Magnetic Tab and Clamp Closure for Leather Goods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for opening and closing leather goods, such as satchels and backpacks, are often complex in both manufacturing and usage, requiring manual handling of clamps and buttons, which can be cumbersome and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic opening and closing device featuring a tab with a pinching zone and magnetic inserts, and a clamp with movable positions, allowing the tab to pivot the clamp open or closed automatically through magnetic interaction, enabling the article to be closed by simply inserting the tab without handling the clamp.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional push-button clasp with loop is used, then the article can be closed securely, but the device becomes complex and cumbersome to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical push-button clasp system with a magnetic field-based closing mechanism. The first magnetic insert in the tab and second magnetic insert in the clamp create magnetic attraction that automatically pulls the clamp closed when the tab is inserted, eliminating the need for manual button pressing and simplifying the operation while maintaining secure closing.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic insertion device enables self-service operation where the closing action is performed automatically by the magnetic attraction between inserts rather than requiring manual manipulation of a clasp mechanism. The system serves itself by using the insertion motion to trigger the magnetic closing action without additional user input.
2Ease of operation
If a magnetic insertion device is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to magnetic inserts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the magnetic closing function into separate modular components: a first magnetic insert integrated into the tab and a second magnetic insert integrated into the clamp. This segmentation allows each magnetic component to be manufactured and tested independently, then assembled into the respective parts, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite adding magnetic functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic inserts serve multiple functions: they provide the closing force through magnetic attraction, guide the tab insertion path, and maintain the closed position through continuous magnetic hold. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate mechanisms, offsetting the complexity added by the magnetic components themselves.
3Ease of operation
If the clamp is made rotatable between open and closed positions, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simple pivot mechanism that allows the clamp to rotate between open and closed positions without requiring high-precision bearings or complex hinge structures. The pivot is designed as a basic rotational joint that provides sufficient movement freedom for operation while avoiding the need for precision manufacturing, effectively using a simpler, less durable but easier to manufacture solution.
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 device simplifies the closing process by automatic magnetic interaction, ensuring secure locking and easy opening, with the clamp returning to its closed position by gravity, providing a convenient and economical solution for leather goods.
Implementation Method 1
the first magnetic insert and the second magnetic insert are configured so that they repel each other when they are located in the immediate vicinity of each other
Implementation Method 2
when the tab is introduced further into the clamp and the first magnetic insert of the tab is no longer opposite, i.e. moves away from, the second magnetic insert of the clamp, the clamp pivots automatically to return to its closed position, in particular by gravity
Data Source
Figure 1~3A
Figure 4~5a
Figure 6~7a
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for opening/closing an article, having a tab (5) provided with a gripping zone (14) and a first magnetic insert (16), a gripper (6) that is rotatable between an open position and a closed position and is provided with a gripping member and a second magnetic insert, said tab and said gripper being configured such that said gripper is pivoted from its closed position to its open position when said tab is introduced into said gripper, with said first magnetic insert in the immediate vicinity of said second magnetic insert, and said gripper is pivoted from its open position to its closed position when said tab is introduced into said gripper again, with said first magnetic insert at a distance from said second magnetic insert, said opening and closing device then being in a locked configuration in which said gripping member cooperates with said gripping zone and keeps said tab in position with respect to said gripper.