Adjustable Tool Hanger Board Layout for Reconfigurable Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool mounting systems for vehicles and structures are inflexible, difficult to modify, and inefficient in space utilization, lacking the ability to accommodate a wide variety of tools and equipment on multiple axes, and are not easily cleanable, posing challenges for firefighting and emergency response applications.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable tool mounting platform hanger board assembly made of high-density polyethylene, featuring machinable channel and hole elements that can be configured to fit various surfaces, allowing for horizontal, vertical, and angular mounting of tools using a range of existing and custom hardware, and is easy to reconfigure and clean.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tools are mounted directly to vehicle walls using fastening devices, then tools can be securely stored, but the system becomes difficult to modify once installed
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a backer board that attaches to the vehicle wall and tool brackets that attach to the backer board. This segmentation allows the backer board to remain fixed for structural stability while tool positions can be independently adjusted and reconfigured by removing and repositioning brackets along the channel members.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel members incorporate slots that allow tool brackets to be dynamically repositioned along the channels. The brackets can be moved to different positions within the slots and secured at any location, enabling the system to adapt to changing tool storage needs while maintaining secure mounting.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a specialized firefighter outfits the truck with tools, then the equipment can be customized to meet unique department needs, but the process becomes extremely complicated requiring extensive knowledge in multiple fields
Solution Approach 1:
The backer board system serves multiple functions: it provides a mounting surface for tools, incorporates channels for bracket positioning, and can be attached to various vehicle wall configurations. The channel members with slots accommodate different bracket types and tool configurations, eliminating the need for specialized woodworking, metalworking, or engineering knowledge while still achieving customized equipment layouts.
Solution Approach 2:
The backer board acts as an intermediary between the vehicle wall and the tools. It simplifies the mounting process by providing pre-formed channels and mounting holes that guide bracket installation, reducing the complexity from requiring extensive multi-disciplinary knowledge to basic assembly operations.
3Quantity of substance
If compartment space on fire apparatus is maximized for tool storage, then more equipment can be carried, but the limited space makes it difficult to accommodate all needed tools and equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The channel members extend along the vehicle compartment walls, utilizing the linear dimension of the compartment space. Tool brackets can be positioned at multiple locations along the channels, effectively distributing tools along the length of the compartment rather than concentrating them in limited wall areas, thereby maximizing storage capacity within the confined space.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable bracket positions along the channels allow the system to dynamically adapt to different tool sizes and shapes. This flexibility enables optimal space utilization by positioning each tool at its most efficient location, maximizing the quantity of equipment that can be accommodated in the limited compartment area.
4Ease of operation
If tools are mounted using wood backer boards or commercial mounting systems, then tools can be organized and stored, but these systems are difficult to keep clean and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The backer board material is specified as non-wood (such as metal or plastic) to change the material parameter, making it resistant to moisture, dirt, and contaminants. This material substitution maintains the organizational functionality of the mounting system while dramatically improving ease of cleaning and maintenance compared to traditional wood backer boards.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an adjustable hanger board assembly for mounting tools to a wall, the inside of a vehicle compartment, on a wall, on a ceiling on a floor or other flat surface. Each hanger board assembly has a plurality of horizontal slots and/or vertical slots and or angular slots and optionally a repeating pattern of mounting through-holes capable of accepting a wide variety of existing fastening hardware and tool brackets. The fastening hardware is adjustably fastened along the horizontal slots and/or vertical slots and or angular slots which serve as mounting tracks for hanging brackets and other tool securing devices. The fastening hardware is similarly adjustable in a plurality of through-holes in the hanger board assembly.