Patent attributes
The Lace Ratchet Device (LRD) facilitates lace fastening and release. The LRD has two states: “active” and “inactive”. In the active position the device works as a lace ratchet i.e. allowing the lace to be pulled forwards but restricting any lace motion backwards. After fastening the lace remains fastened until the LRD is switched into inactive state by manually pressing a lever. Each LRD has a turning gate rotatably installed in a channel with front end with sharp edge. A preloaded spring keeps the LRD in active position when the lever is not pressed. The LRD doesn't employ serrated surfaces, which cause accelerated lace wear. Instead, the LRD's smooth front edge side and channel surfaces minimize lace wear. Parallel and triangular configurations of LRD pairs facilitate lace fastening of footwear. Single LRDs can be used for fastening of garments and other objects.
