Modular Socket Rail With Magnetic Holders for Secure Tool Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing socket storage systems lack efficient and customizable solutions for retaining and organizing sockets, leading to instability and loss of sockets during transport or storage.

Innovation Solution

A modular socket storage system featuring socket rails with dovetail attachments and magnetic components that allow for customizable and stable storage of sockets, including adjustable slots and locking mechanisms to secure sockets in place.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional socket storage systems are used, then sockets can be stored, but sockets become unstable and may be lost during transport or storage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesocket retention stabilityVSAvoidstorage system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The storage system is divided into modular components: individual socket holders that can be independently attached and detached from the rail. Each holder is a separate unit that can securely hold one or more sockets, allowing the system to be segmented into functional modules that improve reliability while maintaining manageable complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Sockets are held within nested structures where the socket holder encompasses the sockets, and the entire holder-rail assembly forms a nested configuration. This nesting provides stable retention by placing sockets within protective enclosures that are themselves secured to the rail structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If fixed storage positions are used, then sockets are secured, but storage space utilization and customization are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage configuration flexibilityVSAvoidsocket retention stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from fixed storage to dynamic, reconfigurable storage through sliding holders that can move along the rail and be positioned at various locations. The locking mechanism provides dynamic security - allowing easy attachment and detachment while maintaining stable retention when locked in position, thus achieving both adaptability and reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The rail system serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, defines storage positions through slots, enables movement of holders, and facilitates attachment/detachment through dovetail connections. This multi-functionality allows a single system to accommodate various storage configurations while maintaining reliable socket retention

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

3Reliability

If modular design with locking mechanisms is used, then storage customization and stability are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesocket holder retentionVSAvoidlocking mechanism structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism replaces complex multi-component mechanical systems with simpler magnetic retention. Magnets embedded in the holders provide automatic attraction to the rail, eliminating the need for intricate mechanical locks while maintaining reliable retention. The dovetail connection provides structural integrity without requiring complex assembly mechanisms

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

The system provides a stable and customizable solution for socket storage, preventing loss and maximizing storage space through modular design and magnetic retention, enhancing user convenience and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

magnetic components that allow for customizable and stable storage of sockets

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic retention: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS20260021569A1Socket Storage Device
Publication Date: 2026.01.22 MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP
  • US20260021569A1 patent drawing
  • US20260021569A1 patent drawing
  • US20260021569A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Various socket storage systems are shown. The socket storage system includes one or more storage rails, socket holders of various sizes and socket posts. The socket storage rail includes a plurality of dovetail attachments allowing for selectively coupling between socket storage rails. The socket holders are adjustable relative to the socket storage rail for additional customization.