Modular utility tool

Abstract

A modular utility tool may include a rigid link element and a flexible strap removably secured to the link element. The link element may include a plurality of screws shaped to mate with holes defined through the flexible band so that a plurality of configurations may be formed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to tools and, more particularly, to a modular utility tool by providing a plurality of uses for the modular utility tool such as a tether and a strap. Background Art

[0002] It would be desirable to provide a practical tool that allows a user to secure items together in a variety of ways and has other practical functions. Summary of the invention

[0003] Certain embodiments of the present invention may include a modular utility tool including a rigid link member and a flexible band removably secured to the link member. The link member may include a plurality of screws shaped to fit through holes defined by the band to form a plurality of configurations.

[0004] In an exemplary embodiment, a modular utility tool may include a flexible band and a connecting rod. The flexible band includes an elongated body in a longitudinal direction, the elongated body including a plurality of holes defined perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The connecting rod includes a first band connecting screw and a second band connecting screw. Each of the first band connecting screw and the second band connecting screw includes a neck portion and an enlarged head portion. The head portion defines a diameter greater than the diameter of the neck and greater than a diameter of the holes defined through the flexible band.

[0005] The elongated body of the flexible band may include a series of adjacently disposed annular portions connected to an adjacent annular portion on opposite sides, and wherein the plurality of apertures are defined as apertures located centrally in each annular portion.

[0006] The connecting rod may include a rigid planar plate. The first strap connection screw and the second strap connection screw each protrude from a common planar side of the rigid planar plate.

[0007] The head portion of each of the first and second strap connection screws may be spade-shaped, rounded, polygonal, or other shapes.

[0008] The head portion of each of the first and second strap connection screws may include a planar side and an opposing pointed side. The head portion of each of the first and second strap connection screws may also include a pair of parallel sides spanning between the planar side and the pointed side. Each intersecting corner of the head portion of each of the first and second strap connection screws may be rounded.

[0009] When viewed from the rear side of the modular utility tool, the head portion of each of the first and second strap connection screws may include a longitudinal inward side and a longitudinal outward side. The inward side may be longer than the outward side. The inward side may define a flat distal surface that is connected to a base by a pair of adjacent surfaces on an upper side and a lower side thereof. The inward side has a width that narrows as it extends from the base to the flat distal surface. The outward side may share a common base with the inward side and gradually tapers as it extends through a pair of linear sidewalls to a distal outward surface. In a top view, the head portion of each of the first and second strap connection screws may have a thickest portion at the midline and gradually thins toward the respective flat distal surface and distal outward surface.

[0010] The connecting rod may include a plate including a pair of opposing wide faces. The first and second strap connection screws may each protrude from a common wide side of the plate. A rectangular hole may be defined through the plate at a location between the first and second strap connection screws. The rectangular hole may be longitudinally centered between the first and second strap connection screws. The rectangular hole may have rounded corners. The rectangular hole may be oriented perpendicular to a longitudinal length of the plate. The rectangular hole may be sized to allow the flexible strap to pass through the connecting rod. The rectangular hole may include a slot defined at a periphery of the plate body to define an opening to the rectangular hole.

[0011] The connecting rod may include a light fitting in the form of a bottle cap. The first strap connection screw and the second strap connection screw may each protrude from the bottle cap in opposite directions. A compartment may be provided inside the bottle cap, and a light may be provided inside the compartment.

[0012] The above summary is not intended to describe every illustrated embodiment, claimed embodiment or implementation of the present invention. The detailed technology and preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can better understand the features of the present invention. It should be understood that the features mentioned above and the features to be commented on below can be used not only in the specified combination, but also in other combinations or alone without departing from the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The present invention may be more fully understood with reference to the following detailed description of various embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 A modular utility according to an embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0015] Figure 2 Describes an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1The modular utility tool, wherein one end of the flexible band is released from the linkage member.

[0016] Figure 3 An alternative embodiment of a portion of a modular utility tool incorporating the linkage member is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 4 A perspective view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 5 Depicted is a front view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 6 A rear view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 7 A first side view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 8 Describes an embodiment of the present invention Figure 4 A second side view of the connecting element, Figure 7 The side view is relative.

[0022] Fig. 9 Depicted is a top view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Fig.10 Depicted is a bottom view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Fig.11 Depicted is a perspective view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Fig.12 Depicted is a perspective view of a flexible strap for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Fig.13 Depicted is a top view of a flexible strap for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Fig.14 Depicted is a bottom view of a flexible strap for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Fig.15Depicted is a first end view of a flexible strap for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Fig.16 A second end view opposite the first end of a flexible strap for a modular utility tool according to an embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0030] Fig.17 A first side view of a flexible strap for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0031] Fig.18 A second side view opposite the first side view of a flexible strap for a modular utility tool according to an embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0032] Fig.19 A portion of a modular utility according to an embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0033] Fig. 20 A perspective view depicts an example construction and use of a modular utility tool according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Fig.21 A perspective view depicts another example construction and use of a modular utility tool according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Fig. 22 A perspective view depicts another example construction and use of a modular utility tool according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Fig.23 Depicted is a front view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Fig.24 Depicted is a perspective view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Fig.25 Another perspective view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Fig.26 A rear view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Fig. 27 Depicted is a top view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Fig.28Depicted is a perspective view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Fig.29 Depicted is a side view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Fig.30 Depicted is a front view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Fig.31 Depicted is a view of a linkage member engaged with a flexible band in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Fig.32 A perspective view of a modular utility bottle accessory is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Fig.33 Another perspective view of a modular utility bottle accessory is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Fig.34 Depicted is a top view of a modular utility bottle attachment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Fig.35 Depicted is a bottom view of a modular utility bottle accessory according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Fig.36 A side view of a modular utility bottle accessory is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Fig.37 Another side view of a modular utility bottle accessory is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Fig.38 Depicted is a perspective view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Fig.39 Depicted is a front view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Fig.40 A rear view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Fig.41 A first side view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Fig.42A second side view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Fig.43 Depicted is a top view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Fig.44 Depicted is a bottom view of a linkage member for a modular utility tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Although the present invention can be subjected to various modifications and alternative forms, its details have been shown and described in detail by the examples in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described. On the contrary, the present invention can encompass all modifications, equivalents and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] Trademark terms (including MODL) referenced in this application are owned by MODL, Inc. No right, license or other right in these trademarks is transferred or intended to be transferred to any person or entity.

[0060] General reference Figure 1-44 , a modular utility tool 100 and its various components, elements, modules, structures, and certain example configurations and example uses are provided. The modular utility tool 100 is configured to be particularly useful for hikers, campers, cyclists, climbers, pet owners, etc. The modular utility tool 100 can be combined with one or more additional tools or components thereof to form an even greater number of potential configurations.

[0061] Special References Figure 1-10 , modular utility tool 100 includes a link 102 and a flexible band 104 removably secured to the link member. The link 102 includes a plurality of screws 106 protruding outwardly from one side thereof. Each screw 106 is shaped to cooperate with a hole 122 defined through the band 104 so that a plurality of configurations can be formed. More specifically, the shape of the screw 106 secures the band 104 to the link member 102 until a user applies sufficient force to deform the hole 122 and remove the band from the screw 106.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, the linkage member 102 includes a planar (or substantially planar) plate 108 and a pair of screws 106 protruding outwardly from a wide planar side of the plate 108. Each screw 106 includes a neck portion 110 and an enlarged head portion 112. The head 112 defines a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the neck. The head diameter is also larger than the diameter of the hole 122 defined by the band 104. The diameter of the neck portion 110 is approximately equal to or slightly smaller than the diameter of the hole 122 defined by the band 104. More than two screws 106 may also be provided on a given connection member 102.

[0063] In the rear view (for example, Figure 6 ), the head 112 of each screw 106 is generally spade-shaped. More specifically, the head 112 defines a flat side 114 and an opposite pointed side 116. Sides 117 spanning between the flat side 114 and the opposite pointed side 116 are also flat and parallel to each other. The side 117 intersects the flat side 114 at a ninety-degree angle. Each corner of the head 112 is rounded.

[0064] A rectangular hole 118 is defined through the plate 108 at the midsection of the plate 108. The rectangular hole 118 may be centered between the pair of screws 106. The hole 118 is rectangular in shape with rounded corners. The hole is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal (main) length of the plate 108. Fig.19 As shown, the size of the hole 118 is designed to allow the belt 104 to pass therethrough. This arrangement allows for serial connection of the flexible belt 104, and also allows for the "tightening" capability of the flexible belt 104 through the rectangular hole 118, so that the flexible belt 104 can be tightly tightened around an object.

[0065] like Fig.11 As shown, linkage member 102 may also include a slot 119 defined in the perimeter of body 108 to define an opening to rectangular aperture 118. This allows the top or bottom edge of flexible band 104 to pass through slot 119 and into aperture 118.

[0066] In other embodiments, the shape and proportions of the apertures 118 may vary. For example, Fig.23 The hole 18 in the connecting rod element is longitudinally larger than Figure 4-10 The embodiment shown is slightly wider.

[0067] Special References Figure 38-44 , shows another embodiment of the linkage member 102. In the embodiment, the head 112 of each screw 106 is multi-faceted. More specifically, when viewed from the rear side of the linkage member 102 ( Fig.40), the head 112 defines an inboard side 124 and an outboard side 126. The inboard side 124 is more elongated than the outboard side and defines a flat distal surface 128 connected to the base 130 by a pair of adjacent faces 132 on its upper and lower sides. As shown in the rear view, the width of the inboard side 124 narrows as it extends from the base 130 to the flat distal surface 128. The outboard side 126 shares a common base 130 and tapers as it extends to a distal outboard surface 134 through a pair of linear sidewalls 136. Furthermore, each corner of the head 112 can be rounded.

[0068] In top or bottom view ( Figure 43-44 ), it can be seen that the head 112 of each screw 106 has a thickest (highest peak in these views) portion at the midline 130 and tapers inwardly / outwardly (horizontally). For the linkage member 102 of the described embodiment, these corresponding flat distal surfaces 128 and the distal outwardly facing surface 134 of the screw 106 visually communicate or signal to the user the optimal position to place the hole 122 of the strap 104 on the screw head 112. Therefore, it can be understood that the fixed movement of the hole 122 of the head 112 of the described embodiment is in the longitudinal direction, while Figure 4-10 The fixed movement of the hole 122 of the head 112 in the embodiment of FIG. 1 is in the transverse direction (ie, perpendicular to the long axis of the connecting rod plate 108 ). Figure 38-44 The operating direction of the embodiment is believed to be more intuitive for the user to operate and less likely to inadvertently lose safety.

[0069] The link element 102 may be formed of a rigid metal, plastic, or composite material. For example, the link element 102 may be formed of stainless steel or an aluminum alloy. The link may also be formed of a ferrous metal and magnetized. In an alternative embodiment, the link element 102 is formed of a flexible material rather than a rigid material. For example, a rubber having ductility or elasticity may be used. A hybrid material link assembly may also be provided. For example, the plate 108 may be a flexible material, while the screw 106 is a rigid material.

[0070] Especially Figure 1-2 As shown in Figures 12-18, the flexible band 104 includes an elongated flexible body 120, which includes a hole 122 defined through the thickness of the body at each opposite end thereof. The body 120 can be configured as a series of adjacently arranged annular sections, which are connected to an adjacent annular section on opposite sides. Each annular section includes a hole 122 passing therethrough, just like the opposite ends. The diameter of each hole 122 is less than the diameter of the head 112 of the screw 106. Even within the same strip, the number of annular segments can be different in size and shape.

[0071] The flexible band 104 is formed of a flexible material such as rubber or silicone. Other materials such as leather, plastic, and composite materials may also be provided. The flexible band may also be formed of a flexible metal braid. In some alternatives, metal or rigid reinforcements may also be added to the flexible band. In another example, the band is formed by molding silicone onto a more rigid substrate such as polyurethane or wire. The flexible band 102 may also be formed of a mixture of different materials.

[0072] In use, the hole 122 of the band 104 is stretched over the head 112 of the screw 106 until the hole 122 is sufficiently deformed to pass over the head 112 and engage with the neck portion 110. In this fixed state, the annular portion of the flexible band 104 is located between the head 112 and the plate 108 from front to back. The expansion of the aperture is first promoted by aligning the hole 122 with the tip 116 of the head, and then force is applied to the flat side 114 and then to the plate 110 until the hole 122 is fixed in the above-mentioned fastened or engaged state. The band can be removed or disengaged from the screw 106 by reversing the above process.

[0073] In other embodiments, the shape of the head 112 of the screw 106 may vary. For example, Figure 24-27 The head 112 of the screw 106 of the connecting rod member 104 in the embodiment is round. Other shapes, including polygonal shapes and complex shapes, may also be used. Each screw 106 of the connecting rod member 102 may also be different from each other or have different clockwise directions when viewed from the back. In addition, the outer surface of the head 112 of each screw may be provided with a decorative design, such as Figure 25-26 , 28 and 30-31.

[0074] refer to Figure 28-31 , depicting a separate screw 200. The separate screw 200 includes opposing heads 202 and a narrow neck 204 extending between the heads. One or both outer surfaces may have a decorative appearance. The separate screw 200 may be disposed through one of the holes 122 in the strap 104. The neck may also be of sufficient length so that the separate screw 200 may pass through two overlapping holes 122 of two straps. (or overlapping portions of the same strap).

[0075] In another embodiment, the screw 106 of the linkage member 102 may be removable and / or replaceable. In a variation of this embodiment, the head 112 of the screw is screwed into the neck 110, which allows the head to be removed and replaced. In another variation, a threaded hole extends from the plate side 108 into the neck 110. A screw is provided with its head located on the plate side to secure the screw 106 to the plate 108. In another embodiment, the plate 108 may be provided with a neck having a male (external) threaded shank and a female (internal) threaded hole. In yet another variation, the neck 110 has an inner hole that can be mounted on the outer shank, and a set (headless) screw is screwed into the neck 110 to secure the screw 106 in place. The inner hole and shank may be toothed or eccentric (e.g., D-shaped) to eliminate relative rotational movement.

[0076] In the alternative, the screw 106 is secured to the plate 108 via a push button engagement / release mechanism.

[0077] The modular utility tool 100 and its components may be used to form a variety of configurations. For example, bracelets, wristbands, carabiners, key chains, ties, lanyards, straps, hoops, straps, lanyards, etc. may be formed. Some example configurations and their uses are described in Figure 20-22 As shown in the figure. Fig. 20 As shown, two link elements 104 are used to form a single strap 104 into a generally "S" or figure "8" shape to form two adjacent loops that can be used as a key chain. Fig.21 As shown, two straps 104 are connected using two link elements 104 to secure the rolled-up yoga mat for easy carrying. Note that the second link is located behind the rolled-up yoga mat. Fig. 22 A single band 104 and link 102 are depicted forming a bracelet that surrounds a person's wrist or arm.

[0078] The following are non-limiting example applications of the modular utility 100 in use:

[0079] Carabiner;

[0080] Attach two kayak / canoe paddles together;

[0081] Hang items from the ridge rope of the hammock;

[0082] Bracelet (adjustable and customizable);

[0083] Gear straps (e.g., touring, cycling, bikepacking, off-road, motorcycle, ski gear (boots, helmets, gloves, etc.) to tie gear together;

[0084] Toy;

[0085] Stress relief toys;

[0086] Object holder;

[0087] Dog collars;

[0088] Camping cutlery straps;

[0089] Fishing rod holders;

[0090] MOLLE system rope loop;

[0091] a pick stand for guitarists;

[0092] Straps for skates / skateboards etc. that won’t scratch the surface;

[0093] climbing bindings;

[0094] Rack on the outside of the backpack (for cups, silverware, dirty shoes, clothes to dry, towels);

[0095] Flashlight and / or lantern holder;

[0096] Bear bag hanger; and

[0097] A backpack hook that hangs from a tree branch or other support.

[0098] The structure may also be formed by using more than one linkage member 102 and / or more than one strap 104. Any number of straps 104 and linkages 102 may be connected together to form a configuration suitable for a particular application.

[0099] Further configurations may be formed by attaching additional components to the modular utility tool 100. For example, a hook may be threaded through one or more holes 122 in the strap 104.

[0100] In a further embodiment, Figure 32-37 As shown in , the linkage element 102 can be embodied as a light fitting 300. In this case, the light fitting is in the form of a bottle cap that can be screwed onto a bottle in a utility bottle system such as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,261,005. The entire contents of U.S. Patent No. 11,261,005 are incorporated herein by reference. This light fitting can transform the bottle into a lantern. Alternatively, the light fitting can be used as a stand-alone lighting device. The flexible band 104 can be fixed to screws 302 protruding from opposite sides of the light fitting 300. This allows the light to be fixed in different positions to act as a lantern or flashlight depending on the needs of the user. Of course, in alternative embodiments, the light fitting can be configured without the characteristics of a bottle.

[0101] like Figure 32-37As shown, the interior of the cover 304 includes a compartment 306, and the size and shape of the compartment 306 are designed to enclose a disc-shaped light-emitting device inside the compartment. The compartment 306 is waterproof to protect the lighting device. An on / off actuator 308 and a brightness adjustment actuator 310 are arranged on the outer surface of the cover 304. The brightness adjustment actuator 310 can also be used to start a flashing setting. One or more colored LEDs can be provided to allow the color of the light to change. In such an embodiment, one of the buttons 308 or 310 or an additional button can be used to change the color. A sound sensor can be included so that the light can change color and / or flash according to the music beat sensed by the sensor.

[0102] The light fitting may be formed of a rigid plastic material. The light emitting element may be a commercially available disk light using a light emitting diode (LED). The compartment 306 may be permanently sealed so that the light emitting element is not removable. Alternatively, the inner and outer portions of the cover 304 may be separated so that the light emitting element may be replaced, or so that the power source (e.g., battery) of the light source may be replaced. The two halves may be secured together by suitable means, such as respectively mating male / female threads, a snap fit, etc.

[0103] An external port may also be provided on the outer surface of the cover 304 to connect a power cable (e.g., a USB cable or other similar cable) to recharge the battery that powers the light. The light may also be operated directly via the cable. In another alternative, the battery may be configured for contactless charging via commercially available personal electronic products.

[0104] A speaker or other sound emitter (e.g., a piezoelectric emitter) may be provided in compartment 306, with or without the light source. This would allow the cover accessory 300 to play music, sound an alarm, or emit other sounds desired by the user. The speaker or emitter may be coupled wirelessly (or by cable connection as described above) to a user's smartphone or other personal computing device (e.g., via Bluetooth) to play sounds and / or music.

[0105] A global positioning system (GPS) tracking device may be provided to the compartment 306. This would allow the user (or others) to track the location of the cap accessory and anything to which it is attached.

[0106] In use, the light fitting cover 300 is secured to the bottle, such as by a threaded connection with the cover body 304, and the light device illuminates the bottle to serve as a lantern. The flexible band can be secured to the screw 302 to allow the lantern to be hung from a tree branch, tent support pole, or other convenient item. In another example of use, the cover can be removed and one or more flexible bands can be connected together to allow the user to wear the light fitting on their head to act as a head-mounted lamp. Many other uses will be apparent and are possible through various combinations of light fitting 300, flexible band 104, and linkage element 102.

[0107] Various materials have been identified for constructing all or part of the components described herein. However, other acceptable materials are also contemplated for use. For example, although polypropylene, silicone, and stainless steel have been identified, other materials may be employed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0108] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with what are currently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. It is apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and equivalent arrangements may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, which scope should be consistent with the broadest interpretation of the appended claims so as to cover all equivalent structures and products. In addition, features or aspects of the various exemplary embodiments may be mixed and matched (even if such combinations are not explicitly described herein) without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A modular utility tool, characterized in that: include: a flexible band comprising an elongated body in a longitudinal direction including a plurality of holes defined therethrough perpendicular to said longitudinal direction; and a connecting rod including a first strap connection screw and a second strap connection screw, wherein each of the first and second strap connection screws includes a neck portion and an enlarged head portion, The head portion defines a diameter greater than a diameter of the neck portion and greater than a diameter of the holes defined through the flexible band.

2. The modular utility tool according to claim 1, characterized in that The elongated body of the flexible band comprises a series of adjacently disposed annular portions connected to an adjacent annular portion on opposite sides, and wherein the plurality of apertures are defined as apertures located centrally in each annular portion.

3. The modular utility tool according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting rod includes a rigid planar plate, and wherein the first strap connection screw and the second strap connection screw each protrude from a common planar side of the rigid planar plate.

4. The modular utility tool according to claim 1, wherein: The head portion of each of the first and second strap attachment screws is spade-shaped.

5. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: The head portion of each of the first and second strap attachment screws includes a planar side and an opposing pointed side.

6. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: Wherein the head portion of each of the first and second strap attachment screws further includes a pair of parallel sides spanning between the planar side and the pointed side.

7. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: Each intersection corner of the head portion of each of the first and second strap connection screws is rounded.

8. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: wherein the connecting rod comprises a plate, the plate comprising a pair of opposite wide faces, wherein the first and second belt connection screws respectively protrude from a common surface of the opposite wide surface of the plate, and Wherein a rectangular hole is defined through the plate at a location between the first and second strap connection screws.

9. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: The rectangular hole is located longitudinally centered between the first and second belt connection screws.

10. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: The rectangular hole has rounded corners.

11. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: The rectangular aperture is oriented perpendicular to a longitudinal extent of the plate.

12. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: The rectangular hole has a size that allows the flexible belt to pass therethrough.

13. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: The connecting rod includes a groove defined at a periphery of the plate body to define an opening leading to the rectangular hole.

14. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: The head portion of each of the first and second strap connection screws is circular.

15. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: When viewed from the rear side of the modular utility tool, the head portion of each of the first and second strap attachment screws includes a longitudinal inward side and a longitudinal outward side, wherein the inward side is longer than the outward side.

16. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: The inwardly facing side defines a flat distal surface connected to a base via a pair of adjacent surfaces on an upper side and a lower side thereof, and wherein a width of the inwardly facing side narrows as it extends from the base toward the flat distal surface.

17. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: The outwardly facing side shares a common base with the inwardly facing side and tapers as it extends through a pair of linear sidewalls to a distal outwardly facing surface.

18. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: In a top view, the head portion of each of the first and second band attachment screws has a thickest portion at a midline and tapers outwardly toward the respective flat distal surface and distal end.

19. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: The connecting rod includes a light fitting in the form of a bottle cap, wherein the first strap connection screw and the second strap connection screw each protrude from the bottle cap in opposite directions from each other.

20. The modular utility tool of claim 1, wherein: A compartment is disposed inside the bottle cap, and a light is disposed inside the compartment.

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