Adjustable Alteration Tack Assembly for Fabric Thickness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for temporarily altering the size of clothing, such as pinching fabric and using safety pins, are inefficient and not suitable for all fabric types, particularly thin and thick fabrics, as they lack a reliable and adjustable mechanism for secure fastening.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable device comprising a cap and a tack assembly with a hollow pin and solid post, allowing for adjustable positioning to securely fasten folded fabric, utilizing a friction fit and optional hook mechanism for varying fabric thicknesses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If safety pins or clips are used to secure folded fabric, then the fabric can be temporarily fastened, but the mechanism is not reliable for thin and thick fabrics and lacks adjustability
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a dynamic adjustment mechanism where the pin can be positioned at different locations along the post, allowing the distance between the cap and tack head to be varied. This dynamic positioning enables the device to adapt to different fabric thicknesses while maintaining reliable fastening through friction fit and optional hook engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of fastening distance by allowing the pin to be mounted at different positions on the post. This parameter adjustment enables the same device to effectively secure both thin and thick fabrics by optimizing the distance between the securing elements for each fabric type.
2Ease of operation
If existing fastening devices are used, then fabric can be secured, but additional fastening devices are required and the mechanism is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple fastening functions into a single integrated device. The cap, tack assembly with post and pin, and optional hook mechanism work together as one unit, eliminating the need for separate safety pins, clips, or other fastening devices. The friction fit between pin and post, combined with the hook mechanism, provides a complete fastening solution in one device.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can secure both thin and thick fabrics, provides adjustable fastening distances, and incorporates both friction fit and hook mechanisms for enhanced reliability. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for users to carry or select from multiple different fastening devices.
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
Provides a reliable and adjustable means to temporarily alter clothing size, effectively securing both thin and thick fabrics with a simple and versatile mechanism, ensuring a secure fit without the need for additional fastening devices.
Implementation Method 1
The pin and post may be made of different materials such that when the pin is inserted onto the post, friction maintains the pin and post at a desired position relative to one another
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable alteration tack assembly has (i) a tack with a hollow pin and (ii) a cap with a hole that receives the tack pin to assemble the cap onto the tack. The tack has a posted permanently mounted onto a head, where the post can be inserted into the hollow pin at different positions to achieve different distances between the tack head and the cap to secure pieces of fabric of different thicknesses. The assembly can be used to temporarily alter the size of an article of clothing, such as the waistband of a pair of pants.