Cap with Segmented Flexible Strand Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing caps lack effective retention mechanisms, particularly for vigorous activities, as chin straps are difficult to use and maintain, and there is a need for a secure yet easily configurable solution to prevent detachment during use and storage.
Innovation Solution
A cap design featuring elongate flexible strands with adjustable beads that allow for secure fitting around the neck, enabling easy adjustment and reconfiguration without removal, using materials like twine or plastic, and securement techniques such as knots or sewing to maintain the cap on the head.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a chin strap is added to secure the cap during vigorous activities, then the cap retention reliability is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to difficulty in use and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The chin strap is divided into two separate flexible strands that can be independently threaded through the bead, allowing for easier adjustment and configuration without requiring a complex single-piece strap system
Solution Approach 2:
The bead can slide along the flexible strands to dynamically adjust the tension and configuration of the chin strap, enabling easy reconfiguration during use without requiring removal or complex manipulation
2Reliability
If a retention mechanism is integrated into the cap, then the cap retention reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bead serves multiple functions: it acts as a retention mechanism when positioned at the rear of the cap, a configuration tool for adjusting the chin strap, and a storage device for the flexible strands when not in use, eliminating the need for separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to be self-configuring through the bead's ability to slide and lock into position along the flexible strands, allowing users to easily adjust and secure the cap without requiring complex assembly procedures or additional tools
Data Source
AI summary
A cap includes a crown portion being generally hemispherical in shape and having a hollow interior such that the crown portion defines an interior surface and an exterior surface and the crown portion further includes an apex and a generally circular base. A securement mechanism includes a first and a second elongate flexible strand where each of the flexible strands have a first, a second end, and a mid portion. A bead defines a pair of openings there through where a first end of the first flexible strand extends through a first one of the pair of openings and a first end of the second flexible strand extends through a second one of the pair of openings. The cap retains the second end of each of the flexible strands on opposing sides of the cap.