Magnetic tool holder

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Solution Overview

Problem

Securing tools to a pegboard is time-consuming and inconvenient, especially for elongate tools that require multiple pegs or hooks, which can easily come off when disengaged.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic tool holder with a rectangular magnetic panel and magnet holder that snap-fits onto a pegboard, using elongate base grooves and ridges for secure attachment, allowing easy assembly and secure holding of tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional pegs or hooks are secured to a pegboard using fasteners, then the tools can be supported, but the securing process becomes time-consuming and the hooks may come off during disengagement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool attachment reliabilityVSAvoidsecuring time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the conventional mechanical fastening system (screws, hooks, and pegs) with a magnetic field-based attachment system. The magnetic panel generates magnetic force that acts on ferromagnetic tools, eliminating the need for mechanical fasteners and hooks. This substitution reduces securing time while maintaining reliable tool attachment, as the magnetic force continuously holds the tool without requiring periodic tightening or complex disengagement maneuvers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention extracts and eliminates the intermediate hook element from the tool attachment system. Instead of using a hook that must be secured to the pegboard and then have the tool hung on it, the magnetic panel directly attaches the tool to the pegboard surface. This removal of the intermediate component simplifies the system, reduces securing steps, and eliminates the problem of hooks coming off during disengagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Stability of the object's composition

If multiple pegs or hooks are used to support elongate tools, then the tools can be properly supported, but the complexity of securing increases and the risk of hooks coming off increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool support stabilityVSAvoidsecuring mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic panel serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides attachment for any ferromagnetic tool regardless of shape or size, supports elongate tools along their length, and eliminates the need for multiple separate pegs or hooks. The universal magnetic field covers the entire panel surface, allowing tools to be positioned and secured in various orientations without requiring specific hook placements or complex multi-point attachment systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If hooks are used to hang tools on a pegboard, then tools can be attached, but the hooks get stuck with the tools and come off when tools are disengaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool attachment easeVSAvoidhook retention reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical hook-tool interface with a magnetic field interface. Instead of a hook that mechanically interlocks with a tool and may get stuck or disengage unintentionally, the magnetic field provides continuous, uniform attraction across the contact surface. This allows tools to be easily attached by simply bringing them near the panel and easily removed by overcoming the magnetic force, without the hook getting stuck or the attachment failing during normal use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Provides a quick and secure method to attach tools to a pegboard, eliminating the need for multiple fasteners and ensuring tools remain attached without the risk of hooks coming off during disengagement.

Implementation Method 1

The present invention comprises a magnetic tool holder which is adapted to be secured to a pegboard... a rectangular magnetic panel... allowing easy assembly and secure holding of tools

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS10959544B2Magnetic tool holder
Publication Date: 2021.03.30 WINNARD STANLEY D
  • US10959544B2 patent drawing
  • US10959544B2 patent drawing
  • US10959544B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A magnetic tool holder has a frame for maintaining magnetic panels in position. Each of the magnetic panels has an upper surface for magnetic attachment and longitudinal sides defining longitudinal stepped edges. The longitudinal members of the frame have a longitudinal lip which cooperates with a stepped edge of the magnetic panels. A base member is attached to the frame and supports the magnetic panels keeping the top surfaces of the panels exposed for attachment.