Stackable Lighting Unit With Pivoting Lights for Modular Tool Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tool storage systems lack integrated lighting solutions that provide flexible and efficient illumination for various work environments, particularly in modular storage systems where units and containers need to be easily coupled and decoupled.

Innovation Solution

A stackable lighting unit with pivotable lights and a coupling mechanism that allows it to be detachably coupled to a stackable storage unit, featuring a housing with pivotally coupled lights and a battery interface, enabling versatile lighting configurations and power options.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a modular storage system uses fixed, non-adjustable lighting components, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different work environments and lighting needs deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelighting configuration flexibilityVSAvoidlighting mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting component incorporates a pivotable joint that allows the light source to rotate and adjust its orientation dynamically. This enables the lighting direction to be changed according to different work requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. The pivotable mechanism provides continuous adjustability without requiring complex electronic controls or multiple fixed lighting positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the lighting unit is permanently integrated into the storage unit, then the manufacturing precision requirements are reduced, but the ease of operation for detaching and reconfiguring units deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetachability of lighting unitVSAvoidcoupling mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting unit is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently attached to or detached from the storage unit. This segmentation allows the lighting assembly to be manufactured and tested separately, then coupled to the storage unit using a standardized interface. The coupling mechanism enables easy attachment and detachment without requiring complex assembly procedures or specialized tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the storage system uses integrated battery interfaces, then the adaptability to power sources is improved, but the reliability of power connection in harsh conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower source compatibilityVSAvoidpower connection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The storage unit incorporates a universal battery interface that can accommodate different battery pack types and configurations. This multi-functional interface design allows the same coupling mechanism to work with various power sources while maintaining reliable electrical connections. The interface is designed to ensure consistent contact and secure mechanical attachment regardless of the specific battery variant used.

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 solution provides flexible lighting options, including area and task-focused illumination, with efficient power management, durability in harsh conditions, and easy integration with modular storage systems, enhancing visibility and usability in different work scenarios.

Implementation Method 1

a first light pivotally coupled to the housing. The first light rotates about a first rotational axis with respect to the housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPivoting rotation: Hinge

Data Source

PatentUS20250207771A1Storage Unit with Light-Emitting Components
Publication Date: 2025.06.26 MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP
  • US20250207771A1 patent drawing
  • US20250207771A1 patent drawing
  • US20250207771A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A device or unit with a lighting component is provided. The device includes coupling components that couple the device to stackable storage unit containers. In one embodiment, the device includes a battery interface to couple to a battery for power tools. In one embodiment, the device includes three lights that are pivotally coupled to the housing between a retracted position in which the lights are disposed against sidewalls of the housing, and an open position in which the lights are pivoted above the top panel of the housing.