Adjustable Utility Belt with Modular Tool Attachment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing utility belts are inflexible and uncomfortable due to fixed tool positions, leading to unstable loads and potential sagging or falling off, especially when heavy with multiple tools, and lack customizable attachment mechanisms for optimal user comfort and convenience.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable utility belt with extendable wing members, an adjustable cummerbund, and a modular attachment system allowing tools and accessories to be securely positioned and repositioned around the waist, featuring adjustable straps and Velcro fasteners for secure fit and comfort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If tools and accessories are attached to a utility belt, then the wearer is equipped for various tasks, but the belt becomes heavy and may sag or fall off

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool carrying capabilityVSAvoidbelt weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The belt is divided into multiple separate pouches and attachment points distributed around the waist, rather than a single heavy structure. Each pouch can be independently attached or removed, allowing the weight to be segmented and distributed across different body positions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple functional elements into a unified belt system: multiple pouches for different tool types, adjustable straps for fit, and a cummerbund for additional support. This merging creates a comprehensive solution that addresses both tool carrying and weight distribution simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of manufacture

If pre-existing pockets and pouches are sewn onto a utility belt at fixed positions, then the belt structure is simple, but the tools cannot be repositioned to preferred locations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebelt construction simplicityVSAvoidtool position customization

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of sewing pouches permanently to the belt, the invention segments the attachment system into separate, removable pouches that can be independently positioned. Each pouch has its own attachment mechanism, allowing individual repositioning without affecting other tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment system transitions from static (sewn-on) to dynamic (removable and repositionable). The pouches can be attached and detached as needed, and their positions can be adjusted along the belt to match the wearer's preferences and task requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If an adjustable strap and buckle are used to secure the utility belt, then the belt can be fitted to various waist sizes, but the strap may loosen due to the weight of attached tools

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewaist size adjustmentVSAvoidbelt security

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening system is segmented into multiple independent components: the main buckle strap for waist size adjustment and a separate cummerbund for additional security. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without being overwhelmed by the full load.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cummerbund acts as a preemptive support element that compensates for the potential weakness of the single buckle strap. By adding this extra layer of security in advance, the system prevents the strap from loosening under heavy tool loads.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple layers of strapping are used to secure objects to the utility belt, then the attachment can be adjusted, but the installation process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment adjustabilityVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the complexity from the attachment process by using pre-formed pouches with built-in attachment mechanisms. Instead of requiring multiple layers of strapping to be woven and tied, the pouches are ready-to-use units that attach in a single step.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The pouches are designed as simple, inexpensive, easily manufactured components that can be quickly attached and detached. Rather than investing time in complex permanent attachments, the system uses simple removable pouches that can be rapidly deployed and repositioned as needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS10051948B2Utility belt

Publication Date: 2018.08.21 ATLAS 46 LLC

AI summary

A utility belt including a center member, a first wing member movable relative to the center member, a second wing member adjustable relative to the first wing member and movable relative to the center member, an adjustment member for adjusting the first and second wing members relative to each other, and an optional cummerbund which is releasably engageable with the center member. The utility belt includes a plurality of loop members for allowing different types of devices such as pouches, pockets, drill holsters, tools and other implements to be attached thereto at a desired location. The optional cummerbund increases the fit of the present belt to a particular user and also allows the present belt to better support attachments attached to one or more of the loop members. The optional cummerbund is also adjustable to further improve the fit and comfort of the present belt to the wearer.