Pole-Mounted Tool Holder With Magnetic Retention and Exterior Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of suspended holders for tools and objects that offer the necessary advantages and features for utility workers, particularly for attachment to utility poles and other vertical structures, limiting their efficiency in carrying and organizing tools during elevated line construction, repair, and servicing tasks.
Innovation Solution
A suspended holder system comprising a base unit with multiple receivers for various tools and a mounting unit with magnetic retention for ferromagnetic hardware, designed for secure attachment to utility poles and other structures, constructed from durable and lightweight materials like plastics and aluminum, allowing for easy mounting and dismounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If tools are carried in tool belts worn by workers, then workers can have tools accessible, but workers experience increased weight burden and reduced comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The tool carrying system is segmented into a stationary holder unit mounted on the bucket and portable tool receivers that can be attached or detached as needed. This separates the heavy storage structure from the worker, allowing tools to be organized in a fixed location while workers only handle individual tool receivers, significantly reducing worker burden while maintaining accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder unit serves as an intermediary between the bucket and the tools, providing a centralized storage and organization system. Tools are transferred from the holder to individual receivers by the worker, eliminating the need for workers to carry all tools in traditional belts while maintaining quick access to needed tools.
2Ease of operation
If traditional tool holders are mounted in buckets, then tools are accessible to workers, but the bucket interior space is occupied and blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The holder unit is designed to mount on the exterior surface of the bucket rather than occupying interior space. By transitioning from an interior-mounted to an exterior-mounted configuration, the system provides full tool accessibility while preserving 100% of the bucket's cargo capacity for materials and equipment.
3Reliability
If heavy-duty tool storage systems are used, then tools are securely held, but the system weight increases and becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The holder unit utilizes magnetic retention mechanisms and friction-based locking features that provide secure tool holding without requiring heavy mechanical structures. By changing from traditional mechanical fastening systems to magnetic and friction-based retention, the system achieves reliable tool security with significantly reduced weight and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder unit and receivers are constructed from high-strength, lightweight composite materials and aluminum alloys that provide structural integrity and secure tool retention while minimizing weight. These materials enable the system to be both reliable and lightweight, eliminating the need for cumbersome heavy-duty construction.
4Ease of operation
If specialized tool organizing systems are implemented, then tool organization improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The holder unit and receivers are designed with universal compatibility to accommodate multiple types of tools and receivers through standardized attachment mechanisms. The system can organize various tools using the same basic structure and receivers, eliminating the need for complex specialized systems for each tool type while maintaining excellent organization capabilities.
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 holder system enhances the organization and accessibility of tools for utility workers by providing a secure, lightweight, and versatile solution for carrying and storing tools, reducing the load on workers and enabling efficient access to elevated locations.
Implementation Method 1
The mounting unit can include extensions magnets for retaining ferromagnetic tools and hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
A holder is provided for suspension from a pole or other object. The holder includes a generally horizontal base unit with multiple receivers for receiving tools and various other objects. A generally vertical mounting unit extends from the base unit and is configured for placement on a utility pole or other object.