Open-Back Swim Fin Strap Coupling Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing swim and scuba diving fins with open-back designs face issues with cumbersome and aesthetically unpleasant buckles that protrude, reducing hydrodynamic properties and increasing the risk of accidental loss due to material deterioration from saltwater and sunlight exposure, while also being difficult for users to adjust and remove.
Innovation Solution
A fin design featuring an elongate strap or belt with coupling members that engage with corresponding elements at the front tip of the shoe, allowing for length adjustment and removal without external buckles, minimizing lateral encumbrance and utilizing the strap's elasticity for secure fitting without protruding components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional buckles are used to adjust the heel-encircling strap, then the strap can be length-adjusted and the fin can be secured to the foot, but the buckles protrude laterally reducing hydrodynamic properties and increasing the risk of accidental loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional external buckle mechanism from the fin structure. Instead, the heel-encircling strap is integrated directly into the shoe portion with coupling members built into the strap itself, eliminating protruding components that harm hydrodynamics and create loss risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the strap adjustment function and securing function into the strap itself. The coupling members are integrated into the strap structure, merging what were previously separate components (buckle and strap) into a unified, streamlined design that maintains securing reliability without external protrusions.
2Ease of operation
If traditional buckles with multiple parts are used, then the strap can be adjusted, but the construction becomes complicated and requires more space for operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex buckle mechanism with its multiple moving parts, levers, and releasing means. The simplified coupling members consist of basic engagement elements that can be easily connected and disconnected without requiring complex mechanical assemblies or significant operational space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the structural parameters of the adjustment mechanism from complex mechanical assemblies to simple coupling elements. The coupling members use straightforward geometric shapes that engage through basic insertion and locking motions, reducing the degrees of freedom and operational complexity while maintaining adjustability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the heel-encircling strap is made of elastic material for adjustability, then it can fit different foot sizes, but the material deteriorates faster from saltwater and sunlight exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the strap into different functional portions with different material properties. The heel-encircling portion uses elastic material for adaptability, while the coupling members and critical structural elements use more durable, chemically resistant materials that withstand saltwater and sunlight exposure better.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction where the strap combines elastic material for the encircling portion with more durable materials for the coupling members. This composite approach allows the elastic portion to provide size adaptability while the durable materials protect against environmental deterioration and structural failure.
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
The solution provides a simple, durable, and comfortable fin adjustment system that enhances hydrodynamic performance, reduces material wear, and facilitates easy operation, making it suitable for various foot sizes without the need for complex buckle mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
which elongate element is or may be connected to said open-back shoe portion in length-adjustable and/or at least partially removable fashion
Data Source
AI summary
A swim or scuba diving fin includes an open-back shoe portion having a pocket for receiving the foot of the user and no heel portion, a blade portion forming a forward extension of the shoe portion, and an element holding the foot in the open-back shoe portion, includes an elongate element in the form of a strap, belt or the like and a length sufficient to surround the heel portion, the sidewalls of the pocket of the shoe, and at least part of the tip of the shoe. Such elongate element is at least partially separated from the open-back shoe portion, and is or may be connected to the open-back shoe portion (3) in length-adjustable and/or at least partially removable fashion through first coupling members, which engage corresponding second coupling members located at the front tip of the open-back shoe.