Hex Key Holder With Magnetic Attachment And Elastic Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hex key storage solutions lack efficient organization, require two hands for insertion and removal, and do not utilize the varying key lengths for size identification, with no convenient method to attach to a work surface.
Innovation Solution
A hex key holder with varying size holes and a recessed channel containing an elastic element, combined with magnets for secure positioning and attachment to ferromagnetic surfaces, allowing one-handed insertion and removal with proportional force and visual size reference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hex keys are stored in a vinyl or urethane sleeve using friction retention, then the keys are retained in the holder, but the keys become difficult to position and remove, and insertion/removal requires both hands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the retention mechanism from friction-based (vinyl/urethane sleeve) to magnetic-based. The magnetic force provides reliable key retention while allowing easy insertion and removal with one hand, as the magnetic attraction can be overcome with minimal force compared to friction retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical friction-based retention system with a magnetic field-based retention system. This substitution eliminates the need for high-friction materials and allows for easier key manipulation while maintaining secure retention.
2Ease of manufacture
If hex keys are piled in a container using dig, grab and try method, then storage is simple, but key identification and selection become time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage by providing individual designated slots for each hex key size within the holder body. This segmentation allows for organized storage and quick visual identification of the required key size, eliminating the need to dig through a pile of keys.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates color-coded indicators or visual markers on the holder body corresponding to different key sizes. This visual coding system enables rapid key identification and selection by matching the color indicator with the required key size.
3Reliability
If a vinyl or urethane sleeve is used to hold hex keys, then keys are retained, but there is no way to attach the holder to a work surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into the holder body: it provides magnetic retention for keys, enables attachment to ferromagnetic work surfaces through the same magnetic mechanism, and offers organized storage slots. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate attachment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic holder body serves itself by using the same magnetic property to both retain the hex keys and attach to the work surface. The magnetic field simultaneously performs both retention and attachment functions without requiring additional components.
4Device complexity
If the insertion and extraction force is constant for all key sizes, then the retention mechanism is simple, but smaller keys require excessive force for insertion and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the magnetic field strength or retention force at different locations within the holder body corresponding to different key sizes. Larger keys experience stronger magnetic retention while smaller keys experience proportionally weaker retention, allowing easy insertion and removal of all key sizes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides organized, easy-to-use hex key storage with proportional insertion and removal forces, allowing single-handed operation and secure attachment to surfaces, enhancing usability and visibility of key sizes.
Implementation Method 1
At least one magnet is affixed to the holder body. The holder body may be positioned onto a structural surface having ferromagnetic material. The magnet adhering the holder body in place to the ferromagnetic material structural surface.
Implementation Method 2
An elastic element is positioned within the channel and sized to exert a contact pressure upon the recessed channel floor. When hex keys are positioned within the holder body in a hole accommodating the hex key size, the hex keys are clamped in position by the elastic element.
Data Source
AI summary
A hex key holder for storing a selection of hex keys in an organized manner while allowing easy access to the individual hex keys. The hex key holder provides a ready means to affix the hex key caddy to a surface via magnets. The magnetic bond allowing convenient positioning and allowing hex keys to be easily inserted or removed from the hex holder with a single hand. The hex key holder is configured for ease of manufacture in high volumes. The magnets provide a ready means to positively affix the key holder onto a horizontal surface, vertical surface, or other angled surface.