Magnetic Temple Tethering for Retractable Eyeglasses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing eyeglass tethering devices are limited in shape and size, costly, unsightly, and difficult to manufacture, and often prevent conventional use, while externally coupled or retrofitted devices are easily lost and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
Self-tethering eyeglasses with temples containing removable and magnetically couplable distal portions and flexible metallic cables within internal channels, allowing for easy extension and retraction without external reels or attachments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If externally coupled or retrofitted tethering devices are used, then tethering function is provided, but the devices are easily lost and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the tethering mechanism directly into the temple structure of the eyeglasses, merging the tethering function with the existing frame rather than using external attachments. This eliminates the risk of separate tethering devices being lost while maintaining ease of use through seamless integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The temple incorporates self-contained tethering components including cables, magnets, and engagement mechanisms that automatically secure to the user's clothing without requiring external devices or complex user assembly, providing reliable and convenient tethering.
2Reliability
If tethering devices are incorporated into temples, then tethering function is provided, but the design becomes complicated and intricate increasing cost and manufacturing difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The temple is divided into functional segments: a main temple body, a cable housing portion, and a distal portion with magnetic coupling. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using standard processes and then assembled, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining reliable tethering function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a cable as an intermediary element that runs through the temple channel and connects the distal portion to the main temple body. This simple cable mechanism provides the tethering function without requiring complex mechanical linkages, gears, or motors, thereby simplifying manufacturing.
3Reliability
If conventional tethering devices are used, then tethering function is provided, but they are difficult and inefficient to extend or connect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection mechanisms (such as clips, snaps, or threaded fasteners) with magnetic coupling between the distal portion and the user's clothing. This allows for effortless extension and connection through simple magnetic attraction, eliminating the need for manual assembly or complex mechanical operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable is designed to be dynamically extendable and retractable within the temple channel, allowing the user to easily adjust the tether length as needed. The cable can be pulled out when extension is required and automatically retracts or can be pushed back when not needed, providing flexible and efficient 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
Provides a cost-effective, efficient, and inconspicuous solution for securing eyeglasses to a user's neck, minimizing loss and maintaining functionality.
Implementation Method 1
with the distal portion including a magnet operably configured to magnetically couple to a magnet on a user's clothing
Data Source
AI summary
Self-tethering eyeglasses that include a pair of distal portions located on the terminal end of the temples of the eyeglasses, wherein the pair of distal portions each include a permanent magnet coupled thereto or formed thereon and are attached to a flexible cable that is freely disposed and movable within an internal channel formed within the temples and include a flange member coupled thereto that restricts the cable from being removed from the temple. As such, a user may remove the distal portions of the temples and magnetically couple them together to secure the eyeglasses to the head or neck area of the user.