Foldable Tool Storage Device with Triangular Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tool storage devices suffer from inefficient space utilization, portability issues due to high weight, and structural instability, as they often require additional components for support and to prevent tools from falling out.
Innovation Solution
A tool storage device with a base plate featuring three main plate portions, a hanging plate, and bendable plate portions, along with a coupling unit that allows the device to fold into a stable equilateral triangular prism shape, eliminating the need for additional covers and intermediary parts, thereby enhancing space utilization and portability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional components (intermediary part, cover) are added to prevent tools from falling out and provide support, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the retaining function directly into the main body structure through the V-shaped groove and elastic element, eliminating the need for separate intermediary parts and covers. The retaining seat and main body form an integrated structure where the elastic element provides continuous retention force without requiring additional blocking components.
2Reliability
If additional components (intermediary part, cover) are added to prevent tools from falling out and provide support, then reliability is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retaining function into the main body structure, eliminating separate intermediary parts and covers. The elastic element works within the integrated retaining seat to provide reliable tool retention without adding significant weight, as the retaining structure is formed as part of the main body rather than as separate components.
3Strength
If the box body has large weight and mass, then structural strength is improved, but portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the box body into multiple modular sections (first and second box bodies with separate retaining seats) that can be independently assembled or detached. This segmentation allows the device to maintain structural strength through proper material selection in each module while reducing overall weight and improving portability through the ability to carry only necessary sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameters of the box body and retaining seat components to achieve optimal strength-to-weight ratio. By selecting materials and thickness parameters that provide sufficient structural strength while minimizing mass, the device achieves both durability and portability without requiring excessive weight for structural support.
4Shape
If the center of gravity lies closer to the top, then compactness is improved, but stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric design in the distribution of components within the box body, positioning heavier elements (such as the retaining seat assembly and tool storage sections) lower in the structure. This asymmetric weight distribution creates a lower center of gravity that enhances stability and prevents toppling, while the upper portions maintain compact dimensions for portability.
Data Source
AI summary
The tool storage device includes a base plate, a storage unit, and a coupling unit. The base plate has at least three main plate portions, a hanging plate portion space apart from an endmost one of the main plate portions, a plurality of bendable plate portions, and opposite front and rear surfaces. Each of the front and rear surfaces extend across the hanging plate portion and the main plate portions. The storage unit has a plurality of spaced-apart first storage portions mounted on the front surface and disposed at the main plate portions. The coupling unit has an engaging hole formed in the hanging plate portion, and an engaging block mounted on the rear surface and fittingly engageable with the engaging hole.