Ergonomic Tool Holder Belt Clip Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool holder solutions fail to securely attach to a user's belt without removing the belt, allow customizable tool arrangements, and prevent displacement during user movements, especially with heavier tools.
Innovation Solution
Ergonomically-shaped tool holder units with a base that clips behind the belt and a front section that sits in front of it, secured by a channel or teeth to prevent displacement, allowing easy mounting and dismounting without removing the belt, and accommodating various tools through modular designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a clip-on device is used to attach tool holder to the user's belt, then the user can attach and detach the unit without removing the belt, but the clip is easily displaced from the belt when the user changes position
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into two functional parts: a clip component for easy attachment/detachment and a belt-engaging component with teeth or channels for secure positioning. This segmentation allows each part to optimize its specific function while working together as a unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary belt-engaging component that mediates between the clip mechanism and the belt. This intermediary element (with teeth or channels) provides the secure engagement while allowing the clip to maintain its ease of operation, effectively transferring the security function to a dedicated intermediate structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If VELCRO attachments are used to attach tool holder to the belt, then the attachment is simple, but the attachment units can easily become detached from the belt when tools are heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism combines different structural elements (clip, teeth, channels) into a composite system that integrates the simplicity of Velcro-like attachment with the strength of mechanical interlocking. The composite structure leverages the advantages of both soft attachment and rigid engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is segmented into a soft clip component for easy attachment and a rigid belt-engaging component with teeth or channels for strength. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both ease of manufacture and high attachment strength simultaneously.
3Device complexity
If a set configuration of tool compartments is provided on the belt, then the belt structure is simple, but the compartments cannot be arranged as the user would prefer
Solution Approach 1:
The tool holder units are designed to be dynamically repositionable along the belt rather than fixed in predetermined locations. This dynamic capability allows users to adapt the tool arrangement to their preferences while maintaining a simple underlying belt structure with evenly spaced attachment points.
Solution Approach 2:
The belt is designed with universal attachment points (evenly spaced channels or teeth) that can accommodate any tool holder unit at any position. This universal interface provides adaptability for custom arrangements while keeping the belt structure itself simple and standardized.
4Weight of moving object
If the user removes tools from the belt and stores them elsewhere, then the belt load is reduced, but the user must remove and reattach the belt to rearrange tools
Solution Approach 1:
The tool holder units feature dynamic attachment and detachment capabilities that allow rapid repositioning along the belt without removing the entire belt. This dynamic system reduces the time penalty for tool rearrangement while maintaining manageable belt load through selective tool carriage.
Solution Approach 2:
The belt is pre-equipped with evenly spaced attachment channels or teeth that anticipate future tool placement needs. This preliminary preparation allows users to quickly attach or reposition tools without time-consuming belt manipulation, as the attachment infrastructure is already in place.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool holder unit for attachment to a user's belt comprising an ergonomically-shaped base; an ergonomically-shaped front section attached at its top end to the ergonomically-shaped base, the ergonomically-shaped front section having means for insertion of at least one of a tool and tool accessories; and means for securing a user's belt between the ergonomically-shaped base and the ergonomically-shaped front section, such that the tool holder unit does not become displaced from the user's belt due to body motion by the user.