Patent ID: 7726919

Claim:
A machine tool, comprising: a driver having a longitudinal axis, a proximal section adapted to be connected to a rotational spindle, and a distal section defining an insert receiving region disposed at the end thereof; a tool holder having a longitudinal axis, the tool holder being movably coupled to the distal section of the driver in such a manner as to allow the tool holder to pivot with respect to the driver in two or more planes and to be rotationally driven by the driver, wherein the tool holder includes a proximal section defining a spherical insert cooperatively configured to be received by the insert receiving region of the driver, a flange spaced distally of the spherical insert and discrete therefrom, the flange extending laterally outwardly of the longitudinal axis of the tool holder and defining a peripherally extending engagement surface positioned outwardly of the spherical insert, a distal section defining a tool interface for attachment to a tool, and a longitudinally extending bore opening at the distal end of the distal section of the tool holder for receiving a pilot shaft; and a collar carried by the driver, the collar defining a first open ended cavity for receiving a portion of the distal section of the driver in a slideably engaging manner and a second open ended cavity for receiving the flange of the tool holder, wherein the collar is movable over the distal section of the driver between a fixed position, wherein the longitudinal axes of the driver and the tool holder are substantially coaxial and the collar contacts the engagement surface of the flange of the tool holder such that the tool holder is prohibited from pivoting with respect to the driver, and a universal position, wherein the collar is free from contacting the engagement surface of the flange of the tool holder so that the tool holder is permitted to pivot with respect to the driver.