Tool storage unit having a moveable housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tool chests lack flexibility in storing tools in alternative orientations and displaying them in a controlled manner, both independently and relative to the chest.
Innovation Solution
A tool storage unit with a moveable housing that engages a guide system, allowing vertical movement and secure positioning, enabling the storage unit to extend above the base unit and conceal or reveal tool hangers based on the housing's position, with a moving mechanism that can be actuated to control access and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional tool chest is used, then tools can be stored, but the storage system lacks flexibility in providing compartments in alternative orientations and displaying tools in a controlled manner
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is made movable relative to the base unit through a moving mechanism, allowing it to transition between retracted and extended positions. This dynamic configuration enables the storage system to adapt between concealed and displayed states, providing versatility without permanently increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system is divided into separate components: a base unit and a movable housing. This segmentation allows independent movement and positioning of the housing, enabling flexible storage orientations and controlled display capabilities while keeping the base unit stable and simple.
2Ease of operation
If the moveable housing is extended outside the base unit, then tools can be displayed and accessed, but security and concealment are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The housing transitions dynamically between retracted and extended positions. When retracted, tools are concealed within the base unit for security; when extended, tools are accessible for use. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between security and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing containing the tools is extracted from the base unit only when needed for access. During normal storage, the housing remains integrated within the base unit, providing security. This selective extraction allows controlled access without compromising overall security.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the moveable housing is retracted into the base unit, then security and compactness are improved, but access to tools becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The moving mechanism enables the housing to be dynamically extended from the base unit when tool access is required. This dynamic extension maintains security during retraction while providing easy access during extension, resolving the contradiction between security and operational ease.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a moving mechanism is added to control the housing, then controlled access and security are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The moving mechanism is designed to be actuated by the user through simple input, performing the complex task of extending and retracting the housing automatically. This self-service approach provides controlled access functionality without requiring complex external control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Examples of the present invention include tool storage units and methods for storing tools. In examples of the present invention, a tool storage unit comprises a moveable housing with a guide system for allowing movement of the moveable housing in at least one direction. In various examples, the moveable housing is engaged with a base unit and is moved relative to the base unit by a moving mechanism. The moving mechanism moves the moveable housing to provide access to and/or conceal, at least in part, the moveable housing.