Magnetic and mechanical closure device, fitting system and thread tensioning system

Abstract

This disclosure describes a mechanical and magnetic closure device with greater ease of use compared to existing technologies. The closure device includes a female portion having a magnet and a central hole, and a male portion having a corresponding magnet and a central protrusion, which cooperate to form a mechanically fixed closure device, guided and further supported by magnetic force.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to magnetic and mechanical closure devices for various articles, bonding systems, and wire tensioning systems. Background Technology

[0002] How wearable items open and close around the body, and how well they fit, is crucial for the daily functioning of humans and even animals. Wearable items and devices can include clothing, footwear, backpacks, sports equipment, wearable protective gear, sports braces, orthotics, and / or prostheses. Factors for assessing the appropriateness or satisfaction of the fit of wearable items or devices to the body include: whether the fit system can transfer a satisfactory load, provide satisfactory stability, hang on the body, maintain effective consistency of the item or device during movement, provide sufficient mobility, and be easy to wear and / or comfortable. These factors can be considered the determinants of whether an item or device fits the body appropriately or effectively; they are directly related to how the item or device is secured to the body. Typically, wearable items or devices are secured to the body by tightening around it. The mechanism by which an item or device is secured to the body and the associated methods are called the fit system.

[0003] Fitting systems and related equipment and methods are typically operatively connected to one or more flexible extensions or tension lines (e.g., straps, cables, shoelaces, etc.) and to an article or device via one or more connection points or interfaces. The distance between connection points or interfaces may decrease relative to each other or relative to the fitting system; this can be referred to as contraction or shortening. Such contraction may involve reducing the effective length of the flexible extension in the fitting system and may increase the tension (or tensile load) borne by the flexible extension. Such contraction may occur when the article or device is tightened or closed, or during other movements relative to the body. Conversely, the distance between connection points or interfaces may increase; this can be referred to as elongation or lengthening. Such elongation may involve increasing the effective length of the flexible extension in the fitting system and may reduce the tension borne by the flexible extension. Such elongation may occur when the article or device is loosened or during other movements relative to the body.

[0004] The suitability and effectiveness of a bonding system depend on its design elements, including: the mechanism and methods of contraction and elongation, the mechanical advantages of the bonding system itself, the mechanical reliability of the entire system and the durability of its components, the maximum load and tension, the distance between connection points or interfaces at the maximum contraction and elongation positions, the overall height of the bonding system, the width and length of the bonding system, the rigidity of the bonding system and its components, whether the contraction and elongation are adjusted stepwise or continuously, the smoothness or abruptness of the contraction and elongation process, the installation requirements of the bonding system, the system weight and suspension force provided by the bonding system, and the pressure distribution of the bonding system.

[0005] The mechanism and usage of a fit system significantly influence the user experience and determine many other factors. For example, a mechanism may be mechanically effective but ergonomically poor; it also affects the speed and direction of contraction and extension. For instance, a gear ratio mechanism in a fit system may offer a high mechanical advantage but a slow contraction speed, which might be suitable for some applications but too slow for others. In other applications, the speed of contraction and extension may be critical. For example, some military backpacks or load systems require high-speed contraction and very high-speed extension, enabling operators to quickly remove the backpack when rapid maneuverability is needed to avoid injury. In such applications, a high mechanical advantage in contraction or extension may be less important because most users have a high strength level. In other applications, the direction of the contraction or extension force may be important. For example, unidirectional tightening when a user tightens the brace can lead to knee dislocation. In these cases, a balanced two-way fit system is more suitable. The ease of use of the fit system's contraction and extension is crucial for providing optimal fit and user experience. Many users of orthopedic devices have limited strength and / or dexterity, so mechanisms and methods that allow them to easily contract to the desired degree and easily extend and release are a great need and benefit. Conversely, it is also a serious problem if the contraction or extension of the fitting system is too easy, leading to accidental triggering. The mechanism and method also determine the mechanical advantage of the system and the increment of tightening. Some applications may require smaller increments of contraction or extension, while others may be better suited to larger, and therefore faster, increments of change.

[0006] Furthermore, some mechanisms and methods of fit systems may allow opening or disengagement between connection points or interfaces, while others are better suited to or even require the fit system to remain a single component between connection points or interfaces. Some applications may require the fit system to open for putting on and taking off the device, while others may not. For example, leg braces may require the user to open the device to insert their leg, while the waist fit system of a motorcyclist's protective pants can remain intact, only loosening when put on.

[0007] The inherent mechanical advantage of a bonding system is a product of the mechanisms and methods employed in its fabrication. Such a system provides a quantifiable mechanical advantage ratio, i.e., the ratio of output force to input force. The speed or time required to contract or extend the bonding system a certain distance is generally inversely proportional to the mechanical advantage; therefore, a high mechanical advantage results in low speed, and vice versa. Different applications have varying requirements for mechanical advantage, but most applications have a specific ratio or range that represents the optimal value for functionality. If the mechanical advantage is too high or exceeds the requirements of a particular application, it may unnecessarily sacrifice speed. The mechanical advantage of a bonding system directly relates to the system's maximum tension and load. The maximum tension and load of a bonding system will be described in detail below.

[0008] The mechanical reliability and durability of a bonding system depend on the materials, geometry, dimensions, and manufacturing methods of its components. The overall strength of a bonding system may be only as strong as its weakest link. Failure of some components can lead to catastrophic consequences, while others may not. A failure in some bonding systems could trap a user inside or with their device. In other cases, the user may be highly dependent on the device. A failure in a bonding system can even lead to serious accidents. Therefore, reliability is critical in certain situations and applications.

[0009] The maximum tension of a bonding system typically depends on the maximum tensile load that the flexible extension within the system can withstand. In many applications, the maximum tensile load is directly related to the maximum input force multiplied by the mechanical advantage. The input force is typically the hand force applied by the user, but it could also be a force applied by someone else or by electronic or other automated systems. The input force is transmitted to the flexible extension through mechanisms within the bonding system, which may or may not include a mechanical advantage. The tensile load of the flexible extension of the bonding system can transfer loads or forces to the user's body. Typically, these loads are oriented towards the center of the body's long axis or the long axis of the limb, but they may also be slightly angled. If the angle between the direction of these loads and the long axis is too large, it can cause the device to move along the proximal or distal end of the body unless balanced by the geometry of the body or other features. The amount of load transferred to the body is also related to other factors. For example, the area of ​​the bonding system in contact with the body will affect how much tension is directly transferred to the body or into the device.

[0010] The load applied to the body exerts pressure. Generally, the distribution of pressure on the body depends on the ratio of the load applied by the fitting system to the area of ​​pressure. The pressure distribution of the fitting system will be explained further below. In many cases, the fitting system can distribute some tension to the device (e.g., by changing the shape or reducing the size of the device), thereby reducing the load applied to the body. The desired or optimal load for the body varies between different applications and changes with body shape, activity, specific movements, specific postures, and / or time. Although the optimal load may vary depending on the application and other variables, it generally performs best within a defined range. Humans and animals generally prefer similar ranges of load and pressure applied to specific parts of the body. Outside of these preferences, loads and pressures exceeding the recommended range can lead to reduced blood flow and / or other injuries, discomfort, or pain. Conversely, if the load and pressure are too low, the device may slip or come loose from the body, resulting in injury, discomfort, or pain.

[0011] The maximum effective length of the flexible extension in a bonding system can be termed the system's stroke. The stroke of a bonding system may be related to the amount of space the flexible extension can be accommodated within the system or the distance between the linear teeth on a ratchet ladder. The amount of stroke available to the bonding system may limit the load it can apply to the body, as the maximum stroke may be reached before the desired load is achieved. Stroke also directly affects device size, as a bonding system with greater stroke may be suitable for a wider range of body sizes, and vice versa. These factors may suggest that the bonding system should always include a maximum or greater stroke. However, while increasing stroke may be beneficial, it often has negative or adverse effects on other factors of the bonding system, such as size, height, and weight.

[0012] The profile height of a body-hugging system is crucial for product developers and end users. Profile height refers to the distance the body-hugging system protrudes from the body; in other words, its degree of protrusion. Developers and end users strongly prefer or demand low profile body-hugging systems to meet their aesthetic and overall quality requirements. Furthermore, profile height also plays a role in functionality and safety. If the body-hugging system is too high, there is a greater risk of it getting caught on other objects, or difficulty or even complete lack of coverage when wearing clothing. Besides these undesirable attributes, an overly large body-hugging system also poses a significant risk of injury, as its volume could be pushed into the body and cause injury if the user falls or bumps into something.

[0013] Similar to body height, the width and length of a fit system are also important for specific applications. Width or length can limit its applicability in certain situations, such as when the applicable area is limited. For example, the acceptable fit system area for shoes is limited. If the width or length of a fit system exceeds 45 mm, or even 35 mm in some cases, its applicability in shoes may be restricted. However, aside from surface area limitations, larger widths and lengths are more acceptable than body height for most body-fitting applications.

[0014] In some cases, fit requirements can be very precise; a difference of even one millimeter can mean too loose or just right. In these situations, an analog fit system, which allows for continuous and controlled adjustments, may be ideal. In other applications, incremental tightening provides adequate precision while allowing for a wider variety of fit system mechanisms. Incremental systems are generally faster than analog systems that offer fine-tuning control. Not all incremental systems are created equal. Some incremental fit systems may offer small steps of 1.5 millimeters, while others may offer large steps of 6 millimeters. The required distance between increments varies depending on the application but typically ranges from 0.5 millimeters to 8 millimeters. Regardless of whether a system is incremental or analog, the mechanism or method used can provide a smooth transition during fit adjustments or a jarring experience. Generally, a more controlled and smoother experience is preferred. However, in some cases, rapid release or removal of the device is required.

[0015] Existing closure solutions do not adequately address the ease of use when connecting, closing, securing, or adjusting items. Various closure devices and related methods have been proposed. For example, one such device is described in U.S. Patent 10,212,993 (Fidlock GmbH). This prior art includes a force-applying element that can be pivotally connected to a second locking portion. While this prior art may have advantages in some respects, it adds a degree of freedom to the device, which may reduce stability and tactile feedback for some users. The complexity and manufacturing cost of the device may also be higher due to the need to manufacture individual parts and assemble them via pivot connection. The pivot connection also creates a pinch point problem that could potentially injure the user.

[0016] Another example of a closure device is described in U.S. Patent 6,857,169 (Nifco Taiwan Corp) and U.S. Patent 9,907,367 (Woojin Plastic Co Ltd). These closure devices include a single protrusion, however, which does not extend beyond the female part's aperture. Therefore, the user has no additional leverage to overcome the magnetic attraction and the closure device, making disengagement less easy. Furthermore, in these closure devices, the male part covers the female part from above to achieve engagement and secure the components. Therefore, the user cannot see how the parts engage, as the engagement process is obscured by the outer surface of the fastener. These prior art designs are within the framework of standard fasteners with flush outer surfaces. However, a major drawback of these prior art is their poor intuitiveness for the user, and engagement and disengagement are more difficult compared to the present invention.

[0017] Another example of a closure device is described in U.S. Patent 8,794,682 (Fidlock GmbH), U.S. Patent 11,350,705 (Wonderland Switzerland AG), and Korean Patent 102,208,912. All three closure devices incorporate movement between spring-loaded locking elements or assemblies as part of their mechanism to secure the closure device in a closed or locked position. While such prior art may have advantages in certain applications, it increases the complexity of the device and manufacturing costs. More complex solutions may also deter end customers or confuse them regarding intuitive use. Furthermore, the increased movement between parts and assemblies makes the finished product more prone to malfunctions or problems.

[0018] Another example of prior art is U.S. Patent 8,914,951 (Zedel SAS), which does not involve movement between the assemblies but utilizes the bending of one of the parts to unlock the closure. The disadvantage of the bending point is that it increases the potential point of failure. This prior art also requires releasing the locking mechanism by squeezing, which some users may not be able to do.

[0019] Some applications, such as rock climbing harnesses, require a reliable locking position that cannot be accidentally opened. In these applications, ease of use is less important than the security of the connection device. For example, US20040078943A1 (Zedel SAS) describes a closure device for such applications, which uses a locking mechanism to secure the device in a closed position. However, for applications that do not require a locking position, this prior art suffers from reduced ease of use. Summary of the Invention

[0020] This invention describes a magnetically and mechanically combined closure device for various applications, including connections between tension wires and products. The closure device according to this disclosure offers greater ease of engagement and disengagement compared to prior art devices, lower manufacturing costs, and is configured for one-handed operation. The closure device includes a female and a male portion, each comprising a body having an outer and an inner surface, a magnet or magnetic material, and a component for connection to an article. The female portion includes a central hole located between the outer and inner surfaces. The male portion includes a central protrusion extending upward from the outer surface, adapted to pass through the hole and protruding above or above the upper surface of the female portion surrounding the hole.

[0021] The closing device according to this disclosure is easier to engage and disengage compared to prior art devices. Furthermore, the closing device is inexpensive to manufacture and is configured for one-handed operation.

[0022] According to the first aspect, the hole in the female part and the protrusion in the male part have a mating geometry, wherein the hole is capable of passing over the protrusion and entering a locking position. In addition to the mechanical connection, the female and male parts are magnetically attracted to each other, such that the magnetic attraction helps to establish and maintain the locking position between the female and male parts.

[0023] According to the closure device of this disclosure, the following combination of features facilitates easy engagement and disengagement of the closure device: (a) a single central hole penetrating the inner and outer surfaces of the female part; (b) a single central protrusion extending upward from the outer surface of the male part; (c) the inner and outer surfaces of the female part covering the outer surface of the male part; and (d) magnetic attraction assisting in establishing and maintaining the locking position between the female and male parts. This combination helps simplify the use of the closure device and / or reduce manufacturing costs by avoiding moving parts and locking features, while providing a sufficiently robust closure device for connecting different items in a wide range of applications.

[0024] Furthermore, the inner and outer surfaces of the female part form part of the mating geometry and serve as operating surfaces for controlling engagement and disengagement. Additionally, the hole in the female part, located centrally through its inner and outer surfaces and preceding its attachment to the article, provides the user with a clear visual reference indicating how to engage the two parts at the protrusion and how to disengage them.

[0025] According to the closing device of this disclosure, the hole in the female part can pass over the protrusion and enter the locking position with its front edge raised or lowered. The closing device does not contain any structure or locking mechanism that obstructs engagement.

[0026] Closures that engage easily when the leading edge is raised or lowered are particularly useful for wearable devices. For example, in knee or ankle braces, the wearer typically wraps the first part of the closure around the body and engages it with the second part when putting on the brace. Because the brace wraps around the leg, in this example, the curvature of the leg causes the leading edge of the first closure to rise relative to the second closure. Compared to existing technologies, the closure of this invention maintains consistent ease of engagement in such body-wrapped situations. Ease of use is especially important for users of medical devices such as orthotics, and can determine whether they benefit from the medical device.

[0027] According to the closure device of this disclosure, the disengagement force is a force opposite to the normal tension applied to the closure device by the attached article; the disengagement torque is a torque applied between the female and male parts, the direction of which is opposite to the normal tension direction and upward away from the protrusion.

[0028] According to the closure device of this disclosure, a disengaging force and / or a disengaging torque are required to release or disengage from the locked position. Some embodiments have mating geometry requiring the application of a disengaging force followed by a disengaging torque for release, while other embodiments can be designed to apply a disengaging torque first, followed by a disengaging force. Other embodiments can be released directly by either a disengaging torque or a disengaging force. In some embodiments, applying a disengaging force alone cannot release the closure device because the protrusion of the raised portion prevents the hole from disengaging directly upwards from the protrusion. Furthermore, in the total dimensions of the raised body plus the protrusion, the corresponding size of the hole is smaller than that of the raised portion. For example, in one embodiment, a certain size of the hole is 8 mm, while the corresponding size of the raised portion with the protrusion is 9 mm. The closure device can be configured with an appropriate disengaging force for different applications. For example, in messenger bag applications, the closure device is configured to require a disengaging force first, followed by a disengaging torque, so that the force applied to the bag during normal use will not accidentally open the closure device. In another embodiment, the closure device for footwear applications only requires a release force, since unexpected release forces are not common during normal use, thereby maximizing ease of use.

[0029] Because the closure device is designed to allow independent movement between the female and male parts in one or more directions to disengage from the locked position, the closure device can be considered to have one degree of freedom. In some embodiments, only magnetic attraction is used to resist disengagement in that degree of freedom direction. In this way, magnetic attraction is used to maintain the locked position while restricting the degree of freedom only to a minimum to facilitate disengagement.

[0030] Some applications require a high level of security in the locking position, while others prioritize ease of engagement / disengagement without the need for a highly secure lock. The security of the locking position, as well as the ease of engagement and disengagement, is influenced by various structural details in the closure device, primarily including the mating geometry between the female and male parts and the magnetic attraction. The mating geometry may vary in shape, size, orientation, number of mating features, and inter-component clearances. In all embodiments, the mating geometry exists between the hole and the protrusion, and between the inner surface of the female part and the outer surface of the male part. In some embodiments, the mating geometry also exists between the protrusion of the hole and the protrusion, between the female body and the protrusion of the protrusion, and / or between the female body and the male body.

[0031] Movement not in the direction of freedom, or in other words, towards engagement or disengagement, can be considered as clearance or relative movement between components. Different embodiments can adjust the amount of movement between the components of the closure device and consequently between the attached articles by changing the mating geometry between the components. For example, embodiments with circular holes and protrusions are used in applications where one or more attached articles are allowed to rotate within a large range as they approach the closure device. Conversely, embodiments with rectangular holes and protrusions are used in applications where attaching strip-shaped articles allows only a smaller range of rotation.

[0032] According to the closure device of this disclosure, the magnetic attraction between the female and male parts can be configured to assist engagement and help maintain the locked position or resist disengagement. Disengagement can only occur when the force applied between the parts is greater than the magnetic attraction force. The closure device includes intentional variation of the amount of magnetic engagement assistance and resistance to disengagement to suit the needs of different applications.

[0033] In most embodiments, the magnetic attraction is generated by the interaction of opposite poles (north and south poles) of two magnets. However, magnetic attraction can also be achieved by placing magnets in the male or female portion and bonding them to another closed component, or by forming the entire component from ferromagnetic material. The embedding of magnets and / or ferromagnetic material can be achieved through overmolding, press fitting, adhesive bonding, or a combination thereof. The magnitude and direction of the force between the closed components can be altered by changing the properties of the magnetic configuration, such as the number of magnets and ferromagnetic material, magnet size, magnet material, magnetic field strength, distance between magnets, magnet arrangement, and their orientation. Magnetic forces are additive; for example, in some embodiments, two pairs of magnets, each pair with a magnetic attraction force of 1.5 pounds, result in a total magnetic attraction force of 3 pounds. The magnetic attraction force between the two components is preferably between 2 and 4 pounds.

[0034] According to the closure device disclosed herein, compared to existing technologies, the required component height and the height of the closure device after locking are smaller. This offers additional advantages, including reduced volume, weight, material usage, and manufacturing costs. Importantly, it also makes the closure device easier to integrate into products that wish to incorporate it, as it occupies less space or length between items. Similarly, due to its shorter length and smaller curvature, it is easier to bend and wear around the body or in applications with small radii, making it more suitable compared to longer closure devices. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1A A perspective view showing the female and male parts of a mechanical and magnetic bonding device in a locked state, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0036] Figure 1B for Figure 1A Top view of the device shown.

[0037] Figure 1C for Figure 1B The mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown is along Figure 1B A sectional view along section line 1C-1C.

[0038] Figure 1D To and Figure 1C A cross-sectional view of the identical female and male parts when separated as described in one aspect of this disclosure.

[0039] Figure 1E To and Figure 1C The same cross-sectional view of the female and male parts shows one hand in a single-handed detached position.

[0040] Figure 1F for Figure 1B A top view of the same mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown, indicating one hand in a single-handed detached position.

[0041] Figure 2A To and Figure 1C A cross-sectional view of the male and female parts separated, with the front end of the female part facing upwards.

[0042] Figure 2B To and Figure 1C A cross-sectional view of the male and female parts separated, with the front end of the female part facing downwards.

[0043] Figure 3A for Figure 1A – Figure 1C A perspective view of the inner surface of the female part in the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0044] Figure 3B for Figure 1A – Figure 1C A perspective view of the outer surface of the female part in the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0045] Figure 4A for Figure 1A – Figure 1C A perspective view of the inner surface of the male part in the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0046] Figure 4B for Figure 1A – Figure 1C A perspective view of the outer surface of the male part in the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0047] Figure 5A for Figure 1A – Figure 1C Right side view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0048] Figure 5B for Figure 1A – Figure 1C A top view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0049] Figure 6A A bottom view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device in the locked position, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0050] Figure 6B for Figure 6A A perspective view of the bottom surface of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0051] Figure 7AA side view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device in the locked position, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0052] Figure 7B for Figure 7A A perspective view of the bottom surface of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0053] Figure 7C for Figure 7A A perspective view of the top of the bottom surface of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0054] Figure 8A A top view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device in the locked position, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0055] Figure 8B for Figure 8A Side view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0056] Figure 8C for Figure 8A The mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown is along Figure 8A Enlarged sectional view of section line 8C-8C in the image.

[0057] Figure 8D for Figure 8C An enlarged cross-sectional view of the female part shown.

[0058] Figure 8E for Figure 8C An enlarged sectional view of the male part shown.

[0059] Figure 8F for Figure 8A –8C Perspective view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0060] Figure 9A A top view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device in the locked position, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0061] Figure 9B for Figure 9A Side view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0062] Figure 9C for Figure 9A The mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown is along Figure 9A Enlarged sectional view of section line 9C-9C in the image.

[0063] Figure 9D Too Figure 9A The mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown is along Figure 9A An enlarged sectional view along section line 9C-9C shows the initial movement of the detached component.

[0064] Figure 9E Too Figure 9A The mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown is along Figure 9A An enlarged sectional view along section line 9C-9C shows the component further separating.

[0065] Figure 10A A top view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device in the locked position, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0066] Figure 10B for Figure 10A Side view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0067] Figure 10C for Figure 10A The mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown is along Figure 10A An enlarged sectional view of the 10C-10C section line.

[0068] Figure 10D for Figure 10A –10C Top view of the male part of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device.

[0069] Figure 10E for Figure 10A –10C Top view of the female part of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device.

[0070] Figure 11A A top view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device in the locked position, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0071] Figure 11B for Figure 11A Side view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0072] Figure 11C for Figure 11A The mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown is along Figure 11A An enlarged sectional view of the 11C-11C section line.

[0073] Figure 12A A top view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device in the locked position, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0074] Figure 12B for Figure 12A A top view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown, in which the female part is in a different position relative to the male part.

[0075] Figure 13A A top view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device in the locked position, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0076] Figure 13B for Figure 13A Side view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0077] Figure 13C for Figure 13A The mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown is along Figure 13A An enlarged sectional view of the 13C-13C section line.

[0078] Figure 13D for Figure 13A A top view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown, in which the female part is in a different position relative to the male part.

[0079] Figure 14 A perspective view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device in the locked position, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0080] Figure 15A for Figure 14 A top view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0081] Figure 15B for Figure 15A The mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown is along Figure 15A Enlarged sectional view of section line 15B-15B in the image.

[0082] Figure 15C for Figure 15B A partial enlarged view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown, illustrating... Figure 15B Details of the 15C.

[0083] Figure 16 A perspective view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device in the locked position, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0084] Figure 17A for Figure 16 A top view of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown.

[0085] Figure 17B for Figure 17A The mechanical and magnetic bonding device shown is along Figure 17A Enlarged sectional view of section line 17B-17B in the image.

[0086] Figure 17C for Figure 17B The cross-sectional views shown depict the magnetic fields of the mechanical and magnetic bonding devices, respectively, enabling... Figure 17B Its features are clearer.

[0087] Figure 18A for Figure 16 –17C Perspective view of the male part of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device.

[0088] Figure 18B for Figure 16 –17C shows a top view of the male part of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device.

[0089] Figure 19A for Figure 16 –17C Perspective view of the female part of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device.

[0090] Figure 19B for Figure 16 –17C Top view of the female part of the mechanical and magnetic bonding device.

[0091] Figure 20A for Figure 19B The female part shown along Figure 19B Enlarged sectional view of section line 20A-20A in the image.

[0092] Figure 20B for Figure 18B The male part shown along Figure 18B Enlarged sectional view of section line 20B-20B in the image.

[0093] Figure 20C for Figure 18B The male part shown along Figure 18B Enlarged sectional view of the 20C-20C section line.

[0094] Figure 21A This is a front view of a tensioned bonding system, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0095] Figure 21B for Figure 21A The side view of the tensioned and fitted system shown.

[0096] Figure 21C for Figure 21A The diagram shows a perspective view of a tensioned and fitted system.

[0097] Figure 22A A front view of the tensioning and bonding system and the elastic device, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0098] Figure 22B for Figure 21A The diagram shows a side view of the tensioning and bonding system and the elastic device.

[0099] Figure 22C for Figure 21A The diagram shows a perspective view of the tensioning and bonding system and the elastic device.

[0100] Figure 22D for Figure 22C The enlarged view of the tensioning and bonding system and the elastic device shown indicates that... Figure 22C More details of the elastic device shown in section 22D.

[0101] Figure 23 This is a top view of a fitting system with a sectional view of the leg, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0102] Figure 24 for Figure 23 The front view of the bonding system is shown.

[0103] Figure 25 for Figure 23 The top view of the bonding system shown illustrates the force distribution.

[0104] Figure 26 for Figure 25 The top view of the bonding system shown illustrates different force distributions.

[0105] Figure 27 A side view of a sandal that includes mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0106] Figure 28 A side view of a shoe including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0107] Figure 29 A front view of a dog harness that includes mechanical and magnetic fastening devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0108] Figure 30 A front view of trousers including mechanical and magnetic fastening devices on the waistband according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0109] Figure 31 A perspective view of a watch device including mechanical and magnetic bonding mechanisms according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0110] Figure 32 A rear view of a baby carrier including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0111] Figure 33 A front view of a knee brace including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0112] Figure 34 A front view of a safety rescue vest including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0113] Figure 35 This is a front view of a life jacket that includes mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0114] Figure 36 A perspective view of a tactical / ammunition / tool ​​vest including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0115] Figure 37 A front view of a sports / aviation / spacesuit including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0116] Figure 38 A perspective view of a helmet including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0117] Figure 39 A perspective view of an ankle-foot orthosis including mechanical and magnetic fitting devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0118] Figure 40 A perspective view of a prosthesis including mechanical and magnetic fitting devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0119] Figure 41 A perspective view of a back brace including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0120] Figure 42 This is a side view of a knee brace that includes mechanical and magnetic fitting devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0121] Figure 43 A side view of a knee fixation device including mechanical and magnetic fitting devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0122] Figure 44 A front view of a motion protection device including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0123] Figure 45 A perspective view of a baseball catcher's apparatus including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0124] Figure 46 A perspective view of a person wearing fishing gear including mechanical and magnetic attachment devices, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0125] Figure 47 A side view of a hiking or athletic boot that includes mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0126] Figure 48 A perspective view of a bicycle saddlebag including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0127] Figure 49 A side view of a golf bag including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0128] Figure 50 A perspective view of a travel backpack including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0129] Figure 51 A perspective view of a camping backpack including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0130] Figure 52 A perspective view of a roll bag including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0131] Figure 53 A perspective view of a handbag or shoulder bag including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0132] Figure 54 A perspective view of a messenger package including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0133] Figure 55 A perspective view of an apron including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0134] Figure 56 A side view of a truck with a wire tensioning system, including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0135] Figure 57 A perspective view of a wall-mounted storage device including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0136] Figure 58 A perspective view of a storage system including mechanical and magnetic bonding devices according to one aspect of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0137] This disclosure describes embodiments of various closure devices employing a magnetically and mechanically combined mechanism for connecting and disconnecting different components of a single product or different products. Therefore, while some embodiments show closure devices not connected to a product, all closure devices can be used with one or more products. It should be noted that each closure device can form part of a bonding system or a wire tensioning system, as described herein.

[0138] As used herein, the term "fitting system" refers to a system in which a closure device is connected to a wearable product and has at least one tension line (such as a strap, cable, wire, or other flexible long condition) and one or more connection points or interfaces with the product or device.

[0139] As used herein, a "wire tensioning system" refers to a system in which a closure device is connected to a non-wearable product or structure and has at least one tension wire (such as a strap, cable, wire, or other flexible long condition) and one or more connection points or interfaces with that product, device, or structure. Similar to a bonding system, the distance between connection points or interfaces or relative to the wire tensioning system can be reduced; this can be referred to as shrinkage or shortening. Closure devices used in wire tensioning systems can operate in space without direct mounting to the product or structure.

[0140] As used herein, the term "product" refers to any type of tension cord, including straps, ropes, shoelaces, cords, chains, and cables, as well as products including clothing, footwear, boots, backpacks, shoulder bags, luggage, sports equipment, wearable protective equipment, wearable products, sports braces, exoskeletons, orthotics, and / or prostheses. Product materials may be inelastic or have some elasticity. Tension cords may be ropes, cords, cables, threads, or shoelaces with a circular cross-section, or they may be flat strips with a rectangular or square cross-section. The material of the tension cord can be any material commonly used as tension cord in similar applications. Therefore, for footwear applications, the tension cord used in the closure device according to this description may be made of the same material currently used as shoelaces. Furthermore, the material used may also differ from that commonly used in this application. Tension cord materials include metal (e.g., steel) cables and polyester webbing, etc.

[0141] As used herein, the term "connection" refers to a connection between products via a closure device, meaning a possible connection / disconnection between two parts of the same tension line, between two tension lines, between a tension line and a product, between two different products, between two parts of the same product, or between products. The closure device used can operate in space without being directly mounted on the product or structure. The connection mechanism may include adjustment devices, such as in some embodiments, allowing a strap to pass through a slot in the closure device, enabling the strap to be lengthened or shortened. The connection mechanism may also include a path for maintaining tension, pre-adjustment or when not adjusting.

[0142] Figures 1A to 6B Details of a closing device 100 are shown, which includes a female portion 1 with a centrally located hole 11 for engaging a centrally located protrusion 22 on a male portion 2. Figure 1C As shown, the closing device 100 includes an outer surface 4 and an inner surface 6 of the female part 1, and an outer surface 24 and an inner surface 26 of the male part 2. Figure 1C A magnet 31 located near the inner surface 6 of the female part 1 and a corresponding magnet 32 ​​located near the outer surface of the male part 2 are also shown. Figure 1C As shown, magnets 31 and 32 are arranged with opposite magnetic poles facing each other. When the closing device 100 is in the locked state, they are magnetically attracted and aligned. The locked state of the closing device 100 is... Figure 1A Perspective view in Figure 1B Top view and Figure 1C The sectional view in the document provides an explanation. For example... Figure 1C As shown, when the hole 11 covers the protrusion 22 and the front surface 13 of the hole contacts the front surface 23 of the protrusion, the magnet 31 and the corresponding magnet 32 ​​are as close as possible. In this configuration, the magnetic attraction of the magnets 31 and 32 forms a magnetic field bias to assist in establishing and maintaining the locking state between the female part 1 and the male part 2.

[0143] Figure 1C It is clearly shown that the central hole 11 passes through the outer surface 4 and inner surface 6 of the female part 1. It is also clearly shown that the central protrusion 22 extends upward from the outer surface of the male part 2.

[0144] Figures 1A to 6B The illustrated closure 100 includes connecting features 8 for attaching the closure to the product at the female part 1 and the male part 2. These connecting features 8 are designed to accept 1.5-inch straps, such as... Figure 1F As shown.

[0145] The hole 11 and protrusion 22 of the closing device 100 have a rounded rectangular cross-sectional shape in the xy plane or cross-sectional plane, wherein the size of the hole 11 is larger than that of the protrusion 22, so that the hole 11 can fit over the protrusion 22. After fitting over the protrusion 22, the inner surface 6 of the female part 1 contacts the outer surface 24 of the male part 2. The inner surface 6 of the female part 1 and the outer surface 24 of the male part 2 have matching geometric shapes, so that the female part 1 can be fitted onto the male part 2 in the locked state.

[0146] like Figure 1C As shown, the protrusion 22 of the closure device 100 has a protrusion 28 that extends forward from the top surface of the protrusion. The front-to-back dimensions of the protrusion 22 plus the protrusion 28 are larger than the front-to-back dimensions of the hole 11. Therefore, when an upward force is applied to the female part 1, the protrusion 28 can prevent or block the disengagement of the locking state to avoid accidental disengagement. In this way, the protrusion 28 provides mechanical interference, which, together with the magnet 31 and its corresponding magnet 32, helps to maintain the locking state.

[0147] The protrusion 22 also includes a curved surface 40 that extends from the rear to the top of the protrusion. The curved surface 40 reduces the front-to-back dimensions of the upper part of the protrusion 22, thereby providing more space for the hole 11 when disengaged.

[0148] Figure 1C and Figure 1D The disengagement forces 41 and 42 applied to the closing device 100 are shown. Figure 1C The diagram shows that, in the locked state, a disengagement force 41 is applied to the female part 1 and a disengagement force 42 is applied to the male part 2. This diagram clearly shows that, in the locked state, the protrusion 22 protrudes above the outer surface 4 of the female part 1 surrounding the hole 11 and all other features of the preferred closure device 100, allowing the user to easily touch or see the location of the protrusion 22. Figure 1DThe diagram illustrates the coupling of a release force 41 applied to the top of the protrusion 22 during the release process with a release force 42 applied to the rear portion or rear corner of the female part 1, away from the center and located outside the product connection. This combined force—the release force 41 at the top of the protrusion 22 and the release force 42 at the rear portion or rear corner of the female part 1—generates a rapid and effective release torque. The top surface of the protrusion 22 and the rear corner of the female part 1 are preferably provided with textured features 46 as visual and tactile references and to provide a grip to indicate the recommended location for applying the release force.

[0149] Figure 1E and Figure 1F This demonstrates how a release force pair can be easily and ergonomically generated using only one hand, with the thumb applying a release force 41 on the top of the protrusion 22 and the index finger applying a release force 42 on the side, back, or rear corner of the female part 1. Other finger combinations can also be used to disengage the locking state, but this method is intuitive, user-friendly, and easy to operate, especially because the protrusion 22 protrudes from the outer surface 4 of the female part, and the textured surface 46 on the protrusion and the female body 98 makes the lever point easy to identify and utilize, allowing for single-handed disengagement even when not in sight.

[0150] Figure 2A and Figure 2B A cross-sectional view of the female part 1 and the male part 2 along the midline is shown, in which the mating geometry of the inner surface 6, the outer surface 24, the protrusion 22, and the hole 11 can be clearly seen. Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the hole 11, the female part 1 body, and other features of the female part 1 do not hinder the engagement or disengagement of the mating parts. The lateral portion of the hole 11 is not at the centerline, but is indicated by dashed lines to show the location of the mating hole. The lateral reinforcement geometry 50 is... Figure 2A and Figure 2B It is not shown in the diagram because it is located outside the mating surface and therefore does not interfere with meshing. Figure 2A and Figure 2B This indicates that the female part 1 can freely engage to the locked position, and its front surface 7 is as follows: Figure 2A Lift up, or as Figure 2B The middle part is reduced. For example... Figure 2A As shown, the closing device 100 can wrap around the curved application body 70, and the front surface 7 of the female part 1 is naturally raised due to the outer surface of the curved surface. At the same time, under the magnetic attraction guidance of the magnet 31 and the corresponding magnet 32, the engagement is unimpeded. Figure 2B The female part 1 engages on the flat application body 71. The flat outer surface lowers the front surface 7 of the female part 1, but engagement is not hindered by the magnetic attraction of the magnet 31 and the corresponding magnet 32.

[0151] Furthermore, the matching shapes of the hole 11 and the protrusion 22 provide an intuitive visual reference for engagement. These features combined enable the closure device 100 to engage smoothly, quickly, and easily.

[0152] Figure 3A and Figure 3B The female part 1 was shown separately. Figure 4A and Figure 4B The male part 2 is shown. These figures show an unobstructed view of the entire rigid female body 98 and male body 99, including the outer surface 4 and inner surface 6 of the female part 1 and the outer surface 24 and inner surface 26 of the male part 2, as well as the hole 11, protrusion 22, laterally reinforced geometry 50, and connecting feature 8. In the closure device 100, the connecting feature 8 included in the female part 1 and male part 2 is a slot with reinforced geometry, allowing a 1.5-inch strap to pass through or connect, such as... Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the male part 2 has a fixing strap 52, while the female part 1 has a through strap 54. The reinforcing geometry includes a lateral reinforcing geometry 50 and a rearward reinforcing geometry 51, as shown... Figures 3A to 4B As shown, reinforcement features 50 and 51 enhance the strength and durability of the male and female portions around the connecting feature 8, where tension is transferred from the tension line to the mating geometry. The lateral reinforcement geometry 50, rear reinforcement geometry 51, and connecting feature 8 do not impede engagement, disengagement, or interfere with the mating geometry. They are configured as close as possible to the mating geometry without interference, so that the overall length of the closure 100 is as short as possible. The shorter length of the closure 100 compared to existing technologies makes it easier to install and integrate into products or applications. While the example of the closure 100 is applicable to standard 1.5-inch straps, the construction and advantages of the closure 100 disclosed in this specification are equally applicable to other standard widths, such as ¾-inch, 1-inch, 2-inch, or custom-width straps.

[0153] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The dimensions of the closing device 100 are shown. Figure 5A As shown, the protrusion 22 protrudes 3.5 mm above the hole 11 and other parts of the closure device, the length of the female part 1 along the x-axis is 31.6 mm, the length of the male part 2 is 29.5 mm, the thickness (along the z-axis) at the lateral reinforcement geometry 50 is 8 mm, and the distance from the inner surface to the outer surface of the male and female parts is 4 mm. Figure 5B The hole 11 is 9 mm long, while the protrusion 22 together with the protrusion 28 is 9.5 mm long. When the male and female parts 1 and 2 are combined into the locking position, the total length of the closing device 100 is 40 mm and the total width is 50.5 mm. Figure 5BThe positions and dimensions of magnet 31 and corresponding magnet 32 ​​are indicated by dashed lines. They are 12.7 mm wide, 3.2 mm long, and 3.2 mm thick (not shown). Figure 5B It is also shown that the front surface 7 of the female part 1 extends forward 4.5 mm in front of the magnets 31 and 32, and extends more than 7.7 mm beyond the protrusion. This front surface extension distance is important for providing a lever effect during disengagement, as mentioned above. Similarly, the distance by which the female part 1 and the male part 2 extend laterally and rearward beyond the product connection feature 8 is also important for providing a disengagement lever, as mentioned above, their lateral and rearward extension distances are both 6 mm.

[0154] like Figure 5B As shown, the connecting feature 8 of the female part 1 is slightly longer (3 mm, compared to 2 mm of the male part 2) to accommodate the through strap 54, which may contain a hook and loop structure, while the connecting feature 8 of the male part 2 is generally used to secure the strap 52, which does not include the thickness of the hook and loop.

[0155] Figure 6A and Figure 6B A bottom view and a bottom perspective view of one embodiment of the closure device 100 are shown, which includes features optimized for injection molding. As shown, cavity 58 is a hole located below the protrusion 28 of protrusion 22. Cavity 58 allows the protrusion 28 of protrusion 22 to be formed by a two-piece injection mold without the use of sliders or other complex features that increase manufacturing costs. As shown, protrusion 59 is a recess located in the bottom or inner surface of inner surface 6, inner surface 26, protrusion 22, and the lateral reinforcement geometry 50 and rear reinforcement geometry 51. These protrusions 59 provide structural reinforcement and material thickness control for optimal performance and injection molding. Figure 1D It also shows cavity 58. Figure 1C The image shows protrusion 59, while Figure 1D The middle section does not have this feature. Magnet 31 and corresponding magnet 32 ​​are installed via overmolding, meaning the magnets are placed into a mold or pressed in from below and bonded together, to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the closure device when viewed from the top or side. The closure device 100 can be injection molded from rigid plastic materials such as nylon, acrylic, or polycarbonate, or made from other materials with high elastic modulus, high strength, good rigidity, dimensional stability, and resistance to moisture, chemicals, and solvents. Nevertheless, the closure device described herein is not limited to any particular manufacturing method.

[0156] Figures 7A to 7C An alternative embodiment 100' of the closing device 100 is shown. Figures 7A to 7CIn this diagram, the components corresponding to closure device 100 are numbered with the same prefix '. Specifically, closure device 100' differs from closure device 100 in that its female body 98 and male body 99 have a curved shape when viewed from the side. This curved body construction optimizes the application of the closure device when wrapping around a human body or cylindrical surfaces. Similarly, alternative closure devices can achieve the same effect by tilting rather than bending; for example, the closure device can form an angle between the inner and outer surfaces and the connection features with the product. Figures 7A-7C As shown, this embodiment also illustrates an embodiment without injection molding features. The closure device 100 of this embodiment can be manufactured by other methods such as metalworking or 3D printing of various materials.

[0157] Figures 8A to 8F Another embodiment of the closure device 200 is shown, in which the protrusion 222 is polygonal, such as hexagonal, protruding upward from the outer surface 224 of the male portion 202 at an angle 260 and engaging with a mating hole 211, which has a corresponding polygonal shape, such as hexagonal, and is at the same angle 260. Figure 8C As shown in the figure, a cross-section of the xy plane is displayed, revealing that protrusion 222 extends out of female part 201 and shares an inclination angle 260 (76 degrees from the positive x-axis or 14 degrees from the vertical z-axis) with hole 211. The mating geometry, with its acute-angle inclination 260 as the locking position, provides an alternative retention method without the disadvantages of adding extra parts or moving parts. Figure 8C It is also shown that the mating geometric clearance 261 or mating clearance ratio of the closing device 200 Figure 1CThe closure device 100 shown has a smaller mating geometry clearance 61. This smaller mating tolerance further stabilizes the locking state and reduces wobble between the female part 201 and the male part 202, making the closure device 200 particularly suitable for applications requiring a more secure lock and less movement of the attachments in the locked position. Therefore, the disengagement of the closure device 200 is more restricted compared to the closure device 100, but still easier than the prior art. The more restricted disengagement compared to the closure device 100 is due to the smaller clearance between the mating geometry, and the hexagonal polygonal shape increases the surface of the hole 211 disengaging from the protrusion 222. Therefore, the disengagement force needs to be applied in a more precise direction, and the disengagement torque may be blocked by the interlocking mating surfaces. However, it should be clear that the closure device 200 is still easier to disengage than the prior art because it has no locking features to prevent disengagement, only static mating geometry and magnetic attraction features. During engagement, the closure device 200 uses the magnetic attraction of two pairs of magnets 233 to find the mating position. Similar to closure 100, each magnet is paired with a corresponding magnet, its poles configured to be biased towards the locking position of closure 200. In closure 200, magnet 233 is cylindrical, 6 mm in diameter and 1.6 mm thick. Placing magnets on either side of the protrusion and the hole makes the closure shorter and more compact, but using two pairs of magnets may be more expensive than using a single pair. The magnetic attraction of the two pairs of magnets is superimposed, with each pair providing approximately 1.5 pounds of pull, for a total pull of approximately 3 pounds. In comparison, magnet 31 and corresponding magnet 32 ​​of closure 100 provide approximately 2.8 pounds of pull. The increased pull of magnet 233 makes closure 200 more robust than closure 100, while sharing the same mechanical and magnetic characteristics and configuration. Thus, closure 200, compared to closure 100, illustrates how variations in structural or mechanical elements and magnetic properties can provide a range of closures ranging from locking security to ease of engagement or disengagement. The disclosed invention's structure, mechanical elements, and magnetic properties can be modified to provide a range of closure devices, from high locking security to high ease of disengagement, which has significant advantages over existing technologies.

[0158] also, Figures 8A-8F The illustrated closure device 200 provides an alternative tension line, in this embodiment a rope tension line 255. This rope can be connected to a tension adjustment system or fixed to the product and is configured to transmit force from the rope to the mating geometry of the closure device 200, such that the locking position is maintained within the normal or expected force range for a particular application.

[0159] Figures 9A to 9E Another embodiment of the closure device 300 is shown, in which the protrusion 322 is elliptical and matches the elliptical hole 311. Figure 9DA cross-section in the xy plane is shown. Due to the tight fit gap 361 between components, the relatively large protrusion 322 328, and the reduced fillet transition curve 362 in the fit geometry, the locking position of the closure device 300 has higher security. To disengage from the locking position, a first sufficiently large disengagement force 341 needs to be applied forward on the female part 301, and simultaneously a second sufficiently large disengagement torque 343 needs to be applied, in the directions of upward and forward. Another difference between this embodiment and the previously described embodiment is that the female part 301 is bonded to the strip tension line 352 by a connecting feature 308, which is located at the rear of the female part 301 and is in the form of an adhesive sheet. The male part 302 is bonded to the tension line at the front and rear of the male part body 399 by the connecting feature 308. Figures 9A-9E In the connection feature 308 shown, the advantage lies in its very low profile. Another difference is that magnet 331 and corresponding magnet 332 are located behind protrusion 322 and hole 311, which allows the front portion of the female body 389 to be shorter. By placing the magnets behind protrusion 322 and hole 311, the front surface 307 of the female still extends forward beyond protrusion 322 and hole 311 by at least 2.5 mm to provide the lever required to disengage from the locked position.

[0160] Figures 10A to 10E Another closure device 400 is shown, similar to closure device 300, except that the connecting feature 408 is a sewn flange connecting the rear of the female part 401 and the periphery of the male part 402. Therefore, closure device 400 is optimized for integration into textile products 470, such as... Figure 10A As shown in the figure. The seam between the additional strap 452 and the connecting feature 408 on the female part 401 is shown, but for simplicity, the seam between the textile product 470 and the male part 402 is not shown. Figure 10D and Figure 10E The male part 402 and the female part 401 were displayed separately.

[0161] Figure 10C and Figure 10D It is also shown that the protrusion 428 of the protrusion 422 in the closure device 400 (and similarly for the closure device 300) is formed by the reverse draft of the cavity 458, rather than extending outward in an elliptical shape in front of the protrusion 422. Therefore, the closure devices 400 and 300 provide examples of forming extensions through cavities or chamfers, rather than extensions in front of the protrusion, which is an improvement over the prior art.

[0162] Figure 11AFigure 11E illustrates another embodiment of the closure device 500, wherein the male portion 502 has a circular protrusion 522, the female portion 501 has a mating hole 511, and a single hole 508 is provided at the female portion 501 as a connection feature for receiving a rope. This embodiment includes only one magnet 531. The magnetic attraction of the closure device 500 is generated between the magnet 531 integrated in the male portion 502 and the female portion body 598 made of ferromagnetic material.

[0163] Figures 12A to 12B Another embodiment 500' of the closing device 500 is shown. Figure 12A-12B In this text, elements corresponding to the closure device 500 are indicated by the same reference numerals followed by apostrophes. Specifically, the difference between closure device 500' and closure device 500 is that the female part 501' of closure device 500' has two holes 508' for receiving ropes as a product connection feature. The circular shape of the protrusions and holes in closure devices 500 and 500', as well as the unobstructed fit of the inner surface of the female part and the outer surface of the male part, allow the female part to rotate around the protrusions within a wide angle range while maintaining the locked state, without transmitting torsional force to the connector of the male part. Figure 12A and Figure 12B As shown, Figure 12A The female part 501' is shown to be aligned with the male part 502' along the x-axis in the locked state, while Figure 12B The female part 501' is positioned at an angle, while the male part 502' remains aligned along the x-axis, and no torsional load is applied to the male part 502'. The rope tension line 570' can rotate freely around the protrusion 522'.

[0164] Figures 13A to 13D Another closure device 600 is shown, similar to closure devices 500 and 500', but the protrusion 622 of closure device 600 has two extensions 628 located in the positive and negative directions of the Y-axis (left and right sides), and its hole 611 also has a matching shape, forming extensions 628 on the left and right sides. With this configuration, closure device 600 allows the female part 601 to rotate around the protrusion 622 like closure devices 500 and 500', but to disengage, the female part 601 must be aligned with the male part 602 along the x-axis. Therefore, closure device 600 has a rotation-based locking mechanism to maintain the locked state, thus enabling it to be at an angle relative to the direction of applied force during use, and disengaging only when the female part 601 is consciously aligned with the male part 602, while avoiding the inconvenience of adding extra or moving parts.

[0165] Figures 14 to 15C A closing device 700 is shown, which is one embodiment of the closing device described herein. Figure 15B-15CAs shown, the closing device 700 is similar to the closing device 100, but adds additional fixing features for securing the magnet 732 and the grooved magnet 731 (described further below). Furthermore, the closing device 700 uses different materials and manufacturing methods, and includes an extension 728 of the thickened protrusion 722 and a groove 781 in the male portion 702 to further improve the ease of engagement and disengagement. The closing device 700 has an aluminum base 791, on which molded plastic is then overlaid to form the plastic-covered portions 792 of the female portion 701 and the male portion 702.

[0166] Grooved magnets 731 and 732 are fixed to the female part 701 and male part 702 during manufacturing by additional fixing structures. For example... Figure 15C As shown, the magnet 732 of the male portion 702 is surrounded on three sides by an aluminum base 791, which includes channels 782 for mechanically securing the aluminum base to the plastic-coated portion 792. The plastic-coated portion 792 covers the magnet 732 from the other three sides, thus permanently securing the magnet to the male portion 702 unless the cast aluminum base 791 or the plastic-coated portion 792 is separated or damaged. The grooved magnet 731 can be further secured to the female portion 701 by cutting channels 783 on the front and rear surfaces; these channels mechanically lock the integrated magnet within the part. The magnet can also be provided with geometric or mechanical features by grooving, etching, or adding texture to one or more magnet surfaces to further secure the integrated magnet to one or both parts of the closure. Alternatively, magnets with angles, holes, or complex geometries can be used to create a mechanical bond between the magnet and the part, rather than just a chemical bond, when formed or bonded to the closure. Press fitting or ultrasonic welding can also be used instead of or supplement adhesives to further secure the magnet in the closure device beyond chemical bonding. These and other methods for further securing the magnet described herein are all included in this invention, which is an important consideration for the safe use of magnets in consumer products, as loose magnets may pose a danger to children or in other situations. Each of the different methods described above has its own advantages, disadvantages, and considerations; therefore, these magnet integration methods can be selected, combined, or modified according to specific embodiments. For example, directly overmolding or embedding the magnet into the part during manufacturing can reduce the labor costs of magnet integration, but exposure to high temperatures during manufacturing may reduce the strength of the generated magnetic field.

[0167] like Figure 15B-15C As shown, the closure device 700 includes a thickened extension 728 of the protrusion 722. Compared to the other embodiments described above, the extension of this male protrusion is thicker in the z-axis direction to enhance the strength of the male and the entire closure device. Figure 15B-15CAs shown, the female portion 701 has a recess 784, which prevents the thickened extension 728 of the protrusion 722 from protruding excessively in the z-axis direction, thereby avoiding potential snagging points and excessive volume. This configuration is preferred when large forces are expected, especially large oblique forces, to prevent the extension of the protrusion from breaking. Because geometric support is provided at the corners of the hole, the front surface 713 of the hole 711 can be appropriately thinned while still maintaining high strength.

[0168] like Figure 14-15C as well as Figure 15B-15C As shown, the closing device 700 has a groove 781 in the male part 702. The groove 781 is located between the magnet 732 and the connecting feature 708 of the male part 702, and is lower in height along the z-axis relative to the outer surface 724. The groove 781 allows the female part 701 to descend along the z-axis at the engagement front, and its front surface 707 can tilt forward before contacting the male part 702. This allows the hole 711 of the female part 701 to avoid the thickened extension 728 of the protrusion 722 without jamming before contacting the male part and rotating around the protrusion for disengagement. If the front surface 707 tilts downward during engagement, the groove 781 also helps to avoid interference between the hole 711 and the thickened extension 728 of the protrusion 722. Therefore, the groove 781 helps to make the engagement and disengagement of the closing device smoother and easier without affecting the locking stability and security.

[0169] Figures 16 to 20C Another closing device 1000 is shown, which differs from the aforementioned adjusting device. Closing device 1000 includes a locking feature for providing a locked or highly secure closure while maintaining ease of use. Figure 17B As shown, the closing device 1000 includes a locking and releasing button 1069 for preventing the female part 1001 from disengaging from the male part 1002 in the locked state. Due to the magnetic attraction between the magnet 1035 of the female part 1001 and the magnet 1036 of the locking and releasing button 1069 mounted within the male part 1002, the locking and releasing button 1069 is actuated to the locking configuration 1034 when the female part 1001 and the male part 1002 are engaged. Figure 20B-20C As shown, before the mating parts engage, the locking and releasing button 1069 is deviated from the locking configuration 1034 and placed in the unlocked configuration under the influence of the magnetic field of magnet 1032. The magnetic field of magnet 1032 is vertically set with its north pole facing upwards, and magnet 1036 is perpendicular to its magnetic pole with its north pole facing the negative x-axis direction. Thus, the magnetic fields of magnets 1032 and 1036 interact, causing the locking and releasing button 1069 to tend towards the unlocked configuration when the mating parts separate. However, when the female part 1001 engages with the male part 1002 and is in the locked state, the magnetic field of magnet 1035 overcomes the magnetic field of magnet 1032, pulling the locking and releasing button 1069 back to the locking configuration 1034, as shown. Figure 17C As shown. Figure 17B-17CIn detail, the locking and releasing button 1069 locks the female part 1001 and the male part 1002 in a locked state by preventing the female part 1001 from moving forward relative to the male part 1002 along the x-axis, since the locking and releasing button 1069 can only move up and down along the z-axis. Since it cannot move forward along the x-axis, the extension 1028 of the thickened protrusion 1022 prevents the female part 1001 from being lifted or rotated away from the male part 1002, thereby locking the locked state.

[0170] The female part 1001 can only disengage from the male part 1002 when a release force 1063 is applied to the locking and releasing button 1069 and a disengagement force 1041 is applied between the mating parts. The release force 1063 must be greater than the shear force between magnets 1035 and 1036 and act on the locking and releasing button 1069, while simultaneously providing a disengagement force to the male part 1002, replacing... Figure 1E The release force 42 is shown. The locking and releasing button 1069 requires a release force 1063 to unlock the mating part and prompt the user to engage. Figure 1E-1F The ergonomic disengagement method shown is consistent with Figure 16 , 17A The finger groove 1065 shown in 19A and 19B is used together. The top curved surface of the locking and releasing button 1069 is higher than the protrusion along the z-axis to facilitate disengagement and avoid creating a sticky surface. The locking and releasing button 1069 may also be colored, shaded, or textured differently from the mating parts to further prompt the user to perform the required unlocking operation. The invention may also employ other or alternative methods to indicate engagement and / or disengagement. For example, the mating parts may be color-coded so that the surfaces in contact when engaged are given a unique color to further prompt the user on how to engage.

[0171] like Figure 17B , 20B As shown in Figure 20C, the male part 1002 includes a locking and releasing button channel 1064 for mounting a locking and releasing button 1069 onto the male part 1002 from below. A bottom part 1074 of the channel is ultrasonically welded into place to secure the locking and releasing button 1069 within the male part 1002 after it has been mounted. The locking and releasing button 1069 can move vertically along the channel 1064, with its upward movement limited by interference between the top of the post 1075 of the locking and releasing button channel 1064 and the guide extension 1076 of the locking and releasing button 1069, while its downward movement is limited by the bottom part 1074 of the channel.

[0172] like Figures 16 to 20CAs shown and described above, when the mating parts are disengaged, the locking and releasing button 1069 is in the unlocked configuration and does not obstruct engagement. Once the female part 1001 easily and freely engages with the male part 1002, the locking and releasing button 1069 enters the locked position. The mating parts are secured in the locked, engaged state until the locking and releasing button 1069 is manually pressed and a disengagement force 1041 is applied. Therefore, the closure device described herein provides a unique and important alternative to prior art devices, offering locking security tailored to application requirements while maintaining ease of use.

[0173] Figures 21A to 21C A tensioned bonding system 1100 is shown, comprising a closure device 100' (or any closure device described herein), a pressure distribution pad 1133, a clamping hook-and-loop end mechanism 1137, and a hook-and-loop adjustment mechanism 1139. The pressure distribution pad 1133 comprises a semi-rigid pressure distribution material for distributing forces from the loop to a larger surface area, and a soft pad made of laser-cut, molded, or die-cut closed-cell foam for damping and absorbing forces that would otherwise be transmitted to the user's body or the product. The clamping hook-and-loop end mechanism 1137 is secured to the connection feature 8' of the male portion 2' and then splits into two loops, each with hook faces on both sides facing inward; thus, a loop with hook faces or loop faces on both sides can be cut to the appropriate length and then secured within the clamping hook-and-loop end mechanism 1137. The hook-and-loop adjustment mechanism 1139 is designed to adjustably pass through the connection feature 8' of the closure device 100' and utilizes the tension retention mechanism of the hook. These components work together to provide a tensioned fit system 1100 that can be opened and closed around the body and / or product or application.

[0174] Figures 22A to 22D The diagram shows a tensioned bonding system 1200, including a closure device 100', a pressure distribution pad 1233, a clamping hook-and-loop end mechanism 1237, and an elastic device 1266. The pressure distribution pad 1233 comprises a material capable of reducing, absorbing, dispersing, and / or changing stiffness according to the speed of the force. The pressure distribution pad 1233 can be made of non-Newtonian foam or cushioning material, manufactured by molding, laser cutting, stamping, and / or die-cutting closed-cell processes. The clamping hook-and-loop end mechanism 1237 is fixed to the connecting feature 8' of the male portion 2' and then divided into two straps, each with hook faces on both sides facing the center; thus, a strap with a loop face or loop faces on both sides can be cut to an appropriate length and then fixed within the clamping hook-and-loop end mechanism 1237.

[0175] like Figures 22B to 22C As shown, and in Figure 22DAs shown in detail, the elastic device 1266 is a device capable of elastically elongating under load in a static state and returning to a static state after the load is reduced. The elastic device 1266 has a flat and wide cross-sectional shape, suitable for matching the shape and function of the webbing when elongated. Other elastic devices can be configured in almost any shape, such as ropes or cords. As... Figure 22D As shown in detail, the elastic device 1266 includes an elastic fiber or elastic material 1267 that allows elongation along its long axis under force and returns to a resting state after the load is reduced, and a non-elastic fiber or non-elastic material having a tortuous path 1268. In this configuration, the elastic device 1266 is designed to allow partial elongation of the elastic material 1267 while limiting its elongation. Limiting the elongation of the elastic material 1267 is valuable because it prevents excessive stretching of the elastic material, thereby avoiding damage to the elastic material and improving the service life of the device and system. In this embodiment, the tortuous path 1268 is serrated, but other tortuous paths, such as a spiral path, may also be used. The elastic device 1266 adds value and functionality to the bonding system 1200 because the elastic properties of the elastic material 1267 help maintain consistent tension on the closure device 100' and absorb forces in the system, while the tortuous path of the non-elastic material 1268 helps improve the service life of the system. As described above, absorbing forces within the system improves wearer comfort, and maintaining consistent tension on the closure device 100' perpendicular to the direction of normal force helps ensure a locked state. This improvement is superior to existing technologies that either do not provide shock absorption within the system, cannot prevent excessive elongation of the elastic material, or require bulky inspection straps to manage excessive elongation. For example, when the elastic device 1266 or a similar device is used in the chest strap of a backpack, it can absorb impact forces during the user's walking, while the zigzag path of the non-elastic material improves the durability of the chest strap without the need for additional straps or devices. Another example is the application of the fit system 1200 to ankle-foot orthoses or AFO braces, which provides ease of use, adaptability, and additional shock absorption, thereby improving the experience and comfort of the brace user and ensuring durability without adding excessive bulk.

[0176] The pressure distribution of an adhesive system can be related to the applied load, surface area, geometry of the adhesive system, and / or the rigidity of its components. Dividing the adhesive system load applied to the body by the surface area on which the load is applied yields a specific pressure distribution. For adhesive systems requiring high tension (over 100 psi), most applications recommend distributing the relevant load over a band wider than 1.5 inches or with a surface area of ​​at least 8 square inches. For example, a low-profile adhesive system with a contour that conforms to the body and whose stiffness gradually decreases at the edges of its members, with rounded corners. One important aspect is how the contour of the pressure distribution pad 1333 matches the natural curvature of the body or how it conforms to these curves, thus ensuring even pressure distribution across the body. Another important aspect is whether the radius of the edges of the adhesive system members is sharp or rounded. Edges that are too sharp can cause pressure spikes, potentially leading to discomfort, bruising, or skin abrasion.

[0177] For example, Figure 23 and Figure 24 A fitting system 1300 is shown, in which a closure device 100' and a pressure distribution pad 1333 are strapped to the user's leg, with the fitting system 1300 and pad 1333 located on the front of the leg. Additionally, as shown in Figure 82, other pressure distribution pads 1334, 1336a, and 1336b are included. Pad 1334, having lower rigidity, is located between the strap 1302 and the leg on the back of the leg, for distributing pressure to the leg. Pressure distribution pads 1336a and 1336b include a low-rigidity inner surface and a semi-rigid outer shell, with a channel through which the strap 1302 passes between their upper and lower surfaces. Thus, the tension of the strap is not directly distributed on the body. The tension of the strap, and the resulting force, is indirectly distributed through the pressure distribution pads 1334, 1336a, and 1336b. Since force equals pressure multiplied by area, the resultant force of the fitting system can be reduced by increasing the pressure distribution area. Figure 25 As shown, pressure distribution pads 1333 and 1334 guide the tension in the belt 1302. Figure 25 The arrow indicates the compressive force. In Figure 26 In this configuration, the fit system 1300, along with the closure device 100' and pressure distribution pad 1333, are positioned at the flexural portion of the leg. Since the strap can continuously pass through the reel while remaining permanently fixed at both ends when tension is relaxed, many of the devices can slide along the length of the strap. A unique advantage of this configuration is the ability to selectively adjust the position of the devices to maximize comfort or improve performance. In this case, the pressure distribution pad 1333 is flexible and therefore bends to match the curvature of the leg.

[0178] Figures 22A to 58Various applications of combining closure devices, bonding systems, and wire tensioning systems with or as functional products are demonstrated. In describing the combinations of the various systems 120 (bonding systems and wire tensioning systems) with the illustrated products, references are made to mechanical and magnetic bonding devices conforming to the present disclosure, which can be any of the closure devices described herein. It should be understood that the closure device 120 can take any of the embodiments described herein and is not limited thereto. Figures 22A to 58 The structure shown in the diagram.

[0179] Figures 27 to 32 Systems for lifestyle wearable products were showcased, including footwear, apparel, baby care accessories, wrist-worn devices, and pet supplies. Specifically, Figure 27 A sandal 1400 including a closure device 120 is shown to improve ease of use and speed. Figure 28 The illustration shows a shoe 1410 including a closure device 120, which enables users with limited hand dexterity or strength to put on the shoes independently. Figure 29 A dog harness 1420 including a fitting system 120 is shown, which helps dog owners quickly and easily put on their dogs. Figure 30 The illustration shows trousers 1430 with a waistband 1440 including a fitting system 120, which enhances the user experience. Figure 31 A wristwatch device 1450 is shown with a fitting system 120 integrated in the strap 1460, enabling one-handed operation for closing the wristwatch. Figure 32 A baby carrier 1470 including a fitting system 120 is shown, freeing up one hand for parents when putting on and taking off the baby carrier.

[0180] Figures 33 to 38 The application of the fit system 120 to various protective wearable products is illustrated. These products are used in multiple fields, including various types of protective gear, functional wearables, sportswear, and sports equipment. Specifically, Figure 33 The knee brace 1500, which includes a fitting system 120, is shown, making the knee brace more secure, durable, and easier to use. Figure 34 A safety and rescue vest 1510, including a fitting system 120, is shown to aid in rescue operations. Figure 35 A life jacket 1520 including a fitting system 120 is shown, reducing barriers to use. Figure 36 Tactical, ammunition, and / or functional vest 1530, including a fitting system 120, is shown, enabling the user to quickly put on and take off the vest in an emergency. Figure 37 A motion, aviation, and / or spacesuit 1540 including a fitting system 120 is shown, enabling the user to engage and disengage the closure mechanism even while wearing gloves. Figure 38 A helmet 1550 including a fitting system 120 is shown, allowing the user to hold onto the bicycle with one hand while fastening the helmet.

[0181] Figures 39 to 43 The application of the fitting system 120 to orthopedic devices was demonstrated. Specifically, Figure 39 An ankle-foot orthosis 1600 including a fitting system 120 is shown, which helps functionally limited users put on or take off the brace with one hand. Figure 40 A prosthesis 1610 including a fitting system 120 is shown, which makes it easier and faster for the user to relieve pressure on the prosthesis when sitting. Figure 41 A back brace 1620 including a fitting system 120 is shown, which improves the user's ability to open and close the brace. Figure 42 The knee brace 1630 shown includes a fit system 120, which, in addition to improving wearing and removing, allows the user to more easily adjust the fit of the knee brace throughout the day. Figure 43 A knee fixation device 1640 including a fitting system 120 is shown, which greatly improves usability when multiple straps are used.

[0182] Figures 44 to 49 The application of the Fit System 120 to sports equipment for various sports applications was demonstrated. Specifically, Figure 44 Protective sports equipment, such as rugby protective gear 1700, including a fit system 120, is shown, which improves the strength and durability of the equipment. Figure 45 A baseball catcher's gear 1710 including a fitting system 120 is shown, which allows the catcher to fasten or unfasten the protective gear without removing the baseball glove. Figure 46 The image shows a person wearing fishing gear 1720, which includes a fitting system 120 to improve the connection between the shoulder straps and the waist belt. Figure 47 A hiking or athletic boot 1730 with a fit system 120 at the ankle is shown. Figure 48 A bicycle saddlebag 1740 including a fitting system 120 is shown, allowing the user to open and close the saddlebag while holding the bicycle with one hand. Figure 49 A golf bag 1750 including a fitting system 120 is shown, making it easier for users to put on and take off the golf bag between each swing.

[0183] Figures 50 to 54 The application of the bonding system 120 to various types of bags for different applications was demonstrated. Specifically, Figure 50 A commuter bag 1800 including a fitting system 120 is shown. Figure 51 A camping backpack 1810 is shown, which employs a fitting system 120 at multiple straps throughout the backpack to improve speed and ease of use. Figure 52 A roll package 1820 including a bonding system 120 is shown, which makes it easier to connect the items after rolling up the contents of the package. Figure 53 A carrying bag or shoulder bag 1830 including a fitting system 120 is shown. Figure 54The messenger bag 1840 shown includes a fitting system 120, which makes opening and closing the outer flap of the bag faster and easier.

[0184] Figure 55 An apron 1900 including a fitting system 120 is shown, making it faster and easier to attach apron straps. Figures 56 to 58 This demonstrates the application of the fitting system or thread tensioning system 120 to practical uses that are not worn on the body. Specifically, Figure 56 A truck 2000 is shown, including a line tensioning system 120, which makes it easier to connect and disconnect the straps used to secure items 2002 to the truck, where a separate device may be used to tighten the straps. Figure 57 A wall organizer 2010 including a fitting system 120 is shown, which allows the user to quickly secure items with one hand while supporting them with the other hand. Figure 58 A storage system 2020 including a fitting system 120 is shown.

[0185] The examples above are not intended to be restrictive.

[0186] The concepts described herein can be characterized by the following examples of varying scopes.

[0187] 1. A magnetic and mechanical closure device for connecting a product, comprising: (a) a female portion having an outer surface and an inner surface body, wherein the female portion is provided with a magnet or magnetic material, features for connecting with the product, and a central hole extending between the outer surface and the inner surface; (b) a male portion having an outer surface and an inner surface body, wherein the male portion is provided with a magnet or magnetic material, features for connecting with the product, and a central protrusion extending upward from the outer surface, wherein the hole of the female portion and the protrusion of the male portion have a mating geometry, the hole being configured to pass over the protrusion and be stabilized in a locked position; and the magnetic attraction between the female portion and the male portion facilitates the establishment and maintenance of the locked state between the female portion and the male portion.

[0188] 2. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the female body is substantially rigid and / or is planar, curved or inclined.

[0189] 3. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the male body is substantially rigid and / or planar, curved or inclined.

[0190] 4. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the female body is configured to be fitted onto the male body.

[0191] 5. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the protrusion of the male part extends above the hole and outer surface of the female part.

[0192] 6. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the male and female parts are configured to remain locked until a significant disengagement force is applied between the male and female parts.

[0193] 7. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the male and female parts are configured to remain locked until a first significant disengagement force and a second significant disengagement force are applied between the male and female parts.

[0194] 8. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the mating geometry between the female and male parts includes additional static geometric features to assist in maintaining the locking state.

[0195] 9. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the male protrusion includes a protrusion for assisting in maintaining the locked state.

[0196] 10. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the mating geometry between the female and male parts includes mechanical interference to assist in maintaining the locking state.

[0197] 11. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the mating geometry between the hole and the protrusion includes mechanical interference to assist in maintaining the locking state.

[0198] 12. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the feature for connecting with the product is configured to transmit force from the product to the mating geometry to maintain the locked state.

[0199] 13. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein one or more parts include one or more textured surfaces or indicator marks for suggesting the location where a release force is applied.

[0200] 14. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the inner and outer surfaces of the male and female parts are substantially planar.

[0201] 15. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the inner and outer surfaces of the male and female parts are curved or partially curved.

[0202] 16. The closing device according to embodiment 1, including the shape and clearance of the mating geometry including protrusions and holes, allows for a predetermined range of movement in the locked state.

[0203] 17. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the mating geometry is substantially rectangular.

[0204] 18. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the mating geometry is substantially square.

[0205] 19. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the mating geometry is substantially polygonal.

[0206] 20. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the mating geometry is substantially elliptical.

[0207] 21. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the mating geometry is substantially circular.

[0208] 22. The closing device according to embodiment 1, wherein one or more connected products include elastic features that apply tension to the mating geometry of the closing device through the products.

[0209] 23. A magnetic and mechanical closure device for connecting a product, comprising: (a) a female portion having an outer surface and an inner surface body, having a centrally located hole passing through the outer surface and the inner surface, a magnet or magnetic material, and features for connecting with the product; (b) a male portion having an outer surface and an inner surface body, having a central protrusion extending upward from the outer surface, a magnet or magnetic material, and features for connecting with the product, wherein the hole and body of the female portion are configured to fit over the protrusion of the male portion, and in a locked position, the inner surface of the female portion presses against the outer surface of the male portion; and the magnetic attraction between the female and male portions facilitates establishing and maintaining the locked state between them.

[0210] 24. A bonding system including magnetic and mechanical closure devices for connecting one or more products, further comprising an elastic feature that applies positive tension to absorb shocks within the system and assist in maintaining a locked state.

[0211] 25. The closing device according to embodiment 24 includes a pressure distribution system.

[0212] 26. The closing device according to embodiment 24 is configured to allow the elastic feature portion to elongate and includes a non-elastic feature to limit excessive elongation of the elastic material.

[0213] 27. The closing device according to embodiment 24 includes a flat elastic element comprising an elastic fiber or elastic material that can elongate under force and rebound in a static state, and a non-elastic fiber having a tortuous path that allows the elastic material to partially elongate while limiting excessive stretching of the elastic material.

[0214] 28. An elastic device comprising an elastic fiber or elastic material capable of elongating under stress and elastically recovering at rest, and a non-elastic fiber having a tortuous path, the arrangement of which allows the elastic material to partially elongate while simultaneously limiting the amount of elongation.

[0215] 29. A magnetic spring device that uses the north and south poles of a magnetic field to bias or spring another magnet or magnetic material toward a predetermined position.

[0216] The closing devices described herein can be configured with appropriate engagement and disengagement forces for different applications. Ease of use can be maximized without additional safety measures, and vice versa. Different combinations, configurations, attributes, or features shown in this specification can be combined or varied to create alternative embodiments not shown. These alternative embodiments are also protected and can be applied to virtually any product. All embodiments may also include branding features such as logos, identification marks or serial numbers, colors, or aesthetic attributes, which are also included within the scope of this invention.

[0217] This document describes and illustrates various embodiments of closure devices, fitting systems utilizing closure and adjustment devices, and methods of using these closure and adjustment devices and fitting systems. Although specific embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the invention is not limited thereto and is intended to be as broad as possible within the scope permitted by the art, and this specification should be understood accordingly. Therefore, although specific types of products are disclosed, it should be understood that other types of products can be used. For all embodiments, the closure device and fitting system can be made of plastic, metal, or a combination of plastic and metal. Furthermore, although specific types of plastic or metal used in certain embodiment components are disclosed, it should be understood that other suitable types of plastic or metal can be used. For example, but not limited to, nylon, acrylic, or polycarbonate can be used. While various construction methods of the closure devices have been described, these embodiments are not limited to any particular structure or manufacturing method. Furthermore, although specific structural configurations for the closure devices are disclosed, other configurations can also be employed. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that other modifications can be made to the provided invention without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A closing device for connecting a first part and a second part of one or more products, comprising: The first mating part has: A first body, the first body having an inner surface and an outer surface; A first magnetic retaining element is disposed on the first main body; The first hole penetrating the first main body; as well as A first connection feature for connecting the first mating part to a first portion of the one or more products; as well as The second mating part, which is independent of the first mating part, has: The second body has an inner surface and an outer surface; The second magnetic retaining element is provided on the second main body; Protrusions extending from the outer surface; as well as A second connection feature for connecting the second mating part to a second part of the one or more products; The first mating part is characterized in that the inner surface of the first mating part is configured to abut against the outer surface of the second mating part, and the first hole of the first mating part is configured to surround and be fixed in a locked state relative to the protrusion of the second mating part; as well as In the locked state, the relative displacement of the first mating part and the second mating part in at least one direction is blocked, and the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic retainer and the second magnetic retainer helps to maintain the locked state and resist disengagement.

2. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein one of the first or second mating parts includes a locking feature configured to remain in a locked state before manual release.

3. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the locking feature is biased before the first mating part engages with the second mating part, so as not to prevent the engagement of the first mating part with respect to the second mating part.

4. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the locking feature is magnetically attracted by the opposing mating parts, such that when the two mating parts are engaged, the magnetic attraction pulls the locking feature into a locked state.

5. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic attraction for assisting in establishing and maintaining the locking position of the first mating part and the second mating part is perpendicular to the z-axis.

6. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the locking feature includes a second magnetic field perpendicular to a first magnetic field used to assist in maintaining the locking state of the first mating part and the second mating part and resisting release.

7. The closing device according to claim 6, wherein the second magnet resists the protrusion from disengaging from the first hole.

8. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the first mating part includes a third magnetic retainer, the second mating part includes a fourth magnetic retainer; the magnetic poles of the first and second magnetic retainers are arranged along a first direction; and the magnetic poles of the third and fourth magnetic retainers are arranged along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

9. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the protrusion of the second mating portion extends above the hole and outer surface of the first mating portion.

10. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the protrusion of the second mating part includes a protrusion adapted to extend over a portion of the upper surface of the first mating part in the locked state.

11. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein one or more of the mating parts include one or more textured surfaces or indicator marks.

12. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the main bodies of the first mating part and the second mating part are substantially planar.

13. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the main body of the first mating part and the second mating part is bent or partially bent.

14. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the shape and clearance of the mating geometry allow a predetermined relative movement between the mating portions in the locking configuration.

15. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the mating geometry between the mating parts is rectangular.

16. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the mating geometry between the mating parts is polygonal.

17. The closing device according to claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the mating geometry between the mating parts is elliptical or circular.

18. An article comprising: The closing device according to claim 1; as well as An elastic feature having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being connected to a first connecting feature and the second portion being connected to a second connecting feature, the elastic feature having a normal tension force for providing shock absorption and helping to maintain the locking configuration of the closure device.

19. The article of claim 18, further comprising a pressure distribution system connected to the resilient feature and / or the closure device.

20. The article of claim 18 further comprises a non-elastic feature, wherein the elastic feature allows for a certain amount of elongation, while the non-elastic feature prevents the elastic feature from elongating excessively.

21. An article comprising: Wearable items having a first part and a second part; as well as The closing device according to claim 1 is used to connect the first part and the second part.

22. The article of claim 21, wherein the wearable article is any one of clothing, footwear, pet supplies, wristbands, baby care accessories, protective equipment, functional wearables, sportswear or sports equipment, orthotics or prostheses.

23. An article comprising: A practical item having a first part and a second part; as well as The closing device according to claim 1 is used to connect the first part and the second part.

24. The article of claim 23, wherein the practical article is any one of a bag, sports equipment, storage device or fastener.

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