Segmented Zipper Pull with Flexible Thermoplastic Body
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional zipper pulls are challenging for users with limited dexterity or mobility, as they require pinching and can easily snag on objects, making one-handed operation difficult, especially for individuals with disabilities or injuries.
Innovation Solution
A zipper pull with a flexible, thermoplastic body featuring a discontinuous perimeter and a geometric opening that allows for one-handed operation without pinching, designed to deform and release when caught, reducing the risk of snagging and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional zipper pulls are designed as tabs requiring pinching with two fingers, then the zipper can be operated, but users with limited dexterity or mobility find it difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The zipper pull is segmented into a pull body with a geometric opening and a pull tab, allowing the user to insert a finger through the opening and grip the pull tab, converting the pinching action into a simpler gripping motion that is easier for users with limited dexterity
Solution Approach 2:
The geometric opening acts as an intermediary element between the user's finger and the pull tab, enabling users to insert their finger through the opening to grip the pull tab, thereby facilitating operation for users who cannot perform pinching motions
2Reliability
If conventional zipper pulls are used, then the zipper can function, but the pulls easily snag on objects causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The pull body is made of flexible thermoplastic material that can deform when caught on objects, allowing it to bend and release from the snagged object, thereby preventing damage to the zipper or surrounding objects
Solution Approach 2:
The material properties of the pull body are changed by using flexible thermoplastic material with specific tensile strength and elongation characteristics, enabling the pull to deform under stress and release from snagged objects without breaking
3Ease of operation
If conventional zipper pulls require two-finger pinching, then the zipper operates as designed, but one-handed operation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The zipper pull is divided into a pull body with a geometric opening and a pull tab, allowing the user to insert a finger through the opening and grip the pull tab with one hand, simplifying the operation from two-finger pinching to one-handed gripping
Solution Approach 2:
The geometric opening serves as an intermediary that enables one-handed operation by allowing the user to insert their finger through it to grip the pull tab, eliminating the need for two-finger pinching
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates easier, one-handed operation of zippers for users with disabilities or limited mobility, while minimizing the risk of snagging and damage to the zipper or surrounding objects.
Implementation Method 1
the pull body is made of a flexible thermoplastic material that is resistant to deformation and has enough elastic resilience to allow the pull body to bend and release if accidentally caught on an object
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects herein relate to zippers and zipper pulls that are made to be more usable, such as by persons having limited dexterity. Particularly, the zipper pulls disclosed herein are configured to engage with at least one finger of a user to fully operate a zipper.