Magnetic and mechanical closure devices, fit systems, and line tensioning systems

Abstract

A mechanical and magnetic closure device that offers improved ease of use compared to the prior art is described herein. A female part with a magnet and a centrally located aperture and a male part with a corresponding magnet and centrally located protuberance couple to form a mechanically secured closure that is guided and further supported by magnetic attraction.

Description

MAGNETIC AND MECHANICAL CLOSURE DEVICES, FIT SYSTEMS, AND LINE TENSIONING SYSTEMS BACKGROUND 1. Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to magnetic and mechanical closure devices for use with various articles, fit system, and line tensioning systems. 2. State of the Art

[0002] How a wearable article opens and closes around the body as well as how well a device fits the body is highly important in the daily function of humans or even for animals. For example, wearable articles and devices can include, by way of example, garments, shoes, backpacks, sporting gear, wearable protective devices, sporting braces, orthosis, and / or prosthesis. Several factors can be weighed in how appropriate or satisfactory a wearable article or device fits the body, including whether the fit system transmits satisfactory load, provides satisfactory stability, suspends on the body, provides efficient congruency of the article or device during motion, provides sufficient mobility, is easily fitted, and / or is comfortable. These factors can be considered determinates in how appropriate or effective the fit of the article or device is on the body and they are directly related to how the article or device is secured or fastened to the body. Generally, the wearable articles or devices are secured to the body by tightening around the body. The mechanisms and associated methods of how articles or devices are secured to the body are hereby referred to as fit systems.

[0003] Fit systems and related devices and methods generally are operably attached to one or more flexible elongate members or tension lines (such as straps, cables, laces, etc.) with one or more attachment points or interfaces to the article or device. The attachment points or interfaces may decrease in distance relative to one another or relative to the fit system, which can be referred to as contraction or shortening. Suchcontraction can involve decreasing the effective length of the flexible elongate member(s) of the fit system and possibly increasing the amount of tension (or tensile loading) experienced by the flexible elongate member(s) of the fit system. Such contraction can occur when tightening or closing or other movement of the article or device with respect to the body. Alternatively, the attachment points or interfaces may increase in distance relative to one another or relative to the fit system, which can be referred to as extension or lengthening. Such extension can involve increasing the effective length of the flexible elongate member(s) of the fit system and possibly deceasing the amount of tension (or tensile loading) experienced by the flexible elongate member(s) of the fit system. Such extension can occur when loosening or other movement of the article or device with respect to the body.

[0004] The determinates of the appropriateness and effectiveness of a fit system may be associated with design elements of the fit system including: the mechanisms and associated methods for contraction and extension, the inherent mechanical advantage of a given fit system, mechanical reliability of the overall system and toughness of individual components, maximum load and tension, distance between the attachment points or interfaces in the maximum contracted and maximum extended positions, profile height of the fit system, width and length of the fit system, rigidity of the fit system and its components, whether the contraction and extension is incremental or analog in nature, how smooth or abrupt is the contraction and extension, attachment requirements of the fit system, system weight and suspension forces provided by the fit system, and pressure distribution of the fit system.

[0005] The mechanism / s and associated methods of use weigh heavily on the user experience of the fit system and is the driving factor for many of the other determinates of the fit system. For example, a mechanism may be mechanically effective but may have poor ergonomics. The mechanism may also affect the speed and direction of the contraction and extension. For example, the gear ratio mechanism within a fit system may provide high mechanical advantage, but a slow speed of contraction, which may be ideal for some applications and too slow for others. In another applications, the speeds of contraction and extension may be key for some applications. For example, certainmilitary applications such as a fit system for a military aid pack or backpack may need to have a high speed of contraction and very high speed of extension such that the operator can quickly remove the pack if they need to quickly become mobile to avoid harm. In this application, a high mechanical advantage for contraction or extension may be less important because most users would have a relatively high level of strength. In still other applications, the direction of pull of the contraction or extension may be important. For example, contracting in a single direction could cause misalignment of a knee joint in an orthosis as the user tightens the brace onto their body. In these cases, a balanced, dual direction fit system would be more appropriate. How easily a fit system performs contraction and extension is paramount in its ability to deliver optimal fit and user experience. Many users of orthopedic devices have compromised strength and / or dexterity so mechanisms and methods that make the fit system easy for them to contract to the desired amount and easily extend for release is a huge need and large benefit. Conversely, if a fit system is so easily engaged for contraction or extension that it is accidentally triggered, that can be a serious functional problem as well. Mechanism and methods drive other factors such as the inherent mechanical advantage of the system and the increments of tightening. Some applications may require small increments of contraction or extension whereas others may be optimized by larger and therefore faster increments of change.

[0006] In addition, some mechanisms and methods of fit systems may allow for an opening or separation between attachment points or interfaces whereas others may be better suited or even require the fit system to remain as a single unit between attachment points or interfaces. Some applications may require that a fit system opens up in order to don and doff the device while others may not. For example, a leg brace may require that users open up the device in order to place their leg into the device whereas protective pants for motorcycle riders may allow for a waist fit system stay in one piece and loosen only while they pull it up to their waist.

[0007] The inherent mechanical advantage of a fit system is a byproduct of the mechanisms and the methods associated with the fit system. Such fit system can provide a quantifiable mechanical advantage ratio which is the amount of output force over theamount of input force. The speed or time needed to contract or extend the fit system a given distance is usually inversely correlated with mechanical advantage such that when mechanical advantage is high, speed is low and vice versa. Many applications differ in the mechanical advantage requirement, but most applications have a specific ratio or range of ratios that is optimal for function. If the mechanical advantage is too high or more than required for a given application, it may unnecessarily sacrifice speed. Mechanical advantage within a fit system directly relates to the maximum tension and load of the system. The maximum tension and load of a fit system is described in detail below.

[0008] The mechanical reliability and toughness of the fit system relates to the materials utilized by parts therein, geometry, dimensions, and manufacturing methods. Specifically, the overall fit system may only be as strong as its weakest link. Some parts can fail and cause catastrophic failure while others may not. Failure of some fit systems could lead to the users getting trapped or stuck in their device or with their device. In other situations, the user may be highly dependent on the device. Failure of a fit system could potentially even contribute to a fatal accident. Reliability is therefore extremely important especially in certain circumstances and applications.

[0009] Maximum tension of a fit system is typically dependent on the maximum tensile loading of the flexible elongate member(s) of the fit system. In many applications, the maximum tensile loading relates directly to the maximum input force multiplied by the mechanical advantage. The input force is most often the manual force of the user but may be the force imposed by another person or an electronic or other automated system. The input force is transferred to the fit system members via the mechanisms within the fit system which may or may not include mechanical advantage. The tensile loading of the flexible elongate member(s) of the fit system can transfer load or force onto the user’s body. Generally, the load is directed into the body or, in other words, towards the center of the body’s long axis or the long axis of a limb but may also be slightly oblique to the direction directly towards the long axis. If such loading forces are directed in an angle that is too oblique to the long axis, they will likely cause the device to shift proximally or distally on the body unless counterbalanced by a geometricfeature of the body or other feature. The amount of load transferred onto the body can also related to other factors. For example, the amount of body exposure from the device seen by the fit system will affect the how much of the tension force is transferred directly onto the body or into the device.

[0010] The loading directed into the body can apply pressure to the body. Generally, the pressure distribution applied to the body is dependent on the amount of loading applied by the fit system to the body divided by the surface area of the applied loading. Pressure distribution of the fit system is explained in further detail below. In many cases, the fit system can transfer some tension forces onto the device (for example, by the device changing shape or reducing in volume), thereby reducing load applied to the body. The amount of desired load or optimal load delivered onto the body by the fit system may differ per application, as the body changes, during activity changes, within certain movements, in certain positions, and / or over time. Although the optimal loads may vary per application and other variables, optimal performance is generally seen within a definitive range. The humans and animals generally prefer a similar range of load and associated pressure onto the body and within specific segments of the body. Beyond the level of preference, loads and pressures that are beyond a recommended range may cause a reduction in blood flow and / or other damage, discomfort, or pain. Conversely, if loads and pressures are too low, the device may fall down on the body or be loose on the body which may lead to damage, discomfort, or pain.

[0011] The maximum effective length of the flexible elongate members of the fit system can be referred to as the travel within a fit system. Travel within a fit system may relate to the amount of space available for a flexible elongate member to collect into the fit system or the distance of linear teeth in a ratchet ladder. The available amount of travel within a fit system may limit the amount of load that a fit system can deliver onto the body in that the maximum travel may be reached before the user gets to their desired amount of load onto the body. Travel may also directly affect device sizing in that a fit system with greater travel is likely to accommodate a wider range of body sizes and vice versa. These factors might suggest that fit systems should always include a maximum or large amount of travel. However, while increased travel may be beneficial, it often has anegative or inverse correlation on other determinates of the fit system such as the size, profile, weight, and other factors discussed below.

[0012] The profile height of the fit system is extremely important to product developers and end users. Profile height refers to the distance that the fit system protrudes away from the body or, in other words, how much it sticks out. Developers and end users have a strong preference or requirement for the fit system to have a low-profile for the aesthetic look and finish quality that they demand. Moreover, the profile height also plays a role in function and safety. If a fit system has a large profile height it will have a higher risk of catching on things or it may make it difficult or impossible to wear clothing over the fit system. Beyond these undesirable attributes, a fit system with a large profile can be a significant risk of injury due to the fact that if the user falls or bumps into something, the bulk of the fit system can be pushed into the body and can cause injury.

[0013] Similar to the profile height, the width and length of a fit system may also be important for applications of use. Width or length can limit applicability in some cases that may have a limited surface area of application. For example, shoes have a limited surface area that is acceptable for a fit system. Fit systems may be limited in their applicability to shoes if their width or length is over 45 mm or even 35 mm in some cases. However, beyond surface area limitations, larger width and length are far more acceptable for most applications fitting the body as compared to profile height.

[0014] In some cases, fit requirements can be very specific and a distance of one millimeter can be the difference in too loose and just right. In these cases, an analog fit system that can adjust in a continuous and controlled manor may be ideal. In other applications, incremental tightening provides the appropriate amount of fidelity while enabling for a wider array of fit system mechanisms. Incremental systems are often faster than analog systems that provide a control at a micro level. All incremental systems are not created equal. Some incremental fit system may offer small increments like 1.5 millimeters whereas others may offer large steps of 6 millimeters. Requirements for the distance between increments are specific per application but in general the range is between 0.5 mm and 8 mm. Regardless of whether a system is incremental or analog, themechanism or method of use may provide a smooth transition as it is used to adjust fit or it may provide an abrupt experience. In general, the experience is understandably more favorable if it is more controlled and smoother. However, some cases require fast release or removal of a device.

[0015] Proposed closure solutions have not adequately solved for ease of use in connecting, closing, securing, fastening, or adjusting articles together. Various closure devices and associated methods have been proposed. An example of one such device is described in U.S. Patent 10,212,993 (Fidlock GmbH). This prior art includes a force application element that is pivotably attached to the second locking portion. While this prior art may offer some advantages, it adds a degree of freedom within the device which may reduce stability and tactile feedback for some users. The complexity and cost of manufacturing may also be greater due to making separate parts and assembling them with a pivot joint. The pivot joint also creates pinch points that can be troublesome for the user.

[0016] Another example of a proposed closure device is described in U.S. Patent 6,857,169 (Nifco Taiwan Corp) and in U.S. Patent 9,907,367 (Woojin Plastic Co Ltd). These closure devices include a singular protuberance; however, the protuberance does not extend beyond the female aperture. As such, the user does not have added leverage for ease of disengagement of the magnetic attraction and closure device. Furthermore, in these closure devices, the male closure part drops over the female closure part to engage and fasten the parts together. As such, the user is not provided a visual cue for how the parts come together because the part engagement is hidden by the outer face of the buckle. This prior art is designed within the framework of standard buckles that have a flush outer surface. However, a major disadvantage of this prior art is that it is less intuitive for the user to operate and more difficult to engage and disengage when compared to the invention herein.

[0017] Another example of a proposed closure device is described in U.S. Patent 8,794,682 (Fidlock GmbH), U.S. Patent 11,350,705 (Wonderland Switzerland AG), and South Korean Patent 102,208,912. These three closure devices all include a springlocking element or movement between assembled parts as an aspect of their mechanism to secure the closure device in a closed or locked position. While this prior art may have advantages for some applications, it adds to the complexity and cost of manufacturing. A more complex solution may also deter end customers or confuse a customer’s intuitive use of the device. Additionally, added parts and movement between assembled parts can make the finished product more susceptible to failure or issues.

[0018] Alternatively, U.S. Patent 8,914,951 (Zedel SAS) does not include movement between assembled parts, but it does utilize flexing within one of the parts in order to unlock the closure. The disadvantage of a flexure point is that it adds a potential failure point. This prior art also requires pinch force to release the locking mechanism which some users may not be able to accomplish.

[0019] Some applications, such as a rock climbing harness, require a secure locking position that can’t accidentally be unfastened. In those applications, ease of use is secondary to the security of the connection device. An example of a proposed closure device for such applications is described in US20040078943A1 (Zedel SAS). This prior art example utilizes a locking mechanism to lock a closed position. However, this prior art has the disadvantage of reduced ease of use for applications that do not require a locking position. SUMMARY

[0020] Magnetic and mechanical closure devices are described herein that may be useful in a variety of applications, including connection between tension lines and products. The closure devices in accordance with this disclosure have relative ease in engagement and disengagement compared to prior art devices and they are also low cost to manufacture and configured for single-handed use. The closure devices include a female part and a male part each including a body with an outer surface and an inner surface, a magnet or magnetic material, and a feature for attachment to an article. The female part includes one centrally located aperture passing between the outer and inner surfaces. The male part includes one centrally located protuberance extending in an upward direction from the outer surface and adapted to extend through the aperture andproud or above of the upper surface of the female part surrounding the aperture.

[0021] The closure devices in accordance with this disclosure have relative ease in engagement and disengagement compared to prior art devices. In addition, the closure devices are low cost to manufacture and configured for single-handed use.

[0022] In accordance with a first aspect, the aperture of the female part and protuberance of the male part include a mating geometry wherein the aperture is configured to pass over the protuberance and settle in a fastened position. In addition to the mechanically operable connection, the female closure part and male closure part are magnetically attracted to one another such that the magnetic attraction serves to assist in establishing and maintaining the fastened position between the female and male parts.

[0023] In accordance with the closure device described herein, the combination of, (a) one solitary aperture centrally located and passing between the inner and outer surface of the female part, (b) one solitary protuberance centrally located and extending upward from the outer surface of the male part, (c) the inner and outer surface of the female part mating over the outer surface of the male part, and (d) magnetic attraction to assist in establishing and maintaining the fastened position between the female and male parts, can provide for ease of engagement and disengagement of the closure device. This combination of features is part of what facilitates ease of engagement and disengagement by avoiding moving parts and locking features that can complicate use of the closure device and / or add in manufacturing costs, while at the same time, providing a closure device that is sufficiently secure to for connection between articles in a myriad of useful applications.

[0024] Furthermore, the inner and outer surfaces of the female part provide for a portion of the mating geometry and additionally serve as an operable surface for controlling engagement and disengagement. Moreover, the configuration of the aperture through the inner and outer surfaces of the female part being centrally located and in front of the attachment to the article, provides for a clear visual reference for how the parts should come together in engagement over the protuberance, and how they should come apart in disengagement.

[0025] In accordance with the closure device described herein, the aperture of the female part can pass over the protuberance and settles into a fastened position with the front edge raised or with the front edge lowered. There are no inhibiting features or locking mechanisms that inhibit ease of engagement.

[0026] The advantage of the closure device being able to easily engage when the front edge is raised or lowered is particularly useful for wearable articles. For example, in a knee brace or ankle brace the user of the brace typically moves a first part / s of a closure device around the body to meet a second part / s of the closure device while donning their brace. Since the brace is wrapping around the leg, in this example, the curvature of the leg causes the front or leading edge of the first closure part / s to be raised relative to the second closure part / s. The closure device described herein can be used with consistent ease of engagement compared to prior art in examples such as this where the closure device is worn around the body. For people wearing orthopedic articles such as a brace ease of use can be especially significant and could make the difference between being able to benefit from a medical device or not.

[0027] In accordance with the closure device described herein, a disengaging force is a force that is directed in the opposite direction as normal tension forces directed onto the closure device by way of the attached article. A disengaging moment is a rotational force presented between the female part and the male part that is directed away from the direction of normal tension forces and upward, away from the protuberance.

[0028] In accordance with the closure device described herein, a disengaging force and / or a disengaging moment are required to unfasten or disengage from the fastened position. The mating geometry of some embodiments require that first a disengaging force then a disengaging moment are needed to unfasten, while others can be configured to first require a disengaging moment, then a disengaging force. Other embodiments may be disengaged directly with a disengaging moment or force. In some embodiments, a disengaging force, by itself will not unfasten the closure device because a projection of the protuberance blocks the aperture from being pushed directly up off of the protuberance. Furthermore, the aperture has a smaller distance than the protuberance inthe dimension of the overall protuberance body plus the protruding portion of the protuberance. For example, in an embodiment, one dimension of the aperture is 8 mm while the corresponding dimension of the protuberance with the projection of the protuberance is 9 mm. The closure device can be configured to match appropriate disengagement forces for different applications. For example, in an application where the closure device is used for a messenger bag, the closure device is configured to first require a disengagement force and then require a disengagement moment so that the bag does not unintentionally open from forces presented on it during normal use. In an alternative embodiment, the closure device for an application on a shoe is configured to only require a disengagement force because unintentional disengagement forces are not common during normal use so ease of use can be maximized.

[0029] Since the closure device is configured to include a particular direction or direction / s in which independent motion can occur between the male and female parts to disengage from the fastened position, the closure device can be considered to include a degree of freedom. In some embodiments, magnetic attraction alone is used to oppose disengagement in the degree of freedom. In this way, magnetic attraction is used to maintain the fastened position while minimally inhibiting the degree of freedom for ease of disengagement.

[0030] Some applications require relatively more security of the fastened position while other applications may value ease of engagement / disengagement not requiring a highly secure fastened position. The relative security of the fastened position and ease of engagement and disengagement is impacted by a number of structural details within the closure device described herein, broadly including, the mating geometry and the magnetic attraction between the female and male parts. The mating geometry may vary in shape, size, orientation, the number of mating features, and clearance between parts. Mating geometry in all embodiments occurs between the aperture and protuberance, and between the inside surface of the female part and the outside surface of the male part. In some embodiments, mating geometry also occurs between the aperture and projection / s from the protuberance, the female part body and projection / s from the protuberance, and / or the female part body and the male part body.

[0031] Movement that is not in the degree of freedom, or in other words acting towards engagement or disengagement, can be considered to be play or movement between parts. The amount of movement between parts of the closure device and subsequently the amount of movement between the attached articles can also be altered in different embodiments by making changes to the mating geometry between parts. For example, an embodiment with a circular shaped aperture and protuberance is utilized for an application where one or more of the attached article / s is permitted to pivot through a wide range in its approach to the closure device. Alternatively, an embodiment with a rectangular shaped aperture and protuberance is utilized for an application where the attached strap articles are allowed to pivot a relatively small amount.

[0032] In accordance with the closure device described herein, the magnetic attraction between the female part and the male part can be configured to assist with engagement and to help maintain the fastened position or resist disengagement. Disengagement can only occur if forces presented between the parts are stronger than the force of magnetic attraction. Intentional variation in the amount of assistance with engagement and resistance to disengagement is included in the closure devices described herein and use of that variation can be appropriately applied to different applications.

[0033] In most embodiments, the magnetic attraction is formed between opposite poles of two magnets (north and south poles), but the magnetic attraction can also be formed between a magnet on either the male part and the female part and a ferrous material incorporated or formed entirely of the other closure part. Incorporation of the magnet / s and / or ferrous material / s can be over-molded, press-fit, adhesive-set, with or a combination. The amount of force and the direction of force between the closure parts can vary in different embodiments by way of changing attributes or configurations of the magnetic attraction including, the number of magnets and ferrous materials, magnet size, magnet material, strength of the magnet field / s, the distance between magnets, placement of the magnets, and the orientation of the magnet / s. Magnetic force is additive, for example, in some embodiments a total magnetic force of 3 lbs. is created by two pairs of magnets each having a magnetic force of 1.5 lbs. The preferred amount of magnetic attraction between the two parts is between 2 lbs. and 4 lbs.

[0034] In accordance with the closure device described herein, the closure device requires a minimal part height and resulting height of the fastened closure device compared to prior art. This provides for additional advantages including a reduction in volume, weight, material usage, and cost of manufacturing. Importantly, it also enables the closure device to more easily integrate into products that wish to include the closure device because it requires less space or length between articles. Similarly, it can more easily wrap around the body or applications with a small radius because of the reduced length covers a smaller amount of curvature compared to longer closure devices proposed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Fig.1A is a perspective view of a mechanical and magnetic fit device showing female and male mating parts in a fastened position in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0036] Fig.1B is a top view of the device of Fig.1A.

[0037] Fig.1C is a cross-section view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.1B cut-through cross-section line 1C-1C in Fig 1B.

[0038] Fig.1D is a cross-section view of the same female and male mating parts of Fig.1C being disengaged from one another as described in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0039] Fig.1E is a cross-section view of the same female and male mating parts of Fig.1C with a hand in position for one-handed disengagement.

[0040] Fig.1F is a top view of the same mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig. 1B with a hand in position for one-handed disengagement.

[0041] Fig.2A is a cross-section view of the same male and female mating parts of Fig.1C disengaged from one another with the front of the female part in an upward position.

[0042] Fig.2B is a cross-section view of the same male and female mating parts of Fig.1C disengaged from one another with the front of the female part in a downward position.

[0043] Fig.3A is a perspective view of the inner surface of the female part of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Figs.1A - 1C.

[0044] Fig.3B is a perspective view of the outer surface of female part of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Figs.1A - 1C.

[0045] Fig.4A is a perspective view of the inner surface of male part of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Figs.1A - 1C.

[0046] Fig.4B is a perspective view of the outer surface of male part of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Figs.1A - 1C.

[0047] Fig.5A is a right side view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Figs. 1A - 1C.

[0048] Fig.5B is a top view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Figs.1A - 1C.

[0049] Fig.6A is a bottom view of a mechanical and magnetic fit device with female and male mating parts in a fastened position in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0050] Fig.6B is a perspective view of the bottom surface of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.6A.

[0051] Fig.7A is a side view of a mechanical and magnetic fit device with female and male mating parts in a fastened position in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0052] Fig.7B is a perspective view of the bottom surface of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.7A.

[0053] Fig.7C is a perspective view of the top surface of the bottom surface of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.7A.

[0054] Fig.8A is a top view of a mechanical and magnetic fit device with female and male mating parts in a fastened position in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0055] Fig.8B is a side view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.8A.

[0056] Fig.8C is an enlarged cross-section view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.8A cut-through cross-section line 8C-8C in Fig.8A.

[0057] Fig.8D is an enlarged cross-section view of the female mating part of Fig.8C.

[0058] Fig.8E is an enlarged cross-section view of the male mating part of Fig.8C.

[0059] Fig.8F is a perspective view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Figs.8A - 8C.

[0060] Fig.9A is a top view of a mechanical and magnetic fit device with female and male mating parts in a fastened position in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0061] Fig.9B is a side view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.9A.

[0062] Fig.9C is an enlarged cross-section view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.9A cut-through cross-section line 9C-9C in Fig.9A.

[0063] Fig.9D is also an enlarged cross-section view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.9A cut-through cross-section line 9C-9C in Fig.9A, showing initial movement for disengagement of the mating parts.

[0064] Fig.9E is also an enlarged cross-section view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.9A cut-through cross-section line 9C-9C in Fig.9A, showing further disengagement of the mating parts.

[0065] Fig.10A is a top view of a mechanical and magnetic fit device with female and male mating parts in a fastened position in accordance with an aspect of thedisclosure.

[0066] Fig.10B is a side view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.10A.

[0067] Fig.10C is an enlarged cross-section view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.10A cut-through cross-section line 10C-10C in Fig.10A.

[0068] Fig.10D is a top view of the male part of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.10A – 10C.

[0069] Fig.10E is a top view of the female part of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.10A – 10C.

[0070] Fig.11A is a top view of a mechanical and magnetic fit device with female and male mating parts in a fastened position in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0071] Fig.11B is a side view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.11A.

[0072] Fig.11C is an enlarged cross-section view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.11A cut-through cross-section line 11C-11C in Fig.11A.

[0073] Fig.12A is a top view of a mechanical and magnetic fit device with female and male mating parts in a fastened position in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0074] Fig.12B is a top view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.12B with the female part in a different position relative to the male part.

[0075] Fig.13A is a top view of a mechanical and magnetic fit device with female and male mating parts in a fastened position in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0076] Fig.13B is a side view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.13A.

[0077] Fig.13C is an enlarged cross-section view of the mechanical and magnetic fitdevice of Fig.13A cut-through cross-section line 13C-13C in Fig.13A.

[0078] Fig.13D is a top view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.13D with the female part in a different position relative to the male part.

[0079] Fig.14 is a perspective view of a mechanical and magnetic fit device with female and male mating parts in a fastened position in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0080] Fig.15A is a top view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.14.

[0081] Fig.15B is an enlarged cross-section view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.15A cut-through cross-section line 15B-15B in Fig.15A.

[0082] Fig.15C is a detail view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig. 15B showing the detail section 15C in Fig.15B.

[0083] Fig.16 is a perspective view of a mechanical and magnetic fit device with female and male mating parts in a fastened position in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0084] Fig.17A is a top view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.16.

[0085] Fig.17B is an enlarged cross-section view of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Fig.17A cut-through cross-section line 17B-17B in Fig.17A.

[0086] Fig.17C is the cross-section view Fig.17B showing the magnetic fields of the mechanical and magnetic fit device separately so that the features of Fig.17B can be seen more clearly.

[0087] Fig.18A is a perspective view of the male part of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Figs.16 – 17C.

[0088] Fig.18B is a top view of the male part of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Figs.16 – 17C.

[0089] Fig.19A is a perspective view of the female part of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Figs.16 – 17C.

[0090] Fig.19B is a top view of the female part of the mechanical and magnetic fit device of Figs.16 – 17C.

[0091] Fig.20A is an enlarged cross-section view of the female part of Fig.19B cut- through cross-section line 20A-20A in Fig.19B.

[0092] Fig.20B is an enlarged cross-section view of the male part of Fig.18B cut- through cross-section line 20B-20B in Fig.18B.

[0093] Fig.20C is an enlarged cross-section view of the male part of Fig.18B cut- through cross-section line 20C-20C in Fig.18B.

[0094] Fig.21A is a front view of a line-tensioning fit system in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0095] Fig.21B is a side view of the line-tensioning fit system of Fig.21A.

[0096] Fig.21C is a perspective view of the line-tensioning fit system of Fig.21A.

[0097] Fig.22A is a front view of a line-tensioning fit system and elastic device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0098] Fig.22B is a side view of the line-tensioning fit system and elastic device of Fig.21A.

[0099] Fig.22C is a perspective view of the line-tensioning fit system and elastic device of Fig.21A.

[0100] Fig.22D is a detail view of the line-tensioning fit system and elastic device of Fig.22C showing further detail of the elastic device shown in section 22D of Fig.22C.

[0101] Fig.23 is a top view of a fit system in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure around a cross-section view of a leg.

[0102] Fig.24 is a front view of the fit system of Fig.23.

[0103] Fig.25 is a top view of the fit system of Fig.23 showing force distribution.

[0104] Fig.26 is a top view of the fit system of Fig.25 showing a different force distribution.

[0105] Fig.27 is a side view of a sandal that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0106] Fig.28 is a side view of a shoe that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0107] Fig.29 is a front view of a dog harness that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0108] Fig.30 is a front view of pants with a waist belt that include a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0109] Fig.31 is a perspective view of a watch device that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0110] Fig.32 is a back view of a baby harness includes mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0111] Fig.33 is a front view of protective knee pads that include mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0112] Fig.34 is a front view of a safety and rescue vest that includes mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0113] Fig.35 is a front view of a life vest that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0114] Fig.36 is a perspective view of a tactical, ammunition, and / or utility vest that includes mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of thedisclosure.

[0115] Fig.37 is a front view of a sporting, aviation, and / or space suit that includes mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0116] Fig.38 is a perspective view of a helmet that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0117] Fig.39 is a perspective view of an ankle-foot orthosis that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0118] Fig.40 is a perspective view of a prosthesis that includes mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0119] Figs.41 is a perspective view of a back brace that includes mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0120] Figs.42 is a side view of a knee brace that includes mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0121] Fig.43 is a side view of a knee immobilizer that includes mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0122] Fig.44 is a front view of protective sporting equipment that includes mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0123] Fig.45 is a perspective view of baseball catcher equipment that includes mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0124] Fig.46 is a perspective view of a person wearing fishing equipment that includes mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0125] Fig.47 is a side view of a hiking or sporting boot that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0126] Fig.48 is a perspective view of bicycle saddle bags that include a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0127] Fig.49 is a side view of a golf bag that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0128] Fig.50 is a perspective view of a transit pack that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0129] Fig.51 is a perspective view of a camping backpack that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0130] Fig.52 is a perspective view of a roll-up bag that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0131] Fig 53 is a perspective view of a sling bag or single-strap bag that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0132] Fig.54 is a perspective view of a messenger bag that includes mechanical and magnetic fit devices in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0133] Fig.55 is a perspective view of an apron that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0134] Fig.56 is a side view of a truck with a line-tensioning system that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0135] Fig.57 is a perspective view of a wall organizer that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

[0136] Fig.58 is a perspective view of a storage system that includes a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0137] The present disclosure describes a number of embodiments of closure devicesthat employ a magnetic and mechanical mechanism to connect and disconnect between aspects of an article or across articles. Thus, while some embodiments of the closure devices have been shown without connection to an article, all of the closure devices can be used with one or more articles. Note that each one the closure devices can be part of a fit system or a line tensioning system as described herein.

[0138] As used herein, a “fit system” refers to a closure device connected to a wearable article with at least one tension line (flexible elongate members such as straps, cables, wires, etc.) with one or more attachment points or interfaces to the article or device.

[0139] As used herein, a “line tensioning system” refers to a closure device connected to a non-wearable article or structure with at least one tension line (flexible elongate members such as straps, cables, wires, etc.) with one or more attachment points or interfaces to the article, device, or structure. Similar to fit systems, the attachment points or interfaces may decrease in distance relative to one another or relative to the line tensioning system, which can be referred to as contraction or shortening. The closure devices used in line tensioning systems may operate in space without being directly mounted to an article or structure.

[0140] As used herein, an “article” refers to any type of tension line including straps, cords, laces, ropes, chains, and cables, and products including garments, shoes, boots, backpacks, messenger bags, luggage, sporting gear, wearable protective devices, wearable articles, sporting braces, exoskeletons, orthoses, and / or prostheses. The material of the article can be inelastic in nature or possibly have some elasticity. The tension line can be a cord, rope, cable, filament, or lace having a generally round profile, as well as flat straps having rectangular or square profiles. The material of the tension line can be any material typically used as a tension line in the same application. Thus, for a footwear application, the tension line used by the closure device in accordance with this description may be made from the same material currently in use for shoelaces. Also, the materials used may differ from those typically used for the application. The materials used for the tension line can include metal (e.g., steel) cable, and polyester webbing.

[0141] As used herein, “connection” between articles by the closure device can refer to connection and disconnection between two aspects of the same tension line, between two tension lines, between a tension line and a product, between two different products, between two aspects of the same product, or other possible connection / disconnection between articles. The closure devices used may operate in space without being directly mounted to an article or structure. Adjustment of the attached article may be included within the attachment mechanism. For example, in some embodiments, a strap is able to pass through a slot in the closure device wherein the strap can be elongated or shortened. The attachment mechanism may also include a tension line path that maintains tension in the line until or unless adjustment is made.

[0142] Figs.1A - 6B show details of a closure device 100 that incorporates a female part 1 with one centrally located aperture 11 that is configured to mate over one centrally located protuberance 22 of a male part 2. As shown in Fig.1C, closure 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. Fig.1C also shows a magnet 31 incorporated near the inner surface 6 of female part 1 and a corresponding magnet 32 incorporated near the outer surface of the male part 2. As shown in Fig.1C, with opposite magnetic poles facing one another, magnets 31 and 32 are configured to be magnetically attracted to one another and are aligned while closure device 100 is in a fastened position. The fastened position of closure device 100 is shown at a 1:1 scale in an oblique view in Fig.1A, top view in Fig.1B, and in a cross-section view at a 2:1 scale in Fig.1C. As shown in Fig.1C, magnet 31 and corresponding magnet 32 are as close as they can get to one another when aperture 11 is mated over protuberance 22 with front surface 13 of aperture 11 in contact with front surface 23 of protuberance 22. Configured as such, the magnetic attraction of magnets 31 and 32 create a magnet field bias that serves to assist in establishing and maintaining the fastened position between female part 1 and male part 2.

[0143] Fig.1C clearly shows that the one centrally located aperture 11 passes between the outer surface 4 and inner surface 6 of female part 1. It is also clearly shown that the one centrally located protuberance 22 extends in an upward direction from the outer surface of male part 2.

[0144] Closure device 100 shown in Figs.1A - 6B incorporates features for attachment 8 that attach the closure device to an article at each of female part 1 and male part 2. The features for attachment 8 are configured to accept a 1.5 inch strap / s as shown in Fig.1F.

[0145] Aperture 11 and protuberance 22 of closure device 100 have a mating geometry of a cross-sectional shape in the x-y plane or transverse plane of a rounded rectangle wherein the aperture 11 is larger in dimension compared to the protuberance 22 such that aperture 11 is able to pass over protuberance 22. After passing over protuberance 22, the inner surface 6 of female part 1 contacts the outer surface 24 of male part 2. The inner surface 6 of female part 1 and the outer surface 24 of male part 2 have a mating geometry such that female part 1 can rest on top of male part 2 in the fastened position.

[0146] Closure device 100 includes projection 28 of protuberance 22, as shown in Fig.1C, wherein projection 28 extends forward from the top surface of the protuberance. The front to back dimension of protuberance 22 plus projection 28 is larger than the front to back dimension of aperture 11. As such, if an upward force is imparted on female part 1, projection 28 of protuberance 22 is configured to resist or block disengagement of the fastened position in order to avoid unintentional disengagement. In this way, projection 28 provides a mechanical interference that aids in maintaining a fastened position, along with magnet 31 and corresponding magnet 32.

[0147] Protuberance 22 also includes curved surface 40 that starts at the back and terminates at the top of protuberance 22. Curved surface 40 reduces the front to back dimension of protuberance 22 above the curved surface, thereby, aperture 11 has increased space to disengage from the mated position with protuberance 22.

[0148] Fig.1C and Fig.1D show disengaging force 41 and 42 imposed on closure device 100. Fig.1C shows disengaging force 41 on female part 1 and disengaging force 42 on male part 2 being imparted on the fastened position. This figure clearly shows that in the fastened position, protuberance 22 extends proud or above the outer surface 4 of the female part 1 surrounding the aperture 11 and preferably all other features of closuredevice 100, thereby making it easy for the user to feel or see the location of protuberance 22. Fig.1D shows disengagement that happens when disengagement force 41 on top of protuberance 22 is coupled with disengagement force 42 that is positioned on female part 1 at the back or back-corner, away from center, beyond the location of article engagement. The force couple of a disengagement force 41 onto of protuberance 22 and a disengagement force 42 that is positioned on female part 1 at the back or back-corner, creates a fast and effective disengaging moment. Texture features 46 are preferably included on the top surface of protuberance 22 and the back-lateral corners of female part 1 to provide a visual and tactile reference, as well as for grip, for the recommended locations of disengagement forces.

[0149] Figs.1E - 1F show how the force couple of a disengagement force 41 on top of protuberance 22 and a disengagement force 42 that is positioned on female part 1 at the sides, back, or back-corner can easily and ergonomically be created with one hand. One-handed disengagement is shown using the thumb to create disengagement force 41 and the pointer finger to create disengagement force 42. Other finger combinations may be utilized to disengage from the fastened position but this particular method is demonstrated as it is an intuitive, ergonomic and easy way to disengage the mating parts, especially given that protuberance 22 extends above the outer surface of the female mating part 4, and texture surfaces 46 on the protuberance and female part body 98, combine to make the leverage points easy to identify and leverage for disengagement with one hand, even without visual reference.

[0150] Fig.2A and Fig.2B show a cross-section at midline of female part 1 and male part 2 wherein mating geometry of inner surface 6, outer surface 24, protuberance 22, and aperture 11 can clearly be seen. As shown in Figs.2A – 2B, aperture 11 and the body of female part 1, and other features of first female part 1 do not inhibit engagement or disengagement of the mating parts. The lateral aspect of aperture 11 is not at midline but is included with a dotted line because it demonstrates the mating aperture. Lateral reinforcement geometry 50 is not shown in Fig.2A and Fig.2B since it is lateral to the mating surfaces and therefore does not interfere with engagement. Fig.2A and Fig.2B show that female part 1 is free to engage into the fastened position with front surface 7 offemale part 1 raised as in Fig.2A or lowered as in Fig.2B. As shown in Fig.2A, closure device 100 is able to wrap around curved application 70 with front surface 7 of female part 1 naturally raised, relative to the rest of female part body 98, due to the curved outer surface of curved application 70 with engagement uninhibited, as shown, and guided by magnetic attraction between magnet 31 and corresponding magnet 32. Fig.2B shows female part 2 engaging with front surface 7 lowered, relative to the rest of female part body 98, due to the flat outer surface of flat application 71 with engagement uninhibited, as shown, and guided by magnetic attraction between magnet 31 and corresponding magnet 32.

[0151] Moreover, the matching shape of the aperture 11 and protuberance 22 provide an intuitive visual reference for engagement. These attributes combine to provide uninhibited, fast, and easy engagement of closure device 100.

[0152] Fig.3A and Fig.3B show female part 1 individually while Fig.4A an Fig.4B show male part 2 in isolation. The entire rigid female part body 98 and male part body 99 can be seen in these figures including an unobstructed view of outer surface 4 and inner surface 6 of female part 1 and outer surface 24 and inner surface 26 of male part 2 as well as aperture 11, protuberance 22, lateral reinforcement geometry 50, and features for attachment 8. In closure device 100 the features for attachment 8 included in female part 1 and male part 2 are a slot with reinforcement geometry to allow for a 1.5” strap to pass through or attach, as shown in Fig.2A and Fig.2B with attached strap 52 on male part 2 and pass-through strap 54 on female part 1. The reinforcement geometry includes lateral reinforcement geometry 50 and posterior reinforcement geometry 51 as shown in Fig.3A - 4B and incorporated to strengthen and improve durability of the male and female parts around the features for attachment 8, where force is transferred from the tension line to the mating geometry. Lateral reinforcement geometry 50, posterior reinforcement geometry 51, and the features for attachment 8 do not obstruct ease of engagement, disengagement, or interfere in the mating geometry. Lateral reinforcement geometry 50, posterior reinforcement geometry 51, and the features for attachment 8 are configured to be as close to the mating geometry as possible without interference so that the overall length of closure device 100 is as short as possible. Closure device 100 does include theadvantage of being shorter in length, along the x-axis, as compared to the prior art, which allows closure device 100 to more easily fit and integrate into articles or applications. Although closure device 100 is shown to accommodate a standard 1.5” strap, the structure and advantages taught it the disclosure of closure device 100 herein are intended to also represent other standard strap widths such as ¾”, 1”, and 2” or custom strap widths.

[0153] Fig.5A and Fig.5B show dimensions of closure device 100. Fig.5A shows that protuberance 22 extends above aperture 11 and the rest of the closure device by 3.5 mm, female part 1 is 31.6 mm long (along the x-axis), male part 2 is 29.5 mm long, thickness (along the z-axis) at lateral reinforcement geometry 50 is 8 mm, and the distance from inner surface to outer surface of both the male and female part is 4 mm. Fig.5B demonstrates that aperture 11 is 9 mm in length while protuberance 22 with projection 28 of protuberance 22 is 9.5 mm. Closure device 100, with male and female parts 1, 2 together in the fastened position, is shown to be 40 mm in length and 50.5 mm in width overall. Fig.5B includes a dotted line to indicate the location and size of magnet 31 and corresponding magnet 32 as 12.7 mm wide, 3.2 mm long, and 3.2 mm thick (not shown). Fig.5B also shows that front surface 7 of female part 1 extends forward 4.5 mm in front of magnet 31 and 32 and beyond the protuberance by more than 7.7 mm. This distance that front surface 7 of female part 1 extends forward in front of the location of magnet attraction is significant for providing leverage to aid in disengagement as previously described herein. Likewise, the distance that female part 1 and male part 2 extend laterally and posteriorly beyond the attachment to the article, or the features for attachment to an article 8, is significant for providing leverage to aid in disengagement as previously described herein and is shown to be 6 mm on both sides and posteriorly.

[0154] As shown in Fig.5B, the feature for attachment to an article 8 of female part 1 is slightly longer (3mm compared to 2 mm) to accommodate pass-through strap 54 which may include hook and loop whereas the feature for attachment to an article 8 of male part 2 is typically accommodating an attached strap 52 that does not include thickness for hook and loop.

[0155] Fig.6A and Fig.6B show a bottom view and oblique bottom view of an embodiment of closure device 100 that includes features that optimize the closure device for injection mold manufacturing. As shown, cavity 58 is a hole positioned underneath projection 28 of protuberance 22. Cavity 58 enables projection 28 of protuberance 22 to be formed using a two part injection mold tool without requiring slides or other complicating features that add cost to manufacturing. As shown, extrusions 59 are depressions in inner surface 6, inside surface 26, protuberance 22, and the bottom or inside surface of lateral reinforcement geometry 50 and posterior reinforcement geometry 51. These extrusions 59 provide structural reinforcement and material thickness control for optimal performance and injection molding. Cavity 58 is also shown in Fig.1D. Extrusions 59 are shown in Fig.1C and, in contrast, are not included in Fig.1D. Magnet 31 and corresponding magnet 32 are overmolded, meaning that they are included into the injection mold, or pressed into place and adhered from the bottom to maintain an aesthetically appealing appearance of closure device as it is normally seen from the top or side. Closure device 100 may be injection molded out of a rigid plastic material such as nylon, acrylic, and polycarbonate, or other materials with a high modulus of elasticity, high strength, good rigidity, dimensional stability, and resistance to moisture, chemicals and solvents. Notwithstanding the above, the closure device described herein are not limited to any particular manufacturing methods.

[0156] Figs.7A - 7C show an alternative closure device 100’ to the closure device 100. In Figs.7A - 7C, elements corresponding to closure device 100 are referenced with like reference numbers appended with “ ’ “. Specifically, closure device 100’ differs from closure device 100 as follows. The closure device 100’ includes a curved female part body 98 and male part body 99, when viewed from the side. The curvature within this body of closure device 100 provides an optimization for applications where the closure device is wrapping around the body or a cylindrical shape. Similarly, an alternative closure device could be angled instead of curved to achieve the same benefit. For example, the closure device could include an angle between inner and outer surfaces and the feature for attachment to an article. The embodiment, as shown in Figs.7A - 7C, also demonstrates an embodiment that does not include features for injection molding as discussed herein. This embodiment of closure device 100 could be manufactured in otherways such as being machined out of metal or 3D printing in various materials.

[0157] Figs.8A - 8F show another embodiment of a closure device 200 with polygon shaped protuberance 222 in an exemplar form of a hexagon that projects up from the outer surface 224 of male part 202 at an oblique angle 260 mated with aperture 211 with corresponding polygonal shape, for example hexagonal, at matched oblique angle 260. In Fig.8C, showing a 2:1 scale of a cross-section at the x-y midplane, it is shown that the protuberance 222 extends above female part 201 and it shares an oblique angle 260 with aperture 211 (76 degrees from the x-axis in the positive direction and the outer surface 224 of male part 202, or 14 degrees from vertical on the z-axis). Oblique angle 260 of the mating geometry at an acute angle (from the front or the positive direction on the x-axis) provides an alternative means for assisting retainment of the fastened position without adding the detriments of extra parts or moving parts. Fig.8C also shows that mating geometry clearance 261 or space between mating geometry is smaller in closure device 200, as compared to mating geometry clearance 61 of closure device 100 shown in Fig. 1C. This tighter tolerance or clearance of the mated geometry further secures the fastened position, as well as reduces play or movement between female part 201 and male part 202, making closure device 200 ideally configured for applications requiring greater security of the fastened position and less movement of the attached article in the fastened position. Consequently, disengagement of the fastened position is more inhibited compared to closure device 100, yet still less inhibited as compared to prior art. Disengagement is more inhibited than closure device 100 in that less space between mated geometry and added faces from the hexagon polygon shape make for less space for aperture 211 to move out of engagement with protuberance 222. As such, disengagement forces need to be more precises in their direction and disengagement moments may be blocked by interlocked mated faces. However, it is important to clarify that closure device 200 is still less inhibited in disengagement, and thus, easier to disengage when compared to prior art in that there are no locking features that block disengagement, only static geometry of the mating features and magnetic attraction. In engagement, closure device 200 is aided in ease of finding a mated position by the magnetic attraction of two pairs of magnets 233. As with closure device 100, each magnet is coupled with a corresponding magnet that is positioned with magnetic poles configured to bias towardsfastened position of closure 200. In closure device 200, magnets 233 are cylinder shaped and 6 mm in diameter by 1.6 mm thick. Positioning the magnets to be on either side of the protuberance and aperture makes for a shorter, more compact closure device but two pairs of magnets may be higher in cost than using one pair of magnets. The force of magnetic attraction or the magnetic field is additive in this embodiment with the two pairs of magnets each having a pull force of approximately 1.5 lbs. for a total pull force of about 3 lbs. By comparison, magnet 31 and corresponding magnet 32 of closure device 100 provides a force of about 2.8 lbs. The added pull force of magnets 233 further secures closure 200 compared to closure device 100 while sharing mechanical and magnetic features and configurations. As such, closure device 100 compared to closure device 200 provides an example of how the structural or mechanical elements as well as the magnetic attributes can be altered to provide a spectrum of closure device security and related spectrum of engagement or disengagement ease, while sharing claimed utility disclosed herein. The fact that the disclosed invention’s structural or mechanical elements as well as the magnetic attributes can be altered to provide a spectrum of closure device security and related spectrum of engagement or disengagement ease provides a distinct advantage over prior art.

[0158] Additionally, closure device 200, shown in Figs.8A - 8F, provides an example of an alternative tension line, in this embodiment, cord tension line 255. This cord may be connected to a tension adjustment system or fixed to an article and is configured to transfer forces from the cord to the mated geometry of closure device 200 such that the fastened position is maintained within the force envelope of normal or expected forces for a given application.

[0159] Figs.9A - 9E show another embodiment of a closure device 300 with an elliptical shaped protuberance 322, matching an elliptical shaped aperture 311. Fig.9D, showing a 2:1 scale a cross-section at the x-y midplane, shows that, due to a tight mating geometry clearance 361 between parts, a relatively large projection 328 of protuberance 322, and reduced filet contour 362 within the mating geometry, closure device 300 includes added security of the fastened position. Disengagement of the fastened position requires that a first sufficient disengaging force 341 in a forward direction on female part301 and second sufficient disengaging moment 343 in an up and forward direction is required to disengage from the fastened position of closure device 300. An additional difference between this embodiment and those that have already been described is that female part 301 is bonded to strap tension line 352 at the feature for attachment to an article 308, which takes the form of a bonding tab at the posterior portion of female part 301. Male part 302 is bonded to a tension line at a feature for attachment to an article 308 in the anterior and posterior portion of male part body 399. Features for attachment to an article 308, as shown in Figs.9A - 9E, have the advantage of being very low in profile. An additional difference between this embodiment and those that have already been described is that magnet 331 and corresponding magnet 332 are positioned behind protuberance 322 and aperture 311, allowing the front of the female part body 389 to be shorter. Front surface 307 of female part 1 is allowed to be shorter by the magnet being placed behind protuberance 322 and aperture 311, front surface 307 still extends beyond protuberance 322 and aperture 311 more than at least 2.5 mm and aids in leverage for disengagement of the fastened position.

[0160] Figs.10A - 10E show another embodiment of a closure device 400 which is similar to closure device 300 except that the features for attachment 408 to an article are in the form of a stitching flange for female part 401 at the back and around the perimeter of male part 402. As such, closure device 400 is optimized for integration into a textile product 470, as shown in Fig.10A. Stitches are shown between attached strap 452 and the feature for attachment 408 to an article on the female part 401, but for simplicity purposes, stitches are not shown between textile product 470 and male part 402. Fig.10D and Fig.10E show male part 402 and female part 401, respectively, in isolation.

[0161] Fig.10C and 10D also show that projection 428 of protuberance 422 of closure device 400, and likewise in closure device 300, is formed from the undercut of cavity 458 as opposed to extending out beyond the elliptical shape at the front of protuberance 422. As such, closure device 400 and closure device 300 provide examples of projections that are formed by cavities or undercuts as opposed to extensions in front of the protuberance shape.

[0162] Figs.11A - 11E show another embodiment of a closure device 500 with a male part 502 having a circular shaped protuberance 522, a female part 501 provided with a mating aperture 511, and a single hole to receive a cord as a feature for attachment 508 to an article at female part 501. Only one magnet 531 is included. The magnetic attraction of closure device 500 is created between magnet 531, integrated into male part 502, and female part body 598 which is made of a ferrous or magnetic material.

[0163] Figs.12A - 12B show an alternative closure device 500’ to the closure device 500. In Figs.12A - 12B, elements corresponding to closure device 500 are referenced with like reference numbers appended with “ ’ “. Specifically, closure device 500’ differs from closure device 500 as follows. The closure device 500’ includes two holes to receive a cord or cords as a feature for attachment to an article 508’ of female part 501’. The circular shape of the protuberance and aperture in closure device 500 and 500’, as well as the unobstructed mating female part inner surfaces and male part outer surfaces; allows for the female part to rotate around the protuberance at large angles while maintaining a fastened position and not transferring rotational forces onto the attached article of the male part. This is shown in Fig.12A and Fig.12B wherein Fig.12A shows female part 501’ aligned with the male part 502’ along the x-axis in the fastened position, whereas Fig.12B shows female part 501’ at an oblique angle while male part 502’ is still aligned with the x-axis while torsional forces have not been imposed on male part 502’ and cord tension line 570’ is free to rotate around protuberance 522’.

[0164] Figs.13A - 13D show another embodiment of a closure device 600 which is similar to closure device 500 and 500’ but closure device 600 includes two projections 628 of protuberance 622, one on the right and one on the left side (positive and negative directions along the Y-axis) and aperture 611 with a matching shape of circular protuberance 622 with a projection 628 on the right and left side. Configured as such, closure device 600 enables female part 601 to rotate about protuberance 622 as in closure device 500 and 500’, however, in order to disengage, female part 601 must be aligned with male part 602 in the x-axis. As such, closure device 600, includes a rotational-based securing mechanism for the fastened position. As such, closure device 600 provides a structure that can be configured at an oblique angle to the normal forces during use suchthat disengagement only happens when manually and intentionally aligning female part 601 and male part 602, while avoiding the detriments of extra parts or moving parts.

[0165] Figs.14 - 15C show closure device 700, an embodiment of the closure device described herein. As shown in detail in Figs.15B - 15C, closure device 700 is similar to closure device 100 but includes added securing features for a magnet 732 as well as for a scored magnet 731, described further below. In addition, closure device 700 is made out of different materials and with different methods of manufacturing and includes a thickened projection 728 of protuberance 722 and recess 781 in male part 702 to further enable ease of engagement and disengagement. Closure device 700 is made with aluminum base 791 that is then overmolded with plastic to make an overmolded plastic section 792 of both female part 701 and male part 702, respectively.

[0166] Scored magnet 731 and magnet 732 and are secured into the female part 701 and male part 702, respectively, with added securing features during the manufacturing process. As shown in detail in Figs.15C, magnet 732 of male part 702 is surrounded on three sides by aluminum base 791 which includes channels 782 which mechanically secures aluminum base 791 with overmolded plastic section 792. Overmolded plastic section 792 surrounds magnet 732 on the other three sides and as such the magnet is joined with male part 702 permanently or until cast aluminum base 791 or overmolded plastic section 792 are separated or broken. Scored magnet 731 is further secured into female part 701 by way of channels 783, that are scored or cut from the front and back surfaces of scored magnet 731, and which mechanically lock the integrated magnet into the part. A magnet may alternatively be notched, etched, or textured at one or more of the magnet surfaces to provide a geometric or mechanical feature to further secure or join the integrated magnet into one or both of the parts within the closure device. Alternatively, a magnet with an angled, hole, or convoluted geometry can be used such that when formed or bonded into the closure device it will be mechanically joined with the part beyond that of a chemical bond surface bond. Alternatively, a press-fit or sonic welding may be used in place of or along with adhesive to additionally secure magnets into the closure device beyond that of a chemical bond surface bond. These and other methods of further securing a magnet into the closure device described herein is included and is importantfor responsible use of magnets within a consumer product given that loose magnets can become a dangerous hazard for small children or in other circumstances. The different methods described herein include advantages, disadvantages, considerations, and risks. Therefore, magnet integration methods described herein may be selected, combined, and / or alterd to provide the most appropriate methods for a given embodiment. For example, overmolding or insert-molding a magnet directly into a part during the manufacturing process can reduce labor costs for magnet integration but it may also reduce the strength of resulting magnetic field if it is exposed to high temperatures during the manufacturing process.

[0167] As shown in Figs.15B - 15C, closure device 700 include thickened projection 728 of protuberance 722. As compared to other embodiments described above, the projection of the protuberance of the male part is thicker in the z-axis in order to strengthen the male part and overall strength of the closure device. As shown in Figs. 15B - 15C, depression 784 is included into female part 701 such that thickened projection 728 of protuberance 722 does not stick up too much along the z-axis thereby avoiding a potential snagging point and excessive bulk. This configuration may be preferred wherein high forces, and in particular, high oblique forces are expected in order to avoid a fracture across the protuberance at the projection. Aperture 711 can afford to be thinned at front surface 713 while maintaining a high level of strength due to the geometric support provided at the corners of the aperture.

[0168] As shown in detail in Figs.14 - 15C, and shown in detail in Figs.15B - 15C, closure device 700 includes recess 781 in male part 702. Recess 781 is an area of male part 702 between magnet 732 and feature for attachment to an article 708 that drops in relative height along the z-axis compared to outside surface 724. Recess 781 allows female part 701 to drop down along the z-axis with front surface 707 able to tilt forward before contacting male part 702. This allows aperture 711 of female part 701 to clear thickened projection 728 of protuberance 722 without binding or catching on the projection of the protuberance before contacting the male part and pivoting away from the protuberance for disengagement. If front surface 707 is tilted down during engagement, recess 781 also helps to avoid interference between aperture 711 andthickened projection 728 of protuberance 722. As such, recess 781 helps to provide an even smoother and easier engagement and disengagement of the closure device without compromising stability and security of the fastened position.

[0169] Figs.16 - 20C show an alternative closure device 1000 to the closure devices previously described herein. Specifically, closure device 1000 differs from the adjustment devices describe above as follows. Closure device 1000 includes a locking feature for security of the fastened position while maintaining ease of use for articles of application that require a locked or highly secure closure. As shown in detail in Fig.17B, closure device 1000 includes lock and release button 1069 that is configured to block disengagement of female part 1001 from male part 1002 in the fastened position. Lock and release button 1069 is encouraged into a locking configuration 1034 when female part 1001 is engaged with male part 1002 by magnetic attraction between magnet 1035 of female part 1001 and magnet 1036 of lock and release button 1069 which is assembled within male part 1002. As shown in detail in Figs.20B – 20C, prior to engagement of the mating parts, lock and release button 1069 is biased away from the locking configuration 1034 into an unlocked configuration by the magnetic field of magnet 1032. Magnet 1032 is situated with its magnetic pole positioned vertically, as with the other embodiments herein, with the north pole facing up along the z-axis while magnet 1036 is perpendicular with its magnetic poles positioned horizontally with the north pole facing backwards along the x-axis, towards magnet 1032. As such, the closure device has two sets of magnets: one set 1031, 1032 has magnetic poles oriented perpendicular to the magnetic poles of the other set 1035, 1036. Being that magnets 1032 and 1036 are situated in this way and are close enough in proximity, the interaction of their magnetic fields creates a bias for lock and release button 1069 to be in an unlocked configuration when the mating parts are separated. Therefore, the magnetic field of magnet 1032 provides as a novel magnetic spring that is configured to bias magnet 1036 towards an unlocked configuration. Conversely, when female part 1001 is engaged into the fastened position with male part 1002, the magnetic field of magnet 1035 overpowers the magnetic field of magnet 1032 to pull lock and release button 1069 up into locking configuration 1034 due to its proximity with magnet 1036, as shown in Fig.17C. As shown in detail in Fig.17B - 17C, lock and release button 1069 locks female part 1001 in the fastened position withmale part 1002 by blocking female part 1001 from being able to shift forward along the x-axis relative to male part 1002 because lock and release button 1069 is only enabled to move up and down along the z-axis as discussed in further detail below. Without being able to shift forward along the x-axis relative to male part 1002, the fastened position is locked because thickened projection 1028 of protuberance 1022 blocks female part 1001 from being able to lift or pivot away from male part 1002.

[0170] Disengagement of female part 1001 from male part 1002 is only allowed when release force 1063 is applied to lock and release button 1069 and disengaging force 1041 is applied between the mating parts. Release force 1063 must be larger than the sheer forces of magnetic attraction between magnets 1035 and 1036 and serves to simultaneously depress lock and release button 1069 and provide a disengaging force to male part 1002 that replaces disengaging force 42 shown in Fig.1E. Lock and release button 1069 requires release force 1063 to unlock the mating parts and prompts users to utilize the ergonomic disengagement methods demonstrated in Figs.1E – 1F and discussed above in combination with finger grooves 1065 shown in Figs.16, 17A, 19A, and 19B. Lock and release button 1069 includes a curved top surface that is raised along the z-axis compared to the protuberance to provide greater ease of disengagement while avoiding a surface that is prone to catch on objects. Lock and release button 1069 may also be colored, shaded, or textured differently than the mating parts to further indicate or prompt the user to what is required to unlock. Additional or alternative means of indicating engagement and / or disengagement are possible and are included herein. For example, mating parts may be color coded such that surfaces that come together during engagement may be colored uniquely to further inform the user of how mating parts are intended to join.

[0171] As shown in Figs.17B, 20B, and 20C, male part 1002 includes lock and release button channel 1064 that is configured to allow lock and release button 1069 to assemble into male part 1002 from the bottom. Channel floor part 1074 is sonic welded into position to trap lock and release button 1069 in male part 1002 after it has been assembled into male part 1002 wherein it is allowed to move up and down channel 1064 and is limited in its range upward by interference between the top of track columns 1075of lock and release button channel 1064 and guide extensions 1076 of lock and release button 1069 and downward by channel floor part 1074.

[0172] As shown in Figs.16 - 20C and described above, lock and release button 1069 is configured to be in an unlocked configuration when the mating parts are separated such that it does not inhibit ease of engagement. Once female part 1001 has easily and freely engaged with male part 1002, lock and release button 1069 moves into a locked position. The mating parts are secured in the locked fastened position until lock and release button 1069 is manually depressed along with disengaging force 1041. As such, the closure device described herein provides a unique and significant alternative to the prior art wherein ease of use is maintained while providing security of the fastened position that can appropriately match the needs of the application.

[0173] Figs.21A - 21C show line-tensioning fit system 1100 including closure device 100’ (but which can be alternatively any closure device described herein), pressure distribution pad 1133, clamping hook and loop end mechanism 1137, and hook and loop strap adjustment mechanism 1139. Pressure distribution pad 1133 includes a semi-rigid pressure distribution material that spreads forces from the strap out to a larger surface area and soft foam pad made of laser-cut, compression-molded, or die-cut closed-cell foam which dampens and absorbs forces that would otherwise transfer to the user’s body or the article. Clamping hook and loop end mechanism 1137 is attached to the features for attachment 8’ to an article at male part 2’ then splits into two straps with hook material one both sides facing one another towards the middle such that a loop material strap or strap with loop material attached to both sides, can be trimmed to the appropriate length then secured within clamping hook and loop end mechanism 1137. Hook and loop strap adjustment mechanism 1139 is configured to adjustably pass through closure device 100’ in the feature for attachment 8’ to an article at female part 1’ and use a hook and loop tension holding mechanism. These components work together to provide line- tensioning fit system 1100 that can open and close around the body and / or an article or application.

[0174] Figs.22A - 22D show line-tensioning fit system 1200 including closuredevice 100’, pressure distribution pad 1233, clamping hook and loop end mechanism 1237, and elastic device 1266. Pressure distribution pad 1233 includes a pressure distribution pad material that dampens forces, absorbs forces, spreads force out, and / or changes in stiffness according to force velocity. Pressure distribution pad 1233 may be made of a non-Newtonian foam or padding material that is molded, laser-cut, compression-molded, and / or die-cut closed-cell. Clamping hook and loop end mechanism 1237 is attached to the features for attachment 8’ to an article at male part 2’ then splits into two straps with hook material on both sides facing one another towards the middle such that a loop material strap or strap with loop material attached to both sides, can be trimmed to the appropriate length then secured within clamping hook and loop end mechanism 1237.

[0175] As shown in Figs.22B – 22C, and in detail in Fig.22D, elastic device 1266 is a device that has a resting state that can elastically elongate under a load wherein it returns to the resting state when the load is reduced. Elastic device 1266 has a flat and wide cross-sectional shape across the axis that is adapted for elongation to match the shape and function of a webbing strap. Other such elastic devices could be configured to form virtually any shape, namely a cord or rope. Elastic device 1266, as shown in detail in Fig.22D, includes elastic fibers or elastic material 1267 that allow for elongation along the long axis under force and elastic return to their resting state, and including, inelastic fibers or inelastic material that has a circuitous path 1268. In this arrangement, elastic device 1266 is adapted to allow for partial stretch or elongation of the elastic material 1267 while also limiting the amount of elongation or stretch. Limiting the amount of elongation or stretch of elastic material 1267 adds value to the system because it avoids overstretching of elastic material 1267 which thereby avoids damage to the elastic material and increases longevity of the device and system. In this embodiment, circuitous path 1268 is a zig-zag path but other circuitous paths are possible, for example, a helix path. Elastic device 1266 adds value and functional capacities to fit system 1200 in that elastic nature of the elastic material 1267 helps to maintain a consistent tension on closure device 100’ and absorbs forces within the system, while circuitous path of inelastic material 1268 helps to increase longevity of the system as described herein. Absorbing forces within the system improves comfort for the person wearing the fitsystem and maintaining a consistent tension on closure device 100’ in the direction of normal forces helps to secure the fastened position. This is an improvement over the prior art which either does not provide sock absorption within the system, doesn’t block over elongation or overstretching of the elastic material, and / or adds bulky check-strap material to manage overstretching. For example, elastic device 1266 or a similar elastic device that is applied to a sternum strap of a backpack can absorb impact forces created as the user walks across a trail with the elastic material of the elastic device, while the circuitous paths of the inelastic material increases the longevity of the sternum strap without requiring additional strapping or devices. Another example is fit system 1200 applied around an ankle foot orthosis or AFO brace wherein the fit system provides ease of use, adaptability, and added shock absorption. Thereby improving the brace user’s experience and comfort level in a way that is built to last without adding excessive bulk.

[0176] Pressure distribution of the fit system may relate to the load delivered, surface area, geometry or shape of the fit system, and / or rigidity of fit system components. The amount of load onto the body applied by a fit system divided by the surface area of the applied load will yield a given pressure distribution. For most applications that require a high-tension fit system (tension over 100 lbs.), it is recommended that associated loads be distributed onto straps over 1.5” in width or which have a surface area of at least 8 square inches. For example, a fit system that is low in profile and includes a contour that matches the body it is applied to, has tapered rigidity of its members wherein the system becomes less rigid near the edges, and has rounded edges. One important aspect of the fit system shape is how well the contour of the pressure distribution pad 1333 matches the natural curvatures of the body or how well it can conform to that shape such that pressure can be evenly distributed over the body. Another important aspect of the shape is how sharp or blunt (the radius) the edges are of the fit system members. Edges that are too sharp can lead to peak pressures that could result in discomfort, bruising, or skin abrasion.

[0177] By way of example, Figs.23 and 24 show fit system 1300 with closure device 100’ and pressure distribution pad 1333 banded about a user’s leg with fit system 1300 and pad 1333 positioned on the front of the leg. Also, as shown in Fig.82, an additionalpressure distribution pads 1334, 1336a, and 1336b. Pad 1334 is relatively low in durometer and is located on the back side of the leg between a strap 1302 and the leg to distribute pressure to the leg. Pressure distribution pads 1336a and 1336b include a low durometer inner surface and a semi-rigid shell with a tunnel for strap 1302 to pass between the top and bottom surfaces. In this configuration, strap tension is not distributed directly onto the body. Strap tension and resulting forces from strap tension are distributed indirectly through pressure distribution pads 1334, 1336a, and 1336b. As force equals pressure divided by area, resultant forces of this fit system are reduced by increasing the surface area of pressure distribution. As shown in Fig.25, the pressure distribution pads 1333 and 1334 cause the tensile forces in the strap 1302 to direct compressive forces in the direction of the arrows in Fig.25. In Fig.26 the location of fit system 1300 with closure device 130’ and pressure distribution pad 1333 is shifted to a more curved portion of the leg. The ability for many of the devices herein to slide along the length of the strap while the tension is loose is made possible by the strap being permanently fixed on either side and passing continuously through the spool. This configuration offers the distinct advantage of allowing for selective location of adjustment in order 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] Figs.22A - 58 show various uses of closure devices, fit systems, and line tensioning systems in combination with or as functional articles. In describing the various systems 120 (fit systems and line tensioning systems) in combination with the articles shown, reference is made to a mechanical and magnetic fit device in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, which can be any of the closure devices described herein in accordance with this disclosure. It will be appreciated that closure device 120 may take the form of any of the embodiments of and of the closure devices described herein and is not limited to the schematics shown in Figs.22A - 58.

[0179] Figs.27-32 show systems applied to lifestyle wearable articles, including footwear, clothing, baby care accessories, wrist wear, and pet wear. Specifically, Fig.27 shows a sandal 1400 including the closure device 120 to improve ease and speed of use.Fig.28 shows a shoe 1410 including closure device 120 that can enable independent use for some users with hand dexterity issues or strength issues who may otherwise not be able to independently fasten their own shoes. Fig.29 shows a dog harness 1420 that includes fit system 120 to help dog owners to put the harness on quickly and more easily. Fig.30 shows pants 1430 with a waist belt 1440 that includes fit system 120 that improves user experience. Fig.31 shows a watch device 1450 that includes a fit system 120 integrated into the watch band 1460 that enables one-handed use of the watch closure device. Fig.32 shows a baby harness 1470 with fit system 120 that frees one hand for parents to use during donning and doffing of their baby harness.

[0180] Figs.32 - 38 show fit systems 120 applied to protectable wearable articles utilized in various field of fields of application, including various types of protective gear, utility wear, sporting wear and sports gear. Specifically, Fig.33 shows protective knee pads 1500 with fit systems 120 that make the knee pads stronger and more durable in addition to being easier to use. Fig.34 shows a safety and rescue vest 1510 with fit systems 120 that assist in rescue. Fig.35 shows a life vest 1520 with fit systems 120 that reduce barrier to use. Fig.36 shows a tactical, ammunition, and / or utility vest 1530 with fit systems 120 that allows the user to quickly donn or doff the vest in urgent situations. Fig.37 shows a sporting, aviation, and / or space suit 1540 with fit systems 120 that enable the user to engage and disengage the closure mechanism with gloves on. Fig.38 shows a helmet 1550 with fit system 120 that allows the user to keep one hand on their bike while they fasten their helmet.

[0181] Figs.39 - 43 show fit systems 120 applied to orthopedic devices. Specifically, Fig.39 shows an ankle-foot orthosis 1600 that includes fit system 120 and aids a user with an impairment to use only one hand to donn and doff their brace. Fig.40 shows a prosthesis 1610 that includes fit system 120 that makes it easier for the user to quickly relieve pressure in their prosthesis while sitting. Fig.41 shows a back brace 1620 that includes fit system 120 improving the user’s ability to open and close the brace. Figs.42 shows a knee brace 1630 that includes fit systems 120 that, in addition to improving donning and doffing, make it easier for the user to adjust the fit of their knee brace throughout the day. Fig.43 shows a knee immobilizer 1640 with fit systems 120 whichmake use significantly better for multiple straps wherein most knee immobilizers include 3-5 straps.

[0182] Figs.44 - 49 show fit systems 120 applied to sporting equipment utilized in various sporting applications. Specifically, Fig.44 shows protective sporting equipment, such as football pads 1700, that include fit systems 120 that improve the strength and durability of the equipment. Fig.45 shows baseball catcher equipment 1710 with fit systems 120 that allow the catcher to buckle and unbuckle their pads without taking off their baseball mitt. Fig.46 shows a person wearing fishing equipment 1720 that includes fit system 120 that improves attachment of the integrated shoulder and waist straps. Fig. 47 shows a hiking or sporting boot 1730 with fit system 120 at the ankle. Fig.48 shows bicycle saddle bags 1740 that include fit system 120 that allows the user to open and close the saddle bags while holding their bike with one hand. Fig.49 shows a golf bag 1750 with fit system 120 that makes it easier at each stroke for the user to donn and doff their golf bag.

[0183] Figs.50 - 54 show fit systems 120 applied to various types of bags that are utilized in various applications. Specifically, Fig.50 shows a transit pack 1800 that includes fit system 120. Fig.51 shows a camping backpack 1810 with fit system 120 at multiple straps throughout the pack for improved speed and ease of use. Fig.52 shows a roll-up bag 1820 with fit system 120 that can make it a lot easier to connect after rolling up the contents in the bag. Fig 53 shows a sling bag or single-strap bag 1830 with fit system 120. Fig.54 shows a messenger bag 1840 with fit systems 120 that make it fast and easy to open and close the outside flap of the bag.

[0184] Fig.55 shows an apron 1900 that includes fit system 120 that makes it faster and easier to attach the apron strap. Figs.56 - 58 show fit systems or line-tensioning systems 120 applied to applications that are utilitarian but not worn on the body. Specifically, Fig.56 shows a truck 2000 with a line-tensioning system 120 that make it easier to connect and disconnect a strap that can be used to secure an object 2002 to their truck, wherein a separate device may be used to tighten the strap. Fig.57 shows a wall organizer 2010 with fit system 120 that allows theuser to quickly capture an object with one hand while holding it with the other hand. Fig. 58 shows a storage system 2020 that includes fit system 120.

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

[0186] The concepts described herein may be characterized by the following statements of embodiments of different scope.

[0187] 1. A magnetic and mechanical closure device for connecting articles, including (a) a female part having a body with an outer surface and an inner surface, a magnet or magnetic material, a feature for attachment to an article, and one centrally located aperture passing between the outer and inner surface, (b) a male part having a body with an outer surface and an inner surface a magnet or magnetic material, a feature for attachment to an article, and one centrally located protuberance extending in an upward direction from the outer surface, wherein, the aperture of the female part and protuberance of the male part include a mating geometry wherein the aperture is configured to pass over the protuberance and settle in a fastened position, and wherein, the female closure part and male closure part are magnetically attracted to one another such that the magnetic attraction serves to assist in establishing and maintaining the fastened position between the female and male part.

[0188] 2. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the female part body is substantially rigid, and / or flat or curved or angled.

[0189] 3. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the male part body is substantially rigid, and / or flat or curved or angled.

[0190] 4. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the body of the female part is configured to fit over the body of the male part.

[0191] 5. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the protuberance of the male closure part extends above the aperture and outer surface of the female closure part.

[0192] 6. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the male and female part are configured to sustain the fastened position until a substantial disengaging force is presented between the male and female part.

[0193] 7. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the male and female part are configured to sustain the fastened position until a first substantial disengaging force and a second substantial disengaging force are presented between the male and female part.

[0194] 8. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the mating geometry between the female part and the male part is configured to include additional static geometric features that is configured to assist in maintaining the fastened position.

[0195] 9. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the protuberance of the male part includes a protruding portion of the protuberance that is configured to assist in maintaining the fastened position.

[0196] 10. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the mating geometry between the female part and the male part is configured to include mechanical interference that is configured to assist in maintaining the fastened position.

[0197] 11. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the mating geometry between the aperture and the protuberance is configured to include mechanical interference that is configured to assist in maintaining the fastened position.

[0198] 12. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the feature for attachment to an article is configured to transfer forces from the article to the mating geometry such that the fastened position is maintained.

[0199] 13. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the one or more of the parts include one or more textured surfaces or indicators to recommend placement of disengagement forces.

[0200] 14. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the inner andouter surface of the male and female part are substantially flat.

[0201] 15. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the inner and outer surface of the male and female part is curved or partially curved.

[0202] 16. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the shape and clearance between mated geometry including the protuberance and the aperture allow for an intentional amount of movement within the fastened closure device.

[0203] 17. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the mated geometry cross-section is substantially rectangular in shape.

[0204] 18. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the mated geometry cross-section is substantially square in shape.

[0205] 19. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the mated geometry cross-section is substantially a polygon in shape.

[0206] 20. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the mated geometry cross-section is substantially oval in shape.

[0207] 21. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein the mated geometry cross-section is substantially circular in shape.

[0208] 22. The closure device according to embodiment 1, wherein one or more attached articles include an elastic feature that exhibits a tension force through the article to the mating geometry of the closure device.

[0209] 23. A magnetic and mechanical closure device for connecting articles, including (a) a female part having a body with an outer surface and an inner surface, defining one centrally located aperture passing between the outer and inner surface, a magnet or magnetic material, and a feature for attachment to an article, (b) a male part having a body with an outer surface and an inner surface, having one centrally located protuberance extending in an upward direction from the outer surface, a magnet or magnetic material, and a feature for attachment to an article, wherein, the aperture andbody of the female part is configured to pass over the protuberance of the male part and settle in a fastened position with the inner surface of the female part resting over the outer surface of the male part, and wherein, the female closure part and male closure part are magnetically attracted to one another such that the magnetic attraction serves to assist in establishing and maintaining the fastened position between the female and male part.

[0210] 24. A fit system including a magnetic and mechanical closure device for connecting one or more articles and an elastic feature that exhibits a normal tension force that absorbs shock withing the system and assists in maintaining the fastened position.

[0211] 25. The closure device according to embodiment 24, including a pressure distribution system.

[0212] 26. The closure device according to embodiment 24, configured to allow for partial stretch of the elastic feature while including an inelastic feature to limit overstretching of the elastic material.

[0213] 27. The closure device according to embodiment 24, including a flat elastic that includes elastic fibers or elastic material that allow for stretch under force and elastic return in a resting state, and including inelastic fibers with a circuitous path arranged to allow for partial stretch of the elastic while also blocking overstretching of the elastic material.

[0214] 28. An elastic device comprising elastic fibers or elastic material that allow for elongation under force and elastic return to a resting state and inelastic fibers with a circuitous path arranged to allow for partial stretch of the elastic while also limiting the amount of stretch.

[0215] 29. A magnetic spring device that utilizes the north and south poles of the magnetic field to bias or spring another magnet or magnetic material towards an intentional configuration.

[0216] The closure devices described herein can be configured to match appropriate engagement and disengagement forces for different applications. Ease of use can be maximized without the need for added security or vice versa. Different combinations, configurations, and attributes or features of the demonstrated embodiments herein may becombined or varied to create alternative embodiments not shown. These alternative embodiments are also protected herein and may be applied to virtually any article. All embodiments may also include branding features such as a logo, labeling or numbering, color, or aesthetic properties and are also included herein.

[0217] There have been described and illustrated herein several embodiments of closure devices, fit systems using the closure and adjustment devices, and a method of using the closure and adjustment devices and fit systems. While particular embodiments of the invention have been described, it is not intended that the invention be limited thereto, as it is intended that the invention be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Thus, while particular article types have been disclosed, it will be appreciated that other article types may be used as well. For all of the embodiments, the closure devices and fit systems may be made from a plastic, metal, or a combination plastic and metal components. In addition, while particular types of plastics or metals have been disclosed for parts of the embodiments, it will be understood that other suitable types of plastics or metals can be used. For example, and not by way of limitation, nylon, acrylic, and polycarbonate may be used. While various types of construction for the closure devices have been described, the embodiments are not intended to be limited to any particular construction or construction methods. Moreover, while particular configurations have been disclosed in reference to the closure devices, it will be appreciated that other configurations could be used as well. It will therefore be appreciated by those skilled in the art that yet other modifications could be made to the provided invention without deviating from its scope as claimed.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A closure device for connecting to first and second portions of one or more articles, including: a first mating part, including, a first body having an inner surface and an outer surface, a first magnetic retainer provided to the first body, a first aperture passing through the first body, and a first feature for attaching the first mating part to a first portion of the one or more article; and a second mating part discrete from the first mating part, including, a second body with a second body having an inner surface and an outer surface, a second magnetic retainer provided to the second body, a protuberance extending from the outer surface, and a second feature for attaching the second mating part to the second portion of the one or more articles, wherein the inner surface of the first mating part is adapted to rest on top of the outer surface of the second mating part, and the aperture of the first mating part is adapted to surround and fasten relative to the protuberance of the second mating part in a fastened configuration, and in the fastened configuration, relative displacement of the first and second mating parts in at least one direction is blocked and the first magnetic retainer and the second magnetic retainer are magnetically attracted to assist retaining engagement of the fastened configuration and to resist release from the fastened configuration.

2. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein one of the first and second mating parts includes a locking feature that is adapted to sustain the fastened configuration until manually released.

3. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the locking feature is biased away from inhibiting engagement of the first mating part relative to the second mating part until the first mating part has been engaged with the second mating part.

4. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the locking feature is magnetically attracted opposing mating part such that the magnetic attraction serves to pull the locking feature into a locking configuration upon engagement of the two mating parts.

5. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic attraction that serves to assist in establishing and maintaining the fastened position between the first and second mating part is oriented vertically along the z-axis.

6. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the locking feature includes a second magnetic field that is perpendicular to a first magnetic field that serves to assist in retaining engagement and resisting release of the fastened configuration of the first and second mating parts.

7. The closure device according to claim 6, wherein the second magnet resists release of the protuberance from the first aperture.

8. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the first mating part includes a third magnetic retainer, and the second mating part includes a fourth magnetic retainer, and the first and second magnetic retainers have poles that are oriented in a first direction, and the third and fourth magnetic retainers having poles that are oriented in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

9. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the protuberance of the second mating part extends above the aperture and outer surface of the first mating part.

10. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the protuberance of the second mating part includes a projection that is adapted to extend over a portion of the upper surface of the first mating part in the fastened configuration.

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

12. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the body of the first and second part are substantially flat.

13. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the body of the first and second part are substantially curved or partially curved.

14. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the shape and clearance between mated geometry allow for an intentional amount of movement of the relative mating parts while in the fastened configuration.

15. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the mated geometry between the mating parts forms a cross-sectional shape that is rectangular.

16. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the mated geometry between the mating parts forms a cross-sectional shape that is polygon.

17. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein the mated geometry between the mating parts forms a cross-sectional shape that is oval or circular.

18. An article, comprising: the closure device according to claim 1; and an elastic feature having first and second portions, the first portion attached to the first feature and the second portion attached to the second feature, the elastic featureexhibiting a normal tension force that provides shock absorption and assists in maintaining a fastened configuration of the closure device.

19. The article of claim 18, further including a pressure distribution system coupled to at least one of the elastic feature and the closure device.

20. The article of claim 18, further including an inelastic feature, wherein the elastic feature allows for an amount of stretch of the elastic feature and the inelastic feature prevents overstretching the elastic feature.

21. An article, comprising: a wearable article having first and second portions; and the closure device according to claim 1 coupling the first and second portions.

22. The article of claim 21, wherein the wearable article is one of clothing, footwear, pet wear, wristwear, a babycare accessory, protective gear, utility wear, sporting wear or sports gear, and an orthopedic or prosthetic device.

23. An article, comprising: a utilitarian article having first and second portions; and the closure device according to claim 1 coupling the first and second portions.

24. The article of claim 23, wherein the utilitarian article is one of a bag, sporting gear, storage device and a retainer.

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