History: i-Quip

The Schrade i-Quip is one of the more unusual multi-purpose devices to ever be produced. It combines a number of features into one large unit that some might argue would be better served by smaller seperate devices. Conceived at a difficult time for the once-mighty Schrade Cutlery company, the i-Quip and its sister the NaviTool were not available for very long before the firm shut down.

Housing

Construction of the i-Quip is basically made up of two seperate components. There is the electronics module, which contains all the digital features along with a battery to power them, and the main housing, which contains everything else. The two pieces connect by means of a quarter-turn twist lock mechanism.

The main housing is made up of two panels of aluminum sheet, sandwiched around a rubber-and-plastic center section. (Note that the metal panels on the i-Quip are matte aluminum color, while those on the NaviTool have a black anodize finish)

Blades and Tools

blades fanned

back side

lighter compartment

battery compartments

red LED light

All the blades and tools lock open except for the corkscrew.

• Spear point knife blade with plain edge. Measures 2-3/4" long (65mm)
• Scissors
• Saw blade
• Combination flat phillips screwdriver/bottle opener
• Combination small flathead screwdriver/can opener
• Corkscrew

Locking Mechanism

A notch in the back of each blade is engaged by a spring tab, locking the blade open. It can be unlocked by pressing downwards on any of the neighboring blades.

Other Features

The i-Quip is integrated with a large number of "other features". The list is quite extensive.

Detachable electronics module, with the following capabilities:

• digital clock
• stop watch
• alarm clock
• altimeter
• digital compass
• barometer
• the electronics module can be removed and carried seperately. It also has a backlight function allowing it to be used after dark. Battery compartment is shown in photo at right, requires (1) CR2032 cell.

SOLAS certified whistle

• ACME Tornado brand, made in England.

LED flashlight

• Push button on top face of unit to actuate. Requires (1) CR2032 cell, see photo at right for battery location.

Signal mirror

• Protected in compartment beneath electronics module.

Lighter compartment

• Note compartment is not waterproof. Designed for standard Bic lighter. See photo at right.

Belt clip

• Large spring-loaded affair, suitable for belt or backpack straps, etc.

Sheath

None.

Dimensions

• Length = 4-1/4" (110mm)
• Width = 2-1/2" (65mm)
• Thickness = 2-1/4" (55mm)
• Weight = 8.7 oz (246g)

Variations

None.

Background

Announced by Schrade in late 2001, the IQ180 i-Quip won the Popular Mechanics Design and Engineering Award for that year. Production ceased in 2004 when Schrade Cutlery closed their doors.

Related Tools

The Schrade NaviTool is essentially a less-expensive i-Quip with a compass in place of the electronics module.

Related Patent info

• D462,017 - Module for multi-function equipment
• D456,687 - Tool pod housing
• D461,422 - Electronic compass face