Tool Holding Apparatus with Segmented Socket Retention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current storage solutions for fastening components and drive sockets are inefficient, leading to dislodging issues when the tool storage apparatus is positioned at an angle, and often result in either insufficient or excessive storage space.

Innovation Solution

A tool holding apparatus with integrated magnets or fastening mechanisms that securely attach drive sockets, featuring a socket holder with a retaining knob and channel configuration to prevent accidental dislodging, allowing for modular expansion and ergonomic design for user comfort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional storage apparatus is used to hold drive sockets, then the drive sockets can be stored, but the drive sockets become dislodged when the storage apparatus is positioned at an angle

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure storage of drive socketsVSAvoidretrieval of drive sockets
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The storage apparatus is divided into multiple independent slots, each capable of holding a drive socket individually. Each slot acts as a separate functional unit with its own retaining mechanism, allowing one socket to be retrieved without affecting others, thus maintaining secure storage while enabling easy individual retrieval.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A retaining mechanism acts as an intermediary between the drive socket and the storage apparatus body. This intermediary component actively engages with the drive socket to prevent dislodging at angles, while still allowing controlled release during retrieval operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If storage apparatus is designed to securely fasten drive sockets, then dislodging is prevented, but the user's ability to retrieve stored articles is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprevention of dislodgingVSAvoidretrieval of stored articles
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The retaining mechanism incorporates movable components that can transition between engaged and disengaged states. The mechanism dynamically adapts its holding force, providing strong retention during normal use but allowing easy release when the user intends to retrieve a socket, thus resolving the contradiction between secure fastening and easy retrieval.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If storage apparatus provides fixed storage space, then organization is improved, but the storage capacity is either insufficient or excessive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage capacity flexibilityVSAvoidstorage apparatus structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The storage apparatus uses modular, segmented slots that can be independently configured. Each slot is a standardized unit that can accommodate different drive socket sizes, providing adaptability without requiring complex custom-designed compartments for each socket type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The storage apparatus employs universal slot designs that can hold multiple types of drive sockets through a single standardized interface. This multi-functional approach allows one storage unit to serve multiple purposes and accommodate various socket sizes, enhancing adaptability while maintaining simple structure.

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 apparatus provides secure storage and easy retrieval of fastening components and drive sockets, preventing dislodging and offering flexible storage capacity while maintaining ergonomic usability.

Implementation Method 1

the fastening components, drive sockets, or other similar articles can be securely fastened to the tool holding apparatus by utilizing a magnet or a fastening mechanism

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS11161234B2Tool holding apparatus
Publication Date: 2021.11.02 GRIP HLDG LLC
  • US11161234B2 patent drawing
  • US11161234B2 patent drawing
  • US11161234B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tool holding apparatus has a socket holder and a retaining knob. The socket holder is an elongated body. A channel traverses into the elongated body and is extended along the elongated body. The retaining knob receives a drive socket and has a male body, a pedestal and a base. The male body is connected to the pedestal. The base is connected to the pedestal, opposite of the male body. The base and the pedestal are slidably engaged within the channel, and the male body is externally positioned to the elongated body. A magnet or a spring loaded ball is integrated into the elongated body or the male body.