Closure Device Knob Spool Connection Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lace closure devices experience a unstable connection between the knob and spool, leading to a weakened connection over time, posing safety risks, especially in applications like snow boots and bicycle shoes.
Innovation Solution
The closure device incorporates a knob with a spindle and ratchet member featuring a polygonal cavity and rib configuration, along with an engaging member and stopper mechanism, which enhances the friction and unidirectional engagement to securely wind and unwind the lace, utilizing a spring-loaded stopper for reliable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the conventional knob disengages from the spool for releasing the spool, then the release function is achieved, but the connection between the knob and spool becomes unstable after repeated usage
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging member is segmented into distinct functional elements: a polygonal body for anti-rotation, a protrusion for thread engagement, and an engaging gear for spool connection. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function independently, maintaining reliability while enabling release operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging member acts as an intermediary between the knob and spool. It transmits rotational force through the engaging gear while the protrusion engages with the spindle thread, providing a stable connection that can be reliably released when needed.
2Productivity
If the knob continuously engages with the spool for winding the lace, then the winding function is maintained, but the connection wears out after repeated usage
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging member dynamically transitions between engaged and disengaged states. During winding, the engaging gear meshes with the spool gear for force transmission. During release, the engaging member can disengage, allowing the spool to rotate freely without connection wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The thread engagement mechanism replaces continuous mechanical contact. The protrusion engages with the spindle thread at discrete points, reducing friction and wear compared to continuous surface contact, thereby extending connection lifespan.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the engaging member is restricted in the cavity with polygonal shape, then rotation is prevented, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The polygonal cavity and engaging member utilize asymmetric geometry to prevent rotation. The non-circular shapes mate together to allow only linear movement, providing anti-rotation stability through simple geometric constraints rather than complex mechanical locks.
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
The enhanced mechanism provides a stable and secure connection, ensuring consistent performance and safety by maintaining the lace's tension and preventing accidental release, even with repeated use.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the at least one rod has a spring sleeved thereon. The stopper is able sink downwardly due to the compression of the spring.
Implementation Method 2
The engaging member has an engaging hole defined therein and passing therethrough. The engaging hole has at least one protrusion inwardly extending from an inner periphery thereof for engaging with the thread of the spindle.
Data Source
AI summary
A closure device includes a knob. A ratchet member is mounted on a bottom of the knob. An engaging member is movably received in a cavity of the ratchet member. A spool is mounted on a bottom of the engaging member. A stopper is mounted around the spool. A base is proved for receiving the stopper, the spool, the engaging member, and the ratchet member.