Internal Cable Locking for Fast-Release Dynamic Footwear Lacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing footwear tightening systems are time-consuming to adjust, lack quick tension release mechanisms, and compromise aesthetics with external components, while automated systems fail to provide a seamless transition between tightened and loosened states.
Innovation Solution
A cable lock system with a locking member and biasing mechanism that allows for dynamic adjustment of footwear fit, incorporating a housing and locking member to securely engage and disengage a cable for rapid tensioning and loosening, housed within the footwear structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional laces or straps are used to adjust fit, then the upper can be secured around the foot, but the process is time-consuming and requires careful manual adjustment each time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical lacing systems with an automated cable-driven tensioning system. A cable runs through the upper and connects to an automated tensioning mechanism that can rapidly adjust fit by winding or unwinding the cable, eliminating manual lacing operations and reducing adjustment time significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning system incorporates a self-adjusting mechanism where the cable automatically tensions or releases based on user input (such as pulling a tab or activating a release mechanism). This allows the system to service itself without requiring manual manipulation of multiple laces or fasteners.
2Ease of operation
If automated tightening systems with external knobs are used, then cable tension can be adjusted, but the mechanism detracts from the appearance and aesthetics of the footwear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent conceals the tensioning mechanism within the footwear structure itself. The cable routing and tensioning components are nested inside the upper or sole structure, with only minimal external interfaces visible. This nesting approach maintains automated functionality while preserving the aesthetic appearance of the footwear.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the visible external knob mechanism from the footwear design and replaces it with internal cable routing and concealed tensioning elements. The essential tensioning function is extracted from its traditional external form and reimplemented in a way that is integrated into the footwear's existing structure, eliminating aesthetic compromises.
3Productivity
If known automated tightening systems are used, then the upper can be tightened around the foot, but the release mechanism requires simultaneous depression and pulling, which is not quick or convenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional release mechanism operation. Instead of requiring the user to depress and pull simultaneously to release tension, the system is designed so that a simple pulling motion on an external tab or cord automatically triggers the release. This inversion simplifies the release operation to a single intuitive motion that is both quick and easy to perform.
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
Enables quick and efficient adjustment of footwear fit, maintaining security and aesthetics by integrating the mechanism internally, allowing for seamless transitions between tightened and loosened states without external components.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing mechanism configured to apply a biasing force to the locking member to return the locking member to the locked state
Data Source
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AI summary
A cable lock includes a housing having a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface. The cable lock also includes a locking member slideably disposed between the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface and including a first lock element opposing the first engagement surface and a second lock element opposing the second engagement surface. The first lock element includes a first series of teeth and a second series of teeth arranged in parallel with the first series of teeth. The first lock element is operable to engage a first portion of a cable. The second lock element includes a first series of teeth and a second series of teeth arranged in parallel with the first series of teeth of the second lock element. The second lock element is operable to engage a second portion of the cable.