Adjustable Inclined Tool Box with Ergonomic Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tool boxes do not provide adequate support for the neck and back of individuals working in confined spaces while simultaneously allowing for the storage of tools, leading to discomfort and increased risk of injury due to unsupported positions.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable inclined tool box with adjustable feet that allows the top surface to be set at various heights and angles, providing ergonomic support and storage for tools, featuring a base box, inclined back rest, and adjustable feet for comfortable use in supine positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a tool box is designed with a flat surface for storage, then tools can be stored inside, but it does not provide adequate support for the neck and back when working in confined spaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport for neck and backVSAvoiddual function as tool box and support
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The tool box incorporates an adjustable incline mechanism that allows the top surface to be tilted at different angles. This dynamic adjustment enables the same structure to serve both as a tool storage container (when flat) and as ergonomic support (when inclined), resolving the contradiction between providing neck and back support and maintaining tool storage functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention creates a multi-functional device where the tool box can operate in two primary modes: as a traditional tool storage container with a flat lid, and as an ergonomic support surface with an inclined top. This universality allows a single device to address both tool storage needs and ergonomic support requirements without requiring separate devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If additional support apparatuses are brought to the job site, then comfort and support are improved, but the burden of carrying additional material increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomfort and supportVSAvoidburden of carrying additional material
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the tool box and ergonomic support into a single integrated unit. By combining the storage function and support function in one device, the handyman eliminates the need to carry separate support apparatuses, thereby reducing the overall weight and burden of materials to be carried to the job site while maintaining both tool storage and ergonomic support capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If the tool box is made adjustable with varied range of height and incline, then ergonomic support is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveergonomic supportVSAvoidadjustability mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tool box employs an adjustable incline mechanism that allows the top surface to be tilted at different angles. This dynamic adjustment enables the same structure to serve both as a tool storage container (when flat) and as ergonomic support (when inclined), resolving the contradiction between providing neck and back support and maintaining tool storage functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS7971716B2Adjustable inclined tool box
Publication Date: 2011.07.05 EATON MICHAEL R
  • US7971716B2 patent drawing
  • US7971716B2 patent drawing
  • US7971716B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is related to an adjustable inclined tool box for holding tools. In addition, the user can comfortably lie on the tool box at an incline when working in a supine position. The incline of the tool box can be changed by adjusting the height of at least one height adjustable foot connected to the bottom of the tool box. An optional lip connected to the tool box and extending therefrom can be provided in order to provide a smooth transition from the back rest of the tool box to a cabinet space floor if being used for work under a cabinet.