Supported Composite Tool Pack with Rigid Panel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional tool carrying solutions, such as boxes and bags, fail to keep tools organized, protect them from damage, and allow for easy access while allowing users to use both hands, especially in challenging environments like rooftops and tunnels where hands are needed for access.
Innovation Solution
A supported composite tool pack featuring a concave plastic base, a durable fabric body, and a substantially rigid support panel that divides the pack, along with backpack straps, maintains the pack upright and accessible, providing a stable work platform and protecting tools from the environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional boxes and buckets are used to carry tools, then tools can be contained, but tools cannot be kept organized for quick access and hands are occupied for carrying
Solution Approach 1:
The tool pack is divided into multiple compartments and sections within the container to organize different tools separately, allowing quick access without moving other tools. The pack also separates the carrying function (backpack straps) from the tool storage function (container), freeing the user's hands.
Solution Approach 2:
The pack transitions from hand-carried (horizontal dimension) to back-worn (vertical dimension along the spine), distributing weight along the user's back rather than requiring hand holding. This dimensional change frees hands for other tasks while maintaining tool accessibility through front-opening access.
2Strength
If rigid boxes are used to protect tools, then tools are protected from damage, but the boxes are difficult to carry in locations requiring hand use
Solution Approach 1:
The pack uses a hybrid construction where only the base and critical structural elements are rigid to provide necessary protection, while the upper portions and carrying elements are flexible fabric. This localized rigidity provides tool protection where needed while maintaining flexibility and comfort for carrying on the back.
Solution Approach 2:
The pack combines rigid materials (plastic or metal base, structural frames) with flexible materials (fabric body, padded straps) to create a composite structure that simultaneously provides tool protection and comfortable, hands-free carrying capability.
3Ease of operation
If soft bags are used for tool storage, then the bags are easy to carry, but tools cannot be kept organized and may be damaged by contact
Solution Approach 1:
The pack uses a hybrid construction where only the base and critical structural elements are rigid to provide necessary protection, while the upper portions and carrying elements are flexible fabric. This localized rigidity provides tool protection where needed while maintaining flexibility and comfort for carrying on the back.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool pack is divided into multiple compartments and sections within the container to organize different tools separately, allowing quick access without moving other tools. The pack also separates the carrying function (backpack straps) from the tool storage function (container), freeing the user's hands.
Data Source
AI summary
A supported composite tool pack according to aspects of the disclosure includes a concave plastic base coupled to a durable fabric body. A substantially rigid support panel divides the interior of the pack and supports the fabric body and contents of the pack with respect to the base. The pack includes a pair of backpack straps permitting the pack to be worn on the back of a user, while keeping both hands free for opening doors, hatches or scaling ladders. The fabric body defines a plurality of organizational structures inside the pack, including but not limited to closed and open pockets, rings and clips for the placement of tools, spare parts and other equipment. The base and support panel maintain the pack and its contents in an upright and accessible position when open or closed, giving the user a stable, protected work platform no matter the environment.