1. Field of the Invention
The present invention pertains generally to a method and mechanism for adjusting goods including but not limited to adjustable features of clothing, luggage, bags, and outdoor and sports equipment.
2. Background of the Invention
Many kinds of clothing, luggage, bags, outdoor and sports equipment include adjustment mechanisms for adjusting the article to fit an individual or to otherwise increase ease of use and comfort. Many kinds of adjustment mechanisms are known, including straps, draw strings, cords, and others. Often, the adjustment mechanisms are used to shorten or lengthen, tighten or loosen, some element of the article.
Generally, these adjustment mechanisms are visible on the outside of the article as they must be accessible to be used. There are many disadvantages to preexisting adjustment mechanisms. For example, straps, draw strings, cords may inadvertently come loose or catch on other items, and exposure of the adjustment mechanisms to wear can weaken the adjustment mechanisms causing tearing or breaking. There is a desire in the industry and among consumers to cover or hide the adjustment mechanisms to achieve a cleaner look, to prevent wear on the adjustment mechanisms, and to prevent the adjustment mechanisms from catching on other items.
What is needed is an adjustment mechanism that provides one or more of the following beneficial features: an outer surface that is free from loose hanging adjustment elements or features such as straps, draw strings, and cords; an adjustment mechanism wherein the adjustment mechanism features such as straps, draw strings, and cords are covered; an adjustment mechanism that does not include or require excess strap, draw string, and cord lengths; an adjustment mechanism that may be operated with one hand; an adjustment mechanism that uses the same or similar motion for both loosening and tightening or lengthening and shortening; an adjustment mechanism that includes discrete adjustment positions; an adjustment mechanism that does not have open entries for straps and cords; an adjustment mechanism that allows adjustment motion to follow a curve; an adjustment mechanism that allows adjustment without deforming the outer surface silhouette of the article; an adjustment mechanism wherein tension applied roughly perpendicular to the axis of motion of the adjustment mechanism doesn't affect the function of the adjustment mechanism; and an adjustment mechanism in which the adjustment element accessed by the user is separate from the strap, draw string, cord, or other adjustment feature; an adjustment mechanism whereby the adjustment elements can be sealed from the outside in a water resistant manner.