Transformable Automotive Creeper With Integrated Workspace Storage
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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, enhancing storage and accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If tools, replacement parts, and lighting equipment are placed around the work area, then the functionality and accessibility for automobile maintenance is improved, but the workspace becomes congested and disorganized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate functions (storage, lighting, power supply, tool organization) into a single integrated creeper unit. The storage compartments, work lamp, power source receptacle, and accessory slots are all merged into the creeper body, allowing the mechanic to have all necessary equipment in one location rather than scattered around the workspace.
Solution Approach 2:
The creeper is designed as a multi-functional device that serves not only as a support surface for the mechanic but also as a storage unit, lighting source, power supply station, and tool organizer. This universal design eliminates the need for separate equipment for each function, thereby reducing workspace clutter while maintaining full functionality.
2Productivity
If multiple separate equipment (tools, lights, power sources) are used, then the operational capability is enhanced, but the workspace clutter increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separate equipment items are merged into a single integrated unit. The storage compartments hold tools and parts, the work lamp provides lighting, the power source receptacle supplies power, and all are combined in the creeper, reducing the total space occupied while maintaining all operational capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The design employs a nested structure where storage compartments, lighting components, and power supply elements are nested within or attached to the creeper body. This nesting approach allows multiple functions to be packed into a compact form factor, minimizing workspace footprint while maximizing operational capability.
3Ease of operation
If a traditional creeper design is used, then mobility and simplicity are maintained, but storage and accessory functionality are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The creeper body is divided into multiple segmented storage compartments that can hold different tools and parts. This segmentation provides organized storage while maintaining the overall compact and mobile design of the creeper, allowing easy movement without sacrificing storage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The creeper incorporates dynamic elements such as the transformable upper section that can pivot between horizontal and upright positions, and the modular accessory system that can be configured as needed. These dynamic features enhance versatility while the wheeled base maintains mobility and ease of operation.
Data Source
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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.