Flexible Tool Storage with Rigid Frame and Nested Lid
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tool storage devices face challenges in portability, durability, and accessibility, particularly in varying terrains and weather conditions, which can lead to project delays and increased costs due to difficulty in accessing tools and accessories.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates flexible walls, rigid frames, movable lids, and mounting arrangements for power tool battery chargers, along with connecting mechanisms and interchangeable pouches and pockets to enhance portability, durability, and accessibility, including features like reinforced materials, adjustable handles, and secure fastening systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid structure is used to improve durability, then the device becomes heavier and less portable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible outer shell or covering that provides protection while maintaining light weight. This flexible structure allows the tool storage device to be portable yet still offer durability against environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes composite material construction, combining lightweight materials with durable properties. This allows the device to achieve both portability and durability simultaneously through material science rather than relying solely on heavy rigid structures.
2Reliability
If tools are stored in a secure, enclosed container, then protection is improved but accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tool storage device is divided into multiple compartments or sections, allowing tools to be organized and accessed in groups. This segmentation enables selective access to specific tools without requiring the entire container to be opened, balancing protection with accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Tools are pre-organized and positioned within the storage device during setup or previous use. This preliminary arrangement allows for quick identification and access of needed tools without extensive searching or complex opening mechanisms.
3Volume of moving object
If the storage device is made compact for portability, then ease of transport is improved but tool accessibility and organization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device employs a nested or collapsible structure that allows compact storage when not in use while expanding to provide adequate space for tool organization and access during work. This nesting principle enables the device to transition between compact transport mode and functional storage mode.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool storage device and a tool box. The device may include flexible walls cooperating to define a storage area, and a rigid frame supported in the storage area and including a central portion extending in a direction from a bottom wall toward a top wall, one base portion extending from one side of the central portion, along the bottom wall and toward one side wall, and another base portion extending from an opposite side of the central portion, along the bottom wall and toward an opposite side wall. The tool box may include a body defining a storage compartment; a lid defining a groove in its outer surface to support an elongated work piece; and a handle engageable with a work piece supported in the groove. The lid may be attachable to the top of the body in a closed position and to the bottom in a stowed position.