an assembly  40  of the components of the multi-tool  10  with the components of the adaptor  30 , while  FIG. 5  shows a sectional view of such assembly  40 . Starting with  FIG. 5 , and similar to the multi-tool assembly of  FIG. 2 , the tool shank  12  of the multi-tool  10  is operatively coupled to the tool holder  16 , e.g., via threaded bolt  20 , while the shank  12  and holder  16  are prevented from rotating relative to each other, e.g., via a dowel (not shown) lodged there between. To that end, and further similar to the assembly of  FIG. 2 , the tool selection wheel  14  is held between the shank  12  and holder  16 , so as to be rotatable relative to the shank  12  and holder  16 . 
         [0029]    However, further adding to the assembly of  FIG. 2 ,  FIG. 5  illustrates the components of the adaptor  30  incorporated with the multi-tool components. Initially focusing on the upper portion of the assembly  40 , the tool shank holder  34  of the adaptor  30  is shown as having been inserted over the tool shank  12  of the multi tool  10 . As a result, the tool shank holder  34  rests on a base of the tool shank  12 , while the shank portion of the tool shank  12  extends through the central channel  34   a  of the holder  34 . A fastener  42 , e.g., set screw, is used to couple the tool shank holder  34  to the tool shank  12  of the multi-tool  10 , such that they move (e.g., rotate) in unison. The base of the tool shank holder  34  is shown to extend outward from the base of the tool shank  12 , forming a lip  34   d  about its outer periphery. The lip  34   d  has an outer diameter greater than the inner diameter of the top retainer ring  32 . Thus, the lip  34   d  can be used as a lower support for the retainer ring  32 , such that when an upper surface of the index ring  36  is coupled to the retainer ring  32  via fasteners (as shown), the lip  34   d  of the tool shank holder  34  serves as a support for both the retainer ring  32  and the index ring  36 . To that end, the tool shank holder  34  is confined between the top retainer ring  32  and the index ring  36 , although is still able to rotate relative to the rings  32 ,  36 . 
         [0030]    With continued reference to  FIG. 5 , and with focus on the lower portion of the assembly  40  (perhaps best observed from  FIG. 4A ), the stripper plate  18  of the multi-tool  10  is fastened to opposing ends of the “C” shaped stripper plate holder  38 . The pocket  38   a  defined by the stripper plate holder  38  functions in accepting an end of the external connecting arm  34   b  (which, as already described, extends from the tool shank holder  34 ). As such, when either of the coupled-together tool shank  12  or tool shank holder  34  are rotated, there is corresponding rotation of the tool holder  16  and its tools  16  (via threaded bolt coupling the tool shank  12  and tool holder  16 ) and the stripper plate holder  38  and its stripper plate  18  (via connecting arm  34   b  coupling the tool shank holder  34  and the stripper plate holder  38 ). Further, because the connecting arm  34   b  is free to vertically slide within the pocket  38 ′, the stripper plate holder  38  (and correspondingly, the stripper plate  18  fastened thereto) can vertically move with respect to the tool holder  16  and its tools  16   a.    
         [0031]    Finally, turning to the middle portion of the assembly  40 , as described above and shown in  FIG. 5 , the index ring  36  is fastened to the top retainer ring  32  and thereby supported by the lip  34   d  of the tool shank holder  34 . In light of this, the index ring  36  is suspended so as to surround the guide wheel  14  of the multi-tool  10 . As a consequence, the toothed locking key  36   a  of the index ring  36  correspondingly engages outer teeth of the tool selection wheel  14  of the multi-tool  10 . Given such engagement, the index ring  36  and the tool selection wheel  14  are rotationally locked together. 
         [0032]    With reference to  FIGS. 4B and 5 , and similar to that previously described with reference to  FIG. 2 , the tools  16   a  of the multi-tool  10  are collectively rotatable relative to the tool selection wheel  14  (via collective rotation of the tool shank  12  and tool holder  16 ). To that end, by initial locking the position of the tool selection wheel  14  (e.g., via insertion of linear locking fingers  44  of the punch press within corresponding locking grooves  36   c  of index ring  36 ; see  FIG. 4B ) and subsequent rotation of the tool shank  12  or tool shank holder  34  (via lever arm  34   c ), the tool holder  16  and its tools  16   a  correspondingly rotate about the tool selection wheel  14 , such that a selected one of the tools  16   a  can be positioned to underlie the protruding segment  14   a  of the wheel  14 . As described above, via use of the connecting arm  34   b , the tools  16   a  of the tool holder  16  and the corresponding apertures  18   a  of the stripper plate  18  are made to rotate in unison, and to further correspond to any rotation of the tool shank  12  or tool shank holder  34  (i.e., when selecting a tool  16   a  of the multi-tool  10  for operations of the press). Following selection of the desired tool  16   a , when the tool shank  12  or tool shank holder  34  is subsequently forced downward (e.g., via ram stroke of the punch press), the selected tool  16   a  is the only one of the tools  16   a  that maintains a lowered profile in the holder  16  (via contact with the segment  14   a ). As such, application of force (e.g., via ram of the press) on the tool shank  12  is transmitted from shank  12  through the segment  14   a  of the tool selection wheel  14 , through the selected tool  16   a , and into the material to be deformed or punched. In contrast, upon contacting the material, the other tools  16   a  move upward, back within the central opening of the tool selection wheel  14 . Further, upon release of the ram force on the tool shank  12  or tool shank holder  34 , the selected tool  16   a  is pulled back from the material, while the stripper plate  18  continues to be pushed forward (via internal spring members  36   b  of the index ring  36 ). In such case, as the selected tool  16   a  pulls back through the corresponding aperture  18   a  in the stripper plate  18 , if any of the deformed/punched material remains connected to the tool  16   a , such material separates from the tool  16   a  upon hitting the stripper plate  18 . 
         [0033]    It should be understood that the assembly  40  of  FIG. 4A  (integrating the components of the adaptor  30  with the components of the multi-tool  10 ) has been effectively used in interfacing with the punch presses for it was intended. As described above, two components that particularly aid with such interfacing are the tool shank holder  34  (by way of its external connecting arm  34   b ) and the index ring  36  (by way of its locking key  36   a ). However, these same two components in certain scenarios can be limiting to the performance of the multi-tool as well as the performance of the press with which the multi-tool interfaces. 
         [0034]    For example, with reference to  FIG. 4B , following an initial locking of the tool selection wheel&#39;s position  14  (e.g., via insertion of linear locking fingers  44  of the punch press within corresponding locking grooves  36   c  of index ring  36 ) and during subsequent rotation of the tool shank  12 , the external connecting arm  34   b  correspondingly rotates about the index ring  36 . However, the locking fingers  44  block the rotation path of the arm  34   b . Thus, as the connecting arm  34   b  nears either of the locking fingers  44 , the finger  44  has to be moved away and out of locking engagement with the index ring  36 . While it should be appreciated that the locking finger  44  on the opposite side of the index ring  36  can remain extended and engaged with the ring  36 , it would be ideal to have both fingers  44  continuously engaged with the index ring  36  during such locking periods. This would prevent any potential shifting of the ring  36  and corresponding misalignment of the finger  44  during its reinsertion within the groove  36   c.    
         [0035]    Further, with reference to  FIGS. 3 and 5 , and as described above, the index ring  36  provides a plurality of functions, not only in interfacing with the punch press so as to lock the multi-tool tool selection wheel  14  via the locking key  36   a , but also in stripping function of the multi-tool  10  via the spring members  36   b  that the ring  36  retains. Such diverse functioning required of the index ring  36  not only increases the complexity of the ring&#39;s design, but also increases its risk of failure. To that end, if the spring members  36   b  of the ring  36  were to fail, change-out of the index ring  36  would be necessitated, which would dictate the entire assembly  40  being disassembled to gain access to the ring  36 . Although, even if early failure was not considered a potential issue with the spring members  36 , there is a further inherent issue with the design. Particularly, over the life of the multi-tool  10 , the spring members  36   b  may function as intended (i.e., to force the stripper plate  18  to extend outward away from assembly  40 , so as to aid in stripping processed material from a withdrawn tool  16 ). However, because the spring members  36   b  are confined within the index ring  36 , their size is ultimately limited. This limitation on spring size correspondingly limits the stripping force of the assembly  40 . Conversely, if the spring members  36   b  were located external to the assembly  40 , e.g., above the tool shank holder  34 , not only would the index ring  36  have less potential of failure, but a greater stripping force for the multi-tool  10  could be provided, if needed. 
         [0036]      FIG. 6  illustrates an exploded view of components of a further multi-tool adaptor  50  for use with multi-tool  10 , in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. As shown, the components include a top retainer ring  52 , a tool shank holder  54 , further retaining ring  56 , guide ring  58 , index ring  60 , a plurality of cam keys  62 , and a stripper plate holder  64 . As should be appreciated, many of these components bear same reference names as components previously-described for the known adaptor  30 . This is not done to confuse, but instead to highlight the differences in construction and function of these components of same name as used with the adaptor  50 . 
         [0037]    For example, the tool shank holder  54  is operably joined with a locking ring  55 , yet the holder  54  is still free to rotate relative to the ring  55 . As further detailed herein, the locking ring  55  is operably joined to index ring  60  via the cam keys  62 . To that end, while the index ring  60  is configured to be selectively engaged with a locking finger  44  of the punch press (see  FIG. 7B ) so as to lock the index ring&#39;s rotational position, the task of correspondingly locking the position of the tool selection wheel  14  is translated to the locking ring  55 . In certain embodiments, this translation of locking function is provided via the cam keys  62  operably joining the index ring  60  to the locking ring  55 . 
         [0038]    Defined within the locking ring  55  are vertical key slots  55   a  within which the cam keys  62  extend. In certain embodiments, the slots  55   a  have a height at least twice the height of the key portions  62   a  of the cam keys  62 . Due to this difference in height, the key portions  62   a  are enabled to slide (i.e., rise or descend) within the slots  55   a , and such vertical movement of the key portions  62   a  signals punching action, as will be later described herein. However, at this point, what should be understood is the key portions  62   a  sliding (i.e., rising or descending) in the slots  55   a  is similar to the external connecting arm  34   b  sliding (i.e., rising or descending) within the pocket  38   a  defined in the stripper plate holder  38  of assembly  40  (involving the known adaptor  30 ). To that end, such flexibility in vertical movement has been transitioned internal to the adaptor  50  when assembled to the multi tool  10 , as opposed to being external via the assembly  40  (involving the known adaptor  30  assembled to the multi-tool  10 ) 
         [0039]    With reference back to  FIGS. 1 and 2 ,  FIG. 7A  shows an assembly  70  of the components of the multi-tool  10  with the components of the adaptor  50 , while  FIG. 8  shows a cross-sectional view of such assembly  70 . Starting with  FIG. 8 , and similar to the multi-tool assembly of  FIG. 2 , the tool shank  12  of the multi-tool  10  is operatively coupled to the tool holder  16 , e.g., via threaded bolt  20 , while the shank  12  and holder  16  are prevented from rotating relative to each other, e.g., via a dowel (not shown) lodged there between. To that end, and further similar to the assembly of  FIG. 2 , the tool selection wheel  14  is held between the shank  12  and holder  16 , so as to be rotatable relative to the shank  12  and holder  16 . 
         [0040]    However, further adding to the assembly of  FIG. 2 ,  FIG. 8  illustrates the components of the adaptor  50  incorporated with the multi-tool components. Initially focusing on the upper portion of the assembly  70 , the assembly has some likenesses to the assembly  40  involving the known adaptor  30 . Particularly, the tool shank holder  54  of the adaptor  50  is received by the tool shank  12  of the multi tool  10 , such that the holder  54  comes to rest on a base of the tool shank  12 , while the shank portion of the tool shank  12  extends through a central channel  54   a  of the holder  54 . A fastener  72 , e.g., set screw or the like, is used to couple the tool shank holder  54  to the tool shank  12  of the multi-tool  10 , such that both move (e.g., rotate) in unison. Again, similar to the assembly  40 , upon being received by the tool shank  12 , the bottom of the tool shank holder  54  extends outward from the base of the tool shank  12 , forming a lip  54   b  about its outer periphery. As shown, the lip  54   b  has an outer diameter greater than the inner diameter of the top retainer ring  52 . Thus, the lip  54   b  can be used as a lower support for the retainer ring  52 , as well as further structure to which ring  52  is operably coupled. To that end, and in contrast to the assembly  40  (and known adaptor  30 ), the retainer ring  52  is operably coupled (e.g., via fasteners) to an upper end  58   a  of the guide ring  58 . The guide ring  58  is also coupled to tool shank holder  54 , but only rotationally. In certain embodiments, as shown, this coupling between the guide ring  58  and the holder  54  is via recesses  58   f  (hidden; see  FIG. 6 ) defined in inner wall  58   b  of its upper end  58   a  which receive corresponding tabs  54   c  (see  FIG. 6 ) extending outward from the lip  54   b  of the tool shank holder  54 . Again, this joining between tabs  54   c  of the tool shank holder  54  and the recesses of the guide ring  58  rotatably lock the holder  54  and the guide ring  58 , yet the holder  54  is free to move vertically relative to the guide ring  58 . Thus, at this point, via the above-described connections, the guide ring  58  of the adaptor  50  is rigidly coupled to the top retainer ring  52  and only rotationally locked to the tool shank holder  54 , while the tool shank holder  54  is rigidly coupled to the tool shank  12  of the multi-tool  10 . 
         [0041]    With continued reference to  FIG. 8 , and with focus on the lower portion of the assembly  70 , the stripper plate  18  of the multi-tool  10  is operably coupled to the stripper plate holder  64 . An upper end  64   a  of the stripper plate holder  64  is operably coupled to a lower end  58   d  of the guide ring  58 . In certain embodiments, the coupling between the guide ring  58  and the stripper plate holder  64  is via a retaining ring  56  within continuous recess  64   b  defined about an outer periphery of the stripper plate holder  64 . As such, when the tool shank  12  and tool shank holder  54  are rotated (as both are coupled together), there is corresponding rotation of the tool holder  16  and its tools  16  (via threaded bolt coupling the tool shank  12  and tool holder  16 ) as well as the guide ring  58  (via tabs  54   c  of the holder  54  rotationally coupled within recesses of guide ring  58 ) and top retainer ring  52  and the stripper plate holder  64  (and its stripper plate  18 ) rigidly coupled to the guide ring  58   
         [0042]    Finally, turning to the middle portion of the assembly  70 , as described above and shown in  FIG. 8 , the index ring  60  is joined to the locking ring  55  via the cam keys  62 . The cam keys  62  are held within corresponding recesses  60   a  of the index ring  60 . As described above, the key portions  62   a  of the cam keys  62  extend into the key slots  55   a  of the locking ring  55 . As should be appreciated, extension of the cam keys  62  into the slots  55   a  results in rotational locking of the index ring  60  with the locking ring  55 ; however, the slots  55   a  enable the locking ring  55  and the tool selection wheel  14  of the multi-tool  10  to move vertically relative to the index ring  60 . This will be further detailed later. 
         [0043]    However, getting back to the rotational locking of the index ring  60  and the locking ring  55 , upon the index ring  60  being locked rotationally (e.g., via insertion of locking finger  44  of punch press in groove  60   b  of index ring  60 ; see  FIG. 7B ) the locking ring  55  is correspondingly locked rotationally via cam keys  62  in key slots  55   a  of locking ring  55 . As a consequence, inner teeth  55   b  of locking ring  55 , via engagement with outer teeth of the tool selection wheel  14  of the multi-tool  10 , rotationally locks wheel  14 . In summary, upon insertion of locking finger  44  of press in groove  60   b  of index ring  60 , the index ring  60 , the locking ring  55 , and the tool selection wheel  14  are rotationally locked. As previously described, such rotational locking is a result of the index ring  60  and the locking ring  55  being joined via cam keys  62 . However, as previously described, due to this joining being provided internal to the assembly  70 , there is some interference with the side wall  64   c  of the stripper plate holder  64 . Particularly, with reference to  FIG. 8 , such side wall  64   c  extends radially between the index ring  60  and the locking ring  55 . As such, to accommodate extension of the cam keys  62  from index ring  60  to locking ring  55 , a channel or web  64   d  is defined in the stripper plate holder side wall  64   c  through which the key portions  62   a  of the cam keys  62  extend. However, the web  64   d  would need to be divided so as to establish some continuity with the further extent of the holder  64  (the dividers  64   e  being shown in  FIG. 6 ). 
         [0044]    Continuing with the above, when the tool shank holder  54  is rotated, whereby the stripper plate holder  64  correspondingly rotates relative to the index ring  60 , the cam keys  62  would correspondingly travel within the web  64   d  of the stripper plate holder  64 . However, the cam keys  62  would be blocked from their path of travel each time they encountered a web divider  64   e . Accordingly, the travel path about the assembly  70  is dictated by a cam pathway  58   e  defined in the underside of the guide ring  58 . The cam portions  62   b  of the cam keys  62  are inserted in such cam pathway  58   e . Thus, upon the index ring  60  being rotated relative to the guide ring  58  (or vice versa), the cam portions  62   b  would correspondingly travel (or be steered) within the pathway  58   e . As exemplified by the guide ring  58  shown in  FIG. 6 , the pathway  58   e  steers (the cam keys  62 ) outward (into outer paths  58   g ) upon every instance the key portions  62   a  would encounter a web divider  64   e . However, it should be appreciated that for each such occurrence of steering outward by the cam key  62  (to avoid stripper plate holder web divider  64   e ), that cam key  62  would correspondingly be pulled out of the key slot  55   a  of the locking ring  55 . As such, an odd number of divisions is requisite for the web  64   d  in comparison to the quantity of cam keys  62  to ensure that there is always a cam key  62  extending within one of the slots  55   a  of the locking ring  55  at all times. 
         [0045]    With reference to  FIGS. 7B and 8 , and similar to that previously described with reference to  FIG. 2 , the tools  16   a  of the multi-tool  10  are collectively rotatable relative to the tool selection wheel  14  (via collective rotation of the tool shank  12  and the tool holder  16 ). To that end, the position of the tool selection wheel  14  is initially locked (e.g., via insertion of linear locking finger  44  of the punch press within locking groove  60   b  of index ring  60 , which correspondingly locks position of cam keys  62  with respect to locking ring  55 , which correspondingly locks position of tool selection wheel  14  via locking teeth  55   b ). Subsequently, the tool shank  12  or tool shank holder  54  (via lever arm  54   d ) are rotated, which causes the tool holder  16  and its tools  16   a  to correspondingly rotate about the tool selection wheel  14 , such that a selected one of the tools  16   a  can be positioned to underlie the protruding segment  14   a  of the wheel  14 . As described above, due to the tool shank holder  54  being rotationally coupled to the stripper plate holder  64  (via the guide ring  58 ), the tools  16   a  of the tool holder  16  and the corresponding apertures  18   a  of the stripper plate  18  are made to rotate in unison, and to further correspond to any rotation of the tool shank  12  or tool shank holder  34  (i.e., when selecting a tool  16   a  of the multi-tool  10  for operations of the press). 
         [0046]    With reference to  FIG. 9 , illustrating assembly  70  situated in punch press  80 , springs  82  (e.g., spring loaded pins) can be located external to the assembly  70 , and in preferable embodiments, underlying the press ram  84 , as shown. To that end, following selection of the desired tool  16   a  from the assembly  70  (as described above), when the ram  84  (e.g., shown as rigidly connected to, and thereby hiding from view, the tool shank  12 ) is subsequently forced downward, the stripper plate  18  comes into contact with the workpiece (not shown) and pressure is applied through the stripper plate  18  via the springs  82 . The press ram  84  continues downwards until the selected tool  16   a  penetrates the workpiece to produce a bend or hole. It should be appreciated that this penetration occurs via the vertical movement of the punch holder  16 , locking ring  55 , and tool selection wheel  14 , collectively, and particularly, relative to the index ring  60  (i.e., correspondingly enabled via sliding of the cam keys  62  upward in the key slots  55   a  of the locking ring  55 ). However, it should be noted that the cam keys  62  are not moving, but instead the key slots  55   a  are moving about the cam keys  62 , with the downward movement of the locking ring  55 . Subsequently, as the ram  84  moves upwards after such bending or punching operation, the pressure on the stripper plate  18  is maintained by springs  82  until the selected tool  16   a  has withdrawn from the work piece via contact with the plate  18 . 
         [0047]    In continuing with the above,  FIG. 10  shows a flowchart listing general steps with regard to an operation as depicted in  FIG. 9  with the assembly  70  (involving new adaptor  50 ) in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. The multi-tool  10  with new adaptor  60  are again described. For brevity sake, all components are not again described. To that same end, some features are described are newly mentioned. To that end, while the following summary provides somewhat truncated combinations of features that should be understood as additional embodiments of the invention, they should be viewed as limiting the embodiments already described. 
         [0048]    With reference back to  FIGS. 1 ,  2 ,  7 , and  8 , the multi-tool includes a tool shank  12 , a tool selection wheel  14 , a tool holder  16  including a plurality of tools  16   a , and a stripper plate  18  defined with a plurality of apertures  18   a  corresponding to a quantity of tool-receipt areas  16   b  of the tool holder  16 . The tool shank  12  is operably coupled to the tool holder  16 , and the tool selection wheel  14  is held between the tool shank  12  and the tool holder  16 . The tool selection wheel  14  has a central opening  14   b  into which a segment  14   a  protrudes from a periphery of the wheel  14 . The adaptor  50  includes a tool shank holder  54 , a locking ring  55 , an index ring  60 , and a stripper plate holder  64 . 
         [0049]    The tool shank holder  54  is operably coupled to the tool shank  12  and the locking ring  55 , yet the locking ring  55  is rotatable relative to the tool shank holder  54 . The locking ring  55  extends from the tool shank holder  54  and is engaged with the tool selection wheel  14  such that the wheel is rotationally coupled to the locking ring  55 . The locking ring  55  further defines a plurality of slots  55   a  therein. The index ring  60  is operably joined to the locking ring  55  via a plurality of cam keys  62 . The cam keys  62  are rigidly held to the index ring  60  and extend inward from a periphery of the index ring  60  so as to correspondingly align with the slots  55   a  of the locking ring  55 . At least one of the cam keys  62  is inserted within one of the slots  55   a  of the locking ring  55  at all times so as to rotationally couple the locking ring  55  to the index ring  60 , while the tool shank holder  54  and locking ring  55  are free to move vertically relative to the index ring  60 . The stripper plate holder  64  is operably coupled to the tool shank holder  54 , and is oriented to align the apertures  18   a  of the stripper plate  18  with the quantity of tool-receipt areas  16   b  of the tool holder  16 . 
         [0050]    In view of the above, the flowchart of  FIG. 10  begins with step  100  of locking position of the index ring  60  via first mechanism (e.g., locking fingers  44 ) of the fabrication equipment (e.g., the punch press  80 ), thereby locking position of the tool selection wheel  14 . A subsequent step  102  involves rotating the tool shank holder  54  via second mechanism (e.g., an complementary extension of press ram  84 ) of the fabrication equipment, thereby rotating the plurality of tools  16   a  about the tool selection wheel  14  until a desired tool  16   a  is aligned with the segment  14   a  of the tool selection wheel  14 . A later step  104  involves applying force on the tool shank  12  via third mechanism (e.g., press ram  84 ) of the fabrication equipment, such that desired tool  16   a  is vertically extended through corresponding aperture  18   a  of the stripper plate  18 . An important consideration, further described below, is that the assembly  70  provides operable coupling of the stripper plate  18  and the tool shank holder  54  internal to the multi-tool  10 . As such, there is no potential of possible collision between a external connecting arm (such as with the known adaptor  30 ) and locking finger  44  of the press. Thus, the tool shank holder  54  and stripper plate holder  64  can be move entirely around (by at least 360 degrees) the assembly while the position of the locking arm  44  with respect to the assembly  70  (multi-tool  10  and adaptor  50 ) is maintained. 
         [0051]    Continuing with the above, and with reference back to  FIG. 7B , in using the assembly  70  (with new adaptor  50 ) as opposed to using the assembly  40  (with known adaptor  30 ), the locking finger  44  of the press no longer needs to be removed from the assembly  70  during the tool selection process. As such, the configuration of the new adaptor  50  permits use of an automated recovery program with the multi tool  10 , while such program could not be run with the old, known adaptor  30 . Particularly, the press locking fingers  44  are programmed to move at certain angles, wherein these angles are output in the press ram (e.g., via rotary encoder) relative to the angular position of the adaptor, which is a known quantity once the adaptor is loaded in the press ram. However, for the assembly  40  (with known adaptor  30 ), once a light guard is broken or a power cut has occurred, although the press knows what angle the ram is at, it has no idea where the external connecting arm  34   b  is as the information to where the multi-tool was (prior to the light guard break or power cut) is lost. Thus, this is why the locking fingers  44  cannot be used to recover the position if using the old adaptor  30 , as the relation to the index ring  60  and the locking fingers  44  is lost, and damage could result to the press and adaptor  30  if it were estimated. However, as the new adaptor  50  has no external connecting arm, the machine locking finger  44  is free to safely engage in the index groove  60   b  to recover its position. To that end, in certain embodiments, when the adaptor  50  is utilized with the multi-tool  10 , the locking fingers  44  from the press can serve dual functions if position sensor (e.g., linear encoder) is incorporated in the design, in terms of locking the position of index ring  60  and further using spatial information (i.e., with respect to various components of the assembly  70 ) so as to accordingly drive the fabrication machine (e.g., indentifying spatial information of groove  60   b  which can then be used in determining requisite amount of rotation of the tool shank  12  or tool shank holder  54 ), which facilitates better efficiency with regard to further functioning of the press, but also allows the information to be easily recalled or reassessed in the event of power loss. 
         [0052]    While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described, it is to be understood that numerous changes, adaptations, and modifications can be made to the preferred embodiments without departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of the claims. Thus, the invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments for purposes of illustration. The scope of the invention is described in the claims, which are set forth below.