Rotary Closure System with Dual-Position Actuating Element

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing closure systems for commodities like clothing and bags lack a compact, universally applicable, and easily operable locking mechanism that allows for adjustable closure without separating from the object, especially for width adjustments during use.

Innovation Solution

A rotary closure system with a coupling arrangement featuring adjustable actuating elements that allow for two unlocking positions, enabling the tension element to unwind for width adjustments and then rewind for secure closure, with optional electromotive actuation for enhanced security and convenience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a rotary locking assembly is integrated into the closure system for secure fastening, then the reliability of the closure is improved, but the device complexity increases and the ease of operation deteriorates due to multiple components and steps required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclosure securityVSAvoidlocking mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the locking mechanism and closure system into a single integrated unit where the locking assembly is incorporated directly into the closure element. The actuating element serves dual purposes: it operates the locking mechanism and simultaneously controls the closure function, eliminating the need for separate locking and closing operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The actuating element is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both the operating lever for the locking mechanism and the control element for the closure system. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of components while maintaining secure locking and reliable closure operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a rotary locking assembly with detent unit is used to fix the clamping disc in wound-up or unwound position, then the reliability of position fixation is improved, but the ease of operation worsens due to the need for precise positioning and multiple unlocking steps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition fixationVSAvoidunlocking operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism transitions from a static multi-position detent system to a dynamic sequential release system. The actuating element is designed to release detent elements in a controlled sequence: first releasing the first detent element for width adjustment, then releasing the second detent element for complete unlocking. This dynamic sequencing simplifies the user interaction while maintaining secure position fixation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism is segmented into multiple detent elements that can be released independently in sequence. The first detent element secures the clamping disc in fixed positions for width adjustment, while the second detent element provides the final secure locked position. This segmentation allows for staged unlocking operations that are easier to control than a single complex detent mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If the tension element is wound onto the clamping disc to tighten the closure, then the closure security is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates when width adjustment is needed during use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclosure tightnessVSAvoidwidth adjustment capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The closure system is designed to be dynamically adjustable during use. The actuating element enables the user to release the locking mechanism and rotate the clamping disc to adjust the tension on the closure element, allowing width adjustments while maintaining secure fastening. The system transitions from a fixed tight state to an adjustable state and back, providing both security and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3316716B1Closure system
Publication Date: 2019.12.11 ZIPP IT GMBH
  • EP3316716B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3316716B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3316716B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to a closure system (1) for objects of everyday use, comprising a rotary closure assembly (2), a closure piece (3), and a tensioning element (6). The rotary closure assembly (2) has a base part (9), a rotatably supported tensioning disk (10) for winding and unwinding a tension element (11) held thereon, and a releasable locking unit (12) for the tensioning disk (10). The locking unit (12) has an actuating device (13) having an actuating element (14). The rotary closure assembly (2) is removably held on the closure piece (3) by means of a coupling assembly (16). The actuating element (14) can be moved in a perpendicular direction with respect to an axis of rotation (20) of the tensioning disk (10) into a first release position and a following second release position. Locking elements (19, 21) of the locking unit (12) are disengaged in the first release position, and coupling elements (17, 18) of the coupling assembly (16) are disengaged in the second release position.