Button closure integrally connected with a personal item

Abstract

A button closure integrated with a personal item featuring an enlarged head for single-finger interaction, a stalk connecting to an elastically deformable base allowing snap transitions between protruded and collapsed positions, and an engagement surface for secure attachment via a loop or aperture.

Description

BUTTON CLOSURE INTEGRALLY CONNECTED WITH A PERSONAL ITEMFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a button closure integrally formed with a personal item, for example, a placemat for a baby or young child.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Products targeted for baby care must have components, like buttons, that are functional and safe. Conventional buttons exist in numerous products and present several limitations that can restrict their application, particularly in products where space optimisation and durability are critical.

[0003] Traditional buttons are not collapsible, so they cannot adapt to more compact or flexible design requirements. Their static nature limits the versatility and applicability of products that require a more dynamic approach to space utilisation and user interaction.

[0004] The construction of conventional buttons typically involves multiple separate parts. This multi-part assembly increases the risk of the button detaching or breaking apart, posing a significant choking hazard, especially in products used by infants. The inherent risk directly impacts the safety and reliability of the product.

[0005] The lack of collapsi bility in traditional buttons also contributes to their limited lifespan. Some are made from rigid materials, which make them prone to breaking easily and failing to offer the durability expected in high-use or child- focused products. The rigidity compromises the button's longevity, necessitating more frequent replacements and thereby reducing the product's overall life cycle

[0006] Traditional button design, which necessitates multiple parts, introduces complexities in manufacturing and assembly. These buttons cannot be moulded in one piece with the main part of the product, leading to demolding problems that can affect production efficiency and product consistency. Some generic buttons cannot be moulded effectively, increasing manufacturing time and potentially increasing material waste. This inefficiency in the manufacturing phase can lead to higher costs and lower product quality.

[0007] The multipart nature complicates the cleaning process, making it difficult to maintain hygiene, which is a critical factor in baby products.

[0008] From a usability perspective, conventional buttons often require two hands to operate, a design flaw that can be particularly inconvenient for caregivers who might need to hold the baby with one hand while operating the product with the other. Additionally, the generic design of these buttons often lacks intuitiveness, which can lead to user frustration and decreased product satisfaction.

[0009] It is, accordingly, an object of the present invention to address the foregoing need for a durable, compact and safe button closure that is easy to clean, intuitive to use.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] In one aspect, the invention provides a button closure, comprising: an enlarged head portion sized for contact with a single finger; a base portion integrally connected with a personal item; a stalk portion connecting the head portion with the base portion, having a smaller cross-section than the head portion; wherein an engagement surface releasably mechanically secures the button closure with a corresponding loop or aperture, the engagement surface including an underside of the head portion and a circumferential surface of the stalk portion; the base portion is elastically deformable enabling the button closure to directly snap into a protruded position or a collapsed position inresponse to finger pressure, and in the protruded position the head and stalk portions are elevated above a level surface of the personal item, and in the collapsed position the head portion aligns with or drops below the level surface.

[0011] The base portion may comprise a bistable dome with geometric properties that enable two stable states, where finger pressure is applied to push the dome beyond its inflexion point causing it to invert and transition between these stable states.

[0012] The protruded position may correspond to the dome being convex and the collapsed position may correspond to the dome being concave.

[0013] The dome may include any one from the group consisting of: doublecurved cross-sectional profile to induce mechanical pre-stressing of the dome, variable thickness to create mechanical hinges, axisymmetric cross-sectional profile, parabolic curved cross-sectional profile induce mechanical pre-stressing of the dome, and spherical curved cross-sectional profile to evenly distribute stresses across the surface of the dome.

[0014] The button closure and personal item may be made by silicone compression moulding or silicone injection moulding.

[0015] The silicone has a Shore A hardness of SHA30 to SHA70, preferably, SHA50.

[0016] The personal item may be any one from the group consisting of: pouch, bag, placemat, baby bib, baby products, mobile phone case, and food container. The personal item may be a space-saving mechanism. The personal item may be a medical device, fastening straps, a toggle to adjust settings or to a tie to secure detachable components together.

[0017] The physical dimensions of the button closure may be 23.32 mm diameter for the head portion, 11 mm diameter for the stalk portion and 1 ,02mm thickness for the base portion, where the level surface of the personal item has a thickness of 1 ,5mm to 2.3mm.

[0018] Further aspects, advantages, and features of embodiments of the invention will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant arts from the following description of various embodiments. It will be appreciated, however, that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described, which are provided in order to illustrate the principles of the invention as defined in the foregoing statements and in the appended claims, and to assist skilled persons in putting these principles into practical effect.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate like features, and wherein:Figure 1 is a top plan view of a placemat with an integral button closure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.Figure 2 is a bottom plan view of a placemat with an integral button closure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the button closure of Fig. 1 , in its protruded state.Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the button closure of Fig. 1 , in its collapsed state.Figure 5 is a bottom plan view of a placemat with an integral button closure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the placemat taken along axis C-C indicated in Fig. 5.Figure 7 is a top plan view of a placemat with an integral button closure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.Figure 8 is a zoomed in perspective view of a portion of the placemat.Figure 9 is a perspective render of the bottom of the placemat.Figure 10 is a perspective render of the top of the placemat.Figure 11 is a cross-sectional zoomed in view of the button closure of Fig. 1 , in its protruded state.Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the button closure of Fig. 1 , in its protruded state.Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the placemat taken along axis A-A indicated in Fig. 7.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0020] Figs. 1 to 13 depict a button closure 10. The button closure 10 comprises an enlarged head portion 11 sized for contact with a single finger. The button closure 10 also comprises a base portion 14 integrally connected with a personal item 30. The button closure 10 also comprises a stalk portion 13 connecting the head portion 11 with the base portion 14. The stalk portion 13 has a smallercross-section than the head portion 11 . An engagement surface releasably mechanically secures the button closure 10 with a corresponding loop or aperture 20. The engagement surface includes an underside 12 of the head portion 11 and a circumferential surface of the stalk portion 13. The base portion 14 is elastically deformable enabling the button closure 10 to directly snap into a protruded position (see Fig. 3) or a collapsed position (see Fig. 4) in response to finger pressure. In the protruded position the head and stalk portions (11 , 13) are elevated above a level surface 15 of the personal item 30. In the collapsed position the head portion 1 1 aligns with or drops below the level surface 15.

[0021] In one example, the base portion 14 comprises a bistable dome with geometric properties that enable two stable states. Finger pressure is applied to push the dome beyond its inflexion point causing it to invert and transition between these stable states.

[0022] The protruded position corresponds to the dome being convex and the collapsed position corresponds to the dome being concave.

[0023] The dome may be any one from the group consisting of: double-curved cross-sectional profile to induce mechanical pre-stressing of the dome, variable thickness to create mechanical hinges, axisymmetric cross-sectional profile, parabolic curved cross-sectional profile to induce mechanical pre-stressing of the dome, and spherical curved cross-sectional profile to evenly distribute stresses across the surface of the dome.

[0024] The button closure 10 and personal item 30 are made by silicone compression moulding or silicone injection moulding. The silicone has a Shore A hardness of SHA30 to SHA70, preferably, SHA50.

[0025] The personal item 30 may be any one from the group consisting of: pouch, bag, placemat, baby bib, baby products, mobile phone case, and food container.

[0026] The physical dimensions of the button closure are 23.32 mm diameter for the head portion, 11 mm diameter for the stalk portion and 1 ,02mm thickness for the base portion, where the level surface of the personal item has a thickness of 1 ,5mm to 2.3mm.

[0027] The button closure 10 is integrally formed with a main part / personal item 30, such as a placemat 30, enhancing both safety and functionality. There are two primary components in this fastening system: the collapsible button 10 and the main part 30. The design ensures that the button 10 and main part 30 join without any gaps or loose connections, which is important for preventing the button 10 from detaching and posing a choking hazard. The button 10 is designed to function in tandem with the main part 30, in one example, a placemat 30, allowing for a single-handed operation. This feature is particularly useful in scenarios where the user / caregiver may need to engage the button 10 while the other hand is occupied. The button's collapsible nature means it can transition between two states: an extended position for interaction and a collapsed state where it is flush with the placemat 30, minimising spatial intrusion. When pressure is applied to the top of the button 10, it collapses (see Fig. 4), becoming flush with the surface 15 of the placemat 30. This action allows for space conservation and reduces the risk of accidental engagement or entanglement with other objects (for instance, in a carry bag). When the pressure is applied to the bottom of the button 10, the button 10 returns to its protruded state (see Fig. 3), ready for interaction again. The user can engage the button 10 with a single finger or hand, activating or deactivating the mechanism as needed.

[0028] In one embodiment, the spring-loaded mechanism of the button 10 depends on both the cross-sectional shape, as depicted in the drawings, and the material's relative thickness at specific locations. The button 10 and the placemat 30 are made in a single-shot compression moulding process.

[0029] Collapsible structure

[0030] The collapsible silicone button 10 is a functional and adaptable fastener that can transition between collapsed and protruded states. The primary structure of this button 10 involves a silicone-based material equipped with an internal mechanism enabling this dual-state functionality. The protruded state is for interaction and usage. The collapsed state is for storage or when a flush profile is necessary. This feature is controlled by an internal mechanism that responds to external finger pressure. The design allows the button 10 to collapse when finger pressure is applied from the top and to return to its original, protruded state when the figure pressure is applied from the bottom, ensuring ease of use and functional adaptability. The geometry of the base portion 14 can respond to external force from a finger.

[0031] Finger pressure on the top of the button 10 causes the internal mechanism to compress, reducing the button's overall height and transitioning it to its collapsed state. Finger pressure on the bottom of the button 10 returns the button 10 to its protruded state. This cycle allows the button 10 to be interactively used in various applications, providing a fastening solution that can adapt to different situational requirements.

[0032] The collapsible silicone button's design and functionality offer a versatile and user-responsive solution, ideal for applications where space efficiency and adaptability are desired. Its construction from silicone enhances its durability and operational life, making it a reliable component in various usage scenarios.

[0033] Durability and flexibility

[0034] The collapsible feature allows the button 10 to reduce its height when pressure is applied, resulting in a compact and space-efficient design. The collapsible button 10 can withstand repeated folding and unfolding, making it highly durable in comparison to rigid materials. The connection between thebutton 10 and the main part 30 is seamless, reducing the risk of detachment or wear at the juncture, thereby enhancing the overall durability of the component. This flexibility ensures a prolonged lifespan for the button 10, even in applications where it undergoes frequent use. The collapsible button 10 is scalable into any sizes and shapes depending on the type of application.

[0035] Material

[0036] The button 10 is made entirely from silicone, a material chosen for its flexibility, resilience, and hygienic properties. The button 10 is a single, unified piece to leverage the inherent qualities of silicone. This eliminates the need for assembly of multiple parts, reducing potential failure points and enhancing the button's overall durability and reliability. The flexibility of the silicone material allows the button 10 to move to its compressed state (flush or below the surface level of the placemat 30) when pressed in a downward direction and return to its protruded state when pressed in an upward direction, providing the collapsible functionality. The resilience of the silicone material contributes to the button's longevity, enabling it to maintain its shape and functionality over many cycles of compression and expansion. The non-porous nature of the silicone material makes the button 10 inherently hygienic, as it does not harbour bacteria and is resistant to contaminants. The ease of cleaning silicone, due to its non-porous surface, makes the button 10 particularly suited for environments where cleanliness is important. The placemat 30 with the integral button 10 can be washed with standard cleaning agents or in a dishwasher without deteriorating its surface or functionality.

[0037] Manufacture

[0038] The button 10 is manufactured as a seamless, one-piece structure, integrating the button 10 and main part 30 without separations or joints. This is made by the process of compression moulding, using silicone as the primary material. The silicone material is selected for its flexibility, durability, andresistance to various environmental factors. The one-piece design simplifies the structure of the button 10, eliminating the need to assemble multiple parts and thus enhancing its reliability and ease of use. Compression moulding is employed to shape the silicone into the button's design, ensuring uniformity and consistency in its production. The properties of the silicone material allow the button 10 to collapse when pressed from a first direction and return to its when pressed from a second direction, providing a tactile response to the user. The height and size of the button 10 are optimised to ensure it meets both aesthetic and functional requirements, balancing design appeal with technical feasibility. The button 10 is intuitive to use. The button 10 is easily moulded after manufacturing, without compromising its shape or functionality.

[0039] Usability

[0040] The silicone material and the mechanical structure around the button 10 provides the button 10 with its flexible and resilient characteristics, to enable repeated collapsing and elevating actions without degrading. The internal collapsible structure allows the button 10 to maintain its shape and provides the mechanism for its collapsible feature. When in the compressed state, the button 10 presents a seamless and flush design with the surface, minimising space and offering a streamlined appearance. Upon user interaction in one of two directions of force by a finger, the button 10 can flexibly collapse (be flush or below the surface level 15 of the item 30) and then return to its original state (pop-out) due to the elastic properties of the silicone material and the design of the geometric structure of the button 10, particularly, the base portion 14. The Shore A hardness of the silicone material influences the button's tactile feel and durability that balances responsiveness with the structural integrity. The Shore A hardness may be SHA30 to SHA70, preferably, SHA50

[0041] It should be appreciated that while particular embodiments and variations of the invention have been described herein, further modifications and alternatives will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant arts. In particular,the examples are offered by way of illustrating the principles of the invention, and to provide a number of specific methods and arrangements for putting those principles into effect.

[0042] Accordingly, the described embodiments should be understood as being provided by way of example, for the purpose of teaching the general features and principles of the invention, but should not be understood as limiting the scope of the invention, which is as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:1 . A button closure, comprising: an enlarged head portion sized for contact with a single finger; a base portion integrally connected with a personal item; a stalk portion connecting the head portion with the base portion, having a smaller cross-section than the head portion wherein an engagement surface releasably mechanically secures the button closure with a corresponding loop or aperture, the engagement surface including an underside of the head portion and a circumferential surface of the stalk portion; the base portion is elastically deformable enabling the button closure to directly snap into a protruded position or a collapsed position in response to finger pressure, and in the protruded position the head and stalk portions are elevated above a level surface of the personal item, and in the collapsed position the head portion aligns with or drops below the level surface.

2. The button closure of claim 1 , wherein the base portion comprises a bistable dome with geometric properties that enable two stable states, where finger pressure is applied to push the dome beyond its inflexion point causing it to invert and transition between these stable states.

3. The button closure of claim 2, wherein the protruded position corresponds to the dome being convex and the collapsed position corresponds to the dome being concave.

4. The button closure of claim 3, wherein the dome includes any one from the group consisting of: double-curved cross-sectional profile to induce mechanical pre-stressing of the dome, variable thickness to create mechanical hinges, axisymmetric cross-sectional profile, parabolic curved cross-sectional profile to induce mechanical pre-stressing of the dome, and spherical curved cross- sectional profile to evenly distribute stresses across the surface of the dome.

5. The button closure of claim 1 , wherein the button closure and personal item are made by silicone compression moulding or silicone injection moulding.

6. The button closure of claim 5, wherein the silicone has a Shore A hardness of SHA30 to SHA70.

7. The button closure of claim 1 , wherein the personal item is any one from the group consisting of: pouch, bag, placemat, baby bib, baby products, mobile phone case, and food container.

8. The button closure of claim 1 , wherein the physical dimensions of the button closure are 23.32 mm diameter for the head portion, 11 mm diameter for the stalk portion and 1 ,02mm thickness for the base portion, where the level surface of the personal item has a thickness of 1 ,5mm to 2.3mm.

Images