Modular Socket Storage Rails With Sliding Locks for Transport Stability

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

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 holders, allowing for secure coupling and customizable arrangement of sockets, with sliding locks for added security.

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 secures one or more sockets, allowing for flexible configuration and easy replacement without affecting other holders on the rail.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The socket holder incorporates a dynamic locking mechanism with movable locking elements that can transition between locked and unlocked states. This allows the holder to securely retain sockets during transport while enabling easy access and removal when needed, providing adaptability in the retention function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If sockets are securely retained, then socket loss is prevented, but accessibility and ease of removal may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesocket retention securityVSAvoidsocket access and removal
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism features movable locking elements that can be easily actuated to transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic design provides strong retention when locked while allowing quick and tool-free access when unlocked, balancing security with operational ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The holder design allows users to easily operate the locking mechanism without requiring tools or complex procedures. The self-contained locking and unlocking functionality enables users to independently secure or access sockets as needed, simplifying the operation while maintaining security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Device complexity

If fixed socket storage positions are used, then organization is simplified, but customization and adaptability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage arrangement simplicityVSAvoidsocket holder arrangement flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses individually separable socket holders that can be independently positioned along the rail at various locations. This modular approach allows users to create customized storage arrangements based on their specific needs while maintaining a simple overall structure with standardized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The standardized holder design with universal attachment features enables the same component to be used in multiple positions and configurations along the rail. This universality provides adaptability for different socket types and storage requirements while maintaining structural simplicity through component standardization.

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

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 stable and customizable socket storage, preventing loss and maximizing space utilization while ensuring easy transport and secure retention of sockets.

Implementation Method 1

Each socket holder includes a magnet within the socket holder to retain a socket

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS12447601B2Socket storage device
Publication Date: 2025.10.21 MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP
  • US12447601B2 patent drawing
  • US12447601B2 patent drawing
  • US12447601B2 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.