Ball lock socket holder

Abstract

A storage apparatus for tool sockets includes an elongated rack having affixed thereto a plurality of attachment mechanisms each provided with a guide channel and upstanding central cam element. A mounting member connected to each attachment mechanism includes a stub adapted to accommodate the square bore of a tool socket, with a transverse bore in the stub having a normally freely movable ball therein. Arcuate movement of the mounting member atop its attachment mechanism is limited by a tab on the mounting member disposed within the attachment mechanism guide channel. In an at rest condition, the tab is biased upwardly by a spring intermediate the attachment mechanism and mounting member. Upon the placement of a tool socket about a stub, the socket is depressed against the force of the spring to release the tab from an unlock recess and following rotary displacement of the socket and captive mounting member, the ball is urged by the cam element into a blocked position partially beyond the plane of the stub and into a detent as formed within the bore of the socket. Upon release of downward force upon the socket, the mounting member is biased upwardly with the tab entering a lock recess preventing unblocking of the ball from the socket without a deliberate two axis displacement of the mounting member.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.