Integrated Knit Loop Closure for Textile Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional hook and loop fastening systems require separate attachment to articles, which can lead to irritation, delamination, and design constraints, and decrease the efficiency and elasticity of the finished product, as well as result in wasted materials.
Innovation Solution
An integrated loop closure system is developed using automated and 3D knitting technology, where the loop portions are formed and locked in place during the knitting process, eliminating the need for separate attachment and maintaining the article's elasticity and reducing waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hook and loop fastening systems are attached separately to articles, then fastening functionality is achieved, but the article's elasticity is decreased and material waste occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the loop closure system with the knitted article by integrating the loop portions directly into the knitted structure during the knitting process. This eliminates the need for separate attachment of hook and loop fasteners, thereby reducing material waste while maintaining fastening functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The knitted article serves multiple functions: it provides the structural fabric and simultaneously incorporates the loop closure system. The integrated loops function as both structural elements of the knitted article and as fastening components, eliminating the need for separate fastening materials.
2Reliability
If traditional hook and loop fastening systems are attached separately to articles, then fastening functionality is achieved, but the article's elasticity is decreased
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the loop closure system with the knitted article structure, the patent eliminates the need for separate attachments that would compromise elasticity. The loops are formed as part of the knitted fabric itself, ensuring the article maintains its full elastic properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating loop portions with specific structural characteristics that are optimized for both fastening function and elastic performance. The loops are knit with particular stitch patterns that allow them to function as fasteners while maintaining the overall elasticity of the knitted article.
3Reliability
If traditional hook and loop fastening systems are attached separately to articles, then fastening functionality is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by forming the loop portions during the initial knitting process rather than adding them later. The loops are created as part of the knitted structure itself, eliminating subsequent attachment steps and simplifying the overall manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the loop closure formation with the knitted article production process, the patent consolidates multiple operations into a single knitting process. This integration eliminates the need for separate attachment operations, reducing manufacturing complexity and time.
4Reliability
If traditional hook and loop fastening systems are attached separately to articles, then fastening functionality is achieved, but separate attachment materials are wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for separate attachment materials by integrating the loop closure system directly into the knitted article. The loops are formed using the same yarn and knitting process that creates the article itself, eliminating waste from separate fastening materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The knitted article serves itself by incorporating the loop closure system as an integral part of its structure. The article does not require external attachment materials or separate fastening components, as it provides its own loop closure functionality through the knitted loops.
Data Source
AI summary
A knit article having an integrated loop portion of a hook and loop fastener. The integrated loop portion is knitted and integrated into the knit article.