Magnetic Reclosable Closure for Remote Aperture Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closure mechanisms for garments and other applications, such as zippers and Velcro, are difficult for individuals with limited range of motion or motor control to operate, posing challenges for users with disabilities or impairments.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic closure system comprising first and second structural members with alternating magnetic polarities and an actuator mechanism that allows for remote operation, enabling the closure and opening of apertures without direct contact, using magnets with alternating polarities and an actuator mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional closure mechanisms (zippers, buttons, Velcro) are used, then the closure can be operated with simple mechanical structures, but the operation becomes difficult for individuals with limited range of motion or motor control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical closure mechanisms (zippers, buttons, Velcro) with a magnetic field-based closure system. Magnets embedded in the substrate provide the closing force, eliminating the need for complex mechanical components that require manual manipulation. This substitution of mechanical systems with magnetic fields directly addresses the contradiction by making the closure operable for individuals with limited motor control while maintaining structural simplicity through the inherent properties of magnetic materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic closure system operates autonomously through the natural attraction and repulsion of magnetic fields. When the substrate is subjected to magnetic fields (e.g., from a magnetizer or external magnetic source), the embedded magnets automatically align and provide closure without requiring manual manipulation of complex mechanical components. This self-service characteristic enables easy operation for users with limited mobility while keeping the device structure relatively simple.
2Ease of operation
If magnetic closure systems with embedded magnets are used, then ease of operation is improved for individuals with limited mobility, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs magnetic field parameters (strength, polarity, distribution) to control the closure behavior. By adjusting these magnetic parameters during the manufacturing process, the system achieves easy operation for users with limited mobility. The magnetic field characteristics can be modified through standard manufacturing techniques such as embedding magnets in specific patterns or using magnetic coatings, allowing for customization without requiring complex manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic closure system serves multiple functions through a unified approach: it provides closure, indicates opening/closing status, and can be controlled by various magnetic field sources. This multi-functionality is achieved by embedding magnets in the substrate and using them for both the closing mechanism and status indication, thereby simplifying manufacturing compared to systems that require separate components for each function.
3Ease of operation
If magnetic fields are used to control closure, then remote operation is enabled, but external magnetic interference may affect closure reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses the potential harm of external magnetic interference by using magnetic field characteristics in a beneficial way. The embedded magnets in the substrate are designed to respond specifically to controlled magnetic fields, allowing remote operation. The system converts the potential interference from external magnetic fields into a control mechanism, where the magnetic field strength and polarity can be used to reliably activate or deactivate the closure function, thereby maintaining reliability while enabling remote operation.
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 easy and remote operation of closures, facilitating use by individuals with limited mobility, and can be applied to a wide variety of substrates including garments, storage containers, and vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic closure system comprising first and second structural members with alternating magnetic polarities
Implementation Method 2
magnets with alternating polarities
Data Source
AI summary
A closure includes a first magnetic assembly, a second magnetic assembly and an actuator coupled to the first magnetic assembly and the second magnetic assembly. The actuator is arranged to reconfigure the first and second magnetic assemblies from a closed configuration in which the magnetic assemblies are attracted to one another to an open configuration in which the magnetic assemblies are repelled from one another. Where the magnetic assemblies are coupled to respective sides of an aperture in a flexible substrate, operation of the actuator will tend to open and close the aperture.