Universal Key Head Conversion for Compact Tool Organization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional key systems are cumbersome due to the variety in key shapes, sizes, and materials, making it difficult to develop an effective solution for organizing and storing multiple keys and tools efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A universal pocket tool system is developed, featuring a standardized key head with a mounting stub and integrated mounting plates, allowing for the conversion of conventional keys into a uniform size, which can be securely housed in a compact organizer device, along with other elongated tools like electronic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a holder is designed to fit the largest key head, then all keys can be accommodated, but the holder becomes much longer and wider than the key blade and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by providing multiple holder versions with different internal dimensions. Each holder is optimized for specific key size ranges (e.g., small keys up to 1.5 inches, medium keys up to 2 inches, large keys up to 2.5 inches). This allows the holder parameters to be changed to match the actual key being stored, avoiding the need for a single oversized holder that accommodates all key sizes.
2Volume of moving object
If a holder is designed to fit keys of the same or similar size, then the holder can be compact, but it cannot accommodate keys of various sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by creating a family of holders that can each serve multiple key size ranges. For example, the small holder accommodates keys from 0.5 to 1.5 inches, the medium holder accommodates keys from 1.0 to 2.0 inches, and the large holder accommodates keys from 1.5 to 2.5 inches. This overlapping design allows any single holder to potentially accommodate multiple key sizes, reducing the need for multiple specialized holders.
3Volume of moving object
If key heads are cut to a smaller size and attached within the holder, then the holder can be compact, but the fitting tends to be loose due to differences in key thicknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different holder versions with specifically optimized internal dimensions for different key thickness ranges. The small holder is designed with tighter tolerances for thinner keys (0.050-0.100 inches), while the large holder is designed for thicker keys (0.125-0.200 inches). This ensures that each holder provides a precise, snug fit for its intended key size range, eliminating the loose fitting problem.
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
This solution reduces the bulk and weight of key chains, provides improved organizational options, and allows for the use of various tools in a standardized geometry, enhancing user experience and storage capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The first mounting plate can be integrally welded to the second mounting plate to secure the mounting stub within the integrated mounting head
Data Source
AI summary
A key conversion workstation converts conventional keys, in their many shapes and sizes, into a key assembly having a standardized head that can be used, among other uses, within a key organizing device.