Releasable Interlocking Fastener for Apparel Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for attaching event identification numbers to athletic apparel, such as safety pins, cause damage to expensive materials, are inconsistent, and pose safety risks, especially in competitive events with varying conditions.
Innovation Solution
A releasable interlocking device comprising a female plate with a central recess and a male plate with a stud head that snap-fits through the apparel and identification number, allowing secure attachment without piercing or stitching, accommodating varying material thicknesses and providing a positive connection indication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If safety pins are used to attach event identification numbers to apparel, then the attachment method is simple and widely available, but the apparel material is damaged and safety risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the harmful piercing action from the attachment process. Instead of piercing the apparel with pins, the system uses a male plate with a stud that passes through the identification number and engages with a female plate that clamps onto the apparel surface, completely avoiding penetration of the apparel material.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary attachment system consisting of male and female plates that mediate between the identification number and the apparel. This intermediary mechanism transfers the attachment function from direct pin-to-apparel contact to a multi-component system that protects the apparel from damage.
2Ease of manufacture
If safety pins are used to attach event identification numbers to apparel, then the attachment method is simple, but consistency of attachment is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the attachment interface. The male plate features a precisely engineered stud with specific dimensions that match corresponding recesses in the female plate, creating a standardized interface that ensures consistent attachment across multiple uses and different apparel types.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is segmented into distinct functional components: the male plate for insertion, the female plate for clamping, and the stud mechanism for engagement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall attachment consistency.
3Device complexity
If traditional pin methods are used, then no special device is needed, but the attachment causes tearing during detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the tearing action from the detachment process by eliminating the piercing mechanism entirely. The male plate with its stud design allows for clean removal without pulling or tearing the apparel fabric, as the stud simply passes through the identification number and disengages from the female plate without exerting lateral forces on the apparel.
4Ease of manufacture
If safety pins are used for attachment, then the fastening method is readily available, but safety hazards arise from accidental opening
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates preliminary safety actions in the design of the male and female plate engagement mechanism. The stud on the male plate is designed to engage securely with the female plate's recess, creating a positive lock that prevents accidental disengagement during athletic activities, while still allowing intentional removal when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A releasable interlocking device comprising a pair of interactive plates, for fastening to apparel utilizing a system of two interactive plates which when brought together utilizes the thickness of the apparel and stud of a male plate to engage through the lips of the female plate to snap fit and lock without damage to the aforesaid apparel.