Adapter Panel Structure for Bidirectional MOLLE and Hook-and-Loop Use

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing organizational systems, such as hook-and-loop and MOLLE/PALS systems, lack adapters that can convert both systems bidirectionally, limiting their compatibility and versatility.

Innovation Solution

An adapter panel with opposing hook-and-loop surfaces and cross-axial cutouts allows for the conversion of MOLLE/PALS systems to hook-and-loop systems and vice versa, featuring a rigid center layer for structural stability and enabling vertical and horizontal strap integration, making it compatible with both systems and usable as a standalone organizational device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If hook-and-loop material is present on both sides of the adapter panel, then bidirectional adaptation capability is improved, but the structural stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebidirectional conversion capabilityVSAvoidpanel structural stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter panel employs a composite structure combining a rigid center layer (made from materials like polyester, nylon, or leather) with hook-and-loop material layers on both surfaces. This composite construction maintains structural stability while enabling bidirectional adaptation functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Adaptability or versatility

If cross-axial cutouts are added to the adapter panel for MOLLE strap integration, then compatibility with MOLLE systems is improved, but the panel's structural integrity may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveMOLLE system compatibilityVSAvoidpanel structural strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter panel incorporates cross-axial cutouts that create segmented openings for MOLLE strap integration. These cutouts are strategically designed to provide necessary access points while maintaining overall panel strength through the rigid center layer material selection and construction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Strength

If a rigid center layer is added to maintain structural stability, then panel strength is improved, but the flexibility and weight of the adapter may increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepanel structural strengthVSAvoidadapter panel weight

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The rigid center layer is constructed from lightweight yet strong materials such as polyester, nylon, or leather, optimizing the strength-to-weight ratio. This parameter optimization ensures the adapter panel maintains necessary structural integrity while minimizing added weight.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12108847B1Adapter panel for MOLLE PALS and hook and loop organization systems

Publication Date: 2024.10.08 GODAI GRP LLC

AI summary

Disclosed is an adapter panel which can be used for converting a MOLLE/PALS strap ladder surface to a hook-and-loop surface, as well as a hook-and-loop surface to MOLLE/PALS strap ladder surface. In some embodiments, the disclosed adapter panel may retain the functionality of the original system while adding the functionality of the second system. In some further embodiments, the adapter panel may be used as a stand-alone organizational system.