From Napkin Sketch to Market
Lane Osborn, the inventor of Pole Buddy, reached out to FormRep during the Spring of 2022. The initial meeting went well as Brian Hager, FormRep President, experienced something different with Lane. From 3D printed prototypes, an established business, and industry knowledge, Lane needed a partner that had similar experience, injection molding knowledge, and the drive to help him succeed. The relationship was established and the steps to bring the Pole Buddy to life had begun. FormRep assisted in the design development by utilizing 3D modeling software and inhouse high resolution MJF 3D printing. Within 6 weeks to produce the injection mold, Lane had the products in hand for environment and load testing. Initial production began mid 2022 in time for the International Lineman’s Rodeo. Pole Buddy was a hit with sales beginning for the young entrepreneur. Since the show, Lane continues to create new product ideas for his industry and will be introducing additional products in the near future.
What the Pole Buddy is All About
Proudly manufactured in St. Louis, Missouri, the Pole Buddy is the first of its kind. No longer do you have to struggle to find a spot on the pole to hang your grunt bags, battery tools, hand tools, and even your handline. The versatility of the Pole Buddy is unmatched. With an unprecedented number of mounting options, you’re sure to find the perfect spot on each pole. Whether you use screwdrivers, existing bolts, hardware, or the provided lag screws, the Pole Buddy is here to fit your needs. With a safe working load at 60 pounds and a safety factor of 131, this clearly isn’t your average pole buddy.
At less than 1 pound, it fits comfortably in your canvas bolt bag and does not add unnecessary weight on your ascent up the pole. Vigorous rare-earth magnets are strategically placed to hold nuts, washers, and even hand tools. These magnets are triple coated Nickel-Copper-Nickel for maximum corrosion protection. Just below the magnets is the ideal spot for screwdrivers, skinning knives, handline, and many other tools and hardware. This allows for quick access rather than reaching around your belt each time you use a repetitive tool.
Pictured above, Lane Osborn, Inventor, and Mark Brown, Patent Attorney
Product Launch 2022
The Pole Buddy was launched in 2022 at the Overland Park Convention Center International Lineman’s Rodeo. Currently the product is patent pending with the assistance of MidwestIP.com Law Office of Mark Brown, LLC. Now on sale and exclusively sold at UltimatePoleBuddy.com. Complete Concepts USA will be introducing additional products, so stay tuned for more helpful ideas made proudly in the USA.