Acute Angle Securing Button Cord Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional face masks and face shields often cause discomfort due to elastic cord pressure on the ears and lack of adjustability, as they are typically manufactured in a single size and require tying cords at the back of the head for securement.
Innovation Solution
A securing device with adjustable straps and securing buttons featuring acute angles and slits to prevent cord slippage, along with a ratchet system for easy adjustment, allowing for secure and comfortable fitting without needing to adjust the cords themselves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If elastic cords are used to secure the mask to the wearer's ears, then the mask can be easily secured, but the wearer experiences discomfort from pressure on the back of the ears
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (the securing device with buttons and loops) between the elastic cord and the wearer's ear. This intermediary distributes the pressure from the elastic cord across a broader area and redirects it away from the sensitive ear canal region, thereby maintaining the ease of elastic cord securement while eliminating the harmful ear pressure discomfort
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the original single-function elastic cord system into multiple functional components: the elastic cord itself, the securing device with adjustable straps, and the button/loop mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the elastic cord provides tension, while the segmented securing device structures distribute and manage this tension to avoid direct pressure on the ears
2Ease of manufacture
If masks are manufactured in a single size, then manufacturing is simplified, but the masks do not fit all wearers properly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the securing device adjustable through multiple mechanisms: the connecting element can be positioned at different locations along the strap, the strap length can be modified, and the securing buttons can be repositioned. This dynamic adjustability allows a single-size mask to adapt to different head sizes and shapes, achieving proper fit for various wearers while maintaining simple manufacturing of the base mask component
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by allowing the wearer to modify key geometric parameters of the securing device - specifically the effective strap length and the position of the connecting element. These parameter adjustments enable the same mask structure to accommodate different head circumferences and shapes, providing versatile fit adaptation without requiring multiple mask sizes
3Reliability
If non-elastic cords are used and tied at the back of the head, then the mask can be secured with tension, but it is difficult to tie them with enough tension while remaining comfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through the automatic locking mechanism formed by the button and loop interaction. When the strap is pulled tight, the button automatically engages with the loop and locks in place, providing reliable securement without requiring the wearer to perform complex tying operations. The system self-adjusts and self-secures, eliminating the difficulty of manual cord tying while maintaining adequate tension for reliable mask attachment
4Adaptability or versatility
If the connecting element position is adjusted on the strap, then the mask fit can be customized, but the adjustment mechanism adds complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the adjustment function into discrete, simple components: the strap is divided into sections with predetermined positions for the connecting element, and the securing device includes separate adjustable elements (buttons and loops) that can be independently positioned. This segmentation of the adjustment mechanism into simple, discrete parts provides mask fit customization capabilities while avoiding the complexity of continuous or multi-component adjustment systems
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device provides a comfortable and secure method to attach face masks and shields, eliminating ear pressure and the need to tie cords, while allowing for easy adjustment to fit various head sizes without disturbing the wearer.
Implementation Method 1
The friction produced by the cord being bent around the slits and around the acute angle of the connecting leg prevent the cord from slipping once it is in position
Data Source
AI summary
A securing device that allows adjustable securing of a face mask, face shield or goggles to a wearer's head is formed from a first portion having a strap, a first end with a securing button and a connecting element, and a second portion having a strap, a first end with a securing button and a connecting receptacle for interacting with the connecting element to connect the two straps together. The securing buttons are formed from a top plate connected to a bottom plate via a connecting leg having a cross section with an acute angle. The bottom plate has slits extending from an outer edge to the connecting leg on both sides of the acute angle, such that a cord is securable to the securing button by inserting the cord into one of the slits, wrapping the cord around the acute angle of the connecting leg and exiting from the other of the slits.