Abstract: Tools providing automatic, smooth shifting between random orbital and rotary motion by simply increasing or decreasing force applied are taught. Exemplar is a finishing tool switchable between grinding rotary action and random orbital sanding action without powering down and without any mechanical manipulation, made possible by having a clutch mechanism affixed directly to the spindle assembly, which also eliminates the need to dissemble the tool in order to change a backup pad, saving time and money. Direct relationship between the clutch and spindle eliminates need for a specialty pad allowing for use of a variety of backup pads, reducing the cost of replacement backup pads and increasing the functionality of the dual-function tool. An additional feature is that the drive head surface is circular and large enough to encompass the device's circular clutch plate, which means that the available friction surface area of the clutch plate is efficiently utilized.

Abstract: Tools providing automatic, smooth shifting between random orbital and rotary motion by simply increasing or decreasing force applied are taught. Exemplar is a finishing tool switchable between grinding rotary action and random orbital sanding action without powering down and without any mechanical manipulation, made possible by having a clutch mechanism affixed directly to the spindle assembly, which also eliminates the need to dissemble the tool in order to change a backup pad, saving time and money. Direct relationship between the clutch and spindle eliminates need for a specialty pad allowing for use of a variety of backup pads, reducing the cost of replacement backup pads and increasing the functionality of the dual-function tool. An additional feature is that the drive head surface is circular and large enough to encompass the device's circular clutch plate, which means that the available friction surface area of the clutch plate is efficiently utilized.