US20080222860A1 - Buckle assembly - Google Patents
Buckle assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080222860A1 US20080222860A1 US11/940,887 US94088707A US2008222860A1 US 20080222860 A1 US20080222860 A1 US 20080222860A1 US 94088707 A US94088707 A US 94088707A US 2008222860 A1 US2008222860 A1 US 2008222860A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- strap
- buckle assembly
- housing
- buckle
- release buttons
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
- A44B—BUTTONS, PINS, BUCKLES, SLIDE FASTENERS, OR THE LIKE
- A44B11/00—Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts
- A44B11/006—Attachment of buckle to strap
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
- A44B—BUTTONS, PINS, BUCKLES, SLIDE FASTENERS, OR THE LIKE
- A44B11/00—Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts
- A44B11/25—Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts with two or more separable parts
- A44B11/26—Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts with two or more separable parts with push-button fastenings
- A44B11/266—Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts with two or more separable parts with push-button fastenings with at least one push-button acting parallel to the main plane of the buckle and perpendicularly to the direction of the fastening action
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/45—Separable-fastener or required component thereof [e.g., projection and cavity to complete interlock]
- Y10T24/45225—Separable-fastener or required component thereof [e.g., projection and cavity to complete interlock] including member having distinct formations and mating member selectively interlocking therewith
- Y10T24/45471—Projection having movable connection between components thereof or variable configuration
- Y10T24/45524—Projection having movable connection between components thereof or variable configuration including resiliently biased projection component or surface segment
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/45—Separable-fastener or required component thereof [e.g., projection and cavity to complete interlock]
- Y10T24/45225—Separable-fastener or required component thereof [e.g., projection and cavity to complete interlock] including member having distinct formations and mating member selectively interlocking therewith
- Y10T24/45471—Projection having movable connection between components thereof or variable configuration
- Y10T24/45524—Projection having movable connection between components thereof or variable configuration including resiliently biased projection component or surface segment
- Y10T24/45529—Requiring manual force applied against bias to interlock or disengage
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/45—Separable-fastener or required component thereof [e.g., projection and cavity to complete interlock]
- Y10T24/45225—Separable-fastener or required component thereof [e.g., projection and cavity to complete interlock] including member having distinct formations and mating member selectively interlocking therewith
- Y10T24/45471—Projection having movable connection between components thereof or variable configuration
- Y10T24/45524—Projection having movable connection between components thereof or variable configuration including resiliently biased projection component or surface segment
- Y10T24/45545—Projection having movable connection between components thereof or variable configuration including resiliently biased projection component or surface segment forming total external surface of projection
- Y10T24/45581—Projection having movable connection between components thereof or variable configuration including resiliently biased projection component or surface segment forming total external surface of projection having inserted end formed by oppositely biased surface segments
Definitions
- Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a buckle assembly, and more particularly, to a buckle assembly having strap or web adjusting members that allow for quick and easy strap or web adjustment.
- a typical buckle assembly includes a male buckle member that is removably secured to a female buckle member.
- Each buckle member includes a web or strap securing structure, such as a loop bar and channel, that is configured to adjustably secure a web or strap therein.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a top plan view of a conventional buckle assembly 10 .
- the buckle assembly 10 includes, as noted above, a male buckle member 12 that is removably connected to a female buckle member 14 .
- the male buckle member 12 includes release buttons 16 connected to flex arms (hidden from view). The release buttons 16 are received and retained within button openings 18 formed in the female buckle member 14 .
- Both the male and female buckle members 12 and 14 include a loop bar 20 and 22 , respectively, and a strap channel 24 and 26 , respectively. Straps or webbing 28 and 30 are adjustably retained by the loop bars 20 , 22 and strap channels 24 , 26 , respectively.
- V-shaped strap arrangements that is, the strap or webbing material is designed to enter and exit the strap channels forming a V-shape.
- typical buckle assemblies include straight sidewalls that do not accommodate such V-shaped strap arrangements well, thereby dragging on the straps and making strap adjustment somewhat difficult.
- the loop bars 20 and 22 integrally connect to end walls 32 and 34 , respectively, through straight lateral walls 36 and 38 , respectively. Because the loop bars 20 and 22 connected to the straight lateral walls 36 and 38 , respectively, at right angles, the strap 28 and 30 tend to enter and exit the strap channels 24 and 26 , respectively, in a straight, linear fashion.
- a V-shaped strap or webbing configuration may be difficult to achieve and/or adjust using a conventional buckle assembly, such as the buckle assembly 10 .
- FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the conventional buckle assembly 10 through line 2 - 2 of FIG. 1 .
- the loop bars 20 and 22 of the male and female buckle members 12 and 14 are typically straight bars, although some conventional buckle assemblies include curved loop bars (but such loop bars are typically connected to straight side walls).
- Straps 28 and 30 are typically wrapped around the loop bars 20 and 22 , respectively.
- Adjuster bars which may be two or three bars arranged in a generally stepped fashion, are also common. However, adjustment of the straps or webs 28 and 30 around the loop bars 20 and 22 , respectively, usually is not smooth. As shown in FIG.
- typical buckle assemblies such as the conventional buckle assembly 10 , force the straps 28 and 30 to abut into a person or object 40 to which the buckle assembly 10 is secured, thereby causing drag on the straps 28 and 30 .
- a user may need to use a relatively large amount of force to adjust the straps 28 and 30 to overcome the dragging force.
- embodiments of the present invention provide buckle assemblies that allow for easy strap or web adjustment.
- Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a buckle assembly that includes a first housing, such as a male buckle housing, and a second housing, such as a female buckle housing, removably connected to the first housing.
- Each of the first and second housings includes a main body connected to an outwardly bowed strap bar through outwardly angled lateral walls.
- a strap channel is formed between the main body, the outwardly bowed strap bar and the outwardly angled lateral walls.
- An axial cross-section of the outwardly bowed strap bar may be tear-drop shaped.
- the axial cross-sectional shape may include a curved portion connected to a reduced tail portion through an intermediate portion.
- the outwardly bowed strap bar provides a strap clearance area between a strap secured to the outwardly bowed strap bar and a body of a wearer.
- the first housing may also include release buttons and the second housing may also include large button openings.
- the release buttons are received and removably retained within the button openings.
- the release buttons may be set within the button openings deeper than a maximum width of either the first and second housings.
- the large button openings protect against inadvertent engagement of the release buttons.
- first and second housings each include a main body connected to a strap bar through lateral walls.
- a strap channel is formed between the main body, the strap bar and the lateral walls.
- the strap bar provides a strap clearance area between a strap secured to the strap bar and a body to which the buckle assembly is secured.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a top plan view of a conventional buckle assembly.
- FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the conventional buckle assembly through line 2 - 2 of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 illustrates a top isometric view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a top plan view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a buckle assembly through line 6 - 6 of FIG. 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric cross-sectional view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 illustrates a front view of a buckle assembly adjustably secured to straps according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 illustrates a top isometric view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 11 illustrates a top plan view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a buckle assembly through line 12 - 12 of FIG. 11 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 13 illustrates a top plan view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate top isometric and side views, respectively, of a buckle assembly 50 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- the buckle assembly 50 includes a male buckle or first housing 52 removably connected to a female buckle or second housing 54 .
- the male buckle housing 52 includes release buttons 56 connected to flex arms (hidden from view).
- the release buttons 56 are received and retained within button openings 58 formed in the female buckle housing 54 .
- the user squeezes the release buttons 56 toward one another, at which point the release buttons 56 and/or flex arms disengage from corresponding structure within the female buckle hosing 54 .
- Both the male and female buckle housing 52 , 54 include main bodies 59 , 60 , respectively connected outwardly curved or bowed loop bars 62 , 64 , respectively, through outwardly angled or bowed lateral walls 66 , 68 , respectively.
- the outwardly curved loop bars 62 , 64 and outwardly angled laterals walls 66 , 68 efficiently and easily accommodate a V-shaped strap configuration.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a top plan view of the buckle assembly 50 .
- the lateral walls 66 of the male buckle housing 52 are set at angles ⁇ with respect to lines y that are generally parallel to a central axis x of the buckle assembly 50 .
- the lateral walls 68 of the female buckle housing 54 are set at angles ⁇ ′ with respect to lines that are generally parallel to the central axis x of the buckle assembly 50 .
- the lateral walls 66 and 68 are set at obtuse angles with respect to horizontal lines w and z, respectively.
- the angles ⁇ and ⁇ ′ may be equal or different.
- loop bar 62 of the male buckle housing 52 is outwardly curved or bowed with respect to the line w that is perpendicular to the central axis x of the buckle assembly 50 .
- loop bar 64 of the female buckle housing 54 is outwardly curved or bowed with respect to the line z that is perpendicular to the central axis x of the buckle assembly 50 .
- the curved loop bars 62 and 64 and angled lateral walls 66 and 68 of the male and female buckle housing 52 and 54 , respectively, provide for a wider range of strap entry and exit with respect to strap channels 70 and 72 , respectively, allowing for a wider range of custom strap orientations with respect to a wearer.
- a V-shaped strap configuration may be easily achieved. Further, adjustment of such V-shaped strap configuration is not hindered by straight walls dragging on or digging into the straps. Instead, it has been found that the combination of the outwardly bowed or curved loop bars 62 and 64 and outwardly angled lateral walls 66 and 68 allow for easy and efficient orientation and adjustment of a V-shaped strap arrangement.
- FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the buckle assembly 50 through line 6 - 6 of FIGS. 5
- FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric cross-sectional view of the buckle assembly 50
- each loop bar 62 and 64 includes a tear drop axial cross-section (i.e., over a longitudinal axis of the loop bars 62 and 64 ) with a curved portion 74 , 76 , respectively, proximate the respective main bodies 59 and 60
- the curved portions 74 , 76 are integrally connected to reduced curved tails 78 , 80 , respectively, through intermediate portions 82 , 84 , respectively.
- FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the buckle assembly 50 through line 6 - 6 of FIGS. 5
- FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric cross-sectional view of the buckle assembly 50
- each loop bar 62 and 64 includes a tear drop axial cross-section (i.e., over a longitudinal axis of the loop bars 62 and 64
- straps 86 , 88 are adjustably positioned around the loop bars 62 , 64 , respectively.
- the tear-drop cross-sectional shapes of the loop bars 62 , 64 provide a smooth, relatively drag-free surface over which the straps 86 , 88 pass.
- the tear-drop cross-sectional shape of each loop bar 62 , 64 encourages the straps 86 , 88 to conform to the contour of the wearer, as opposed to digging into the body 90 of the wearer.
- the tear-drop cross-sectional shape provides smooth and easy pulley-like strap motion during adjustment.
- the tear-drop cross-sectional shapes of the loop bars 62 , 64 provide a clearance area 89 between the straps 86 , 88 and the body 90 of a wearer.
- the cross-sectional shapes of the loop bars 62 , 64 keep the straps 86 , 88 away from the body 90 proximate the loop bars 62 , 64 .
- strap adjustment is not hindered, or rendered difficult by the straps 86 , 88 being pinched between the loop bars 62 , 64 and the body 90 (in contrast to typical buckle assemblies).
- FIG. 8 illustrates a front view of the buckle assembly 50 adjustably secured to the straps 86 and 88 .
- the buckle assembly 50 is configured to easily and efficiently orient, and allow adjustment of a V-shaped strap configuration with respect to each buckle housing 52 and 64 .
- FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate top isometric and side views, respectively, of a buckle assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- the buckle assembly 100 is similar to the buckle assembly 50 in various respects.
- the buckle assembly 100 includes a male buckle housing 102 removably secured to a female buckle housing 104 .
- FIG. 11 illustrates a top plan view of the buckle assembly 100 .
- the buckle assembly 100 includes outwardly bowed or curved loop bars 106 and 108 connected to outwardly angled side walls 110 and 112 , in order to provide easy and efficient orientation and adjustment of a V-shaped strap arrangement.
- the female buckle housing 104 includes, however, larger button openings 114 . Consequently, the release buttons 116 of the male buckle housing 102 are inset deeper toward the central axis x′ of the buckle assembly 100 . That is, the larger button openings 114 allow the release buttons 116 to be set within the buckle assembly 100 deeper than a maximum lateral envelope or width of either the housings 102 , 104 .
- the larger button openings 114 allow an operator to easily engage the release buttons 116 .
- the release buttons 116 are inset deeper into the buckle assembly 100 , the chances of inadvertent engagement of the release buttons 116 is less as compared to conventional button arrangements. That is, an operator has to engage the release buttons 116 relatively deep into the button openings 114 , while the surrounding structure of the female buckle housing 104 that defines the button openings 114 acts as a safeguarding barrier to inadvertent engagement (such as through the body of the operator).
- the buckle assembly 100 allows for easier button engagement, while at the same time protecting against inadvertent release.
- FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the buckle assembly 100 through line 12 - 12 of FIG. 11 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- the loop bars 106 , 108 of the male and female buckle housings 102 , 104 respectively, include tear drop cross-sectional shapes.
- straps secured to the loop bars 106 , 108 are not pinched against a body of a wearer, thereby allowing for easy and efficient strap adjustment, as discussed above.
- FIG. 13 illustrates a top plan view of a buckle assembly 120 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- the buckle assembly 120 includes a male buckle housing 122 removably connected to a female buckle housing 124 and is similar to the buckle assembly 100 .
- the female buckle housing 124 includes even larger button openings 126 into which release buttons 128 of the male buckle housing 122 are received and retained.
- the larger button openings 126 allow for the release buttons 128 to be even further inset toward the center of the buckle assembly 120 .
- the larger button openings 126 provide increased protection against inadvertent engagement of the release buttons 128 .
- embodiments of the present invention provide buckle assemblies that are easily and efficiently adjusted. Further, embodiments of the present invention are particularly well-suited for use with V-shaped strap configurations. Additionally, embodiments of the present invention provide buckle assemblies that allow for easy button engagement, while at the same time protecting against inadvertent buckle release.
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Abstract
A buckle assembly includes a first housing and a second housing removably connected to the first housing. Each of the first and second housings may include a main body connected to an outwardly bowed strap bar through outwardly angled lateral walls, such that a strap channel is formed between the main body, the outwardly bowed strap bar and the outwardly angled lateral walls. The strap bar may provide a strap clearance area between a strap secured to the strap bar and a body to which the buckle assembly is secured.
Description
- This application relates to and claims priority benefits from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/918,008 entitled “Buckle Assembly,” filed Mar. 14, 2007, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a buckle assembly, and more particularly, to a buckle assembly having strap or web adjusting members that allow for quick and easy strap or web adjustment.
- A typical buckle assembly includes a male buckle member that is removably secured to a female buckle member. Each buckle member includes a web or strap securing structure, such as a loop bar and channel, that is configured to adjustably secure a web or strap therein.
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FIG. 1 illustrates a top plan view of aconventional buckle assembly 10. Thebuckle assembly 10 includes, as noted above, amale buckle member 12 that is removably connected to afemale buckle member 14. Themale buckle member 12 includesrelease buttons 16 connected to flex arms (hidden from view). Therelease buttons 16 are received and retained withinbutton openings 18 formed in thefemale buckle member 14. Both the male andfemale buckle members loop bar strap channel webbing loop bars strap channels - Various fastening systems for waist belts include V-shaped strap arrangements. That is, the strap or webbing material is designed to enter and exit the strap channels forming a V-shape. However, typical buckle assemblies include straight sidewalls that do not accommodate such V-shaped strap arrangements well, thereby dragging on the straps and making strap adjustment somewhat difficult. For example, as shown in
FIG. 1 , theloop bars end walls lateral walls loop bars lateral walls strap strap channels buckle assembly 10. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of theconventional buckle assembly 10 through line 2-2 ofFIG. 1 . As shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 , theloop bars female buckle members Straps loop bars webs loop bars FIG. 2 in particular, typical buckle assemblies, such as theconventional buckle assembly 10, force thestraps object 40 to which thebuckle assembly 10 is secured, thereby causing drag on thestraps straps - In contrast to conventional buckle assemblies, embodiments of the present invention provide buckle assemblies that allow for easy strap or web adjustment.
- Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a buckle assembly that includes a first housing, such as a male buckle housing, and a second housing, such as a female buckle housing, removably connected to the first housing. Each of the first and second housings includes a main body connected to an outwardly bowed strap bar through outwardly angled lateral walls. A strap channel is formed between the main body, the outwardly bowed strap bar and the outwardly angled lateral walls.
- An axial cross-section of the outwardly bowed strap bar may be tear-drop shaped. The axial cross-sectional shape may include a curved portion connected to a reduced tail portion through an intermediate portion. The outwardly bowed strap bar provides a strap clearance area between a strap secured to the outwardly bowed strap bar and a body of a wearer.
- The first housing may also include release buttons and the second housing may also include large button openings. The release buttons are received and removably retained within the button openings. The release buttons may be set within the button openings deeper than a maximum width of either the first and second housings. The large button openings protect against inadvertent engagement of the release buttons.
- Certain embodiments of the present invention may also provide a buckle assembly in which first and second housings each include a main body connected to a strap bar through lateral walls. A strap channel is formed between the main body, the strap bar and the lateral walls. The strap bar provides a strap clearance area between a strap secured to the strap bar and a body to which the buckle assembly is secured.
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FIG. 1 illustrates a top plan view of a conventional buckle assembly. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the conventional buckle assembly through line 2-2 ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 illustrates a top isometric view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 illustrates a top plan view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a buckle assembly through line 6-6 ofFIG. 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric cross-sectional view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 8 illustrates a front view of a buckle assembly adjustably secured to straps according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 9 illustrates a top isometric view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 11 illustrates a top plan view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a buckle assembly through line 12-12 ofFIG. 11 according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 13 illustrates a top plan view of a buckle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. - Before the embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including” and “comprising” and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof.
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FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate top isometric and side views, respectively, of abuckle assembly 50 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring toFIGS. 3 and 4 , thebuckle assembly 50 includes a male buckle orfirst housing 52 removably connected to a female buckle orsecond housing 54. Themale buckle housing 52 includesrelease buttons 56 connected to flex arms (hidden from view). Therelease buttons 56 are received and retained withinbutton openings 58 formed in thefemale buckle housing 54. When a user wishes to disconnect themale buckle housing 52 from thefemale buckle housing 54, the user squeezes therelease buttons 56 toward one another, at which point therelease buttons 56 and/or flex arms disengage from corresponding structure within the female buckle hosing 54. - Both the male and
female buckle housing main bodies loop bars lateral walls angled laterals walls -
FIG. 5 illustrates a top plan view of thebuckle assembly 50. Thelateral walls 66 of themale buckle housing 52 are set at angles θ with respect to lines y that are generally parallel to a central axis x of thebuckle assembly 50. Similarly, thelateral walls 68 of thefemale buckle housing 54 are set at angles θ′ with respect to lines that are generally parallel to the central axis x of thebuckle assembly 50. Thus, thelateral walls - Further, the
loop bar 62 of themale buckle housing 52 is outwardly curved or bowed with respect to the line w that is perpendicular to the central axis x of thebuckle assembly 50. Similarly, theloop bar 64 of thefemale buckle housing 54 is outwardly curved or bowed with respect to the line z that is perpendicular to the central axis x of thebuckle assembly 50. - The curved loop bars 62 and 64 and angled
lateral walls female buckle housing strap channels lateral walls -
FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of thebuckle assembly 50 through line 6-6 ofFIGS. 5 , whileFIG. 7 illustrates an isometric cross-sectional view of thebuckle assembly 50. Referring toFIGS. 6 and 7 , eachloop bar curved portion main bodies curved portions curved tails intermediate portions FIG. 6 , in particular, straps 86, 88 are adjustably positioned around the loop bars 62, 64, respectively. The tear-drop cross-sectional shapes of the loop bars 62, 64 provide a smooth, relatively drag-free surface over which thestraps lateral walls FIG. 5 ), the tear-drop cross-sectional shape of eachloop bar straps body 90 of the wearer. Further, it has been found that the tear-drop cross-sectional shape provides smooth and easy pulley-like strap motion during adjustment. Additionally, the tear-drop cross-sectional shapes of the loop bars 62, 64 provide aclearance area 89 between thestraps body 90 of a wearer. Thus, the cross-sectional shapes of the loop bars 62, 64 keep thestraps body 90 proximate the loop bars 62, 64. Thus, strap adjustment is not hindered, or rendered difficult by thestraps -
FIG. 8 illustrates a front view of thebuckle assembly 50 adjustably secured to thestraps buckle assembly 50 is configured to easily and efficiently orient, and allow adjustment of a V-shaped strap configuration with respect to each bucklehousing -
FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate top isometric and side views, respectively, of abuckle assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Thebuckle assembly 100 is similar to thebuckle assembly 50 in various respects. Thebuckle assembly 100 includes amale buckle housing 102 removably secured to afemale buckle housing 104. -
FIG. 11 illustrates a top plan view of thebuckle assembly 100. Similar to thebuckle assembly 50, thebuckle assembly 100 includes outwardly bowed or curved loop bars 106 and 108 connected to outwardlyangled side walls female buckle housing 104 includes, however,larger button openings 114. Consequently, therelease buttons 116 of themale buckle housing 102 are inset deeper toward the central axis x′ of thebuckle assembly 100. That is, thelarger button openings 114 allow therelease buttons 116 to be set within thebuckle assembly 100 deeper than a maximum lateral envelope or width of either thehousings - The
larger button openings 114 allow an operator to easily engage therelease buttons 116. However, because therelease buttons 116 are inset deeper into thebuckle assembly 100, the chances of inadvertent engagement of therelease buttons 116 is less as compared to conventional button arrangements. That is, an operator has to engage therelease buttons 116 relatively deep into thebutton openings 114, while the surrounding structure of thefemale buckle housing 104 that defines thebutton openings 114 acts as a safeguarding barrier to inadvertent engagement (such as through the body of the operator). Thus, thebuckle assembly 100 allows for easier button engagement, while at the same time protecting against inadvertent release. -
FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of thebuckle assembly 100 through line 12-12 ofFIG. 11 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Similar to thebuckle assembly 50, the loop bars 106, 108 of the male andfemale buckle housings -
FIG. 13 illustrates a top plan view of abuckle assembly 120 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Thebuckle assembly 120 includes amale buckle housing 122 removably connected to afemale buckle housing 124 and is similar to thebuckle assembly 100. Thefemale buckle housing 124 includes evenlarger button openings 126 into which releasebuttons 128 of themale buckle housing 122 are received and retained. Thelarger button openings 126 allow for therelease buttons 128 to be even further inset toward the center of thebuckle assembly 120. Thus, thelarger button openings 126 provide increased protection against inadvertent engagement of therelease buttons 128. - Thus, embodiments of the present invention provide buckle assemblies that are easily and efficiently adjusted. Further, embodiments of the present invention are particularly well-suited for use with V-shaped strap configurations. Additionally, embodiments of the present invention provide buckle assemblies that allow for easy button engagement, while at the same time protecting against inadvertent buckle release.
- While various spatial and directional terms, such as upper, bottom, lower, mid, lateral, horizontal, vertical, and the like may used to describe embodiments of the present invention, it is understood that such terms are merely used with respect to the orientations shown in the drawings. The orientations may be inverted, rotated, or otherwise changed, such that an upper portion is a lower portion, and vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, and the like.
- Variations and modifications of the foregoing are within the scope of the present invention. It is understood that the invention disclosed and defined herein extends to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or evident from the text and/or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the present invention. The embodiments described herein explain the best modes known for practicing the invention and will enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention. The claims are to be construed to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.
- Various features of the invention are set forth in the following claims.
Claims (19)
1. A buckle assembly comprising:
a first housing; and
a second housing removably connected to said first housing,
each of said first and second housings comprising a main body connected to an outwardly bowed strap bar through outwardly angled lateral walls, a strap channel being formed between said main body, said outwardly bowed strap bar and said outwardly angled lateral walls.
2. The buckle assembly of claim 1 , wherein an axial cross-section of said outwardly bowed strap bar is tear-shaped.
3. The buckle assembly of claim 2 , wherein said axial cross-sectional shape includes a curved portion connected to a reduced tail portion through an intermediate portion.
4. The buckle assembly of claim 1 , wherein said outwardly bowed strap bar provides a strap clearance area between a strap secured to said outwardly bowed strap bar and a body of a wearer.
5. The buckle assembly of claim 1 , wherein said first housing comprises release buttons and said second housing comprises large button openings, and wherein said release buttons are received and removably retained within said button openings.
6. The buckle assembly of claim 5 , wherein said release buttons are set within said button openings deeper than a maximum width of either said first and second housings.
7. The buckle assembly of claim 5 , wherein said large button openings protect against inadvertent engagement of said release buttons.
8. The buckle assembly of claim 1 , further comprising straps secured around said outwardly bowed strap bars.
9. A buckle assembly comprising:
a first housing; and
a second housing removably connected to said first housing,
each of said first and second housings comprising a main body connected to a strap bar through lateral walls, a strap channel being formed between said main body, said strap bar and said lateral walls, said strap bar providing a strap clearance area between a strap secured to said strap bar and a body to which the buckle assembly is secured.
10. The buckle assembly of claim 9 , wherein an axial cross-section of said strap bar is tear-shaped.
11. The buckle assembly of claim 10 , wherein said axial cross-sectional shape includes a curved portion connected to a reduced tail portion through an intermediate portion.
12. The buckle assembly of claim 9 , wherein said first housing comprises release buttons and said second housing comprises large button openings, and wherein said release buttons are received and removably retained within said button openings.
13. The buckle assembly of claim 12 , wherein said release buttons are set within said button openings deeper than a maximum width of either said first and second housings.
14. The buckle assembly of claim 12 , wherein said large button openings protect against inadvertent engagement of said release buttons.
15. A buckle assembly, the buckle assembly comprising:
a male buckle housing comprising release buttons; and
a female buckle housing removably connected to said male buckle housing, said female buckle housing comprising button openings that receive and removably retain said release buttons,
each of said male and female housings comprising a main body connected to an outwardly bowed strap bar through outwardly angled lateral walls, a strap channel being formed between said main body, said outwardly bowed strap bar and said outwardly angled lateral walls, an axial cross-section of said outwardly bowed strap bar being tear-shaped having a curved portion connected to a reduced tail portion through an intermediate portion, said outwardly bowed strap bar providing a strap clearance area between a strap secured to said outwardly bowed strap bar and a body of a wearer.
16. The buckle assembly of claim 15 , wherein said release buttons are set within said button openings deeper than a maximum width of either said male and female housings.
17. The buckle assembly of claim 16 , wherein said button openings protect against inadvertent engagement of said release buttons.
18. The buckle assembly of claim 15 , further comprising straps secured around said outwardly bowed strap bars.
19. The buckle assembly of claim 15 , wherein said straps are secured around said outwardly bowed strap bars in a V-shape.
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/940,887 US20080222860A1 (en) | 2007-03-14 | 2007-11-15 | Buckle assembly |
PCT/US2008/053776 WO2008112376A2 (en) | 2007-03-14 | 2008-02-13 | Buckle assembly |
DE112008000099T DE112008000099T5 (en) | 2007-03-14 | 2008-02-13 | buckle assembly |
CN200880002335XA CN101588737B (en) | 2007-03-14 | 2008-02-13 | Buckle assembly |
US29/346,167 USD610945S1 (en) | 2007-11-15 | 2009-10-28 | Buckle assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US91800807P | 2007-03-14 | 2007-03-14 | |
US11/940,887 US20080222860A1 (en) | 2007-03-14 | 2007-11-15 | Buckle assembly |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US29/346,167 Continuation USD610945S1 (en) | 2007-11-15 | 2009-10-28 | Buckle assembly |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20080222860A1 true US20080222860A1 (en) | 2008-09-18 |
Family
ID=39577651
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/940,887 Abandoned US20080222860A1 (en) | 2007-03-14 | 2007-11-15 | Buckle assembly |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20080222860A1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN101588737B (en) |
DE (1) | DE112008000099T5 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2008112376A2 (en) |
Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20110061211A1 (en) * | 2009-09-17 | 2011-03-17 | Joseph Anscher | Removable buckle |
WO2013158612A1 (en) | 2012-04-18 | 2013-10-24 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Web-adjustment housing for a buckle assembly |
WO2015094526A1 (en) | 2013-12-19 | 2015-06-25 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Web-adjustment assembly |
US9125458B2 (en) | 2012-06-06 | 2015-09-08 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Multi-directional buckle assembly |
US20160367903A1 (en) * | 2015-06-22 | 2016-12-22 | Kma Concepts Limited | Clip Launcher System with Interconnecting Projectile |
USD799370S1 (en) * | 2016-01-12 | 2017-10-10 | Woojin Plastic Co., Ltd | Female receptacle of buckle |
US9986789B2 (en) | 2013-02-06 | 2018-06-05 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Strap-securing device with integral fire starter |
US10123590B2 (en) | 2013-07-10 | 2018-11-13 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | System and assembly for securing a buckle housing to a component |
USD945314S1 (en) * | 2020-04-17 | 2022-03-08 | Duraflex Hong Kong Limited | Buckle |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP5763050B2 (en) * | 2010-03-19 | 2015-08-12 | モリト株式会社 | buckle |
DE102013000590A1 (en) | 2013-01-16 | 2014-07-17 | Flexi-Bogdahn Technik Gmbh & Co. Kg | Plug closure for connecting strand elements and an animal leash with such a buckle closure |
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US4825515A (en) * | 1988-02-25 | 1989-05-02 | Wolterstorff Jr Donald A | Safety buckle |
US6152342A (en) * | 1998-07-20 | 2000-11-28 | Suk; Young J. | Golf bag with double strap and buckle |
US6351876B1 (en) * | 1999-05-10 | 2002-03-05 | Ykk Corporation | Side release buckle |
US6463638B1 (en) * | 2000-11-14 | 2002-10-15 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Buckle assembly including strap retainer |
US20070000103A1 (en) * | 2005-06-29 | 2007-01-04 | Joseph Anscher | Shock absorbing buckle |
US20070017074A1 (en) * | 2005-07-20 | 2007-01-25 | Pontaoe John S | Side-release buckle assembly |
US20080003921A1 (en) * | 2005-12-22 | 2008-01-03 | Fildan Accessories Corporation | Maternity brassiere closure |
Family Cites Families (2)
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CN1325002C (en) * | 2001-06-08 | 2007-07-11 | 株式会社东海理化电机制作所 | Buckle of safety belt of seat |
CN101721017B (en) * | 2008-10-13 | 2012-10-03 | 白智淑 | Hasp with whistle |
-
2007
- 2007-11-15 US US11/940,887 patent/US20080222860A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2008
- 2008-02-13 DE DE112008000099T patent/DE112008000099T5/en not_active Ceased
- 2008-02-13 WO PCT/US2008/053776 patent/WO2008112376A2/en active Application Filing
- 2008-02-13 CN CN200880002335XA patent/CN101588737B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Patent Citations (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4825515A (en) * | 1988-02-25 | 1989-05-02 | Wolterstorff Jr Donald A | Safety buckle |
US6152342A (en) * | 1998-07-20 | 2000-11-28 | Suk; Young J. | Golf bag with double strap and buckle |
US6351876B1 (en) * | 1999-05-10 | 2002-03-05 | Ykk Corporation | Side release buckle |
US6463638B1 (en) * | 2000-11-14 | 2002-10-15 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Buckle assembly including strap retainer |
US20070000103A1 (en) * | 2005-06-29 | 2007-01-04 | Joseph Anscher | Shock absorbing buckle |
US20070017074A1 (en) * | 2005-07-20 | 2007-01-25 | Pontaoe John S | Side-release buckle assembly |
US20080003921A1 (en) * | 2005-12-22 | 2008-01-03 | Fildan Accessories Corporation | Maternity brassiere closure |
Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20110061211A1 (en) * | 2009-09-17 | 2011-03-17 | Joseph Anscher | Removable buckle |
WO2013158612A1 (en) | 2012-04-18 | 2013-10-24 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Web-adjustment housing for a buckle assembly |
US10327516B2 (en) | 2012-04-18 | 2019-06-25 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Web-adjustment housing for a buckle assembly |
US9125458B2 (en) | 2012-06-06 | 2015-09-08 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Multi-directional buckle assembly |
US9986789B2 (en) | 2013-02-06 | 2018-06-05 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Strap-securing device with integral fire starter |
US10123590B2 (en) | 2013-07-10 | 2018-11-13 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | System and assembly for securing a buckle housing to a component |
WO2015094526A1 (en) | 2013-12-19 | 2015-06-25 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Web-adjustment assembly |
US20160367903A1 (en) * | 2015-06-22 | 2016-12-22 | Kma Concepts Limited | Clip Launcher System with Interconnecting Projectile |
US9833720B2 (en) * | 2015-06-22 | 2017-12-05 | Kma Concepts Limited | Clip launcher system with interconnecting projectile |
USD799370S1 (en) * | 2016-01-12 | 2017-10-10 | Woojin Plastic Co., Ltd | Female receptacle of buckle |
USD945314S1 (en) * | 2020-04-17 | 2022-03-08 | Duraflex Hong Kong Limited | Buckle |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2008112376A3 (en) | 2008-12-24 |
CN101588737A (en) | 2009-11-25 |
WO2008112376A2 (en) | 2008-09-18 |
CN101588737B (en) | 2013-03-27 |
DE112008000099T5 (en) | 2009-11-05 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC, ILLINOIS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:PONTAOE, JOHN S.;REEL/FRAME:020249/0742 Effective date: 20071113 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |