Utility Strap Assembly with Hook and Loop Fasteners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility strap/belt assemblies face limitations in accessory positioning, adaptability, and securement to clothing, as well as conversion between conventional and utility configurations.
Innovation Solution
A utility strap assembly featuring a primary strap member with hook and loop fasteners, allowing for infinitely variable positioning of accessory items and securement to clothing without belt loops, along with a secondary strap member for enhanced security and aesthetics, and optional conductive traces for power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional belt with fixed loops is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the accessory positioning is limited and not infinitely variable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic accessory positioning system where the accessory can be placed at any location along the strap rather than being fixed to predetermined loops. The strap includes a continuous surface with friction-based retention, allowing the accessory to be positioned anywhere along its length and held in place through friction and optional fasteners, enabling infinitely variable positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the traditional belt loop structure entirely and replaces it with a continuous strap surface. By taking out the fixed loop elements, the system gains flexibility to accommodate accessories at any position along the strap, transforming the structure from discrete fixed points to a continuous adaptable surface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If belt loops are required to secure accessories, then the securement is reliable, but the adaptability to different clothing types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal strap assembly that can be worn with various types of clothing including pants, skirts, shorts, and jackets without requiring specific belt loop structures. The strap uses friction-based retention and optional hook-and-loop fasteners that work with different fabric types, making it compatible with diverse clothing styles while maintaining reliable accessory securement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary fastening system using hook-and-loop materials that mediate between the strap and both the clothing and the accessory. This intermediary mechanism provides reliable securement without requiring direct engagement with belt loops, enabling the strap to work with various clothing types while maintaining firm accessory attachment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a utility strap with multiple features is implemented, then the versatility is enhanced, but the conversion between conventional and utility configurations becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the strap assembly into distinct functional components including the primary strap, secondary strap, accessory attachment area, and fastening mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted or reconfigured, enabling rapid transformation between conventional and utility configurations by simply repositioning or adding/removing specific segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic reconfigurability where the strap can be quickly transformed between conventional and utility modes through simple user actions such as unfastening and refastening hooks or loop fasteners. The secondary strap can be easily attached or detached, and the accessory positioning can be adjusted on-the-fly, allowing rapid configuration changes without complex mechanisms.
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
Enables non-impaired and infinitely variable positioning of accessories, securement to clothing without belt loops, and easy conversion between conventional and utility configurations, enhancing usability and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
a hook fastener material is associated with at least a portion of the inner surface of the primary strap member; wherein a loop fastener material is associated with at least a portion of the outer surface of the primary strap member; and wherein the hook and loop fastener materials cooperate to releasably secure the primary strap member on, to and/or around a user
Implementation Method 2
the hook and loop fastener materials cooperate to releasably secure the primary strap member
Data Source
AI summary
A utility strap assembly for use in association with an article of clothing, for integration with an article of clothing, and/or to be worn by a user, including: a primary strap member, wherein the primary strap member includes a length, a height, a thickness, a first end, a second end, an inner surface, an outer surface, an upper end, and a lower end; a first bracket, wherein the first bracket is positioned on at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface of the belt member; a second bracket, wherein the second bracket is positioned on at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface of the belt member; wherein the first bracket and the second bracket are spaced apart from one another to define a track therebetween; wherein a hook fastener material is associated with at least a portion of the inner surface of the primary strap member; wherein a loop fastener material is associated with at least a portion of the outer surface of the primary strap member; and wherein the hook and loop fastener materials cooperate to releasably secure the primary strap member on, to and/or around a user.