Footwear Fastening System with Integrated Hook and Loop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fastening systems for footwear, such as hook and loop fasteners, lack variability and adjustability, appear bulky and are aesthetically unpleasing, increasing manufacturing complexity and the risk of device failure.
Innovation Solution
A fastening system for footwear featuring multiple strap systems with grasping and open members that can be adjusted in various directions and angles, integrated into a layered structure with a hook and loop compatible outer layer, allowing for customizable tension and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional hook and loop fasteners are applied to footwear, then fastening function is achieved, but the appearance becomes bulky and aesthetically unpleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the visible hook and loop fastener pads from the external view by integrating them into the footwear structure. The fastening system uses hooks embedded in the footwear upper that engage with loop members on the strap, eliminating the need for visible external fastener pads and achieving a sleek, aesthetically pleasing appearance while maintaining reliable fastening function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs thin, flexible strap structures with loop members that can be seamlessly integrated into the footwear design. These thin film-like components allow the fastening system to be nearly invisible when fastened, maintaining aesthetic appearance while providing secure fastening through the hook-loop engagement mechanism.
2Reliability
If conventional hook and loop fasteners are attached to the shoe, then fastening is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the hook fastener elements directly into the footwear upper construction, eliminating the need for separate attachment steps for fastener pads. The hooks are integrated during footwear manufacturing, and the loop members are incorporated into the strap assembly, reducing the number of components and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining fastening capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap structure serves multiple functions: it provides the loop members for fastening, acts as the tensioning element, and integrates with the footwear upper. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying manufacturing while achieving reliable fastening.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fastener pads are used for adjustability, then variability is improved, but device complexity and bulkiness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic fastening system where the strap can be positioned at multiple locations along the footwear upper, each with hook engagements that provide adjustable tension. This dynamic positioning capability offers variability and adaptability without requiring multiple separate fastener pads, reducing system complexity while maintaining adjustability.
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 provides a comfortable, customizable fit, reduces bulkiness, and enhances the aesthetic appeal of footwear while simplifying manufacturing by allowing precise control over fastening characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
the strap including a first contact fastener material disposed on the inner portion; the upper being made of a second contact fastener material; and where the first contact fastener is configured to engage the second contact fastener
Data Source
AI summary
An article of footwear including a fastening system is disclosed. The fastening system is adjustable and includes portions that can be directly attached to the article. The article can be made of a material that is capable of engaging portions of the fastening system. The fastening system can also include portions that are disposed underneath an outer layer.