Hook and Loop Fastener Easy Access Tab Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hook and loop fastener closures lack an effective entry point for easy opening, often resulting in damage due to excessive pulling forces, and existing solutions like additional straps or material modifications add weight and complexity.
Innovation Solution
An easy access tab is integrated into the hook closure by folding an edge portion over the central hook surface and sonically heat bonding it, creating a recess for digit insertion without adding weight or damaging the closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional hook and loop fastener closures are used without additional entry point structures, then the closure maintains simplicity and low weight, but the opening process requires excessive pulling forces that can damage the closure elements
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener closure is segmented by creating a designated entry point that separates the opening action from the main closure structure. This allows the opening force to be applied at a specific location rather than distributed across the entire closure, preventing damage to the hook and loop elements while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary structure is introduced at the entry point to mediate the opening process. This intermediary element allows fingers to be inserted and provides a controlled starting point for separation, reducing the direct pulling forces on the delicate hook and loop fastener elements and preventing damage.
2Ease of operation
If additional straps or material modifications are added to create an entry point, then easier opening is achieved, but the weight and structural complexity of the closure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The entry point structure is merged with the existing fastener closure components rather than being added as a separate element. The tab is formed from the same material and integrated into the closure structure, eliminating the need for additional straps or separate parts while still providing the necessary opening assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing fastener materials and structures are designed to serve multiple functions: the tab portion serves both as part of the closure mechanism and as the entry point for opening. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components, maintaining simplicity while enabling easy opening.
3Ease of operation
If fabric and webbing tabs are separated and stitched or glued to create an entryway, then digit access is improved, but material layer buildup occurs resulting in extra weight
Solution Approach 1:
The tab structure is formed as an integrated portion of the existing fastener material rather than as a separate piece requiring attachment. This merging eliminates the need for stitching or gluing operations and prevents material layer buildup, thereby avoiding additional weight while still providing the necessary digit access for opening.
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
Facilitates controlled and damage-free opening of hook and loop closures by providing a low-profile, digit-accessible entryway without altering the closure's thickness or integrity, allowing for consistent and effective 'tear away' separation.
Implementation Method 1
subsequently sonically heat bonded to itself as a single layer maintaining a low profile
Data Source
AI summary
A releasable fastener assembly which includes a first panel carrying an area of a first engagement material; and a second panel carrying an area of a second engagement material. The first and second engagement materials are releasably securable to one another. A portion of a perimeter of the area of the second engagement material defines a recess which extends in a direction nonparallel to an edge of the second panel and into the area of the second engagement material. The recess is accessible from the edge of the second panel. Further included is a method for using the releasable fastener assembly.