Athletic Bag Closure With Magnetic Access and Replaceable Straps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing athletic equipment bags require two hands to operate and are difficult for users with limited dexterity, and if straps are damaged, the entire bag needs to be replaced.

Innovation Solution

A closure system that allows single-handed access and interchangeable straps, featuring a combination of zippers, magnets, and adjustable loops for easy operation, and modular strap connections that allow for strap replacement or swapping.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional closure systems with zippers and pull-tabs are used, then the bag can be securely closed, but it requires two hands to operate and is difficult for users with limited dexterity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of closure operationVSAvoidclosure system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The closure system is segmented into separate magnetic components: magnetic closures attached to the bag body and corresponding magnetic receptacles on the panel. This segmentation allows each component to be simple and independently operable, enabling single-handed operation while maintaining secure closure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The traditional mechanical zipper and pull-tab system is replaced with a magnetic closure system. The magnetic attraction force automatically engages the closures when the panel is closed, eliminating the need for complex mechanical zippers that require two hands to operate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Stability of the object's composition

If straps are sewn at both ends of the bag, then the bag structure is stable, but if one or more straps are damaged, the entire bag must be replaced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebag structural stabilityVSAvoidstrap replacement ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The strap system is segmented into detachable components. Straps are attached to the bag body through separate attachment mechanisms (such as D-rings, clips, or magnetic attachments) rather than being permanently sewn. This allows individual straps to be replaced or adjusted without affecting the entire bag structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The strap attachment system is made dynamic and adjustable. Straps can be detached, reattached, or repositioned at different locations on the bag body, providing flexibility for repair and customization while maintaining structural stability during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple compartments are included in the bag, then functionality and storage capacity are improved, but access to compartments becomes more difficult for users with limited dexterity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage functionalityVSAvoidcompartment access ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The bag is segmented into multiple compartments, each with its own independent magnetic closure system. This segmentation allows users to access individual compartments without needing to open the entire bag or manipulate complex multi-layer closures, making compartment access easier for users with limited dexterity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 users with limited dexterity to easily access compartments and allows for strap customization without replacing the entire bag, enhancing usability and convenience.

Implementation Method 1

The closure system may include a first set of magnets and a second set of magnets

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS20250000243A1Athletic equipment bag including a closure system
Publication Date: 2025.01.02 NIKE INC
  • US20250000243A1 patent drawing
  • US20250000243A1 patent drawing
  • US20250000243A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A bag having a back panel extending from a bottom end toward a top end. The back panel having a plurality of loops disposed along the top end and the bottom end; at least one detachable strap; and at least two fasteners. Each of the at least two fasteners are attachable to the at least one detachable strap. Each fastener is able to be detachably coupled to the back panel via at least one of the plurality of loops.