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# Multifaceted Household Keys
The Tool Keys Double Up as a Portable Tool Box

By Akihiko Tse | Published 2013-09-24 | Unique
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tool-keys
References: [kickstarter](http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2044861232/schnelle-keys-and-tools-organize-your-pockets?ref=live) & [kicktraq](http://www.kicktraq.com/projects/2044861232/schnelle-keys-and-tools-organize-your-pockets/)

For those who have anguished over trying to use the key head of our household keys to tighten or loosen a screw, the tool keys by Chris and Sarah Schnelle are a practical lifesaver.

Currently a [Kickstarter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hex-wrench) project, the aim of the design is to put a toolbox in the palm of your hands without having to worry about carrying around the bulk of a tool. The tool keys currently comprise of five designs -- three wrench keys and two driver keys. The K200 driver key series, for example, carries a full range of hex wrench options, while the Schnelle B401 multitool holds a multitude of options, such as flat head screwdriver, [Phillips](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fixboy) head screwdriver, a bottle opener, nail notch, pry bar and hex wrench options.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 2.8/10
- Popularity: 21% | Activity: 56% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Unique](https://www.trendhunter.com/unique) > [Inventions](https://www.trendhunter.com/inventions)

## Key Themes

### What's Driving This Trend

- **Multifunctional Tools:** The rise of multifunctional tools like the tool keys presents opportunities for companies to innovate and create versatile products that save space and enhance convenience.
- **Miniature and Portable Tools:** The trend towards smaller and more portable tools creates opportunities for businesses to develop technologies that are convenient and easy to carry.
- **Integration of Everyday Tools:** There is potential for businesses to integrate everyday tools like keys into multifunctional designs to enhance efficiency and convenience.

### Who This Affects Most

- **Hardware and Home Improvement:** Companies specializing in hardware and home improvement have an opportunity to innovate and create compact and versatile tools like the tool keys.
- **Consumer Electronics:** The trend towards portable and versatile devices presents opportunities for consumer electronics companies to create miniature and multi-functional tools with digital features.
- **Automotive:** The trend towards multifunctional tools could extend to the automotive industry, where companies could create combination tools that serve multiple purposes for car owners.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [All-in-One Screwdriver Multitools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/screwdriverking.md)
- [Hyper-Versatile Hex Wrenches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hex-wrench.md)
- [Portable Multipurpose Toolkits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/xcraft.md)
- [Titanium Key-Inspired Multitools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/edc-monster-keymaster.md)
- [Ultra-Compact Screwdriver Sets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hbt-471.md)
- [Design-Conscious Tool Sets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hoto-tools-hand-tool-set.md)
- [Minimalist Urbanite Tool Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hand-tool-kit.md)
- [Bit-Bearing Multitool Pens](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/multitool-pen.md)
- [Compact Carabiner Multi-Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/carabiner-multitool.md)