Bra Strap Protrusion Mechanism for Length Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current adjustable bra straps rely on friction, which fails to maintain the desired length throughout the day due to gravity and wearer movement, leading to poor fit and discomfort, and existing solutions like safety pins or tape can be unsightly and ineffective.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable bra strap system featuring a piece of fabric with an adjustment mechanism and a protrusion that inserts through the fabric to secure it in place, preventing lengthening and providing a stable fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If friction-based adjustment mechanism is used, then strap can be adjusted to desired length, but strap lengthens over time due to gravity and movement
Solution Approach 1:
The strap system is divided into discrete segments: adjustable length portion, excess strap portion, and securing element. This segmentation allows the strap to be adjusted to a precise length while the excess portion is systematically managed and secured, preventing the reliability issue of gradual lengthening.
Solution Approach 2:
The excess strap portion is pre-configured and intentionally designed to be secured after adjustment. By performing the securing action as a deliberate preliminary step, the system prevents the potential problem of strap lengthening before it occurs, ensuring long-term stability.
2Reliability
If safety pins or clips are used to prevent strap lengthening, then strap stability improves, but visible lumps appear under clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element is designed with differentiated local qualities: it has a functional side for securing the strap (protrusion that pierces fabric) and an aesthetic side that is smooth and flush with the strap surface. This allows the same component to provide both reliability (preventing lengthening) and maintain smooth appearance under clothing.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element acts as an intermediary between the functional requirement (strap stability) and the aesthetic requirement (smooth appearance). It mediates by providing a secure anchoring mechanism while its smooth outer surface eliminates visible lumps, satisfying both conflicting requirements.
3Ease of operation
If friction-based mechanism is used, then adjustment is simple, but frequent re-adjustment is needed
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the strap into adjustable and excess portions with a dedicated securing element, the system achieves initial adjustment simplicity while eliminating the need for frequent re-adjustment. The securing element permanently fixes the adjusted length, preventing time loss from repeated adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element is designed to be engaged immediately after adjustment as a preliminary action. This preliminary securing prevents the strap from lengthening over time, thereby eliminating the need for frequent re-adjustment and the associated time loss.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for adjustable straps are disclosed. In various exemplary embodiments, adjustable slider-like mechanisms are configured with one or more protrusions for inserting through corresponding slits in a garment strap, for example a brassiere strap. In this manner, adjustable straps may be fixed in place and resist slippage, leading to improved wearer comfort and reducing or eliminating the need for regular adjustment.