Elastic Hook-and-Loop Fastener for Comfortable Undergarments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hook and eye fasteners are difficult to use, especially for individuals with weak grip or shaky hands, and can cause discomfort due to their hard materials, particularly when used in undergarments, leading to bulkiness and aesthetic issues.
Innovation Solution
A fastener system comprising self-restorable hook and loop tapes with adjustable overlapping, featuring a gripping portion and a retainer for easy manipulation, made from pliable and elastic materials like Velcro™, with a base layer that can be flipped to expose or conceal connectors, and a lamination of layers for comfort and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional hook and eye fasteners are used, then the fastening function is achieved, but the hard materials cause discomfort to the skin
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a cushioning layer between the hard connectors and the user's skin to prevent discomfort. This cushioning layer is integrated into the fastener structure, allowing the hard connectors to maintain their strength while the cushioning material absorbs the discomfort factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary cushioning layer that mediates between the hard connectors and the skin. This intermediary layer allows the hard connectors to fulfill their fastening function while protecting the skin from discomfort through the soft cushioning material.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If cushions are applied to mask hardness, then skin comfort is improved, but the fastener becomes very bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses thin film or flexible shell materials for the cushioning layer, providing skin comfort while minimizing bulk. The cushioning is achieved through a thin, flexible layer rather than a thick bulky material, maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the undergarment.
3Ease of operation
If the eye connector lies flat on the upper surface, then the structure is simple, but it is difficult to insert the hook connector without looking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the fastening mechanism dynamic by allowing the eye connector to be positioned in different orientations. The hook and eye connectors can be arranged to engage from multiple directions, enabling users to insert connectors without looking while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the dimensional arrangement of the connectors, allowing the eye connector to extend in different directions rather than lying flat in a single plane. This dimensional change enables easier insertion from various angles without requiring visual alignment.
4Reliability
If multiple pairs of hook and eye fasteners are used to securely close openings, then the fastening security is improved, but the difficulty of fastening blindfolded increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fastening system into multiple independent connector pairs distributed along the opening. Each segment can be fastened independently, allowing users to secure the garment reliably while the distributed arrangement enables blindfolded operation by providing multiple accessible engagement points.
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 system enhances usability for users with weak grip or shaky hands, reduces discomfort, and maintains a sleek appearance by using soft materials and adjustable length, making it easier to fasten and unfasten.
Implementation Method 1
a base layer which is movable from a first position in which the first connectors connectors are concealed, to a second position in which the first connectors are exposed
Data Source
AI summary
A fastener for use with undergarment, including a first tape having a body provided with a plurality of first connectors; a second tape having a body provided with a plurality of second connectors for connecting with the first connectors in the first tape; and each of the first and second tapes includes an attachment portion having a retainer adapted for connecting with the undergarment, the first and second connectors are elastic; and a method of forming the same.