Retaining Device Geometry for Strong Hooks with Less Material
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hook closing systems face issues with retaining force, manufacturing constraints, and material consumption due to oversizing, which is detrimental in fields like hygiene, and are affected by raw material shortages.
Innovation Solution
A retaining device with a specific geometry featuring straight or substantially straight retaining elements, optimized dimensions, and a base design that allows for reproducibility and use of a wider range of materials, enhancing mechanical strength and reducing deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If hooks are oversized to achieve high resistance, then retaining force is improved, but material consumption increases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the retaining element, specifically defining precise relationships between the rod diameter (dr), head diameter (dh), and rod length (l) through dimensionless ratios. The head diameter is set between 0.5-1.5 times the rod diameter, and the rod length is set between 2-10 times the rod diameter, optimizing strength while minimizing material usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different diameters to different parts of the retaining element - the head has a larger diameter (dh) than the rod (dr) to provide gripping surface area, while the rod maintains a smaller, optimized diameter for structural strength. This local differentiation of dimensions optimizes both retaining force and material efficiency.
2Strength
If hooks are oversized to achieve high resistance, then retaining force is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes specific parameter ranges and ratios (head diameter 0.5-1.5 times rod diameter, rod length 2-10 times rod diameter) that simplify manufacturing by providing clear design guidelines while ensuring consistent retaining performance across production batches.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining element is divided into two distinct functional segments - the rod providing structural support and the head providing gripping function. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently for its specific function, simplifying the overall manufacturing process.
3Loss of substance
If retaining elements are reduced in dimension, then material consumption is reduced, but retaining force decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dimensionless ratios to scale the retaining element dimensions - the rod length is set at 2-10 times the rod diameter, and the head diameter is set at 0.5-1.5 times the rod diameter. This proportional scaling ensures that even small retaining elements maintain adequate retaining force through optimized geometry rather than increased size.
Solution Approach 2:
The head of the retaining element is given a curved or rounded shape with diameter dh, which provides effective gripping surface area. The curved geometry of the head allows it to engage with loops or fabric more effectively, maintaining retaining force despite reduced overall dimensions of the element.
4Strength
If retaining elements have complex geometry to improve retention, then retaining force is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent defines specific parameter ranges (rod length 2-10 times rod diameter, head diameter 0.5-1.5 times rod diameter) that balance geometric complexity with manufacturing feasibility. These standardized ratios allow for consistent production while maintaining effective retaining geometry.
Data Source
AI summary
Retaining device (1) comprising a base (10), a plurality of retaining elements (20) comprising a rod (30) surmounted by a head (40); in which, for each retaining element (20), in projection in a plane formed by the upper face (12) of the base (10), the lower end (34) of the rod (30) is inscribed within a first circle C1 with center O1, the head (40) is inscribed within a second circle C2 with center O2, said second circle being tangent to one end of the head (40) along the longitudinal direction (MD), the maximum dimension of the head (40) passing through the center of the circle C2 and extending along the longitudinal direction (MD) and/or the transverse direction (CD) is less than 80% of the diameter D2 of the second circle C2.