Compartmented Sled With Integrated Cutter for Confined Workspaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool bags and tool trays fail to efficiently transport and organize tools, supplies, and personal items in confined spaces like crawlspaces, leading to lost tools and inadequate workspace access.
Innovation Solution
A sled system with compartments and a cutting mechanism for storing and cutting elongated materials, featuring a body with multiple compartments and a channel for flexible supplies, along with a strap cutter assembly for one-handed cutting, enhancing mobility and reducing the risk of losing items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tool bags and tool trays are used for transport, then tools and supplies can be carried to equipment, but tools are lost and workspace access is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The sled is divided into multiple compartments including a first compartment for tools, a second compartment for supplies, and a third compartment for personal items. This segmentation organizes different types of items separately, preventing loss while maintaining easy access to specific items at the workspace.
2Ease of operation
If traditional transport methods are used, then mobility is limited, but organized transport and efficient access in confined spaces is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The sled serves multiple functions: it transports tools, supplies, and personal items; provides organized storage through compartments; enables one-handed operation via the integrated cutting mechanism; and improves mobility in confined spaces. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by achieving both ease of operation and transport efficiency simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The cutting mechanism is integrated directly into the sled system, allowing the technician to cut materials without needing to retrieve separate cutting tools from compartments. The sled serves itself by providing the cutting function, eliminating the need for additional tool retrieval steps and improving both accessibility and productivity.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple items are carried together, then all necessary tools and supplies can be transported, but the risk of losing items increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the sled into distinct compartments for different types of items (tools, supplies, personal items), the system maintains organization even when transporting multiple items. This segmentation prevents items from getting mixed up and lost, while still allowing the sled to carry all necessary equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for cutting stored materials and for storing elongated and flexible supplies are disclosed. According to an aspect, a system includes a sled comprising a body that defines a plurality of compartments for holding objects. Example objects include, but are not limited to, tools, supplies, tape, electronic devices, zip ties, spools of supplies or materials, and keys. The body further defines a channel that extends between one of the compartments and an opening. The system also includes a cutting mechanism positioned adjacent the channel and configured to cut and/or tear a material stored within the one of the compartments.