Magnetic Tool Holder Display for Secure Yet Removable Tool Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional tool holders, such as aprons and belts, limit accessibility and security of tools while working, especially when handling heavy objects or reaching for supplies, and are prone to accidental spills.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic tool holder display system that incorporates a magnetically attractable work item, a tool holder with magnets, and an attachment mechanism allowing the work item to be removably attached to both the tool holder and a display placard, enabling secure and accessible display and use of tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional aprons or belts are used to hold tools, then tools can be carried while moving freely, but tools are not securely held and are prone to accidental spills

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool securityVSAvoidtool accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (straps, clips, pockets) with a magnetic field-based retention system. Magnets embedded in the tool holder securely hold metallic tools through magnetic attraction, eliminating the need for complex mechanical fasteners while providing reliable tool security without compromising accessibility.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical parameter of tool retention from mechanical constraint to magnetic field interaction. By adjusting magnetic field strength and distribution, the system achieves secure tool holding that maintains ease of operation, as tools can be easily attached or removed by overcoming the magnetic force without complex mechanical manipulations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If magnets are incorporated in tool holders, then tool security is improved, but traditional tool holders appear similar in form and function making differentiation difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool securityVSAvoidproduct differentiation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates visually distinct design elements and color coding into the magnetic tool holder to differentiate it from traditional tool holders. The magnetic components and holder body feature distinctive colors and patterns that make the product easily identifiable, addressing the differentiation challenge while maintaining the core magnetic retention functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

3Loss of information

If display mechanisms are added to show tool holder features, then buyer preview capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeature visibilityVSAvoiddisplay system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs self-service display mechanisms where the tool holder's magnetic properties are demonstrated automatically through interactive display elements. These elements require no external power source or complex control systems, yet effectively communicate the product's features to potential buyers, reducing overall system complexity while improving feature visibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enhances user efficiency by providing secure and accessible tool storage, reducing the likelihood of tool loss and improving work production, while allowing potential buyers to preview the magnetic tool holder's features before purchase.

Implementation Method 1

By incorporating magnets with the body of a tool holder, an apron or similar device, a worker wearing or using the tool holder is able to securely hold metallic tools and other work items in a readily accessible location on the body via the magnetic attraction of the magnets.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS8403140B2Apparatus and method for displaying tool holders incorporating magnets
Publication Date: 2013.03.26 AAW PRODS
  • US8403140B2 patent drawing
  • US8403140B2 patent drawing
  • US8403140B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus to display a tool holder that incorporates magnets comprises at least a magnetically attractable work item, a tool holder incorporating magnets and an attachment mechanism for attaching the magnetically attractable work item to the display. The attachment mechanism attaches to the magnetic tool holder such that the magnetically attractable work item is able to be removed from the magnet of the tool holder while still coupled to the magnetic tool display. In some embodiments, the apparatus also comprises a display placard. In these embodiments, the attachment mechanism attaches to the display placard and the magnetically attractable work item such that the magnetically attractable work item is able to be removed from the magnet of the tool holder while still coupled to the display placard.