Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Krengel.
So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started over ten years ago. I was always an “out of the box” thinker. I like sports, especially tennis, and was looking for sneakers that I could tie in a second, that would never loosen or come undone (instead of holding up a game to retie or tighten my sneakers). So, I researched all the different devices on the web, and none of them had all the properties I wanted.
I thought I could do something better.
I bought some laces, and while sitting in front of my TV, played around with different patterns, until suddenly, came upon “parallel technology”. At that time, I had already had some patents issued and was familiar with the patenting process and how to search prior art.
So, I dug deep and spent weeks looking at lacing systems going back to the late 1800s. I also went to the library to search out patents in other countries. I couldn’t find anything like “parallel technology”. So, I set about applying for the patent myself. I had already taken the Patent Law Bar Review, for my other patents. But even so, it took me four months of total dedication to write my patent. It was 86 pages with about 40 pages of illustrations.
One would think that would be enough. But as they say “The devil is in the details”. It took over five years to figure out all the details. It had to be “easy to manufacture”, “easy to install”, “inexpensive”,”quick and easy to fasten”, “replaceable”.”unique but familiar-looking”, “versatile”, and “packed with POWER”. Which it is. It’s got a lot of firsts that nobody has ever conceived was even possible.
Has it been a smooth road?
It has not been easy, but I loved the challenge. Truthfully, although I am thrilled that it is finished, I am a little bit sad. The major struggle was finding the right pieces and hardware for experimentation. Laces (I love using Dyneema, which is stronger by weight, than steel), and also rattail which is beautiful. Neither of these laces stretch, which is exactly what is required. Also, I needed metal rings, grommets, loops, punches, hooks, adhesives, and lots of sneakers and boots for experimentation. In all cases, the web was a lifesaver. I could fulfill all my needs on the web by using Amazon, Etsy.com, and Ebay.com. Many of my purchases came directly from China and were very inexpensive. The refinements and finishing touches took about five years (I never expected it to take that long) and it would have cost a fortune if it were not for the ability to order them on the web. Also, my friends at tennis and the gym were very happy to have samples and were my test market. P.S. They love it!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Para-Tek – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
My company is called PARA-TEK. It stands for PARALLEL TECHNOLOGY. I am known for being an “out of the box” thinker, and very responsible. “Every shoe company in the world has been trying to come up with a better lacing system, and you did it”! Said by Innovation Director of a Major Shoe Manufacturer.
Para-Tek is a paradigm shift in the athletic footwear industry.
It is . . . . .
Easier
Faster
Safer
Cheaper
Never loosens or comes undone.
(and very cool)
check it out at:
para-tek.com
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love the tempo and the variety of people, foods, and events.
Contact Info:
- Address: Para-Tek
185 East 85th St
Suite 2-L
New York, NY 10028 - Website: para-tek.com
- Email: anna@para-tek.com
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