Segmented Elastic Laces with Interlocking Stops
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional single eyelet laces are limited in appearance and utility due to their fixed lengths and difficulty in use, as they require matching lace lengths with the number of eyelets and crisscrossing, which can lead to an unusual appearance and complex structure.
Innovation Solution
The U-lace system consists of elongated flexible members that can be flat, U-shaped, or bent, with openable stops that interlock, allowing for customizable lacing through eyelets, providing a modular lacing system with elastic bodies and toggle stops for easy use and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional single eyelet laces are used, then the lacing function is provided, but the appearance is limited and the structure is difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The lace is divided into multiple segments with individual openable stops at each end, allowing each segment to be independently adjusted and installed. This segmentation simplifies the lacing process by enabling modular assembly through eyelets without requiring complex threading patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The openable stops provide dynamic adjustment capability, allowing the lace configuration to be changed easily. The stops can be opened to pass through eyelets and then closed to secure the lace, enabling flexible reconfiguration without complex manipulation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional laces are used, then the lacing function is provided, but the appearance is limited by fixed lengths and crisscrossing patterns
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the lace into segments with openable stops, the system enables versatile configuration options. Each segment can be independently positioned and adjusted, allowing for multiple appearance styles without requiring complex crisscrossing patterns or precise length matching.
Solution Approach 2:
The openable stop design provides multi-functionality, serving both as a threading aid and as an appearance element. The same structural feature enables both easy installation and various aesthetic configurations, eliminating the need for specialized lacing patterns.
Data Source
AI summary
A kit including (a) an article having a plurality of pairs of opposing eyelets, including a first pair of opposing eyelets near a top of the article and a second pair of opposing eyelets disposed beneath the first pair of opposing eyelets; (b) a first lace that is threadable through respective eyelets of the first pair of opposing eyelets and fixable at insides of the eyelets, said first lace having (i) a first elastic body; and (ii) one of a stop or openable stop on one end of the first body; and (iii) an openable stop on an opposite end of the first body; and (c) a second lace that is threadable through respective eyelets of the second pair of opposing eyelets and fixable at insides of the eyelets, said second lace having (i) a second elastic body; and (ii) one of a stop or openable stop on one end of the second body; and (iii) an openable stop on an opposite end of the second body; and wherein at least the openable stop on the opposite end of the first body can interlock with the openable stop on the opposite end of the second body with the first and second laces threaded through the first and second pair of eyelets respectively. Also, a method for using the kit.