US20220007768A1

US20220007768A1 - Indexed Straps and Fasteners

Info

Publication number: US20220007768A1
Application number: US17/357,505
Authority: US
Inventors: Matthew A. Morgan
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Hikers Co LLC
Priority date: 2020-06-24
Filing date: 2021-06-24
Publication date: 2022-01-13
Also published as: WO2021263012A2; WO2021263012A3; USD1052849S1

Abstract

A terminal or coupling portion at the end of an elongated strap member is configured with a plurality of apertures to adjust the overall strap length by engaging in a mating connector. The mating connector is configured to reveal an external marking of size or dimensions that is externally visible adjacent each aperture when the connector and elongated strap are engaged. In preferred embodiments the terminal or coupling portion of the strap is constructed of a laminated material elastic member to provided suitable pliability to engage the mating connector but with a fabric covering bonded to opposing side to be resilient to eventual tearing or damage from adjustment or use.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of priority to the US Provisional patent application of the same title that was filed on Jun. 24, 2020, having application No. 63/043,684 and is incorporated herein by reference.
The present application claims the benefit of priority to the US Provisional patent application that was filed on Oct. 16, 2020 that was filed on, having application No. 63/092,653 and is incorporated herein by reference.
The present application also claims the benefit of priority to the US non-provisional design patent application for a strap connector that was filed on Apr. 7, 2021, having application Ser. No. 29/777,650 and is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

The field of inventions is clothing garments, and more particularly, straps and belts that are adjustable for use to affix or support various garment and equipment on users.
Belt and straps are used to attach and affix, clothing, gear and equipment to wearers or other hardware. A belt or straps provides a more snug and secure connection when used to install an item with a minimum appropriate amount of slack. For convenience, the belt of strap can be installed somewhat loose, and then the slack removed when the item is held in place or otherwise supported. If the belt or strap includes an elastic portion, the stretching and recovery of the elastic section facilitates installation, and inherently removes slack.
Frequently, if equipment is shared among 2 or more individuals, the amount of slack to be removed for one individual is excessive, and it may not be convenient to reconfigure the device each time it is shared.
It would be desirable to have a means to readily configure belts and strap between different sizes.
It would also be desirable to have a simple way of modifying the strap length.
It would also be desirable to have a way of modifying the effective length of an elastic portion of a strap, and to fabricate a strap with such an elastic portion in which the effective strap length can be readily modified.
Belts or straps with such feature could be used as pants belts, suspenders, safety and equipment or gear harnesses, as well as harness for sports and recreational activities.
It would also be desirable to better secure the connection of the belts and straps to various fasteners so they better resist being worked loose from vibration and related forms of movement or changes in loading.
The above and other objects, effects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of the embodiments thereof taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

In the present invention, the first object is achieved by providing a connecting system comprising strap having a distal end with a plurality of spaced apart apertures, each aperture having an indication of one of size or length adjacent aperture, a connector for engaging the strap by extending a projection into at least on one the aperture, in which the indication of one or size or length on the strap is visible as a portion of the strap having said indication extends over a planar face of the connector.
A second aspect of the invention is such a connecting system wherein the distal strap portion of the strap having the plurality of spaced apart apertures has a laminated construction with an elastic core covered on opposing sides with a fabric bonded to opposing outer surfaces of the elastic core
Another aspect of the invention is any such connecting system wherein the connector is substantially flat being disposed in a plane that extends away from a plane of the strap.
Another aspect of the invention is an elongated connecting strap that comprises at least one elastic portion connected to an upper and lower fabric layer on an upper surface and on a lower surface that opposes the upper surface, at least one aperture extending through the upper and lower fabric layers and the intervening elastic portion, the aperture being elongated in a first direction having two opposing and spaced apart edges, each spaced apart edge being bisected by a cavity that extends in a second direction away from each edge of the aperture, the second direction being orthogonal to the first direction.
Another aspect of the invention is an improved way of connecting straps that are manually removable but resistant to accidental release when under varying tension or from vibration of other incidental movements and variation in loading force or direction.
In such an aspect a connecting system for strap is provided that has a receiving connector that comprises a generally planar member having opposing faces separated by a thickness, a lateral opening through the thickness of the generally planar member to receive and retain a strap like member, a channel at a side of the planar member that extends to the lateral opening, in which the lateral opening and the channel each have pairs of opposing sides that extend through the thickness the generally planar opening with at least one of the pairs of opposing sides being disposed at one of an acute or obtuse angle with respect to a face of the generally planar member to create an angular separation between of the pairs of opposing sides.
In the present invention, the first object is achieved by providing pant suspender device that comprises front strap with at least one waist band fastener securing means at a distal end and a proximal end opposite the distal end, in which the waist band fastener securing means is an elastic portion at the distal end of the front strap having an upper surface and a lower surface opposing the upper surface, including fabric outer layers, each bonded to the upper and lower surface of the elastic portion, at least one aperture extending through the upper and lower fabric layers and the intervening elastic portion, the aperture being elongated in a first direction having two opposing and spaced apart edges, each spaced apart edge being bisected by a cavity that extends in a second direction away from each edge of the aperture, the second direction being orthogonal to the first direction, a right and a left shoulder strap, each having a distal end and an opposing proximal end, the distal end of each being coupled at a front common junction to the proximal end of the front strap, a rear strap with belt loop securing means at distal end and a proximal end opposite the distal end, in which the proximal ends of each of the right and left shoulder straps being coupled at a back common junction to the proximal end of the rear strap.
A second aspect of the invention is such a pant suspender device further comprising a pair of pants having a fly opening at a front of a waist band and a button for closing the fly opening in which the button is engaged in the at least one aperture extending through the upper and lower fabric layers and the intervening elastic portion.
Another aspect of the invention is any such pant suspender device in which the belt loop securing means is a substantially planar connector having a side channel that extends inward to a lateral opening, in which the side channel is longer than a width of the lateral opening and is disposed at an acute angle with respect to a bottom of the lateral opening.
Another aspect of the invention is any such pant suspender device in which the acute angle is between at least about 20 and 60 degrees.
Another aspect of the invention is any such pant suspender device in which the side channel connects with the lateral opening at a junction in which the junction is narrower than the width of the lateral opening.
Another aspect of the invention is any such pant suspender device in which the belt loop securing means is a substantially planar connector that has a side channel that extends inward to a lateral opening in which both the side channel and lateral opening have a pair of opposing faces with an upper face and an opposing lower face, in which each face of the pair is oriented parallel to the other face of the pair, in which the one pairs of faces associated with the side channel and the lateral opening is disposed at an acute angle with respect to a planar face of the connector in which the other pairs of faces is disposed at an obtuse angle with respect to the planar face of the connector.
Another aspect of the invention is any such pant suspender device in which the channel is vertically offset above or below the lateral opening and connected to the lateral opening by a transition region that has one of more sides with at least one curvilinear portion.
Another aspect of the invention is any such pant suspender device in which the rear strap with the belt loop securing means is configured with a plurality of spaced apart apertures along a principal axis of the rear strap for engaging a mating portion of the belt loop securing means to vary the distance of the belt loop securing means from the back common junction.
Another aspect of the invention is any such pant suspender device wherein the belt loop securing means is a connector for engaging the strap by extending a projection into at least one of the spaced apertures, in which an indication of one of size and length on the strap is visible as a portion of the strap having said indication of one or size or length that extends over a planar face of the connector.
Another aspect of the invention is a connecting system comprising a strap having a distal end portion with a plurality of spaced apart apertures, each aperture having an indication of one of size and length adjacent aperture, a connector for engaging the strap by extending a projection into at least one of the spaced apertures, in which the indication of one of size and length on the strap is visible as a portion of the strap having said indication of one or size or length that extends over a planar face of the connector.
Another aspect of the invention is such a connecting system wherein the distal end portion of the strap having the plurality of spaced apart apertures has a laminated construction with an elastic core covered on opposing sides with a fabric bonded to opposing outer surfaces of the elastic core.
Another aspect of the invention is any such connecting system wherein the distal end portion of the strap has a slot for receiving and securely engaging a button in which the slot has lateral extensions on opposing side thereof.
Another aspect of the invention is any such connecting system wherein the connector is substantially planar and has a side channel that extends inward to a lateral opening, in which the side channel is longer than a width of the lateral opening and is disposed at an acute angle with respect to a bottom of the lateral opening.
Another aspect of the invention is any such connecting system in which the acute angle is between at least about 20 and 60 degrees.
Another aspect of the invention is any such connecting system in which the side channel connects with the lateral opening at a junction in which the junction is narrower than the width of the lateral opening.
Another aspect of the invention is any such connecting system wherein the connector is substantially planar and has a side channel that extends inward to a lateral opening in which both the side channel and lateral opening have a pair of opposing faces with an upper face and an opposing lower face, in which each face of the pair is oriented parallel to the other face of the pair, in which the one pairs of faces associated with the side channel and the lateral opening is disposed at an acute angle with respect to a planar face of the connector in which the other pairs of faces is disposed at an obtuse angle with respect to the planar face of the connector.
The connecting system according to claim 16 in which the channel is vertically offset above or below the lateral opening and connected to the lateral opening by a transition region that has one of more sides with at least one curvilinear portion.
Another aspect of the invention is a kit for attaching to pants, the kit comprising a pant suspender device that comprises a front strap with at least one waist band fastener securing means at distal end and a proximal end opposite the distal end, a right and a left shoulder strap, each having a distal end and an opposing proximal end, the distal end of each being coupled at a front common junction to the proximal end of the front strap, a rear strap for attaching a belt loop securing means at distal end and a proximal end opposite the distal end, in which the proximal ends of each of the right and left shoulder straps is coupled at a back common junction to the proximal end of the rear strap, a plurality of fasteners for coupling the belt loop securing means to a belt loop, in which each fastener is substantially planar and has a side channel that extends inward to a lateral opening, each lateral opening having a height and a width in which the fasteners in the plurality differ in one or more of the height and width of the lateral opening and the length and orientation of the channel with respect to the length and orientation of the lateral opening in which the rear strap has a plurality of spaced apart apertures and a laminated construction with an elastic core covered on opposing sides with a fabric bonded to opposing outer surfaces of the elastic core.
Another aspect of the invention is such a kit for attaching to pants, in which the waist band fastener securing means is an elastic portion at the distal end of the front strap having an upper surface and a lower surface opposing the upper surface, including fabric outer layers, each bonded to the upper and lower surface of the elastic portion.
Another aspect of the invention is any such kit for attaching to pants, in which each of the plurality of fasteners for coupling the belt loop securing means has 2 or more slots, in which at least one slot has project for extending into and engaging apertures in the rear strap.
The above and other objects, effects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of the embodiments thereof taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a front elevation view of a portion of a first embodiment of a strap whereas FIG. 1B is a bottom plan view thereof and FIG. 1C is a side elevation view thereof.

FIG. 2A-C are various schematic views of an embodiment of a receiving connector for use with the embodiment of the strap of FIG. 1A-C, in which FIG. 2A is a front elevation view thereof, FIG. 2B is a top plan view thereof and FIG. 2C is a cross-section side elevation view at section line C-C in FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3A-C are various schematic views of another embodiment of a receiving connector for use with the embodiment of the strap of FIG. 1A-C, in which FIG. 3A is a front elevation view thereof, FIG. 3B is a top plan view thereof and FIG. 3C is a cross-section side elevation view at section line C-C in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective view of the receiving connector of FIGS. 2A-C and FIG. 4B is a sectional view at the section line C-C in FIG. 2A illustrating a method of engaging a strap therein.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are respectively front and rear perspective views of the first embodiment of the strap terminal portion coupled to the fastener/connector of FIG. 2A-D.

FIG. 6A-C illustrate another embodiment of a fastener/connector in which

FIG. 6A is a front elevation view, FIG. 6B is a top plan view and FIG. 6C is a side elevation view thereof.

FIG. 7A-C illustrate another embodiment of a fastener/connector in which FIG. 7A is a front elevation view, FIG. 7B is a top plan view and FIG. 7C is a side elevation view thereof.

FIG. 8A-C illustrate an embodiment of a strap terminal portion in which FIG. 8A is a front elevation view, FIG. 8B is a top plan view and FIG. 8C is a side elevation view thereof.

FIG. 9A is a schematic perspective of the strap terminal portion of FIG. 8A-C in a deformed state, and FIG. 9B cross-section view thereof showing the button in FIG. 9A being inserted.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the portion of FIG. 8B taken at the section line therein.

FIG. 11A-C illustrate another embodiment of a strap terminal portion in which FIG. 11A is a front elevation view, FIG. 11B is a top plan view and FIG. 11C is a side elevation view thereof.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are respectively front and rear elevation views of the strap with the strap terminal portion of FIG. 8A-C at the proximal end and having a distal end connected to the connector/fastener of FIG. 2A-D.

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of suspenders that are disposed in a flat configuration in a schematic assembly diagram showing the intended connection of rear and front waist bands of pants to the strap terminal portion and fastener/connector with broken lines.

FIG. 14A is a rear elevation view of another embodiment of a fastener/connector engaging a loop portion of another strap whereas FIG. 14B is a right-side elevation view thereof.

FIG. 15A is a schematic front elevation view of the fastener/connector of FIGS. 14A and 14B, whereas FIGS. 15B and 15C are perspective views that illustrate the opposing sides when sectioned at section reference lines B-B and C-C in FIG. 15A respectively.

FIGS. 16A and 16B are schematic perspective views of the embodiment of the receiving connector in FIG. 14-15 in an inverted and upright configuration respectively to illustrate a preferred mode of use.

FIG. 17A-C schematically illustrate another embodiment of the receiving connector in which FIG. 17A is a front elevation view and FIGS. 17B and 17C are cross-sectional elevations at section lines B-B and C-C, respectively. FIG. 17D is a vector diagram.

FIG. 18A-C schematically illustrate another embodiment of the receiving connector in which FIG. 18A is a front elevation view and FIGS. 18B and 18C are cross-sectional elevations at section lines B-B and C-C, respectively. FIG. 18D is a vector diagram.

FIG. 19A-B schematically illustrate another embodiment of the receiving connector in which FIG. 19A is a front elevation view and FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional elevation at section line B-B in FIG. 19A.

FIGS. 20A-E schematically illustrate another embodiment of the fastener connector in which FIG. 20A is a front elevation view, FIG. 120B is a right side elevation view, FIG. 20C is a left side elevation view, FIG. 20D is a top plan view and FIG. 20E is a bottom plan view.

FIG. 21A is a perspective view of the fastener/connector in FIGS. 20A-E with a portion of a strap contained therein, whereas FIG. 21B is an identical perspective view thereof in which the strap is in the process of being removed from the fastener/connector.

FIG. 22 is a front elevation view of a variant of the embodiment of the receiving connector in FIG. 20A-21.

FIG. 23 is a front elevation view of a different variant of the embodiment of the receiving connector in FIG. 20A-21.

FIG. 24A is a front elevation view of a first plurality of connectors in a kit whereas FIG. 24B is an alternative embodiment of a kit with an alternative plurality of connectors.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIGS. 1A through 24B wherein like reference numerals refer to like components in the various views, there is illustrated therein a new and improved Indexed Straps and Fasteners, generally denominated 100 when used as a system, as well as improved Fasteners that are generally designated 160.

Definitions

The term “coupled” means to connect directly or indirectly, whereas connected means a direct connection between two components.
The term “fabric” means woven and non-woven fabrics, which are generally, but not exclusively, sufficiently thin and pliable to drape, meaning conform to the contour of a supporting substrate they are placed onto. However, the term fabric is not intended to be limiting as it may embrace other materials that similarly are sufficient strong, thin, and pliable to drape, such as natural and artificial leather.
The terms “strap”, “belt” or “band” means a fabric or non-fabric member that is elongated in a first direction, narrower in a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction, and much thinner than it is narrow in a third direction that is orthogonal to both the first and second direction. The strap or any portion thereof may be or include an elastic fabric portion and/or a solid elastomer such as a cured rubber.
In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, the indexed strap, and fastener(s) 100 comprises a first strap 110 with a receiving fastener/connector 160, shown in FIG. 2-4B.
The first strap 110 has a series of apertures 115 that are spaced apart from each other for the purpose of receiving or engaging a mating member of a fastener or connector 160. As the selection of the aperture 115 in the first strap will modify the length of the strap, it was realized by the inventor that such a strap may be configured with distinct markings 114 at each aperture 115 to indicate one of the strap lengths that would be achieved, or a fitting size for individuals or other devices of different dimensions that would be secured or connected with the strap 110. However, the inventor has come to appreciate that the receiving fastener 160 must also be configured in a manner that would not obscure such markings when the receiving fastener and first strap are connected to each other.
Examples of uses of such connectors 160 and straps 110 can be when the strap 110 forms a terminal portion of a belt or suspender member in which it is desirable to offer users the option of having several ranges of size adjustment from a single stock item.
In some embodiments the receiving fastener 160 may have lower portion shaped or configured to provide a coupling means, which in the case of the embodiments of FIG. 3A-C, among others, is configured with a hook shaped lower portion 161 and one of more slots 162, 162′ and/or 162″. The series of lateral slots 162 on fastener/connector 160 are adjacent the upper portion thereof 160 u opposite the bottom having the hooked shape lower portion 161. A lower slot 162′ is optionally disposed below slot 162. The first strap 110 can pass through either or both slots 162 and 162′ but is secured to the receiving fastener 160 by the first strap 110 entering the lowest slot 162″. Slot 162″ has a centrally disposed tonsil 163 extending downward from the upper edge 162″u of the slot 162″. The tonsil 163 provides a means to engage the strap 110 to the fastener 160 by projection into at least one of the spaced apart apertures 115. The tonsil 163 is shaped to engage one of several apertures or holes 115, 115′ and 115″ formed in the first strap 110. Once the tonsil 163 enters and engages such an aperture 115, the strap 110 then extends upward parallel to the opposing side of the receiving fastener 160 from which it entered the slot 162.
The distinct markings 114 of dimensions, such as length, or size on the face of the strap 110 will be externally visible as it is disposed between the lower slot 162″ and the slot above it, 162′.
The free or distal end 110 d of the first strap 110 may optionally pass through one of the upper slots 162 or 162′ before extending past the upper edge 160 u of the receiving fastener 160. Alternatively, a free end 110 d of strap 110 can pass through both slots 162 and 162′ to frictionally secure the receiving fastener 160 to the strap 110. The receiving fastener 160 in this embodiment may be formed of metal but is preferably formed of plastic or other non-metallic materials to avoid triggering alarms in metal detectors. The plastic or other material used to form the belt loop fastener 160 should be from about 0.5 to 4 mm thick to have sufficient rigidity and toughness. Alternatively, the fastener 160 can be made of synthetic or natural fibers, as well as tough natural materials like leather, animal horns or shells that have some flexibility for greater wearer comfort, as well as laminates these and other materials, as well as materials with fiber reinforcement to add strength.
The hook portion 161 of the receiving fastener 160 is defined by a channel 1611 that is open on either the right 160 r or left side 1601 of the fastener 160. The channel 1611 then preferably extends diagonally downward toward the lateral opening 1650 at the junction 1612.
In the embodiment of the receiving fastener 160 illustrated in FIG. 3A-C, the lateral opening 1650 at the end of the channel 1611 has a seat or lower rim 1630 in that extends vertically but with shoulder 1632 on opposing sides. The shoulders 1632 help maintain a band or loop portion of a strap within the lower rim 1630 during use to prevent it from sliding out of the channel 1611 and the lateral opening 1650. To remove the band or loop from the fastener 160 requires relieving the tension imposed by other portions of the strap 110 or other connected elements.
FIG. 6A-C illustrates another embodiment of a receiving fastener 160 has an alternative means for securing to another device or fastener than the hook portion 161, may include one or more detent prongs 166 and 166′ or a detent receiving cavity to engage another mating fastener.
FIG. 7A-C illustrates another embodiment of a receiving fastener 160 that has an alternative means for securing to another device or fastener than the hook portion 161. A forward projecting hook 167 extends outward from the lower edge 160 b. Slots 162 and 162′ may have a different height from each other and still provide the function of as described with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 2-6. Further slot 162″ can also vary in height and shape from the other slots, as well as the embodiment of FIG.
The tonsil 163 in any of the embodiment of FIG. 2-8 can also vary in shape to accommodate variations in the shape of the hole in the 115 in the 110. The tonsil 163 is optionally slightly larger at the distal end 163 d than the base 163 b that is attached to the side of the lower slot 162″. The tonsil 163 can vary in width and height but is preferably wider than a lateral width of the apertures 115. The sides of the tonsil 163 at the widest extent will then urge the aperture 115 to open to receive the tonsil 163, but then elastically return to the original shape around the base 163 b.
It should also be appreciated that aperture 115 in the first strap 110 can have alternative shapes and greater aspect ratios than illustrated, with the tonsil 163 adapted in maximum horizontal width and/vertical height to have at least a corresponding wider portion open the aperture 115 so that the aperture can then close around a narrower portion to be better secure the first strap 110 in place. The first strap 115 may have more than one aperture 115.
FIG. 8A-C illustrate a second aspect of the invention in the embodiment of a strap terminal portion 130 that may be deployed on the opposing side of the first strap 110 that is illustrated in FIG. 1, that is opposite the portion that connects with the tonsil 163 in the receiving fastener or connector 160.
In preferred embodiments of the invention the first strap 110 and the strap terminal portion 130 have the cross-sectional construction illustrated in FIG. 9, which comprises an elastic central layer 905 covered by an upper 910 and lower fabric layer 920 that is adhered to the upper surface 905 u and lower 9051 surfaces of the elastic central layer 905 respectively. The combination of the adhered fabric layers 910 and 920 improves the toughness and tear resistance of the rubber or elastic layer 905. The elastic central layer 905 has a thickness slightly less than the height, HT, of the tonsil 163 extending downward from the upper edge 162 u of the slot 162 in the receiving fastener 160.
The strap terminal portion 130 also may have a vertical slot 132 with a sufficient height to receive and engage a button 10. However, to pass a button 10 through the vertical slot 132, the opposing left and right sides 1311 and 131 r of the front face 131 of the strap terminal portion 130, which are located between the vertical slot 132 and the side edges 130 r and 1301, are required to flex out of the common plane to allow both opposing sides of a button 10 to enter therethrough.
As a rubber or elastomeric layer 905 having a sufficient thickness to engage the tonsil 163 and resist tearing is rather stiff, and was not capable of flexing like a buttonhole in conventional fabrics used in garments, it was discovered providing lateral extensions 133 and 133′ to the sides of the slot 132 improved the flexibility without degrading the durability of the strap terminal portion 130. The region or quadrants 134 that form 2 sides of triangular regions that bound the sides of the slot 132 and the lateral extension 133 and 133′ are indicated by dashed lines. These triangular regions 134 are readily deformed upon inserting the button 10, as a forward edge of the button 10 urge them to flex away from the plan of surrounding strap terminal portion 130 and generate gap to fully insert both sides of the button 10 so that the threads connecting the button 10 to fabric substrate, such as a pants 11 fly, also passes through the vertical slot 132. The deformation to insert the button 10 is illustrated in FIG. 9A-B.
As illustrated in FIG. 10, the strap terminal portion 130 preferably has a laminated or layer construction of a fabric covering layer 910 and 920 and an intervening rubber or elastic layer 90. The vertical slot 132 is preferably formed in the strap terminal portion 130 by laser cutting or ablation. The fiber or fabric layers 910 and 920 are at least one adhered or embedded at least partially in the rubber layer 905 so it does not fray or separate at the edge or margin of the laser cut. Preferably, the first strap connector 110 distal from the terminal portion 130 has the same laminated construction illustrated in FIG. 10 when it is desired to provide elastic restoring force to a trap 210 engaged in the hook portion 161 of the connector 160. This permits the strap 110 to be elastically extended and to provide a retain force on any members it connects with. The construction of the strap terminal portion 130 with the laminated or layer construction of a fabric covering layer 910 and 920 and an intervening rubber or elastic layer 905 improves the ease of inserting a button 10 in the aperture 132 without over stressing the stitching of the button 10 to for example pants 11, as well as to improve the reliability of secure engagement to make the connections resilient to accidentally dislodging from vibrations, snags, stress as well as button 10 disconnecting from the pants due to excess stress on the stitching.
FIG. 11A-C illustrate another embodiment of the strap terminal portion 130 in which the vertical slot 132 has a different shape to engage a button 10. The lateral extensions 133 and 133′ on opposing sides of the slot 132 are offset vertically and are wider in the horizontal direction than those in the embodiment of FIG. 8A-9C. These wider height of the lateral extensions 133 and 133′ provides more space to insert a button 10, as well as increase the flexibility of the region or quadrants 134 making it easier for a user to urge them out of the plane of the strap terminal portion 130, also without degrading the durability thereof.
FIG. 12A-B illustrate how the strap connectors 160 and strap terminal portion 130 may be optionally coupled to the first strap 110 by an intervening belt or band 20. The strap connectors 160 and 130 are preferably at least about 10 to 40 mm wide to receive the strap 110, which is generally 2 to 10 mm narrower in width.
It should be appreciated that the strap terminal portion 130 may be used without the first strap 110 and/or the fastener 160 at the opposing end. Further, the first strap 110 and the fastener 160 can be coupled and used without the strap terminal portion 130 at the opposing end.
In other embodiments, the first strap 110 that can engage the fastener 160 and can also be used with the strap terminal portion 130 at the opposing end. They can be coupled to any intervening strap or band 20 that may or may not be elastic.
FIG. 13 illustrates suspenders 1300 that deploy the first strap 110 and an opposing strap 110′ with fastener 160 at one end. The strap terminal portion 130 is deployed at the opposing end of first strap 110, being configured to engage a connector/fastener at the other side of the suspenders 1200. The aperture or slot 132 of the strap terminal portion 130 in preferred embodiments is provided to receive and support a lower portion of a front button 10 of pant 11. The central portion 1301 of the suspenders 1300 is intended to fit over opposing shoulders of the wearer, with the opposing strap 110′ configured with fastener 160 to grasp a rear belt loop 210 within the hook portion 161.
The hook portion 161 of the receiving fastener 160 is defined by a channel 1611 that is open on either the right or left side 1601 of the fastener 160. The channel 1611 then preferably extends diagonally downward toward a lower junction 1612 that is disposed toward the bottom of this embodiment of the receiving fastener 160.
FIG. 14A-18C illustrate another aspect of the invention in which the receiving connector or fastener 160 has a hook portion 1611 with a channel 1640 that is open on either the right or left side 1601 of the fastener 160. At least one of the channels 1640 and the lateral opening 1650 have vertically extending sides that are not disposed orthogonal to the faces 1601 and 1602.
As in the other embodiments, when fastener 160 has a generally planar front face 1601 and a spaced apart generally planar sides or faces 1601 and 1602 there is a lateral opening 1650 between these faces for passing a portion of a loop, band or strap 210 through the fastener 160. Channel 1640 is used to guide the strap 210 into and out of the lateral opening 1650.
Further, the vertically extending sides of the channel 1640 are not generally parallel to the vertically extending sides of lateral opening 1605. Various aspects of the relative configuration of the channel 1640 and lateral opening 1650 provide a particularly secure means to contain a strap 210, such as a loop or band of flexible material or fabric therein.
The strap 210 is first passed through the channel 1640 at the edge of the fastener 160 into the opening 1650. The fastener 160 has thickness between faces 1601 and 1602 and the channel 1640 has an upper side 1641 and an opposing lower side 1642 that are generally parallel to each other and extend through this thickness at an acute angle alpha, α, with respect to front face 1601 and rear face 1602 respectively, as illustrated in FIG. 14B, FIG. 17D and FIG. 18D.
Likewise, the lateral opening 1650 has lower sides 1651 and an opposing upper side 1652 that are generally parallel to each other and extend through fastener 160 thickness at an obtuse angle beta, β, with respect to front face 1601 and rear face 1602, respectively.
When a strap 210 is fixed in the lateral opening 1650 under sufficient tension it cannot migrate out of the fastener 160 via the channel 1640, as the tension causes it to conform to the shape of the lower opposing side 1651. As the opening 1650 is disposed closer to the bottom end of the fastener 160 than the channel 1640, there is a vertical edge 1660 between the lower opposing side 1651 of the opening 1650 and the lower opposing side 1642 of the channel 1640.
It should also be appreciated that the opposing faces 1641 and 1642 of the channel 1640 are separated by a gap G2. The strap 210 and fastener 160 should be configured as a system with the strap thickness less than G2, but preferably greater than vertical separation of the front edge of face 1641 and the front edge of face 1642, illustrated as G1 in FIG. 14A-B, such that the strap 210 needs to be rotating from the configuration under tension on lower side 1651 to transit the channel 1640.
The vertical distance D1 in FIG. 15A is the vertical separation of the front edge of the channel 1640 from the top of the lateral opening 1650, and corresponds to the minimum distance the strap 210 would have to move vertically with respect to the vertical edge 1660 to reach the channel 1640 before it can exit. If strap 210 may be subject to slack in various conditions of use, then the vertical distance D1 is preferably greater than the strap 210 thickness to provide greater retention of the strap 210 when slack is developed.
The shape of the transition region 1645 between the channel 1640 and the lateral opening 1650 can be varied to accommodate the relative flexibility of the strap 210. Preferably at least one or more sides of the transition region 1645 are curvilinear in shape, to with are curved at least in part to urge the entering fabric, loop or strap or other flat band that constitutes strap 210 to invert orientation as it traverses the channel 1450 and enter or exits the lateral opening 1650.
Further, to be understand the operating principles and other variants of this aspect of the invention, it should be understood that the opposing faces or sides 1641 and 1642 of the channel 1640 are disposed at angles α and β with respect to the plane of sides 1601 and/or 1602. Thus the lateral opening 1650 and channel 1640 may be characterized by at least one principal axis shown as arrows 40 and 50 in FIGS. 17B-D and 18B-D. When arrows 40 and 50 are superimposed to form a vector diagram in FIGS. 17D and 18D they have an angular separation gamma, γ. γ represents the rotation a strap 210 may need to undergo to be removed from the lateral opening 1650 by rotating to align with the shape and orientation of the channel 1640. Angles α and β can be varied and need not be equal, but preferably provide a sufficiently large difference γ, so deliberate manual rotation of the strap 210 is required to release the strap 210 from the fastener 160 by removal via the channel 1640. When a strap 210 is under tension it cannot spontaneously rotate and/or translate to exit the lateral opening 1650 by traversing the channel 1640. While movement and vibration can cause a strap 210 to slide laterally, the unique configurations of the channel 1640 and lateral opening 1650 represent a significant advance over the prior art, as mere lateral movement will not release a strap 210 under tension. A strap 210 translating toward channel 1640 will encounter vertical edge 1660.
However, when the tension in strap 210 is relieved to create slack in a portion of the strap 210 adjacent to opposing sides of the lateral opening 1640 it can be rotated to allow facile manual remover by the user. Alternatively, if either the opposing strap 110 connected to the fastener 160 via one or more of the slot 162 and either or both strap 110 and 210 are elastic, the fastener can be flipped to dispose the faces of the strap 210 parallel to the channel faces 1641 and 1642 so that it can pass through the channel 1640. This is schematically illustrated in FIG. 16A showing a portion of strap 210 secured in the lateral opening 1650, whereas the strap 210 in FIG. 16B is shown partly exiting the channel 1640 when the fastener 160 is flipped over.
In the embodiment of FIG. 17A-19B the fastener 160 may have a laminated construction and still provide the benefits ascribed to the embodiments of FIG. 14A-16C. The central portion of the laminate 161 c may have the opposing sides that form a central portion of the channel 1640 and the lateral opening 1650. These opposing sides are orthogonal to the faces 1601 and 1602, but the front 160 f and back 160 b layers of the laminated construction have opposing sides disposed at angles α and β consistent with other embodiments. Such laminated fasteners 160 may only require 2 layers, in at least one layer providing superior stiffness and strength to the other layer(s). At least one of the sides or the center may provide a portion of the channel 1640 and the lateral opening 1650 to provides an angular separation γ, in which γ represents the rotation a strap 210 may need to undergo to be removed from the lower opening. Further, it is relatively efficient to form the central portion of the laminate 161 c by punching of the channels, slots, and the lateral opening.
Thereafter, the more complicated shapes of the tilted portions of the channel 1450 and/or lateral opening 1650 can be formed by over molding plastic or resin on the punched metal core 161 c, or by laminating a pre-molded or stamped plastic or resin front 160 f and back 160 b layers, such as with adhesives, by sintering or ultrasonic melding, as well as mechanical fasteners such as staples, rivets, bolts and the like.
It should be appreciated that for any of the embodiments in which less rotation of the strap 210 is desired for removal from the fastener 160, than a smaller value of γ than illustrated in the drawing figures may be sufficient depending on the thickness of the strap 210. If a strap is not very pliable, then less rotation may be sufficient for secure engagement in the lateral opening 1650. In some applications, it may be desirable to increase γ or decrease G1 and/or G2 to improve resilience of the retention of strap 210 to vibration, jarring and accidental contact or snags, such as when the strap 210 is thicker, wider as well as more or less pliable.
Such variation in the nature of the connector 160 may be appropriate to accommodate using the connector 160 with suspenders 130 to engage a belt loop strap 210 as illustrated in the assembly diagram of FIG. 13. In this non-limiting example the suspenders 1300 have a central portion 1301 for extending or placing on a wearers shoulders with 3 or 4 extending bands or strap to connect to pants 11 at different locations about the circumference of the pants 11 waist band 12. In this embodiment, pants 11 have a belt loop strap 210 for receiving a belt (not shown) and the hook portion 161 of the fastener 160 is intended for securely grasping the belt loop strap 210 while the button 10 at the fly or zipper opening on the other sides of the pants 11 is grasped when insert into of the first strap 110.
In another non limiting example schematically illustrated in FIGS. 19A and 19B the receiving fastener 160 that comprises a generally planar member with opposing faces 1601 and 1602 and a first and second lateral opening 1650, each disposed opposite the other with one closer to a top of the fastener and the other closer to the bottom. One or more slots 162 may be disposed in between for connecting one strap while one or both of lateral opening 1650 secured strap loops creating various 2 or 3 way connections of strap members. The first and second channels 1640 are optionally at the same or opposing side or edges of the fastener 160 to extends to each of the first and second lateral opening 1650. Each of the lateral openings 1650 and each of the channels 1640 each may have pairs of opposing sides that extend through the thickness of the generally planar opening with at least one of the pairs of opposing sides being disposed at one of an acute or obtuse angle with respect to a face of the generally planar member to create an angular separation between of the pairs of opposing sides.
In another non limiting example schematically illustrated in FIG. 20A-21 the receiving fastener 160 comprises a generally planar member with opposing faces 1601 and 1602 and lateral opening 1650 through the thickness of the generally planar member to receive and retain a strap 210. The lateral opening that 1650 has a width W and height to H to accommodate and retain the strap 210 and prevents it from being worked loose.
The junction 1612 at the end of the channel 1611 is confined to retain a strap 219 by a first upper extending sides 1612 a of width W that is distal from the channel 1611 and a second upper extending side 2612 b also optionally of width Wes, both disposed at the bottom edge of an inward protrusion from the hook portion 161.
The hook portion 161 of the receiving fastener 160 is defined by a channel 1611 that is open on either the right or left side 1601 of the fastener 160. The channel 1611 then preferably extends diagonally downward toward a lower junction 1612 that is disposed toward the bottom of this embodiment of the receiving fastener 160. The channel 1611 with length L, which may be longer than in other embodiments relative to the width, Wj, of the junction 1612, as well as the width of the lateral opening 1650.
The channel 1611 is defined by a principal axis 1611A that may disposed with respect the vertical axis of the lateral opening 1650 by an acute angle delta (6) of about 20 to 60 degrees such that the strap 210 must be turned after it is folded to exit.
As the strap 210 has a width, Ws that is slightly less than the width, W of the lateral opening 1650 and greater than Wj, the strap 210 though flexible enough to fold along the primary axis to extend past junction 1612, will be unfolded to lay against the impinging edge at the bottom of the lateral opening 1650 when under moderate tension. However, since opposing first and second extending sides 1612 a and 1612 b narrow the width Wj of the junction 1612 leading to the channel 1611 when under tension, the strap 210 cannot progress past the first and second extending sides 1612 a and 1612 b into the channel 1611 under tension. Thus, to remove the strap 210 tension is relieved by the wearer so the strap 210 can be folded at the principal axis by pinching as shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B. Once the strap 210 is pinched it can then be rotated slightly clockwise to align with the central axis 1611A of the channel 1611. The pinched and folded portion of the strap 210 can then be guided by the wearer upward out of the channel 1611, as shown in FIG. 21B.
The width Wj of the junction 1612 and height H of the lateral opening 1650 may be sized with respect to width and thickness of the strap 210 to confine the strap 210 to a rotation range within the lateral opening 1612 that is less than the acute angle delta (δ) required to enter the channel 1611 for removal. The acute angle delta (δ) is the angle between a center line of channel 1611 relative to a reference line through the width Wj of the junction 1612. Thus to position the strap 210 to exit the lateral opening 1650 via junction 1612 into the channel 1611, the strap 210 must be pinched or folded when the tension is removed. For example, to accommodate different styles of pants 11 the . . . may have a width of at least about inches, to more than 1.5 inches or greater.
Thus, to remove the strap the wearer must deliberately relieve the tension on the strap 210 in the region of lateral opening 1650, pinch the strap 210 while rotating to then guide it into channel 1611 to remove the strap 210 from the fastener 160. It has been discovered that when the length of the channel 1611 is also at least about the width of Wb of the strap 210, the strap 210 is essentially unable to momentarily work loose from vibration, accidental or incidental contact or friction, on ether the strap 210 or the fastener 160.
FIG. 22 illustrates another embodiment of such a fastener 160 capable of latching 2 closed loops or strap 210 on opposing sides via hooks portions 161 and 161′. However, the intermediate planar region between the opposing end of the fastener with hooks may have one or more slots 162 and 162′, with slot 162′ having the tonsil 163 for engaging a first strap 110. Thus 2, 3 or 4 loops and or straps may be coupled with fastener 160, in up to 2 pairs extending in 2 opposing directions,
FIG. 23 illustrates another embodiment of the 160 receiving fastener configured to attach a strap 210 having a loop in either the top or bottom hook like portion 161, as well as connect one or two first straps 110 that would extend in a direction orthogonal to the first strap 110.
Another aspect of the invention is a kit for suspenders that includes a plurality of connectors 160, each varying in the width of the lateral opening 1650 or the configuration of the channel to comport with various alternative embodiment of the connector 160 to accommodate user preferences as to how to securely engage the belt loop 210 of different brand or style pants. Such a kit is illustrated in FIGS. 24A and 24B.
FIG. 24A illustrates a collection of a plurality of connectors of different embodiments that may form a kit or a part of a kit that includes suspenders. The connectors 160 in this kit vary in the length or shape of the channel 1611 or channel 1640 to accommodate pants that have belt loops 210 of varying width, flexibility and thickness, as well as to accommodate a range of user tastes and preferences.
FIG. 24B illustrates a collection of a plurality of connectors of different embodiments that may form a kit or a part of a kit that includes suspenders. The connectors 160 in this kit vary in the width W and/or height H of the lateral opening 1650 to accommodate pants that have belt loops 210 of varying width for different pants 11 that may be owned or acquired by a user.
The receiving fasteners 160 may be deployed in accordance with the various embodiments either alone or in combination with various types of straps, including the first strap 110, and is expected to have additional utility far beyond connection of suspenders and belt, such as for various types of recreational and sporting equipment, such as hiking and climbing gear, as well as equipment for sailing, scuba diving and securing military gear and hardware in various configuration where adjustment may be required.
While the invention has been described in connection with several embodiment, it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to the particular form set forth, but on the contrary, it is intended to cover such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

I claim:

1. A pant suspender device that comprises:

a. front strap with at least one waist band fastener securing means at a distal end and a proximal end opposite the distal end, in which the waist band fastener securing means is:

i. an elastic portion at the distal end of the front strap having an upper surface and a lower surface opposing the upper surface, including fabric outer layers, each bonded to the upper and lower surface of the elastic portion,

ii. at least one aperture extending through the upper and lower fabric layers and the intervening elastic portion, the aperture being elongated in a first direction having two opposing and spaced apart edges, each spaced apart edge being bisected by a cavity that extends in a second direction away from each edge of the aperture, the second direction being orthogonal to the first direction,

b. a right and a left shoulder strap, each having a distal end and an opposing proximal end, the distal end of each being coupled at a front common junction to the proximal end of the front strap,

c. a rear strap with belt loop securing means at distal end and a proximal end opposite the distal end, in which the proximal ends of each of the right and left shoulder straps being coupled at a back common junction to the proximal end of the rear strap.

2. The pant suspender device according to claim 1 further comprising a pair of pants having a fly opening at a front of a waist band and a button for closing the fly opening in which the button is engaged in the at least one aperture extending through the upper and lower fabric layers and the intervening elastic portion.

3. The pant suspender device according to claim 1 in which the belt loop securing means is a substantially planar connector having a side channel that extends inward to a lateral opening, in which the side channel is longer than a width of the lateral opening and is disposed at an acute angle with respect to a bottom of the lateral opening.

4. The pant suspender device according to claim 3 in which the acute angle is between at least about 20 and 60 degrees.

5. The pant suspender device according to claim 3 in which the side channel connects with the lateral opening at a junction in which the junction is narrower than the width of the lateral opening.

6. The pant suspender device according to claim 1 in which the belt loop securing means is a substantially planar connector that has a side channel that extends inward to a lateral opening in which both the side channel and lateral opening have a pair of opposing faces with an upper face and an opposing lower face, in which each face of the pair is oriented parallel to the other face of the pair, in which the one pairs of faces associated with the side channel and the lateral opening is disposed at an acute angle with respect to a planar face of the connector in which the other pairs of faces is disposed at an obtuse angle with respect to the planar face of the connector.

7. The pant suspender device according to claim 6 in which the channel is vertically offset above or below the lateral opening and connected to the lateral opening by a transition region that has one of more sides with at least one curvilinear portion.

8. The pant suspender device according to claim 1 in which the rear strap with the belt loop securing means is configured with a plurality of spaced apart apertures along a principal axis of the rear strap for engaging a mating portion of the belt loop securing means to vary the distance of the belt loop securing means from the back common junction.

9. The pant suspender device according to claim 8 wherein the belt loop securing means is a connector for engaging the strap by extending a projection into at least one of the spaced apertures, in which an indication of one of size and length on the strap is visible as a portion of the strap having said indication of one or size or length that extends over a planar face of the connector.

10. A connecting system comprising:

a. a strap having a distal end portion with a plurality of spaced apart apertures, each aperture having an indication of one of size and length adjacent aperture,

b. a connector for engaging the strap by extending a projection into at least one of the spaced apertures, in which the indication of one of size and length on the strap is visible as a portion of the strap having said indication of one or size or length that extends over a planar face of the connector.

11. The connecting system according to claim 10 wherein the distal end portion of the strap having the plurality of spaced apart apertures has a laminated construction with an elastic core covered on opposing sides with a fabric bonded to opposing outer surfaces of the elastic core.

12. The connecting system according to claim 10 wherein the distal end portion of the strap has a slot for receiving and securely engaging a button in which the slot has lateral extensions on opposing side thereof.

13. The connecting system according to claim 10 wherein the connector is substantially planar and has a side channel that extends inward to a lateral opening, in which the side channel is longer than a width of the lateral opening and is disposed at an acute angle with respect to a bottom of the lateral opening.

14. The connecting system according to claim 13 in which the acute angle is between at least about 20 and 60 degrees.

15. The connecting system according to claim 13 in which the side channel connects with the lateral opening at a junction in which the junction is narrower than the width of the lateral opening.

16. The connecting system according to claim 10 wherein the connector is substantially planar and has a side channel that extends inward to a lateral opening in which both the side channel and lateral opening have a pair of opposing faces with an upper face and an opposing lower face, in which each face of the pair is oriented parallel to the other face of the pair, in which the one pairs of faces associated with the side channel and the lateral opening is disposed at an acute angle with respect to a planar face of the connector in which the other pairs of faces is disposed at an obtuse angle with respect to the planar face of the connector.

17. The connecting system according to claim 16 in which the channel is vertically offset above or below the lateral opening and connected to the lateral opening by a transition region that has one of more sides with at least one curvilinear portion.

18. A kit for attaching to pants, the kit comprising:

a. a pant suspender device that comprises:

i. a front strap with at least one waist band fastener securing means at distal end and a proximal end opposite the distal end,

ii. a right and a left shoulder strap, each having a distal end and an opposing proximal end, the distal end of each being coupled at a front common junction to the proximal end of the front strap,

iii. a rear strap for attaching a belt loop securing means at distal end and a proximal end opposite the distal end, in which the proximal ends of each of the right and left shoulder straps is coupled at a back common junction to the proximal end of the rear strap,

b. a plurality of fasteners for coupling the belt loop securing means to a belt loop, in which each fastener is substantially planar and has a side channel that extends inward to a lateral opening, each lateral opening having a height and a width in which the fasteners in the plurality differ in one or more of the height and width of the lateral opening and the length and orientation of the channel with respect to the length and orientation of the lateral opening.

c. in which the rear strap has a plurality of spaced apart apertures and a laminated construction with an elastic core covered on opposing sides with a fabric bonded to opposing outer surfaces of the elastic core.

19. The kit for attaching to pants according to claim 18 in which the waist band fastener securing means is an elastic portion at the distal end of the front strap having an upper surface and a lower surface opposing the upper surface, including fabric outer layers, each bonded to the upper and lower surface of the elastic portion.

20. The kit for attaching to pants according to claim 18 in which each of the plurality of fasteners for coupling the belt loop securing means has 2 or more slots, in which at least one slot has project for extending into and engaging apertures in the rear strap.