CN115720859A - Releasable coupling device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention proposes a releasable coupling device comprising: a body having a bore; and a sleeve positioned at least partially around and movable relative to at least a portion of the body. The sleeve is movable between an open position in which at least a portion of the bore is at least partially unobstructed to allow connection of the device to an accessory receivable within the bore and a closed position in which at least a portion of the bore is at least partially obstructed to prevent decoupling of the device by removal of the accessory from the bore. The device defines a track configured to guide an accessory receivable within the aperture along a path of motion.

Description

Releasable coupling device

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to releasable coupling devices.

The releasable coupling means is adapted to releasably couple a first device or object or apparatus with a second device or object or apparatus.

The releasable coupling is suitable for a variety of uses in a variety of environments/activities/industries.

One exemplary use is to couple a lead or harness to an animal collar, halter, collar or harness to restrain, control, guide an animal, such as a pet.

Other example uses include a variety of applications in the areas of navigation, climbing, sports, and other areas where a device for releasably coupling two devices or objects or equipment together is desired.

Background

Snap hooks, snap bolts, 'P' clips, trigger hooks and other devices of this nature are well known and used. In particular, these known devices are commonly used in sailing, climbing and other fields requiring hardware for fastening two objects together. These devices are also used in the pet industry to connect a lead or harness to a loop on an animal collar, halter, collar or harness.

Other uses of the snap bolt and snap hook may also include connecting any two devices or objects or equipment together, where one device has the snap bolt or snap hook attached and the other device is a receiving ring, or in some cases, each device has a receiving ring or similar receiving item, and the two items are connected together using a double-headed snap hook or bolt.

A typical arrangement of trigger clamps, 'P' clamps, snap hooks and snap bolt clamps is illustrated in fig. 1a to 1 c. Figure 1a is a perspective view of a strap 2 having a conventional eye bolt snap arrangement 4 or other means known as a trigger clip or 'P' clip which is connected to a collar, cage or harness 6 via a ring 8. Fig. 1b and 1c are enlarged perspective views of fig. 1 a.

The prior art device as illustrated in fig. 1a to 1c is opened via a thumb latch 10. Once the device 4 is in the open position as shown in fig. 1c, the device 4 is manipulated so that the ring 8 is located within the capture area or eyelet 12. Once the ring 8 is captured within the eyelet 12 of the device 4, the thumb latch 10 is released, thus moving the latch/bolt/closing the door so that the device 4 is attached to the ring 8, as shown in fig. 1 b.

A limitation of known snap bolts and hook devices is their ability to withstand substantial tensile forces.

In view of this and other limitations, the present inventors have previously sought to improve upon the known 'P' clamps and trigger clamps mentioned above with reference to fig. 1a to 1 c. The present inventors have previously developed a snap sleeve hook device as disclosed in published international patent application WO 2020/097584 A1.

WO'584 discloses a snap sleeve hook device for use with pets and comprises an elongate bolt and a structural fixing sleeve system. The bolt has a bolt body provided with an eyelet at its distal end and having an opening toward one side of the bolt in a direction perpendicular to the bolt axis. The eyelet and the distal end of the bolt body define a bolt hook. The sleeve system includes a spring and a sleeve fitted around the bolt body. The sleeve is urged by the spring toward the end of the bolt body and around the bolt hook to cover the eyelet opening. The sleeve is adjustable between a first position in which the sleeve completely closes the opening to the eyelet and a second position in which the sleeve retracts against the spring force to uncover the opening to the eyelet.

The inventors have realized that the snap sleeve hook arrangement disclosed in WO'584 is not optimised. For example, in certain scenarios, the device of WO'584 may be susceptible to being accidentally opened or released during use. If the device is used to couple a lead or harness to an animal collar, halter or harness, such accidental release may result in a risk of injury to the animal, the person towing the animal or others.

Accordingly, the inventors have recognized a need for an improved releasable coupling that may be less prone to being accidentally opened or released during use.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure provides a releasable coupling as defined in the appended independent claims, to which reference should now be made.

Preferred or advantageous features of the present disclosure are set forth in the dependent claims to which reference should now be made.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a releasable coupling comprising a body including a bore and a sleeve located at least partially around and movable relative to at least a portion of the body. The sleeve is movable between an open position in which at least a portion of the bore is at least partially unobstructed to allow coupling of the device to an accessory receivable within the bore, and a closed position in which at least a portion of the bore is at least partially obstructed to prevent decoupling of the device by removing the accessory from the bore. The device defines the following tracks: the track is configured to guide an accessory receivable within the aperture along a path of movement.

The body may alternatively be referred to as a bolt or a core, or as another similar term.

The aperture may alternatively be referred to as an opening or recess or channel, or by another similar term.

The sleeve may alternatively be referred to as a slider, or collar, or as another similar term.

An accessory may alternatively be referred to as an object or device or item. In the example of the pet industry, where the device is used to couple a leash to an animal collar, halter, collar or harness to restrain, control, direct an animal, for example a pet, the accessory or object may be a ring, or a D-ring or a triangular ring coupled to the animal collar, halter, collar or harness.

In the case of the aeronautical and marine industries, the accessory or object may be a rigging, sheet, strut, tow hook, rope, buoy or hammock.

In examples of the aerospace industry, the accessory or object may be a wire, rope, stringer, stay wire, aileron cable, or fork.

In the example of the trucking and transportation industry, the accessories or objects may be tie downs, trailer hooks, and cargo nets.

In the example of the outdoor sports industry, accessories or objects may be backpacks, rock climbing ropes, spikes, and tents.

In an example of the healthcare industry, the accessory or object may be part of an IV stand, cart, or gurney.

The track may alternatively be referred to as a channel, path, or guide, or as another similar term.

A sleeve is positioned at least partially around the body. The sleeve need not extend around the entire periphery or cross-section of the body. The sleeve may optionally extend only partially around the outer edge or cross-section of the body. Thus, the sleeve may be, for example, a half-sleeve or a partial sleeve that is movable relative to the body.

Devices comprising a combination of a body and a sleeve are capable of withstanding higher tensile forces in multiple directions than some known snap hooks, snap bolts, 'P' clips, trigger clips, and trigger hooks.

The device may advantageously provide a releasable coupling configured to prevent or resist uncoupling of the device by removal of the accessory from the aperture.

In the closed position, the predetermined or predetermined trajectory of the releasable coupling means advantageously defines a predetermined path or movement path or guide path for an accessory receivable within the aperture. The track guides or influences the movement of the accessory or object in a preferred region, a preferred area, or an accessory receiving area, or a protrusion or end of the track. These preferred areas are defined by the shape of the holes and tracks. This may cause an accessory that is capable of being received within the aperture to adopt or trend towards one or more preferred locations or regions of the aperture. Alternatively or additionally, this may prevent the accessory from adopting or holding or sitting in some of the following positions or areas of the track: this location or area may be prone or conducive to, or may be more prone or likely to result in, accidental decoupling or separation of the releasable coupling from the accessory when the device is used.

The device may reduce or eliminate the risk of accidental opening during use as compared to some known devices. For example, if a portion of the device contacts, twists relative to, meets, or otherwise engages another object while in use, the device may reduce or eliminate the risk of accidental opening during use. For example, the device may be used to prevent or oppose movement of the sleeve in the event that some force is applied to the device or in the event that a portion of the device contacts, twists relative to, meets or otherwise engages another object when in use, so as to prevent or oppose removal of the accessory from the aperture.

The device may also prevent or oppose forces resulting from twisting and/or rotation and/or pulling and/or compound movements of the device relative to the following objects to which it is removably coupled: such as an animal collar, halter, collar or harness coupled via a device to a lead or harness.

The means by which the sleeve is positioned about and movable relative to at least a portion of the body and movable or slidable between an open position and a closed position may provide a safer means for retaining an accessory positioned within the bore and/or track as the sleeve and body cooperate to enclose or surround or enclose or secure the accessory when in the closed position.

The device may provide an easy to operate and user friendly means for attaching the device to an accessory. For example, a sleeve positioned around at least a portion of the body and movable between an open position and a closed position may provide a simple and effective means for coupling and decoupling a device to and from an accessory.

Optionally, the sleeve is slidable relative to the body between an open position and a closed position.

Optionally, the sleeve is slidable relative to the main axis of the body.

Optionally, the sliding axis of the sleeve is substantially parallel to the main axis of the body.

Optionally, the sleeve is slidable substantially along the main axis of the body.

Optionally, the sliding axis of the sleeve is substantially coincident with the main axis of the body.

Optionally, the track is at least partially defined by a portion of the body and at least partially defined by a portion of the sleeve when in the closed position. This may advantageously provide a simple means for obstructing and unblocking the aperture so that the device may be coupled to an accessory. Thus, the track defining the predetermined path of movement for the accessory may depend on the configuration and/or shape of the bore, track, body and sleeve.

Optionally, the track comprises at least a first region, or first zone, or first recess, or first protrusion or first area, configured to receive an accessory receivable within the aperture. This is advantageous because the first region is the region within the track in which the accessory is configured to sit and/or partially remain when in use. The first region is the following region of the track: the inventors have found that the risk of accidental uncoupling is reduced when the accessory is positioned in this region of the track. Thus, the track comprising the first area may in turn reduce the number of accidental and undesired uncoupling between the device and the accessory.

Optionally, the first region is at least partially defined by the sleeve in the closed position. Thus, in the closed position, the first region may be defined by at least a portion of the body and by at least a portion of the sleeve. In other words, the first region is defined within the track when the sleeve is in the closed position. This is advantageous in that in the first region the force applied by the accessory may be distributed between the body and the sleeve.

Optionally, the track further comprises at least a second region, or second zone, or second recess, or second protrusion or second area configured to receive an accessory receivable within the aperture. The second region is another region of the track that is: the inventors have found that the risk of accidental uncoupling is reduced when the accessory is positioned in this region of the track. This may advantageously provide additional regions within the track configured to receive accessories.

Optionally, the first and second regions may be configured such that an accessory receivable within the aperture is readily retained within or caused to adopt at least one of the first and second regions. Thus, regardless of the direction in which the accessory is pulled and/or regardless of the type of force to which the accessory is subjected, the device is configured such that the accessory will most likely sit within the first or second region of the track. This may further limit the risk or possibility of spontaneous or undesired uncoupling of the device from the accessory.

Optionally, the track is configured to guide an accessory receivable within the aperture between the first region of the track and the second region of the track. The track may advantageously ensure that an accessory receivable within the aperture travels along and remains in or with the first or second region of the track in use. Whether the accessory sits within the first region or the second region may depend on the direction and/or nature and/or size of the relative forces applied to the accessory and the device.

Optionally, one or both of the first and second regions are substantially continuously curved. At least one of the first and second substantially continuously curved regions may further assist in retaining the accessory partially in the first or second region of the track. Further, the curvature of the first and second regions may depend on the curvature of the inner surfaces of the body and sleeve. The continuously curved surface may advantageously reduce the number of high stress areas within the rail.

The geometry of the first region and/or the second region and/or the geometry of the entire track may be defined by a set of composite bezier curves and/or parametric equations.

Optionally, at least a portion of the track between the first region and the second region is non-linear. In other words, the movement path of the accessory between the first region of the track and the second region of the track is non-linear. The non-linearity of the track between the first and second regions advantageously means that the accessory is more easily seated or retained in one or the other of the first or second regions, or more easily moved from one region to the other, than with another position along the track between the first and second regions. This may reduce movement of the accessory within the track and/or define a preferred position of the accessory and/or prevent the accessory from adopting other positions, for example a position close to the entrance of the aperture. This in turn may reduce the likelihood of accidental decoupling of the device from the accessory.

Optionally, the second region of the track may be at least partially defined by the body.

Optionally, the second region of the track may be defined by at least a hooked portion of the body.

Alternatively, the hook portion may be located at or near the distal end of the body.

Optionally, the track comprises at least one step or protrusion between the first region and the second region. In other words, at least one step or protrusion is defined along the track. The step or projection may advantageously be provided with a partial obstacle between the first and second regions of the track, so as to prevent excessive movement between the two regions along the track and/or to prevent the accessory from adopting other positions, for example a position close to the entrance of the track.

Optionally, more than one step or protrusion may be defined between the first and second regions.

Optionally, the step or protrusion is configured such that an accessory receivable within the aperture is facilitated towards the first region or the second region. The projection may be defined at a point within the track where decoupling is most likely to occur. For example, the point may be a location proximate to the entrance of the aperture. For example, the protrusion may be proximate to a location where the body and the sleeve meet or overlap in the closed position. Thus, the step or protrusion advantageously substantially prevents the attachment from exerting a force at the point where the step or protrusion is located. Instead, the accessory will be directed or facilitated away from the step or projection towards the first or second region of the track.

Optionally, at least a part of the transition between the first and second regions of the track comprises at least one inclined portion. This may be used to further urge the accessory into the first or second region of the track.

Optionally, the track is configured such that the sleeve can be automatically or self-locking by an accessory received within the bore. This may be used to urge the sleeve into the closed position.

Optionally, the track is configured such that in the closed position, the sleeve can be pushed into the closed position by the accessory in the event of a twisting or compound or complex movement of the accessory that can be received by the bore. The shape and configuration of the track may ensure that the accessory remains constrained by the sleeve and body when the accessory is rotated and/or twisted relative to the body, for example relative to the longitudinal axis of the body. This may advantageously prevent the accessory from moving around the track and/or aperture and in turn causing an unwanted and/or accidental release of the accessory from the device.

Optionally, the first region and/or the second region are configured such that in the closed position, the sleeve can be pushed into the closed position by the accessory in the event of a twisting or compound or complex movement of the accessory that can be received by the bore. Due to the shape of the first region, the sleeve may remain in the closed position regardless of the movement of the accessory. In other words, the sleeve is self-locking or automatically locked in the closed position. This is advantageous in that a releasable coupling may be provided which may better prevent forces due to different movements, e.g. twisting movements, and even use such movements to automatically or self-lock the sleeve in the closed position.

Optionally, the distal end of the body protrudes beyond the distal end of the sleeve when the sleeve is in the closed position.

Optionally, the distal end of the aperture and/or the distal end of the track protrudes beyond the distal end of the sleeve when the sleeve is in the closed position. This may advantageously provide areas within the bore and/or track that can withstand high tensile forces and stresses.

Optionally, the distal end of the second region at least partially protrudes beyond the distal end of the sleeve when the sleeve is in the closed position. This may ensure that when the accessory is located in the second region, the accessory is generally not in contact with the sleeve and/or not adjacent to the entrance to the bore and/or not adjacent to the location where the body and sleeve meet or overlap in the closed position. This in turn may advantageously reduce the number of accidental uncoupling from the accessory pushing the sleeve.

Optionally, in the closed position, the distal end of the sleeve at least partially overlaps the hooked end of the body.

Optionally, a distal end of the sleeve proximate to the proximal end of the bore comprises one or more recessed or cut-out side portions. In other words, the distal end of the sleeve may include a slot or cut-out or jaw in one or both of the opposing sides of the sleeve.

Optionally, at least a portion of the recessed or cut out opposing side portions is substantially continuously curved. The recessed or cut-out opposing side portions may be configured to receive at least a portion of an accessory. This may facilitate automatic locking or self-locking geometry of the device.

Optionally, in the closed position, at least a portion of the body may extend distally beyond at least a portion of at least one of the recessed or cut-out opposing side portions of the sleeve. This may facilitate automatic locking or self-locking geometry of the device.

Optionally, the releasable coupling further comprises a resiliently deformable member configured to urge the sleeve into the closed position. Therefore, in order to move the sleeve toward the open position, a force opposite to and greater than the force of the elastically deformable member must be applied to the sleeve. The resiliently deformable member is configured to move the slider back into the closed position when the force is removed or less than the spring force.

The releasable coupling arrangement further comprising the resiliently deformable member may advantageously provide a means to couple or decouple the device from the accessory which ensures that the sleeve remains in the closed position unless the device is required to be in the open configuration or position. The resiliently deformable member advantageously prevents the device from being easily uncoupled from the accessory by preventing the sleeve from moving from the closed position to the open position unless uncoupling is desired, i.e. unless an intentional opening action is performed.

Optionally, an elastically deformable member can be positioned within the body.

Optionally, the resiliently deformable member is a helical spring. Advantageously, the helical spring may provide a simple and cost-effective means of urging the sleeve into the closed position and also allowing the sleeve to move from the closed position to the open position.

Furthermore, the use of a coil spring located within the body means that the user does not need to manually obstruct the aperture and/or manually move the sleeve from the open position to the closed position to retain the accessory. Conversely, when the user releases the sleeve, the sleeve automatically returns to the closed position. This is advantageous as it eliminates the possibility of the user forgetting to return the device to its closed configuration, which in turn may lead to unwanted uncoupling due to human error.

Optionally, the elastically deformable member further comprises a slider positioned within the body in contact with the spring and slidable relative to the body.

The configuration of the resiliently deformable member and the sleeve may advantageously allow a user to perform operation of the releasable coupling with only one hand, thereby freeing the user of the other hand for performing other functions.

Optionally, the body is a metallic material or a metal alloy. This may advantageously provide a body that is capable of preventing high forces and stresses. Other suitable materials, such as plastics or composites will be understood by those skilled in the art.

Alternatively, the sleeve may be a metallic material or a metal alloy. Other suitable materials, such as plastics or composites, will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

Optionally, the releasable coupling may further comprise a rotation system or tail which can be coupled to the body by a circlip or a retaining ring at the proximal end of the body. This may allow the proximal end of the releasable coupling to be attached to the distal end of a strap or other connected object as will be understood by the skilled person. This may advantageously increase the strength of the releasable coupling by distributing the tensile load on the body. The rotation system may advantageously allow rotation so that the belt or other attached object does not twist, tangle or deform.

Optionally, the device comprises a lock for restricting or preventing movement of the sleeve and/or the slider and/or the resiliently deformable member. This is advantageous because the device provides a further means for preventing the sleeve from accidentally moving from the closed position to the open or partially open position. Thus, the likelihood of accidental uncoupling of the device from the accessory is reduced.

The lock may be a latch, detent or locking system. In particular, such a system may include a locking actuator and an additional spring, wherein the additional spring biases the locking actuator into a position against a surface of the sleeve and/or the slider and/or the resiliently deformable member such that the sleeve cannot move to the open position unless the actuator is depressed. Alternatively, the locking system may comprise a detent, a ball detent or a locking button, or a slidable or movable locking pin, or an elastically deformable door. Other suitable locking means will be known to those skilled in the art.

Additionally, the sleeve may include at least one gripped or gripped portion on the outer surface. This may facilitate opening of the device to allow the accessory to be received within the aperture.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an apparatus comprising at least one releasable coupling according to the first aspect.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an apparatus for an animal comprising at least one releasable coupling according to the first aspect.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a land, air or sea vehicle or an apparatus for a land, air or sea vehicle comprising at least one releasable coupling according to the first aspect.

According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an apparatus for use in sports, climbing or other outdoor activities comprising at least one releasable coupling according to the first aspect.

According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an apparatus for use in the healthcare industry comprising at least one releasable coupling according to the first aspect.

According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a kit of parts comprising at least one releasable coupling according to the first aspect and at least one lead or leash for guiding an animal.

Any feature in one aspect of the disclosure may be applied to other aspects of the disclosure in any suitable combination. In particular, method aspects may apply to apparatus aspects, and apparatus aspects may apply to method aspects. Furthermore, any, some, and/or all features of one aspect may be applied to any, some, and/or all features of any other aspect in any suitable combination.

It should also be understood that particular combinations of the various features described and defined in any aspect of the present disclosure may be implemented and/or provided and/or used independently.

Drawings

The disclosure will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGS. 1a to 1c are perspective and enlarged views of a prior art device;

fig. 2 is a perspective view of a releasable coupling according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the releasable coupling in an open position;

FIG. 4 is a releasable coupling for use with a leash for guiding an animal;

FIG. 5 is a side view of a releasable coupling according to the present disclosure;

FIGS. 6 and 7 are exploded views of the releasable coupling;

FIG. 8 is a side cross-sectional view of the releasable coupling of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a side cross-sectional view of the releasable coupling including the locking system;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the releasable coupling, with the accessory in the first region;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the releasable coupling with the accessory in the second region;

fig. 12-15 illustrate the X-, Y-and Z-axis twisting motion of the releasable coupling;

FIG. 16 is a tabular illustration of control points for the particular opening shape shown in FIG. 17;

FIG. 17 is a schematic view of the track of FIG. 4 shown in isolation;

FIG. 18 is a list of equations corresponding to the control points of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a schematic view of an alternatively shaped track comprising a first region and a second region;

FIG. 20 is a side view of a releasable coupling having an example alternative shape track; and

fig. 21 is a side view of a releasable coupling having another exemplary locking system.

Like reference numerals are used for like elements throughout the description and drawings.

Detailed Description

Fig. 2 illustrates the main components of a releasable coupling 100 according to the present disclosure.

Releasable coupling 100 includes a body 102. The body 102 includes an aperture 104. Releasable coupling 100 also includes a sleeve 106 positioned about at least a portion of body 102 and slidable relative to the at least a portion of body 102.

Body 102 and sleeve 106 may be made of conventional materials, including metals such as brass and stainless steel and/or plastic materials such as nylon and/or composite materials. The body 102 and the sleeve 106 need not be made of the same material, for example, the body 102 may be made of a metallic material and the sleeve 106 may be made of a plastic or composite material. Optionally, the body 102 and/or the sleeve 106 may be made of a composite material. Suitable materials and their benefits will be known to those skilled in the art.

The sleeve 106 is slidable between an open position and a closed position, as shown by the arrows in fig. 3. The sleeve 106 is slidable along the main axis of the body 102 to selectively obstruct and clear the bore 104.

The releasable coupling 100 defines the following tracks: the track is configured to guide or constrain the accessory 108, which can be received within the aperture 104, to move along a predetermined or existing or predetermined path of motion.

The track may be defined by the body. Alternatively, the track may be defined by a sleeve. Alternatively, the track may be defined by the body and the sleeve.

In the example embodiment of fig. 2-15, the track is at least partially defined by the body and at least partially defined by the sleeve. In the closed position, the body and the sleeve cooperate to define a track. The track is a boundary or space defined between the body and the sleeve in which the accessory can be received. The track serves to guide or constrain or influence the movement of the accessory received by the aperture. In other words, the track is the outer edge of the area or space within which the accessory received within the aperture can move. Fig. 17 illustrates an example shape of an example track defined by the shape and/or geometry of the body and sleeve of the examples of fig. 2-15.

In some embodiments, the shape and/or geometry of the track may substantially conform to the shape and/or geometry of the aperture. In other embodiments, the shape and/or geometry of the track may be different from the shape and/or geometry of the aperture.

The track creates a path or motion path for an accessory received within the aperture. The movement path is a path or channel or guide or groove or the like along, around, through or in which the accessory can be moved or guided when positioned in the aperture and can be moved along, around, through or in the track.

In the open position, at least a portion of the aperture 104 is at least partially unobstructed, preferably completely unobstructed, so as to allow coupling of the device 100 to an accessory 108 that can be housed within the aperture 104, as shown in fig. 3. In the open position, there is a clear opening or mouth or channel or slot or access point or door or doorway forming a portion of the aperture 104 or communicating with the aperture 104 through which the accessory 108 may pass in order to be received within the aperture 104.

In the closed position, as shown in fig. 2, the opening in/into the bore 104/belonging to the bore 104 or to the bore 104 is at least partially blocked, preferably completely blocked, in order to close the bore 104, i.e. to prevent the device 100 from being uncoupled by removal of the accessory 108 from the bore 104.

As shown in fig. 3, the distal end of body 102 is shaped as a hook and/or defines a hooked portion that allows coupling device 100 to engage accessory 108.

Fig. 4 illustrates a releasable coupling 100 according to the present disclosure that is suitable for use with a lead or harness 202 for towing or guiding or controlling an animal. In particular, fig. 4 illustrates an attachment 108 for a user to attach the releasable coupling 100 to a portion of a collar/halter/collar/harness 204. The attachment shown in fig. 4 is a ring 108. It should be understood that the appendage 108 may also be a D-ring, triangular ring, oval ring, etc. In other applications, releasable coupling 100 may also be connected to other suitable accessories, such as belt loops, backpack loops, mountain climbing loops, carabiners, sail boat rigging, airplane tie-down devices, fishing bags, fence posts, or other such accessories known to those skilled in the art.

As shown in fig. 2 and 3, the releasable coupling 100 according to this example embodiment comprises a rotation system 110. The rotation system 110 includes a rotating shaft 112, an eye or ring 114, and a circlip retaining ring 116. The rotational axis 112 extends through the eye or ring 114 such that the eye or ring 114 can rotate about the rotational axis 112. This ensures that the straps or other attached objects do not become twisted, tangled or deformed.

The circlip fixing ring 116 may be snapped onto the shaft 112 at the proximal end of the body, and the circlip fixing ring 116 is a cover or rear hub of the rotational system 110 that fixes and holds the rotational ring 114 on the rotational shaft 112. The use of the circlip fixing ring 116 increases the elongation strength of the device 100 by distributing the tensile load over a larger surface area and/or multiple surfaces.

The rotation system 110 is attached to an end of the body 102, but in some example embodiments, the rotation shaft 110 may be integral with the body 102. The rotational system 110 may have a variety of shapes including circular, oval, square, rectangular, trapezoidal, and the like. Those objects to which the rotational system 110 may be connected may include, but are not limited to, belts, chains, rigging, ropes, lanyards or other objects known to those skilled in the art.

Fig. 5 illustrates a side view of the releasable coupling 100. In this example embodiment, the body 102 and sleeve 106 are shown as having a generally teardrop shape. This teardrop shape and its added material provide additional structural reinforcement to the body 102 and help prevent the hook bending movement described below. However, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, other suitable shapes are contemplated, including generally circular, generally oval, generally square, generally rectangular, generally trapezoidal, and the like.

The outer surface of the sleeve 106 according to an exemplary embodiment includes a gripped or knurled portion 118. The gripped portion 118 is configured to assist a user when holding the sleeve 106 and sliding the sleeve 106 from the open position to the closed position. Further, the first or distal end of the sleeve 106 includes a recessed or relieved or cut-out or recessed side portion proximate the first end of the body 102. As shown in fig. 2-5, the recessed or cut-out side portion is substantially continuously curved and shaped to substantially correspond to and define at least a portion of the shape of the track. It will be appreciated that the recessed or cut-out or concave side portions enable an accessory received within the aperture 104 to be at least partially received within or enclosed by the distal end of the slider.

Fig. 6 and 7 show exploded views of the components of the releasable coupling according to the present disclosure discussed above. In particular, fig. 6 and 7 show the sleeve 106, the body 102, the elastically deformable member 120, the locking mechanism 122, and the rotation system 110.

As shown in fig. 8, the body 102 of the releasable coupling 100 includes a coil spring 120. The coil spring 120 is configured to urge the sleeve 106 into the closed position. The coil spring 120 is located within a closed-end channel 130 in the body 102. The closed end passage 130 is preferably substantially cylindrical. Although the example disclosed elastically deformable member is a coil spring 120, those skilled in the art will appreciate other elastically deformable members. For example, the elastically deformable member may also be a plunger.

In the example embodiment of fig. 8, the coil spring 120 pushes against the spring stop 124. The spring stop 124 is a separate pin or other member that is coupled or attached to the sleeve 106 at least at one end. The spring stop 124 may be coupled to the sleeve 106 by various known methods and may be positioned at different locations. In this example embodiment, the spring stop 124 is made of a metallic material, however, other suitable materials will be understood by those skilled in the art.

The releasable coupling 100 is retracted to the open position by the user applying a force relative to the sleeve that is greater than the force of the resiliently deformable member, i.e. the helical spring 120 in the example disclosure of fig. 8. The force applied to the sleeve 106 is transferred to the coil spring 120 via the spring stop 124. The user may then manipulate the device 100 and the accessory 108 until the accessory 108 is positioned within the aperture 104. The sleeve 106 may be released at this time. Upon release, the spring 120 snaps the sleeve 106 back into the closed position and retains the accessory 108 within the bore 104 of the device 100, as shown in fig. 10 and 11.

As previously described, the sleeve 106 is held in place by the force of the coil spring 120 or other resiliently deformable member. In some example embodiments, the force of the spring 120 may be supplemented with a latch or locking system 122. Fig. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the releasable coupling 100 further including a locking system 122. The locking system 122 of fig. 9 includes a locking actuator 126 and an additional spring 128. The additional spring 128 biases the locking actuator 126 into a position against a surface of the sleeve 106 such that the sleeve 106 cannot move laterally unless the actuator 126 is depressed (by applying a force sufficient to overcome the spring biasing force) to release the sleeve 106, thereby allowing the sleeve 106 to move laterally along the body. In various other example embodiments of such releasable coupling 100, the locking system 122 may utilize a detent, ball detent, or locking button positioned within the retaining sleeve 106.

The sleeve 106 is positioned around a portion of the body 102 and provides structural reinforcement to the body. The sleeve 106 opposes or limits bending movement of the body 102 when linear or tension force is applied to the body 102. This in turn reduces the stress on the hooked portion of the body 102 and increases the lifetime of the device, among other things.

When the sleeve 106 is in the closed position, as shown, for example, in fig. 5, the releasable coupling 100 defines a track 131 (fig. 17), the track 131 configured to guide the accessory 108 receivable within the aperture 104 along a predetermined path of movement. The track is defined at least in part by the hooked end of the body and at least in part by the sleeve.

The presence of the track is one reason that the device 100 differs from prior art devices. In prior art devices, the accessory received within the aperture may be free to move on itself or sit or be positioned anywhere within the envelope or outer edge of the aperture. The movement of the accessory is not affected, limited or guided. There is no predetermined or predetermined path of movement. In the present device, the track is used to influence or limit or guide the movement of an accessory 108 that can be received within the aperture 104. The appendage 108 is capable of moving within the bore 104 in a predetermined or limited manner. This is because the track defines a path of movement for the accessory 108 that can be received within the aperture 104. Thus, the attachment 108 cannot move in an undefined or unrestricted or undesirable manner. Rather, the attachment 108 is able to move within explicit constraints so as to be able to move in a predictable or defined or predetermined manner.

As shown and with particular reference to fig. 17, the track 131 is non-linear. In other words, the track is not a straight path or straight route to be taken by the accessory 108. The track includes and/or defines a first region 132 and a second region 134. The track is configured to guide the accessory 108 receivable within the aperture 104 between the first region 132 and the second region 134. Thus, the track is non-linear between the first region 132 and the second region 134.

The first region 132 is defined by the body 102 and the sleeve 106 in the closed position. The second region 134 is defined by the body 102 and, in particular, by the hooked portion of the body 102. Both the first region 132 and the second region 134 are at least partially substantially continuously curved.

A step or protrusion 136 is defined between the first region 132 and the second region 134 of the track. The protrusion 136 may be a pronounced protrusion or convex surface structure (the protrusion 136 may even have different vertices or inflection points or points where linear or curvilinear surfaces come together), the protrusion 136 clearly distinguishes the first region 132 and the second region 134 from each other and provides a partial obstruction or break in the path in the event the appendage 108 moves between the first region 132 and the second region 134. Thus, the appendage 108 will not tend to adopt or sit in a position at the step or protrusion 136 or near the step or protrusion 136. Alternatively, the accessory 108 will tend or be urged to assume different defined positions, such as the first region 132 or the second region 134.

Thus, as shown in fig. 10, when the appendage 108 is located in the first region 132 of the track, the appendage 108 tends to remain in the first region 132 until a force is applied that has a vertical component (when in the orientation of fig. 17) sufficient to force the appendage 108 over the step or protrusion 136. This is important because when a pulling force is applied to the attachment 108, the lateral component of the force (towards the rotating end of the device) is resisted by the body 102, while the downward component of the force is resisted by the sleeve 106. Due to the combination of the complex curves of the first region 132, the sleeve 106 remains in the closed position regardless of the movement of the appendage 108, in particular regardless of any twisting movement that occurs. Moreover, due to the configuration of the first region 132, the twisting motion of the appendage 108 and/or the device 100 may actually further self-lock the sleeve 106 in the closed position.

With reference to fig. 10, it will also be understood that the fact that the track is at least partially formed by the body, in the example described the track is at least partially formed by the proximal surface of the hooked end of the body, will serve to oppose the unlocking movement of the sleeve and to oppose the accidental unlocking of the device if a force is applied in the direction shown.

As shown in fig. 11, when the sleeve 106 is in the closed position, the distal end of the aperture and/or track protrudes beyond the distal end of the sleeve 106. Specifically, when the sleeve 106 is in the closed position, the distal end of the second region 134 of the track protrudes substantially beyond the distal end of the sleeve 106. Thus, when the appendage 108 is located in the second region 134, as shown in fig. 11, the appendage 108 exerts little or no lateral force on the sleeve 106 and thus does not inadvertently force the sleeve 106 toward the open position. Due to the combination of the complex curves of the second region 134, when the appendage 108 is in the second region 134 as shown in fig. 11, the sleeve 106 remains self-locked in the closed position despite various twisting motions of the device 100 and appendage 108.

In combination with the geometry of the appendage 108 and the hole, the presence of the appendage 108 creates a self-locking position for the sleeve 106 when the appendage 108 is located in the second region 134 of the track, which self-locking position is automatically created by the geometry of the body and/or the sleeve and/or the hole and/or the track and/or the appendage 108, which is another reason that the device 100 differs from prior art devices. This arrangement can be considered somewhat similar to a chinese comingled game, wherein such a game can only be addressed by the correct orientation of one of two or more parts or components.

It will be appreciated that when a force is applied in the direction shown in fig. 11, the appendage is supported or restrained by the distal end of the body and the device remains in the locked configuration.

Fig. 12-15 further illustrate how the twisting motion between the releasable coupling 100 and a ring or other object and the self-locking and/or auto-locking geometry of the first region 132 and the second region 134 formed by the sleeve 106 and the body 102 act to oppose or restrict the movement of the sleeve 106 to prevent accidental opening of the device 100 or accidental release of the appendage 108 from the hole. In this regard, fig. 12-15 are an orthogonal view, a front view, and a pair of top views, respectively, of releasable coupling 100 of fig. 2, shown relative to the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis.

As indicated thereby, movement of the ring or other appendage 108 in the X, Y and Z directions will be limited by the surface of the sleeve 106 and the surface of the body 102, respectively, and in particular by the primary contact surfaces on the sleeve 106 and the body 102, as shown in fig. 12. Fig. 13 illustrates how the ring or other object 108 will be constrained by a vertical angle on a vertical axis along the Y-direction. Fig. 14 illustrates how the ring or other object 108 would be bounded by vertical angles on a horizontal axis along the X-direction. Fig. 15 illustrates how the ring or other object 108 would be vertically angularly constrained on a horizontal axis along the Z-direction.

Fig. 12-15 illustrate the X-, Y-, and Z-axis twisting motion of releasable coupling device 100 and how appendages 108 subsequently snap into first regions 132 and/or second regions 134, thereby automatically locking device 100 in a closed position and limiting the motion of appendages 108 within a track to prevent accidental opening.

The particular shapes of the track, the first region 132, the second region 134, and the step/protrusion 136 mean that when the accessory 108 is held or positioned within the aperture, the accessory 108 tends to remain in a particular one of the first region 132 or the second region 134 as it travels along the track.

Furthermore, the particular shapes of the rails, first regions 132, second regions 134, and steps/projections 136 means that when the appendage 108 is rotated, twisted, or moved in a particular manner in which the appendage 108 is no longer parallel with the longitudinal axis, the appendage 108 is constrained by the sleeve 106 and body 102 in at least one of the X, Y, Z directions described above. This means that the appendage 108 cannot move or is at least partially prevented from moving within the aperture such that the device 100 is accidentally opened.

Furthermore, the particular shapes of the track, the first region 132, the second region 134, and the step/protrusion 136 mean that the appendage 108 itself can self-lock the sleeve 106 in the closed position when the appendage 108 is rotated, twisted, or moved within the track (particularly within the first region 132) in a particular manner in which the appendage 108 is no longer parallel with the longitudinal axis of the body 102.

Fig. 13 provides a view of the distal end of the device 100. The front uppermost corner of the mandible of the recess in the sleeve 106 may be provided with a relief or incline or a slope or bevel as shown. This may include an angle of between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees, preferably between about 35 degrees and about 55 degrees, preferably between about 40 degrees and about 50 degrees, preferably about 45 degrees. This may be particularly advantageous for devices that will be or may be used in conjunction with D-rings, such as may be used on animal collars, halters, collars or harnesses to restrain, control, guide animals, for example pets. Such reliefs or ramps or bevels or ramps may mean that the self-locking or self-locking feature of the device 100 is facilitated when a specially shaped accessory, particularly a D-ring, is received within the bore.

Referring to fig. 12-15, the self-locking or self-locking nature of the device is evident. When the accessory is located in the first region of the track and a force, in particular a force having a torsional component, is applied in one of a plurality of different directions, due to the core aspect of the shape and the core aspect of the track already described, one side of the accessory will push or force the sleeve into the closed position, thereby automatically or self-locking the device. For example, the accessory may perform one or a combination of the following to automatically or self-lock the device in the closed position:

(i) Bearing against at least one cut-out portion or a portion of the jaw of the slider, in particular that portion of the cut-out portion or jaw located proximate to the opening to the hole, to push or force the distal end of the sleeve into the closed position;

(ii) Bears against a portion of the body defining the track on one side of the accessory (e.g., a circular ring or D-ring) and bears against at least one cut-out portion of the slider or a portion of the jaw, particularly that portion of the jaw located proximate to the opening to the bore, on the other side of the accessory to push or force the distal end of the sleeve into the closed position.

The geometry of any desired shape and configuration of the tracks comprising the first region 132 and the second region 134 can be defined by a set of composite bezier curves and parametric equations. In this regard, fig. 16 is a tabular illustration of control points for the shape of the example track shape shown in fig. 17. Figure 17 clearly shows the first and second separate regions 132, 134 of the track.

FIG. 18 is a list of equations corresponding to these control points. The particular shape is physically defined by the inner surface of the body 102 (i.e., the contour of the bore) and the inner surface of the sleeve 106. In some cases, some, but not all, of these surfaces may be at least partially aligned with one another.

The shape of the track in the closed position as specified and described by the control points and bessel equations of fig. 16 and 18 may be scaled up or down in size to provide different sizes of releasable coupling 100. Different sizes of releasable couplings 100 may be used for different sizes of accessories 108 and provide releasable couplings 100 with different weight ratings because the body 102 will be thicker or thinner. The control point and the bessel equation may be proportionally varied according to the desired size of the releasable coupling 100.

It will be appreciated that the tracks may have arrays of different shapes as required. It will also be appreciated that the geometry of any desired shape and configuration of the tracks comprising the first region 132 and the second region 134 can be defined by its own set of composite bezier curves and parametric equations, which will be unique and different from those in fig. 16.

By way of example, other exemplary alternative shapes for the tracks are shown in FIG. 19. Fig. 19 includes a schematic illustration of a first region 132 and a second region 134 having alternative shapes resulting from the combination of the body 102 and the sleeve 106. Such suitable alternative shapes may be generally "L" shaped, generally "T" shaped, may have a generally curved shape, and the like. The alternative shapes highlighted by fig. 19 all define a track between the first region 132 and the second region 134. In some cases, these alternative shapes have more than two regions or protrusions for receiving an accessory, for example, having a first region, a second region, and a third region for receiving an accessory. Other track shapes having two or more areas or protrusions for receiving accessories are contemplated. It is not possible to describe all possible combinations.

Further, fig. 20 provides an example illustration of a releasable coupling 200, the releasable coupling 200 including a track having an alternative shape formed by the combination of the body 102 and the sleeve 106. In particular, fig. 20 illustrates a generally "L" shaped track that clearly defines a first region 132 and a second region 134. In addition, the track of fig. 20 also includes a step/protrusion 136, the step/protrusion 136 urging the appendage 108 into one of the first region 132 or the second region 134 as the appendage 108 travels along the track.

Fig. 21 illustrates another example embodiment of the present disclosure. The sleeve of the releasable coupling 300 as shown in fig. 21 comprises a further locking system, which may be referred to as a snap retaining ring lock. The snap retaining ring lock is typically located at the distal end of the sleeve. The snap retaining ring lock comprises a groove or recess at the distal end of the sleeve and is configured to lock the sleeve at least partially in place and/or semi-in place by retaining the ring in the groove or recess.

It will be understood that the present disclosure has been described above by way of example only, and modifications of detail can be made within the scope of the present disclosure. Each feature disclosed in the description and (where appropriate) the claims and drawings may be provided independently or in any appropriate combination.

Claims (29)

1. A releasable coupling comprising:

a body comprising a bore;

a sleeve positioned at least partially around and movable relative to at least a portion of the body, the sleeve being movable between an open position in which at least a portion of the bore is at least partially unobstructed so as to allow coupling of the device to an accessory receivable within the bore, and a closed position in which at least a portion of the bore is at least partially obstructed so as to prevent decoupling of the device by removal of the accessory from the bore;

the device defines a track configured to guide an accessory receivable within the aperture along a path of motion.

2. The releasable coupling of claim 1, wherein the sleeve is slidable relative to the body.

3. Releasable coupling according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sleeve is slidable along the main axis of the body.

4. The releasable coupling of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein in the closed position the track is defined at least in part by a portion of the body and at least in part by a portion of the sleeve.

5. The releasable coupling of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the track comprises at least a first region configured to receive an accessory receivable within the aperture.

6. The releasable coupling of claim 5, wherein the first region is at least partially defined by the sleeve in the closed position.

7. The releasable coupling of claim 5 or 6, wherein the track further comprises at least a second region configured to receive an accessory receivable within the aperture.

8. The releasable coupling of claims 5 to 7, wherein the track is configured to guide an accessory receivable within the aperture between the first region of the track and the second region of the track.

9. The releasable coupling of claims 5 to 9, wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first and second regions is substantially continuously curved.

10. The releasable coupling of any one of claims 8, wherein at least a portion of the track between the first region and the second region is substantially non-linear.

11. The releasable coupling of claims 5 to 10, wherein the track comprises at least one step or protrusion between the first and second regions.

12. Releasable coupling according to claim 11 or 12, wherein at least a part of the transition between the first and second area comprises at least one inclined portion.

13. Releasable coupling according to any of the previous claims, wherein the shape and/or geometry of the track is configured such that the sleeve is self-locking or self-locking by an accessory received in the bore.

14. Releasable coupling according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the shape and/or geometry of the track is configured such that in the closed position the sleeve can be pushed into the closed position by an accessory in case of a twisting motion or a compound motion or a complex motion of an accessory receivable by the aperture.

15. Releasable coupling according to claims 5-14, wherein the first area is configured such that in the closed position the sleeve can be pushed into the closed position by an accessory in case of a twisting or compound or complex movement of the accessory receivable by the aperture.

16. The releasable coupling of any one of the previous claims, wherein the distal end of the body protrudes beyond the distal end of the sleeve when the sleeve is in the closed position.

17. Releasable coupling according to any of the previous claims, wherein the distal end of the bore and/or the distal end of the track protrudes beyond the distal end of the sleeve when the sleeve is in the closed position.

18. The releasable coupling of claims 9 to 17, wherein the distal end of the second region of the track at least partially protrudes beyond the distal end of the sleeve when the sleeve is in the closed position.

19. The releasable coupling of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an elastically deformable member configured to urge the sleeve into the closed position.

20. The releasable coupling of claim 19, wherein the resiliently deformable member is positionable within the body.

21. The releasable coupling of claim 19 or 20, wherein the resiliently deformable member is a helical spring.

22. The releasable coupling of claim 21, further comprising a slider positioned within the sleeve in contact with the spring and slidable relative to the body.

23. The releasable coupling of claim 22, further comprising a lock for limiting or preventing movement of one or more of the sleeve, the slider and the resiliently deformable member.

24. An apparatus comprising a releasable coupling according to any of claims 1 to 23.

25. An apparatus for animals, comprising at least one device according to any one of claims 1 to 23.

26. A land, air or sea vehicle or an installation for a land, air or sea vehicle comprising at least one device according to any one of claims 1 to 23.

27. An apparatus for use in sports, climbing or other outdoor activities, the apparatus comprising at least one device according to any one of claims 1 to 23.

28. A device for use in the healthcare industry, the device comprising at least one apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 23.

29. A kit of parts comprising at least one releasable coupling according to claims 1 to 23 and at least one lead or harness for guiding an animal.

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