Shoelace Protector for Eyelet Bending Durability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current shoelace guards are either too expensive or lack the necessary durability to protect the shoelace from damage, particularly where it bends at the eyelets, which is a common point of wear and tear during skateboarding.
Innovation Solution
A shoelace protector device comprising a fastening member inserted into a shoe eyelet, an enclosure surrounding the shoelace on the exterior, and an upper section with a semicircular shape and curved portion to protect the lace where it bends, along with a bracket to guide the lace and prevent damage from friction and pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current shoelace guards are used, then the shoelace is protected from damage, but the cost increases or the durability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing protection only at the specific location where the shoelace bends at the eyelet, rather than protecting the entire shoelace. The guard is positioned precisely at the critical bending point to prevent fraying and damage in that localized area, making the protection more cost-effective and durable.
Solution Approach 2:
The shoelace guard is divided into separate functional components: a body portion that protects the bending area, a fastening member for attachment to the eyelet, and an enclosure that surrounds the shoelace. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for durability and cost-effectiveness.
2Reliability
If the shoelace is fully protected, then durability is improved, but the functionality and flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The guard provides localized protection only at the bending point where the shoelace contacts the eyelet, leaving the rest of the shoelace exposed and functional. This allows the shoelace to maintain its flexibility and lacing functionality while being protected from damage at the critical stress point.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of fully enclosing and restricting the shoelace, the patent uses a partial protection approach where the guard covers only the necessary bending area. This partial action provides sufficient protection against fraying and damage while preserving the shoelace's operational flexibility and movement.
Data Source
AI summary
A shoelace protector can include a fastening member, enclosure and upper section. The fastening member can be inserted into to an eyelet of a shoe to properly support the shoelace protector. The shoelace can be strung into the fastening member and through the enclosure. The enclosure can surround the shoe lace on an exterior portion of the shoe. The shoelace can then be placed through the upper section. The upper section can provide a narrow slit such that the shoelace can be fit therethrough. Two or more shoelace protectors can be fitted into the eyelets of the shoe. The protectors can be positioned on the lower eyelets such that the bend created by the eyelet on the shoelace can be protected during use.