Tool Chest Lid Hanger Space Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tool chests often waste space when their lids are opened, limiting efficient storage and utilization of internal space.
Innovation Solution
A tool chest design featuring a foldable lid with a hanger system that converts the created space into a hanger space by using a top section, overhang portion, and front section, where the front section is hingedly attached to the overhang portion, forming a hanger space with harness hooks and optionally a net for securing items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lid is opened to access tools, then access to the tool repository is improved, but space is wasted and cannot be utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is divided into three functional sections: a top section for covering the tool repository, an overhang portion that extends forward, and a front section with hanger capabilities. This segmentation allows each portion to serve a specific function, transforming the previously wasted space into a useful hanger area while maintaining access to tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the third dimension by extending the overhang portion forward beyond the front face of the tool chest. This creates a hanger space that projects outward, effectively adding storage capacity in the horizontal dimension without increasing the footprint of the tool chest itself.
2Volume of moving object
If the tool chest is made large to provide more storage space, then the tool repository capacity is improved, but the tool chest takes up more space and becomes heavier
Solution Approach 1:
By extending storage functionality into the horizontal dimension through the overhang portion, the invention increases effective storage capacity without increasing the vertical height or footprint of the tool chest. This allows more tools to be stored (both in the repository and on the hanger) without making the unit larger or heavier.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid structure serves multiple functions: it covers the tool repository when closed, provides a hanger space when opened, and creates a protected area for hanging tools. This multi-functionality maximizes the utility of the existing structure without requiring additional components that would add weight.
3Ease of operation
If the lid is made foldable to improve access, then ease of operation is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The foldable lid is segmented into three main portions (top section, overhang portion, front section) connected by hinges. This segmentation allows the lid to fold in stages, creating the hanger space configuration. The segmented design provides the desired flexibility and access while distributing the structural complexity across manageable sections rather than requiring a completely complex mechanism.
4Volume of moving object
If space is maximized by removing internal structures, then storage capacity is improved, but security and protection of tools is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hanger space is formed as a distinct segmented portion of the lid structure, separate from but integrated with the tool repository. This segmentation allows the hanger area to provide protected storage for frequently used tools while the main repository remains secure. The structured design maintains security through the lid's covering function while maximizing usable space.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool chest may include a base portion, two opposing sidewalls and a foldable lid. The sidewalls extend substantially parallel to each other on opposite sides of the base portion to define a tool repository between the sidewalls. The lid has a closed position covering a top of the tool chest and at least a part of a front of the tool chest, and an open position in which both the top of the tool chest and the part of the front of the tool chest are open to provide access to the tool repository. The lid comprises a top section, an overhang portion and a front section. The top section is rigidly attached to the overhang portion such that the overhang portion extends perpendicular to the top section. The front section is hingedly attached to the overhang portion such that the front section extends substantially parallel to the overhang portion in the closed position and substantially perpendicular to the overhang portion in the open position. A hanger space is formed between the front portion and the top portion when the lid is in the open position.