Transformable Creeper With Integrated Storage for Organized Auto Work
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Solution Overview
Problem
The work area around automobiles becomes congested during maintenance due to the presence of tools, replacement parts, and lighting requirements, making it difficult to maintain an orderly workspace.
Innovation Solution
A transformable creeper that can switch between a horizontal and upright seating position, equipped with storage interfaces and integrated accessories like work lamps, and a power source receptacle, allowing for organized storage and accessory functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional creepers and separate tools are used, then basic crawling functionality is provided, but workspace becomes congested and disorganized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate items (creeper, tool storage, lighting, power source) into a single integrated unit. The storage compartments are built into the creeper frame, lights are mounted on the creeper body, and power sources are integrated into the overall structure, eliminating the need for separate tools and equipment scattered around the workspace.
Solution Approach 2:
The creeper is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides a crawling platform for mechanical work, stores various tools and parts in its compartments, provides illumination through integrated lights, and powers electrical tools through built-in power sources. This multi-functionality reduces workspace clutter while maintaining operational capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tools and accessories are placed around the work area, then functionality is enhanced, but workspace congestion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The creeper features nested storage compartments where smaller storage spaces are positioned within or alongside larger structural elements. Tool compartments are integrated into the frame structure, and additional storage is nested within existing compartments, allowing multiple accessories to be stored within the compact creeper body rather than scattered around the workspace.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical space and three-dimensional arrangement of storage compartments within the creeper structure. Instead of spreading tools horizontally across the workspace floor, the design stacks storage compartments vertically and arranges them in multiple layers within the creeper's frame, effectively using the third dimension to organize accessories.
3Productivity
If lights and power sources are added to illuminate and power tools, then work capability is improved, but workspace clutter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system and power sources are physically integrated into the creeper structure rather than being separate portable items. Lights are mounted directly on the creeper body with wiring routed through the frame, and power sources are built into the creeper's storage compartments, combining illumination and power functions with the crawling platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The creeper is designed to provide its own lighting and power needs through integrated systems. The lights are mounted on the creeper and powered by sources built into the creeper structure, allowing the device to serve its own operational requirements without relying on external equipment or additional workspace items.
Data Source
AI summary
A transformable creeper and a storage system are provided. The creeper is configured to transform between a horizontal position for supporting a worker in a supine position and a seat position for supporting the worker working in an upright seating position. The creeper includes a base section and an upper section, each having a longitudinally extending frame having side supports and transverse supports extending between the side supports; and wheels configured to enable mobility of the creeper along a floor surface; at least one pair of pivotally mounted arms coupled to both the upper section and the base section, the pair of pivotally mounted arms being pivotable between the horizontal position and the seat position; and at least one storage support interface.