Belt-Mounted Tool Holder with Weight Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing belts with pouches or clips for carrying tools become uncomfortable due to weight distribution issues, often causing the belt to sag and may damage the belt material, with size and weight limitations for the items they can hold.
Innovation Solution
A single tube apparatus with inverted 'u' shaped hooks that attaches to a belt, featuring openings for tool support, distributing weight evenly and allowing for flexible attachment to various belt widths and thicknesses without damaging the belt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If tools are carried in pouches attached to a belt, then tools can be carried hands-free, but the weight causes the pouch to pull downward on the belt, reducing belt effectiveness and comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus divides the tool-carrying function into separate compartments or sections along the belt, with individual holders or pouches positioned at different locations. This segments the total weight distribution across multiple attachment points rather than concentrating it in one location, reducing the pulling effect on the belt.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus extends tool-carrying capacity in the longitudinal dimension of the belt, allowing tools to be distributed along the length of the belt rather than concentrated at one point. This dimensional distribution spreads the weight load across a larger area of the belt, improving comfort and belt effectiveness.
2Ease of operation
If a belt clip is used to attach an item to a belt, then the item can be carried, but the clip can damage the belt and still pulls the belt down
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus uses a flexible pouch or sleeve structure that wraps around or conforms to the belt surface, distributing pressure evenly without concentrated stress points. This flexible construction avoids the cutting or piercing effects of rigid clips while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus changes the attachment mechanism from a rigid clip with high localized pressure to a flexible pouch with distributed pressure. This parameter change in pressure distribution prevents belt damage while maintaining attachment effectiveness.
3Ease of operation
If a clip is used to attach an item to a belt loop, then the item can be carried, but the clip can tear the belt loop and has size limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus employs a flexible pouch structure that attaches to the belt loop without rigid clips, distributing forces evenly across the loop material. This prevents stress concentration that would cause tearing, preserving belt loop integrity while enabling item attachment.
4Quantity of substance
If a separate belt or carpenter's apron with multiple pouches and clips is worn, then various tools and supplies can be carried, but the equipment becomes cumbersome and is more than needed for simple tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus designs a single belt system that can accommodate multiple tool types through standardized pouches and holders, replacing the need for separate specialized equipment like carpenter's aprons. This multi-functional design provides tool-carrying capability for various tasks without the cumulative complexity of multiple separate devices.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for hooking on a belt worn at a person's waist or hips for carrying tools and other items hands-free within easy visibility and reach and without the tools pulling on the belt such that the belt is weighed down by the tools. The apparatus has at least two hooks for attaching to the belt and has at least two openings for receiving and supporting or attaching at least two tools. The apparatus is formed from a single tube of a metal, heavy plastic or synthetic capable of supporting and distributing the weight of the tools so that the tools do not weigh down and pull on the belt.