Abstract: A rotary tool, such as a screwdriver, in which a grip is grasped and released, so that the output shaft is rotated in the same direction during both actions comprises a motion converting mechanism wherein two sets of one-way clutch mechanisms are added to a mechanism for converting a rectilinear reciprocating motion into a rotary motion through a rack gear and pinion combination. The two sets of one-way clutch mechanisms include one that engages during the reverse movement of the rack gear, both of which rotate an output shaft in the same direction when they engage. With this arrangement, the motion converting mechanism according to the present invention rotates the output shaft in the same direction during both forward and reverse movements of the rack gear, thereby improving efficiency in converting the reciprocating motion into the rotary motion.

Abstract: A motion converting mechanism wherein two sets of one-way clutch mechanisms are added to a mechanism for converting a rectilinear reciprocating motion into a rotary motion through a rack and pinion combination. The two sets of one-way clutch mechanisms include one that engages during the forward movement of the rack and the other that engages during the reverse movement of the rack, both of which rotate an output shaft in the same direction when they engage. With this arrangement, the motion converting mechanism according to the present invention can rotate the output shaft in the same direction during both forward and reverse movements of the rack, thereby improving efficiency in converting the reciprocating motion into the rotary motion as compared with the conventional one. Thus, various rotary tools utilizing this motion converting mechanism can be provided.