Magnetic Closure Utility Pocket with Elastic Webbing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility pockets on tool bags, backpacks, and similar items are inefficient for accessing tools and materials on job sites, as they require frequent trips back and forth, and lack a convenient, economical, and aesthetically pleasing magnetic closure mechanism that allows easy access from either hand.
Innovation Solution
A utility pocket design featuring a rigid outer clam shell member made of 500-700 Denier polyester fabric with elastic webbing and permanent magnets for a snap-action closure, allowing access from either side and ensuring the pocket remains closed, using a flexible hinge and magnetic bias to retain items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional hard sided tool box is used, then tools can be stored securely, but the worker must frequently trip back and forth to access tools on the job site
Solution Approach 1:
The tool storage system is divided into two segments: a hard-sided tool box for secure storage and a wearable utility pocket attached to the worker's body. This segmentation allows tools to be stored securely in the box while enabling quick access to frequently used tools through the wearable pocket, eliminating the need to trip back and forth.
Solution Approach 2:
The utility pocket acts as an intermediary between the hard-sided tool box and the worker's hands. It provides a convenient wearable storage location for tools and materials, serving as a mediator that reduces the time and effort required to access tools on the job site while maintaining secure storage in the hard box.
2Productivity
If a utility pocket is added to tool bags and backpacks, then access to tools and materials becomes more efficient, but the design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The utility pocket is designed to be self-sufficient with an integrated magnetic closure system that automatically closes when the pocket is accessed. The magnetic mechanism provides self-service closure without requiring additional fasteners or complex closing mechanisms, maintaining simplicity while improving access efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The utility pocket uses a flexible fabric construction with a soft-sided design that can be easily attached to various bags and backpacks. The flexible material allows the pocket to conform to different shapes and sizes while maintaining a simple, unobtrusive appearance that doesn't add significant complexity to the overall design.
3Ease of operation
If a magnetic closure mechanism is used, then the pocket opening is automatically biased to closed position, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional mechanical closure system (buttons, zippers, snaps) is replaced with a magnetic closure mechanism. The magnetic field provides the closing force automatically, eliminating the need for complex mechanical fasteners and reducing manufacturing steps. The magnetic mechanism is simple to manufacture and provides convenient automatic closure.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure mechanism utilizes magnetic field strength as the key parameter to provide automatic closing. By adjusting the magnetic field strength and positioning, the pocket automatically biases to the closed position without requiring complex mechanical systems. This parameter-based approach simplifies manufacturing while maintaining ease of operation.
4Shape
If a rigid clam shell structure is used, then the pocket maintains its shape, but metal reinforcement is required
Solution Approach 1:
The utility pocket uses a flexible fabric construction that naturally retains its shape through proper pattern design and material selection. The flexible shell approach eliminates the need for metal reinforcement while maintaining shape retention. The fabric structure can be sewn into a clam shell configuration that holds its form without adding complexity or cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The pocket employs a composite construction combining flexible fabric with magnetic closure elements and elastic webbing. This composite material approach provides shape retention through the combined properties of the materials rather than requiring rigid metal reinforcement. The fabric, magnets, and elastic elements work together to maintain the clam shell shape while simplifying manufacturing.
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 pocket provides efficient access to tools and materials, maintaining closure and preventing contents from falling out, while being economical to manufacture and aesthetically appealing, suitable for various applications without metal reinforcement.
Implementation Method 1
The sidewall panel of the item has a permanent magnet located thereon. The clam shell member also has a permanent magnet mounted thereon in an upper interior region of the member, contact between the panel magnet and the magnet on the clam shell member serving to retain the pocket in the closed position.
Implementation Method 2
A length of elastic webbing connects an underside of each of the opposing side panels of the clam shell member to the sidewall panel of the accessory item. The respective lengths of webbing serve to bias the clam shell member between an open position which places the webbing in tension, and a normally relaxed and closed position.
Data Source
AI summary
A utility pocket is shown for use with a tool pouch or bag, or with such items as a brief case, soft sided cooler, or a backpack. The utility pocket has a clam shell shaped outer member which is biased toward an associated sidewall panel by means of elastic webbing. A pair of mating permanent magnets come into contact as the pocket moves from the open position to the closed position and help to bias the pocket to the closed position, as well as imparting a snap-closure action to the pocket. The material chosen for the pocket helps it to retain its clam shell shape without requiring internal reinforcing members, such as wire springs or other metal reinforcing elements.