Recessed Belt Loop Channels for Snag-Free Garment Surfaces

Solution Overview

Problem

Garment belt loops are often conspicuous and prone to catching on exterior structures when not in use, disrupting the smooth outer surface of the garment.

Innovation Solution

The integration of channels within garments that recess belt loops, allowing them to be partially or fully concealed when not in use, maintaining a smoother outer surface and reducing visibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If belt loops are integrated into the garment surface, then they are easily accessible for belt insertion, but they become conspicuous and prone to catching on exterior structures

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebelt insertion accessibilityVSAvoidsnagging risk and visual conspicuousness

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The belt loop is nested within a recessed channel in the garment surface. When the belt is not in use, the loop sits within the channel, creating a smooth exterior surface that reduces snagging risk and visual conspicuousness. When needed, the loop can be accessed by pulling it outward from the channel.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The belt loop system transitions from a two-dimensional surface-mounted loop to a three-dimensional recessed structure. The channel creates depth in the garment surface, allowing the loop to be positioned at different levels (retracted vs. extended) to balance accessibility with aesthetic and functional safety.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If belt loops are made visible and protruding, then they are easily identified and accessed, but they disrupt the smooth outer surface of the garment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebelt loop identification and accessVSAvoidouter surface smoothness

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The belt loop is nested within a recessed channel in the garment surface. When the belt is not in use, the loop sits within the channel, creating a smooth exterior surface that reduces snagging risk and visual conspicuousness. When needed, the loop can be accessed by pulling it outward from the channel.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The belt loop system is dynamic rather than static. The loop can transition between a retracted position (maintaining surface smoothness) and an extended position (facilitating belt insertion). This dynamic positioning allows the garment to adapt its surface characteristics based on operational needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12376636B2Recessed belt loop

Publication Date: 2025.08.05 AMER SPORTS CANADA INC

AI summary

A garment may include a body having a channel and a belt loop extending along and at least partially recessed within the channel.