Adjustable Closing Device for Footwear with Interlocking Grooves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closing devices for footwear, such as those using laces or Velcro, are laborious to operate, prone to detachment, and do not ensure rapid opening, especially in safety shoes, and are aesthetically unpleasing with protruding tongues.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable closing device comprising a first connection element with a tongue and a second connection element featuring a grasping device with a box-shaped body and locking mechanism, allowing for secure and rapid adjustment of the distance between two flaps, with ergonomic gripping portions and a push button for easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If laces are used to close the shoe, then the closure can be adjusted, but the closing and opening operations become long and laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The closing device is divided into two separate connection elements (first and second) that can be independently attached to different flaps. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function while enabling rapid assembly and disassembly without the complexity of traditional lacing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The tongue acts as an intermediary element that connects the first connection element to the second connection element. This intermediary component facilitates rapid coupling and decoupling operations, eliminating the time-consuming processes of threading laces through eyelets or manipulating Velcro fasteners.
2Loss of time
If Velcro fastening is used, then the closing operation is faster, but the closure becomes weak and prone to detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The connection elements feature grooved surfaces with complementary convex and concave geometries. When engaged, these curved surfaces interlock to create a mechanically strong connection that resists detachment from bumps or normal use, while still allowing for rapid engagement and disengagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the adhesive-based Velcro mechanical system with a geometric interlocking system based on complementary grooves and convex surfaces. This substitution provides superior mechanical strength and reliability while maintaining rapid operation capability.
3Ease of operation
If a tongue protrudes from the front of the shoe for closure, then the closure function is achieved, but it creates a dangerous foothold and aesthetic issue
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful protruding tongue is extracted and replaced by a recessed groove structure. The connection elements are designed with grooves that receive corresponding protrusions, eliminating the need for external tongues that protrude from the shoe front, thereby removing the dangerous foothold while maintaining the closure function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having a protruding tongue that extends outward for engagement, the invention inverts the concept by creating recessed grooves that receive engagement elements. This inversion eliminates the hazardous protrusion while achieving the same closure functionality through a safer, recessed geometry.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention refers to an adjustable closing device adapted to be used to maintain two portions of an article of clothing or footwear at a desired adjustable distance, or to obtain a quick release of these two portions.