Modular Utility Latching for Distributed Tool Loads in Safety Vests
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety garments fail to maintain compliance with ANSI/ISEA 107 visibility standards while providing a modular utility latching system for tool storage, leading to worker fatigue and premature garment failure due to unsupported weight distribution.
Innovation Solution
A safety vest with a modular utility latching system that integrates internal webbing support for weight distribution and external strapping for tool attachment, ensuring compliance with ANSI/ISEA 107 standards and reducing stress points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If workers carry tools and equipment in a bag or bucket, then they can have tools at their ready, but it causes strain on their backs and worker fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The tool carrying system is segmented into multiple individual tool pouches and compartments distributed across the vest, rather than consolidating all tools in a single bag or bucket. This distributes the weight and accessibility points across multiple locations, reducing strain on any single area of the worker's body while maintaining tool accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from vertical carrying (bag/bucket held in one location) to a distributed two-dimensional arrangement across the vest surface. Tools are positioned at multiple heights and locations on the vest, allowing the worker to access tools from different body positions without concentrating weight in one area.
2Quantity of substance
If workers use a bag or bucket to hold tools, then they can carry equipment, but it creates stress points and premature garment failure
Solution Approach 1:
The load is segmented across multiple attachment points and pouches distributed throughout the vest structure, preventing concentration of stress on any single seam or stitching point. Each pouch and attachment point is independently engineered to handle its specific load, distributing mechanical stress evenly across the garment.
Solution Approach 2:
The vest integrates multiple functional elements (tool pouches, latching mechanisms, webbing supports, and garment fabric) into a unified load-bearing system. The internal webbing and latching mechanisms work together with the garment structure to share and distribute mechanical loads, preventing any single component from bearing excessive stress.
3Illumination intensity
If workers wear safety vests complying with ANSI/ISEA 107, then they meet visibility requirements, but they lack functionality to attach and store tools
Solution Approach 1:
The safety vest is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a visibility compliance garment and as a tool storage and carrying system. The vest incorporates tool pouches, latching mechanisms, and webbing attachments that enable tool storage while maintaining the required fluorescent and retroreflective materials for ANSI/ISEA 107 compliance.
Solution Approach 2:
The vest design segments the functional requirements into distinct components: visibility elements (fluorescent and retroreflective materials) are integrated into the garment fabric, while tool storage elements (pouches, latches, webbing) are added as separate functional modules. This segmentation allows both visibility compliance and tool storage functionality to coexist without compromising either requirement.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed towards a high visibility safety apparel (HVSA) garment comprising a modular utility latching system that creates less stress points within specific areas of the garment that may cause premature garment failure (i.e., torn seams, broken stitching, etc.), as well as help alleviate worker fatigue by removing unnecessary pressure points created using unsupported garments.