Spring Hinged Tool Pouch Closure for Overhead Work
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool pouches lack a reliable and easily removable closure system that prevents contents from spilling, especially during transport and use in overhead environments, and existing solutions are difficult to integrate into existing pouch designs without altering their shape or materials.
Innovation Solution
A detent spring hinged closure system using flexible spring steel bands with V-shaped creases and keyhole slots, secured within a protective sleeve, allows for easy installation and removal, maintaining pouch flexibility and alignment, and distributing stress to prevent binding and failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional open design tool pouches are used, then accessibility to tools is improved, but contents can spill out during transport and overhead work
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system uses a spring hinge mechanism that dynamically adjusts between open and closed positions. The spring provides continuous force to maintain the pouch in either fully open or fully closed state, allowing workers to easily access tools when needed while automatically containing contents during transport or overhead work.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring hinge changes the mechanical state of the closure from static (sewn open) to dynamic (spring-loaded). By adjusting spring tension and hinge geometry, the system transitions between different operational states (open/closed) based on usage conditions, preventing spillage while maintaining accessibility.
2Reliability
If a closure system is added to prevent spilling, then content containment is improved, but the pouch loses flexibility and becomes difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is segmented into separate components: spring elements, hinge joints, and mounting brackets. This modular design allows the closure to be assembled and installed independently on existing pouches without altering the pouch construction, making it easy to install on various pouch types while maintaining content containment.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring hinge acts as an intermediary mechanism between the pouch opening and the closure flap. It provides the necessary mechanical force and movement control without being permanently integrated into the pouch structure, allowing for easy installation and removal while preventing spilling.
3Reliability
If a rigid closure structure is used to secure contents, then content containment is improved, but the pouch cannot adapt to different work positions and movements
Solution Approach 1:
The spring hinge creates a dynamic closure system that adapts to different pouch positions and movements. The spring continuously adjusts its force to maintain closure effectiveness whether the pouch is hanging vertically, positioned horizontally during overhead work, or moved during transport, preserving both containment and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure system changes its mechanical parameters (spring compression, hinge angle) in response to pouch position and external forces. This allows the rigid closure structure to adapt flexibly to different work positions while maintaining reliable content containment.
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 closure system effectively keeps contents secure while allowing for easy access and flexibility, absorbing impacts, and can be readily replaced or removed, addressing the issues of spilling and rigidity in harsh work environments.
Implementation Method 1
detent spring hinged closure feature, providing a structure to force the pouch into a fully open and fully closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A tool pouch, utility pouch, or the like, used on traditional tool belts with spring hinged closure device in the open position forces the mouth of the tool pouch into a fully open position creating greater access to the contents of the tool pouch. When the mouth of the tool pouch is pressed into a closed position, it secures the content of the tool pouch therein.