Multifunctional Tool Box with Integrated Rechargeable Battery Pack and Solar Charging

The problem

Contractors and DIY enthusiasts often struggle with two distinct issues: keeping their hand tools organized and ensuring their cordless power tools or mobile devices remain charged during long jobs. Standard tool boxes offer no power capabilities, forcing users to carry separate heavy chargers, extension cords, or multiple spare battery packs. In remote locations or during power outages, there is no way to replenish energy unless a generator or vehicle outlet is available. Existing solutions that combine storage and power often rely on bulky external attachments or lack integrated safety controls, leading to potential overheating or damage to the batteries if left plugged in incorrectly. There is a need for a compact, self-contained unit that stores tools while simultaneously managing a reserve power supply that can be maintained by both grid electricity and renewable sources like sunlight.

The solution

The patent describes a multifunctional tool box consisting of an upper cover and a lower cover hinged together. The core innovation lies in the integration of a rechargeable battery pack within the structural body of the box rather than as an add-on module.

1. Structural Integration: The lower cover contains a holding chamber for tools, with the middle position specifically designated for the battery pack. This central placement balances the weight and protects the battery from direct impact during handling.
2. Electrical Connection Mechanism: The upper surface of the battery pack features conductive clips. Inside the upper cover, a connection battery plate is mounted on the inner wall. This plate has inserted sheets that align precisely with the conductive clips. When the tool box lid is closed, these sheets insert into the clips, establishing an electrical connection between the battery and the control systems in the lid.
3. Power Management System: The connection plate is linked via conducting wires to a control panel located within the upper cover. This panel manages the flow of electricity. It receives input from an external charger plug or a solar panel mounted on the outer surface of the upper cover.
4. Output Interfaces: The system provides external USB output interfaces connected to the battery pack, allowing users to charge phones, tablets, or other small electronics directly from the tool box. A charger plug allows for AC input to recharge the internal battery.
5. Safety Controls: The control panel includes specific protection circuits for overvoltage, overcurrent, excess temperature, overcharging, and short circuits. For example, when the battery reaches approximately 95% capacity, the control panel automatically cuts off the circuit to prevent overcharging, maintaining the battery in a full-power state safely.

Who it is for

• Electricians and Contractors: Professionals who work in varying locations need a single case that holds their tools and powers their devices or diagnostic equipment without hunting for outlets.
• Outdoor and Camping Enthusiasts: Users who require rugged storage for gear but also need a reliable power source for lights, GPS units, or phones in off-grid environments where solar charging is advantageous.
• Emergency Preparedness Buyers: Individuals looking for a durable container that doubles as a backup power station for essential communication devices during blackouts or natural disasters.
• Industrial Maintenance Teams: Workers who use handheld digital meters or scanners and benefit from a centralized charging point that travels with their toolkit.

How it works

The main parts

Operating Steps

1. Closing the Lid: When the user shuts the tool box, the inserted sheets (9) on the upper cover’s connection plate (6) slide into the conductive clips (5) on the battery pack (4). This action completes the circuit between the battery and the control panel (8).
2. Charging via AC: An external charger is plugged into the charger plug (11). Current flows through the control panel (8), down the conducting wires (7), through the connection plate (6), and into the battery pack (4). The control panel monitors voltage and current. Once the battery reaches about 95%, the panel automatically cuts off the charging circuit to protect the cells.
3. Charging via Solar: If equipped, the solar panel (13) converts sunlight into electricity. This current is fed into the control panel (8) and routed similarly to the battery pack (4). This allows the box to maintain its charge level even when unplugged from the mains, provided there is sufficient light exposure.
4. Discharging/Usage: The user plugs a device into the USB output interfaces (10). The control panel regulates the output, providing stable DC 5V power drawn from the battery pack. The integrated protection circuits ensure that if a fault occurs (such as a short circuit), power is cut immediately to prevent damage or fire hazards.

Applications

Remote Job Sites

Construction workers often operate in areas without temporary power grids. This tool box allows them to store hand tools securely while using the integrated battery to charge radios, phones, or small LED work lights throughout the shift, reducing the need to return to a truck or generator frequently.

Emergency Kits

In disaster preparedness scenarios, space is limited. A combined storage and power unit saves room. During a blackout, the solar panel can slowly replenish the battery during the day, ensuring that emergency communication devices remain functional for days without relying on fuel-based generators.

Outdoor Recreation

Campers and hikers who carry sensitive electronics for navigation or photography benefit from a rugged case that survives drops and weather. The solar feature ensures that the battery maintains a charge while sitting on a car roof or tent flap, ready for evening use.

Automotive Diagnostics

Mechanics working under cars or in garages may not always have convenient access to high-current outlets. This box serves as a mobile power bank for diagnostic scanners and tablet computers used for reading error codes, keeping the tools powered and the data synced.

Where it is less suitable

• High-Power Tool Charging: The patent specifies USB outputs (typically 5V) and does not describe high-amperage AC inverters or direct fast-charging docks for large cordless tool batteries (like 18V/20V drills). It is better suited for low-power electronics and maintaining the internal reserve, not powering heavy-duty appliances.
• Extreme Heat Environments: While the control panel has overheat protection, lithium-ion batteries generally degrade faster in extreme temperatures. Users in very hot climates should monitor the box’s location to avoid direct, prolonged heat exposure beyond normal outdoor conditions.
• Heavy Industrial Loads: The plastic or metal construction described focuses on electrical integration. For sites requiring ANSI-rated impact resistance against heavy falling objects, specialized industrial cases might be more appropriate unless reinforced in manufacturing.