Shoelace Fastening System Using Segmented Hook-and-Loop Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for fastening shoelaces are time-consuming and cumbersome, requiring complex tying procedures that can be difficult for individuals to manage efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A lace-tying system comprising two soft and flexible components with complementary fastener portions, allowing for quick and easy lacing and tightening of shoelaces through strategically positioned openings and a hook-and-loop fastener mechanism, enabling the lace to be securely attached without the need for intricate bow-tying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional bow-tying method is used, then lace can be secured, but the process is time-consuming and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The tying system is divided into two separate components: a first component with a first fastener portion and a second component with a second fastener portion. These components can be independently manipulated and then joined together, simplifying the lacing process into discrete, manageable steps rather than requiring complex continuous bow-tying maneuvers.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second components act as intermediary devices between the lace and the final tied state. Instead of directly tying the lace into a bow, the lace is threaded through these intermediary components which then connect via fasteners, mediating the securing process and eliminating the need for traditional knot-tying skills.
2Reliability
If traditional lace tying is used, then secure fastening is achieved, but the procedure is complex and difficult to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second components are designed to self-align and self-secure when brought together. The complementary fastener portions automatically engage with each other, and the components' structures guide the lace into the correct positioning, reducing the need for complex manual manipulation and making the system easier to manage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the state of the lacing process from requiring dynamic knot-tying maneuvers to a static fastening mechanism. By transforming the lace-securing function into a fastener engagement problem rather than a knot-tying problem, the complexity is reduced while maintaining security.
3Reliability
If lace is threaded through multiple openings, then secure attachment is achieved, but the process becomes more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The lace is pre-threaded through the first component and second component in specific patterns before the components are joined. This preliminary arrangement of the lace within the components ensures that when the fasteners engage, the lace is already positioned for secure attachment, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments during the tying process.
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 rapid and secure fastening of shoelaces, reducing the time and effort required to secure footwear while maintaining a neat and attractive appearance, with components that can be easily attached and detached for convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a lace-tying system comprising two soft and flexible components with complementary fastener portions
Data Source
AI summary
A lace-tying system with two components through which both sides of a lace are laced is disclosed. The first component can slide down the lace to tighten the article of footwear or up the lace to loosen the article of footwear. After the first component is pushed down to the article of footwear top to tighten the article of footwear, the second component is attached to the first component using a fastener, thus forming a double bow with the portions of the lace between the first component and the second component.