EP3476246B1 - Chest strap - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a backpack, in particular a backpack for a sporting practice such as hiking or running, in particular in the mountains. This backpack is intended in particular for sportsmen, such as hikers, runners, mountaineers or followers of orienteering, climbing or cycling. Within the meaning of the invention, a backpack is a carrying item provided with two straps fixed to a back panel and one or more pockets, front (s) or back (s). The shoulder straps may comprise several elements assembled via an adjustment buckle or they may constitute a continuous panel with the back panel so as to form a bolero-type structure. The invention also relates to uncluttered backpacks without a back pocket.

Most backpacks include a single chest strap connecting the front part respectively of each shoulder strap. Generally, the chest strap comprises a band, often elastic, one end of which is attached to a first strap and the other end is attached to the second strap. The chest strap includes a means for modifying the length of the band between the two attachment points of the shoulder straps. This function is important because it allows the shoulder straps to be positioned transversely so as to greatly improve the comfort of carrying the backpack. The chest strap also includes a means for splitting the band in half or for separating one end of the band from a shoulder strap in order to facilitate the positioning of the backpack.

In recent years, the company Salomon © has marketed models of backpack comprising two identical independent tightening systems, one at the level of the pectorals and the other between the sternum and the belly. Each tightening system consists of an elastic band, a first hooking element intended to be fixed on a first strap, the first hooking element being integral with the elastic band at its first end, d 'a second hanging element intended to be attached to a second strap, the second hanging element forming a loop for the elastic band, and a third hanging element intended to be attached to the first strap, the third hooking element being secured to the elastic band at its second end, the third hooking element comprising an adjustment device making it possible to adjust the position of the connection between the elastic band and the third hooking element. Thus, each elastic band forms an inclined “V”, the point of which is located at the level of the second gripping element.

These two tightening systems allow the straps to be properly wedged against the body and, as a result, provide excellent support for the backpack against the body when the user is moving and more particularly when running. When practicing running, the runner may wish to quickly and easily adjust the positioning of the legs. suspenders against his chest. The double clamping system is not optimum in terms of speed because the user must act on two independent adjustment devices remote from each other. In addition, these adjustment systems are located in an area close to the user's field of vision, which makes it difficult to grip an operating member. Thus, in this area, looking for two actuators and manipulating them makes the adjustment operation inconvenient.

The documents JP 2017 042472 A , US 2015/053734 A1 and EP 3 106 061 A1 disclose some examples of adjustment systems known from the prior art.

The object of the invention is to provide an improved system for adjusting the distance between the front part of a first strap of a backpack and the front part of a second strap of the backpack.

One aim is in particular to provide an adjustment system that is simple and easy to handle.

Another object is to allow rapid adjustment of the distance between the front part of a first strap of a backpack and the front part of a second strap of the backpack.

The invention proposes a carrying article and an adjustment system as defined according to one of the appended claims.

According to the invention, the lower link cooperates with a second adjustment device provided on the third attachment element, at the level of the first end of the lower link, the second adjustment device making it possible to adjust the position of the link between the link lower and the third attachment element.

This particular construction allows the two adjustment devices to be grouped together at the level of the third attachment element. Thus, due to the proximity of the actuators of the two adjustment devices, this greatly facilitates the gripping thereof. This advantage is all the more marked when the adjustment devices are located in an area of the field of vision that is difficult to appreciate. In addition, this merger allows to consider the simultaneous actuation of the adjustment devices by a single simple and intuitive gesture.

• le système de réglage comprend un quatrième élément d'accroché destiné à se fixer sur la deuxième bretelle, le quatrième élément d'accroche formant un passant pour le lien supérieur, et/ou, un cinquième élément d'accroche destiné à se fixer sur la deuxième bretelle, le cinquième élément d'accroche formant un passant pour le lien inférieur,
• le quatrième élément d'accroche comprend un élément de guidage conçu pour recevoir, de manière amovible, une portion du lien supérieur et/ou en ce que le cinquième élément d'accroche comprend un élément de guidage conçu pour recevoir, de manière amovible, une portion du lien inférieur.
• le lien supérieur et le lien inférieur forment un unique lien continu, la deuxième extrémité du lien supérieur constituant la première extrémité du lien inférieur,
• le système de réglage comprend un moyen de préhension solidaire du lien continu, au niveau d'une boucle formée par le lien continu entre le premier dispositif de réglage et le deuxième dispositif de réglage,
• le lien inférieur et/ou le lien supérieur sont élastiques,
• le lien inférieur et/ou le lien supérieur sont des cordelettes,
• le premier dispositif de réglage et le deuxième dispositif de réglage forment un bloqueur unique comprenant deux mâchoires entre lesquelles passent le lien supérieur et le lien inférieur, les deux mâchoires étant mobiles l'une par rapport à l'autre de sorte que, lorsque les mâchoires sont rapprochées, le lien supérieur et le lien inférieur sont coincés entre les deux mâchoires et, lorsque les mâchoires sont éloignées, le lien supérieur et le lien inférieur sont libres de coulisser à l'intérieur du bloqueur unique,
• le bloqueur unique comprend un moyen élastique permettant de rapprocher les mâchoires et en ce que les mâchoires sont conçues de sorte qu'une action sur un lien dans un sens éloigne les mâchoires alors qu'une action dans l'autre sens maintient le serrage des mâchoires.

According to advantageous but not mandatory aspects of the invention, such an adjustment system can incorporate one or more of the following characteristics, taken in any technically admissible combination:

• the adjustment system comprises a fourth attachment element intended to be attached to the second strap, the fourth attachment element forming a loop for the upper link, and / or, a fifth attachment element intended to be attached to the second strap, the fifth attachment element forming a loop for the lower link,
• the fourth hooking element comprises a guide element designed to removably receive a portion of the upper link and / or in that the fifth hooking element comprises a guide element designed to removably receive a portion of the lower link.
• the upper link and the lower link form a single continuous link, the second end of the upper link constituting the first end of the lower link,
• the adjustment system comprises a gripping means integral with the continuous link, at the level of a loop formed by the continuous link between the first adjustment device and the second adjustment device,
• the lower link and / or the upper link are elastic,
• the lower link and / or the upper link are cords,
• the first adjustment device and the second adjustment device form a single blocker comprising two jaws between which pass the upper link and the lower link, the two jaws being movable relative to each other so that, when the jaws are brought together, the upper link and the lower link are stuck between the two jaws and, when the jaws are moved apart, the upper link and the lower link are free to slide inside the single blocker,
• the single blocker includes a resilient means for bringing the jaws together and in that the jaws are designed so that action on a link in one direction moves the jaws away while action in the other direction maintains the clamping of the jaws .

• la figure 1 est une vue de face d'un système de réglage selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
• la figure 2 est une vue de face d'un sac à dos équipé du système de réglage de la figure 1, le sac à dos étant dans une configuration pour laquelle le système de réglage est inopérant ;
• la figure 3 est une vue de face du sac à dos de la figure 2 dans une configuration pour laquelle le système de réglage est opérant ;
• les figures 4 à 6 sont respectivement une vue en perspective, une vue de dessus et une vue de côté, d'un premier type d'élément d'accroche du système de réglage ;
• les figures 7 à 9 sont respectivement une vue en perspective, une vue de dessus et une vue de côté, d'un deuxième type d'élément d'accroche du système de réglage ;
• la figure 10 est une vue en coupe d'un premier mode de réalisation d'un dispositif de réglage du système de réglage ;
• les figures 11 à 13 sont respectivement une vue de dessus et des vues en coupe dans l'épaisseur représentant différentes configurations d'un deuxième mode de réalisation d'un dispositif de réglage du système de réglage ;
• les figures 14 à 16 sont respectivement une vue de dessus et des vues en coupe selon XV-XV de la figure 14 représentant différentes configurations d'un troisième mode de réalisation d'un dispositif de réglage du système de réglage ;
• la figure 17 est une vue de face d'un sac à dos équipé du système de réglage selon un deuxième mode de réalisation ;
• la figure 18 est une vue de face d'un sac à dos équipé du système de réglage selon un troisième mode de réalisation ;
• la figure 19 est une vue de face d'un sac à dos équipé du système de réglage selon une variante du premier mode de réalisation ;

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will be better understood with the aid of the description which follows, with reference to the appended drawings illustrating, according to non-limiting embodiments, how the invention can be implemented, and in which :

• the figure 1 is a front view of an adjustment system according to a first embodiment of the invention;
• the figure 2 is a front view of a backpack equipped with the waist adjustment system figure 1 , the backpack being in a configuration for which the adjustment system is inoperative;
• the figure 3 is a front view of the backpack of the figure 2 in a configuration for which the adjustment system is operative;
• the figures 4 to 6 are respectively a perspective view, a top view and a side view of a first type of attachment element of the adjustment system;
• the figures 7 to 9 are respectively a perspective view, a top view and a side view, of a second type of attachment element of the adjustment system;
• the figure 10 is a sectional view of a first embodiment of an adjustment device of the adjustment system;
• the figures 11 to 13 are respectively a top view and cross-sectional views in the thickness showing different configurations of a second embodiment of an adjustment device of the adjustment system;
• the figures 14 to 16 are respectively a top view and sectional views according to XV-XV of the figure 14 showing different configurations of a third embodiment of an adjustment device of the adjustment system;
• the figure 17 is a front view of a backpack equipped with the adjustment system according to a second embodiment;
• the figure 18 is a front view of a backpack equipped with the adjustment system according to a third embodiment;
• the figure 19 is a front view of a backpack equipped with the adjustment system according to a variant of the first embodiment;

In the following, the concepts of "top", "bottom", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "horizontal", "vertical", "front", "rear", "anterior" , “Posterior” are defined from the point of a user who is standing on a horizontal floor and who carries the backpack 2 on his back.

The invention relates to an adjustment system 1 of a backpack 2. Within the meaning of the invention, a backpack is a carrying item provided with two straps 21, 22 fixed on a back panel 23, indicated in dotted lines. on the figures 2 and 3 , and one or more pockets, anterior (s) or dorsal (s). Thus, a single shoulder strap, each shoulder strap and / or the back panel can carry one or more pockets. For example, according to one embodiment, the backpack has no back pocket and only includes pockets carried by the straps. Each strap 21, 22 comprises a front part 211, 221 intended to cover an anterior part of the user's trunk. In the embodiments illustrated in the figures, the straps constitute a continuous panel with the back panel so as to form a bolero-type structure. As a variant, the straps may comprise several elements assembled via an adjustment buckle making it possible to adjust the length of the straps.

Advantageously, each front part 211, 221 of a strap 21, 22 carries fixing elements 212, 222 for hooking the adjustment system 1. The fixing elements 212, 222 are distributed vertically along the strap 21, 22. In these examples, the fastening elements 212, 222 consist of a succession of loops made by cords sewn at the medial edge of each strap and distributed regularly over the height of the strap. Other fixing elements can be envisaged such as, for example, flexible vertical bars or perforated vertical bands.

To adjust the distance between the front part 211 of a first strap 21 and the front part 221 of a second strap 22, the backpack 2 includes an adjustment system 1. This adjustment allows good positioning and plating of the straps. against the user's body and therefore good support for the backpack, in particular when the user is running.

• un lien supérieur 101 délimité par une première extrémité supérieure 1011 et une deuxième extrémité inférieure 1012,
• un lien inférieur 102 délimité par une première extrémité supérieure 1021 et une deuxième extrémité inférieure 1022,
• un premier élément d'accroche 11 destiné à se fixer sur la première bretelle 21, le premier élément d'accroche 11 étant solidaire du lien supérieur 101 au niveau de sa première extrémité 1011,
• un deuxième élément d'accroche 12 destiné à se fixer sur la première bretelle 21, le deuxième élément d'accroche 12 étant solidaire du lien inférieur 102 au niveau de sa deuxième extrémité 1022.
• un troisième élément d'accroche 13 destiné à se fixer sur la première bretelle 21, le troisième élément d'accroche 13 étant solidaire du lien supérieur 101, proche de sa seconde extrémité 1012, et du lien inférieur 102, proche de sa première extrémité 1021, le troisième élément d'accroche comprenant :
  • un premier dispositif de réglage 1321 permettant d'ajuster la position relative de la liaison entre le lien supérieur 101 et le troisième élément d'accroche 13, et
  • un deuxième dispositif de réglage 1322 permettant d'ajuster la position relative de la liaison entre le lien inférieur 102 et le troisième élément d'accroche 13,

The figure 1 illustrates a first embodiment of such an adjustment system 1. It comprises:

• an upper link 101 delimited by a first upper end 1011 and a second lower end 1012,
• a lower link 102 delimited by a first upper end 1021 and a second lower end 1022,
• a first hooking element 11 intended to be fixed on the first strap 21, the first hooking element 11 being integral with the upper link 101 at its first end 1011,
• a second hooking element 12 intended to be fixed on the first strap 21, the second hooking element 12 being integral with the lower link 102 at its second end 1022.
• a third attachment element 13 intended to be attached to the first strap 21, the third attachment element 13 being integral with the upper link 101, close to its second end 1012, and the lower link 102, close to its first end 1021 , the third attachment element comprising:
  • a first adjustment device 1321 making it possible to adjust the relative position of the connection between the upper link 101 and the third attachment element 13, and
  • a second adjustment device 1322 making it possible to adjust the relative position of the connection between the lower link 102 and the third attachment element 13,

• un quatrième élément d'accroche 14 destiné à se fixer sur la deuxième bretelle 22, le quatrième élément d'accroche 14 formant un passant pour le lien supérieur 101,
• un cinquième élément d'accroche 15 destiné à se fixer sur la deuxième bretelle 22, le cinquième élément d'accroche 15 formant un passant pour le lien inférieur 102,

According to this first embodiment, the adjustment system also comprises:

• a fourth hooking element 14 intended to be fixed on the second strap 22, the fourth hooking element 14 forming a loop for the upper link 101,
• a fifth hooking element 15 intended to be fixed on the second strap 22, the fifth hooking element 15 forming a loop for the lower link 102,

The hooking elements 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 are all intended to be fixed on a strap 21, 22 and in particular by cooperating with a fixing element 212, 222 of a strap. Within the meaning of the invention, a hooking element 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 is fixed on a sling when the fastening element is integral in movement with the sling (if one moves the fixing element in at least one direction, it causes the displacement of a portion of the strap), at least when the adjustment system is activated, in other words, when at least link 101, 102 is under tension. This means that the attachment element is not necessarily continuously integral in movement with a sling when it is fixed thereon. For example, the attachment element can be a blocker secured to a link passing through a loop (corresponding to a fastening element). Thus, when the link is pulled, by exerting a tension on the link, the link slides through the loop until the blocker, integral with the link, abuts against the loop. Therefore, the blocker becomes integral with the sling. It is then fixed on the strap, within the meaning of the invention. As a variant, it can be a simple knot made with a tie. Alternatively, the fastening element can be continuously secured to a strap when it is attached to the latter.

Advantageously, as described above, each strap is provided with several fixing elements distributed vertically along the strap which allows the vertical position of each attachment element 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 to be adjusted on the straps. Thus, the user can adapt his adjustment system to his morphology and target the areas where he wants a hold / tightening. Advantageously, the hooking elements 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 are removably mounted on the fastening elements 212, 222 of the straps. Here again, this allows customization of the adjustment system according to its needs. It also allows the setup of the adjustment system to be reversed so that it is versatile, suitable for both right and left handed users. The assembly of the adjustment system is then reversed. Thus, depending on the desired configuration, each hook element 11-15 is mounted either on the left shoulder strap or on the right shoulder strap. Consequently, in the description, the first strap 21 can be either the left strap or the right strap. In the figures, arbitrarily, the first strap 21 designates the right strap.

In a variant, some or all of the hooking elements 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 are fixed in a non-removable manner on the straps. This makes it possible to avoid losing a gripping element.

In this example, the lower link and / or the upper link are cords. Being in the form of cords, the links have good tensile strength while being light. They are easy to set up and do not require special orientation when connecting to any part of the adjustment system.

Alternatively, other types of links can be used. For example, it can be ribbons, straps or laces.

Advantageously, the lower link and / or the upper link are elastic. The elasticity brings a "dynamic" tension at the level of the connection between the straps. This allows good support while providing flexibility so as not to interfere with breathing. According to one variant, part of the lower link and / or part of the upper link are elastic. In Indeed, it is not necessary that the whole link is elastic and it may be desirable to have a little rigidity / retention locally. Finally, the links may not be elastic.

In the example illustrated, the upper link 101 and the lower link 102 form a single continuous link 10, the second end 1012 of the upper link 101 constituting the first end 1021 of the lower link 102. The upper link 101 then constitutes the upper part of the continuous link 10 while the lower link 102 constitutes the lower part of the continuous link 10. As a result of this construction, the continuous link 10 forms a loop 103, at the level of the third attachment element 13, between the two adjustment devices 1321 , 1322. This loop 103 facilitates the gripping of the link 10 locally in order to actuate the adjustment devices 1321, 1322. In addition, this allows simultaneous action on the adjustment devices 1321, 1322.

To improve the actuation ergonomics, the adjustment system comprises a gripping means 104 integral with the continuous link 10, at the level of a loop 103. The gripping means 104 can be a band folded back on itself surrounding the link. continuous 10 or a plastic endpiece surrounding or molded around the continuous link 10.

According to one variant, the upper 101 and lower 102 links are distinct and independent. The user can thus easily operate the adjustment devices 1321, 1322 independently. Gripping means can be provided at the level of the free ends 1012 and 1021 of the links 101 and 102.

In the following, we consider the tightening part of a link 101, 102, the part of the link between the hooking element 11 and the hooking element 13 or the part of the link between the element of hook 13 and the hooking element 12. Similarly, we consider the actuation part of a link 101, 102, the part extending beyond the hooking element 13. The actuating part includes ends 1012 and 1021 and / or loop 103.

In this example, there are three types of hooking elements constituting the adjustment system 1. A first type of hooking element 11, 12 makes it possible to connect one end of a link to a strap. A second type of attachment element 14, 15 makes it possible to guide part of a link. This second type of attachment element comprises a guide element for the link 142, 152. A third type of attachment element 13 makes it possible to ensure, simultaneously or not, the tension in the two links 101, 102.

The figures 4 to 6 illustrate a construction used for the hooking elements 11 and 12. The end 1011; 1022 of a link 101; 102 is directly integral with the body of the attachment element 11; 12. This connection can be obtained by overmolding, gluing, welding or by means of a knot at the end of the link, the link having previously passed through an orifice made in the body of the attachment element 11; 12. The attachment element 11; 12 also includes a clip 111; 121 in the form of hooks defining a passage for receiving a fastening element 212 of a strap 21, here, in this case a loop. These hooks 111; 121 are arranged so as to be able to disengage the hooking element from the fastening element of the strap. One can consider other solutions of fasteners 111; 121 in order to removably or not secure the attachment element with the attachment element of the strap.

According to one embodiment, the hooking elements 11 and 12 are a particular shaping of an end 1011, 1022 of a link 101, 102. It can be a simple knot. For example, the link 101, 102 passes through an eyelet forming a fastener 212, 222 of a strap and a knot is formed at the end of the tie to prevent the latter from disengaging from the eyelet. Alternatively, the end of the tie can form a loop, with a slip knot, with the end of the loop passing through the eyelet.

According to another embodiment, the end 1011, 1022 of a link 101, 102 is directly secured to the corresponding strap, for example, by stitching. In this case, the hooking elements 11 and 12 correspond to the connecting element between the link and the strap, for example, the thread of the seam.

The figures 7 to 9 illustrate a construction used for the attachment elements 14 and 15. Like the attachment elements 11 and 12, the attachment element 14; 15 includes a clip 141; 151 in the form of hooks defining a passage for receiving a fastening element 222 of a strap 22, here, in this case a loop. These hooks 141; 151 are arranged so as to be able to disengage the hooking element from the fastening element of the strap. One can consider other fastening solutions 141; 151 to secure or not detachably secure the attachment element with the attachment element of the strap. In addition, the hooking element 14; 15 also includes a hook 142; 152 defining a passage, an open sheath or a split sheath for receiving a portion of the tightening part of a link 101; 102. Thus, link 101; 102 can slide through this passage, the hooking element 14; 15 then forms a loop for the corresponding link 101; 102. The passer-by is a kind of guide for the corresponding link. This hook solution 142; 152 allows the link 101 to be easily disengaged; 102 of the attachment element 14; 15 in order to eliminate the connection between the front parts of the shoulder straps, which makes it easier to put on or take off the backpack. This construction is simple and light. The hooks 142; 152 remain permanently on the strap 22. When the link is disengaged from the hooking element, the adjustment system does not include any rigid part swinging freely and likely to hamper / injure the user or to catch. Alternatively, one can consider other solutions for fixing the link 101 in a removable manner or not; 102 with the attachment element 14; 15. For example, one can use a tip, integral with a link 101; 102, intended to be assembled by clipping or by magnet with the attachment element 14; 15.

Thus, the fourth hooking element comprises a guide element 142 designed to receive, in a removable manner, a portion of the upper link and / or in that the fifth hooking element comprises a guide element 152 designed to receive, from removable manner, a portion of the lower link.

The third type of construction relates to the central attachment element 13, the main subject of the invention. Like the other hooking elements described above, the hooking element 13 comprises a fastener 131 in the form of hooks defining a passage for receiving a fastening element 221 of a strap 21, here, in this case a buckle . These hooks 131 are arranged so as to be able to disengage the hooking element from the fastening element of the strap. One can envision other fastening solutions 131 for fixing the fastening element in a removable manner or not with the fastening element of the strap.

The particularity of this hooking element 13 comes from the fact that it supports a first adjustment device 1321 and a second adjustment device 1322.

The first adjustment device 1321 makes it possible to adjust the relative position of the connection between the upper link 101 and the third attachment element 13. It therefore comprises a fixed jaw 1323 integral with the body of the attachment element 13, a movable jaw 1324 relative to the fixed jaw, an actuator 1325 integral with the movable jaw and, optionally, an elastic means 1326 acting on the movable jaw to move it towards the fixed jaw. The first adjustment device 1321 is designed to receive a portion of the upper link 101, close to the end 1012, so that this portion is inserted between the fixed jaw 1323 and the movable jaw 1324. Thus, when the movable jaw 1324 is urged to move towards the fixed jaw 1323, for example, thanks to the elastic means 1326, this has the effect of wedging the upper link 101 between the jaws. This clamping fixes the relative connection of the connection between the upper link 101 and the third attachment element 13. The upper link 101 is therefore secured to the third attachment element 13. The position of the third attachment element 13 on the top link is fixed and cannot be changed without user action. This makes it possible to fix the length of the tightening part of the upper link, that is to say, the part of the link between the first attachment element 11 and the third attachment element 13. Conversely, when the The user acts on the actuator 1325 so as to cause the movable jaw to move away from the fixed jaw, the upper link is released which can then slide freely between the jaws. By pulling on the end 1012 of the upper link 101, the user slides the upper link inside the first adjuster 1321 until the desired length of the tightening part of the upper link is obtained, that is to say say, the part of the link between the first attachment element 11 and the third attachment element 13. Therefore, the user can release the actuator 1325 which has the effect of bringing the jaws together, for example, thanks to by elastic means 1326. The upper link 101 is then again secured to the third attachment element 13. The first adjustment device 1321 thus allows the length of the tightening part of the upper link to be adjusted, that is to say ie, the part of the link between the first hooking element 11 and the third hooking element 13. Consequently, it allows the adjustment of the distance between the front part 211 of a first strap 21 and the front part 221 of a second strap 22, at the level of the lie upper n, when the upper link is in taken with the fourth attachment element 14. The user can modify the tightening / plating of the backpack around his torso as he wishes.

The second adjustment device 1322 makes it possible to adjust the relative position of the connection between the lower link 102 and the third attachment element 13. The construction of this second device 1322 is similar to the first adjustment device 1321. It comprises a jaw. fixed 1323 integral with the body of the hooking element 13, a movable jaw 1324 relative to the fixed jaw, an actuator 1325 secured to the movable jaw and, optionally, an elastic means 1326 acting on the movable jaw to move it towards the jaw fixed. The second adjustment device 1322 is designed to receive a portion of the lower link 102, close to the end 1021, so that this portion is inserted between the fixed jaw 1323 and the movable jaw 1324. Thus, when the movable jaw 1324 is requested to move towards the fixed jaw 1323, for example, thanks to the elastic means 1326, this has the effect of wedging the lower link 102 between the jaws. This clamping fixes the relative connection of the connection between the lower link 102 and the third attachment element 13. The lower connection 102 is therefore secured to the third attachment element 13. The position of the third attachment element 13 on the lower link is fixed and cannot be changed without user action. This makes it possible to fix the length of the tightening part of the lower link, that is to say, the portion of the link between the second hooking element 12 and the third hooking element 13. Conversely, when the user acts on the actuator 1325 so as to cause the moving jaw to move away from the fixed jaw, the lower link is released, which can then slide freely between the jaws. By pulling on the end 1021 of the lower link 102, the user slides the lower link inside the second adjuster 1322 until the desired length of the tightening part of the lower link is obtained, that is to say say, the part of the link between the second attachment element 12 and the third attachment element 13. Therefore, the user can release the actuator 1325 which has the effect of bringing the jaws together, for example, thanks to by elastic means 1326. The lower link 102 is then again secured to the third attachment element 13. The second adjustment device 1322 thus allows the length of the tightening part of the lower link to be adjusted, that is to say ie, the part of the link between the second hooking element 12 and the third hooking element 13. Consequently, it allows the adjustment of the spacing between the front part 211 of a first strap 21 and the front part 221 of a second strap 22, at the lower link, when the lower link is engaged with the fifth hook member 15. The user can modify the tightening / tacking of the backpack around the lower region of the trunk as desired.

Due to the fact that the first and second adjustment devices 1321, 1322 are arranged on the third attachment element 13, this makes it possible to position the operating members of the two adjustment devices in a reduced area. The user can easily grab them to manipulate them, even when they are in an area of the near field of vision. Thanks to this proximity, the gripping of these operating members is more intuitive and can be done by touch, "blind". This advantage is all the more marked when the user wants to act simultaneously on the first and second adjustment devices 1321, 1322.

The first and second adjustment devices 1321, 1322 can be two independent devices, operating autonomously. This makes it easy to obtain differential tightening between the upper link and the lower link.

Advantageously, the first and second adjustment devices 1321, 1322 share parts in common in order to form a single blocker 132. This construction proves to be more compact, lightweight with a reduced number of parts. It allows simultaneous, rapid and balanced adjustment of the upper and lower links. With a common actuator, the actuation of the adjustment devices is simple, ergonomic and more intuitive, in particular for handling by touch, "blind".

In this case, the first adjustment device and the second adjustment device form a single blocker 132 comprising two jaws 1323, 1324 between which pass the upper link 101 and the lower link 102, the two jaws being movable, one relative to each other, so that when the jaws are brought together, the upper link and the lower link are stuck between the two jaws, and when the jaws are apart, the upper link and the lower link are free to slide at the inside the single blocker.

According to one embodiment, the single blocker 132 comprises a resilient means 1325 for bringing the jaws together and the jaws are designed so that an action on a link in one direction moves the jaws away while an action in the other direction. maintains the clamping of the jaws.

There are a multitude of technical solutions for producing these two adjustment devices. In a non-exhaustive manner, the documents US4328605 , WO200912081 or EP1495691 illustrate examples of applicable embodiments.

The figure 10 shows a first embodiment of these two adjustment devices. In this case, the single blocker 132 comprises a housing, a push button, inserted into the housing, and a spring 1326 interposed between the button and the housing. The push button comprises a transverse through hole in which pass the two links 101, 102. The case also comprises two coaxial transverse through holes in which also pass the two links 101, 102. The button and the housing are indexed so that the holes transverse can be coaxial when the button is pressed into the housing. When the button is not requested by the user, the spring pushes the button out of the housing. This movement of the button causes the misalignment of the axes of the transverse holes. As a result, the links get stuck at the interface between these transverse holes. The links thus become integral with the housing. By pressing the button, the transverse holes tend to line up, causing the links to release. These can then slide freely in the transverse holes. In this example, the actuator 1325 is produced by the push button, the fixed jaw 1323 is produced by an internal edge of the coaxial transverse holes of the housing and the movable jaw 1324 is made by an outer edge of the transverse hole of the button. The same fixed jaw and the same movable jaw are used to lock the upper and lower links. This embodiment is described in the document US4328605 .

According to a first variant, the housing supports a fastener in the form of hooks defining a passage for receiving a fastening element of a strap, here, in this case a loop. According to a second variant, it is the case which forms the fastener cooperating with the fixing element of a strap making it possible to fix the hooking element 13 on the corresponding strap. For example, the housing can be a cylinder sized so that it can pass through a loop / fastener, when the major axis of the buckle and the major axis of the cylinder are substantially aligned, and so that it can no longer pass through the loop / fastener, when the main axis of the loop and the main axis of the cylinder are substantially perpendicular. Thus, when pulling on a link, the link is slid through the loop until the housing of the single blocker 132 abuts against the loop (the housing being oriented so that the main axis of the loop and the main axis of the cylinder are substantially perpendicular), thus securing the attachment element 13 with the strap. This second variant is illustrated on figure 19 .

The figures 11 to 13 show a second embodiment of these two adjustment devices. The figure 11 represents a hooking element 13 incorporating a single blocker 132. The figure 12 shows a section of the single blocker 132 in a link blocking configuration as the figure 13 shows the same cross section of single blocker 132 but in a link release configuration.

In this example, the single blocker 132 comprises a body in which is formed a "V" housing, bordered by two side walls 1323a, 1323b, a disc 1324, inserted in the housing, and a spring 1326, shown schematically in FIG. figure 12 , acting on the disc to push it towards the bottom of the housing. The disc 1324 is extended by an extension 1325 projecting from the housing. The single blocker 132 is designed to accommodate a portion of the upper link 101, close to the end 1012, so that this portion is inserted between a first side wall 1323a of the housing and a first edge 1324a of the disc 1324 facing each other. -vis of the first side wall 1323a and a portion of the lower link 102, close to the end 1022, so that this portion is inserted between the second side wall 1323b of the housing and a second edge 1324b of the disc 1324 in vis- vis-à-vis the second side wall 1323b. The links 101, 102 thus pass on either side of the disc 1324. In the absence of any stress on the disc 1324 and its extension 1325, the spring 1326 pushes the disc 1324 to the bottom of the housing. As a result, the links 101, 102 get stuck between the disc 1324 and a side wall 1323a, 1323b of the housing, as seen in figure 12 . When the user pulls on the extension 1325, it causes the movement of the disc 1324 relative to the housing so as to move the disc away from the bottom housing. The distance between the side walls 1323a, 1323b and the edges 1324a, 1324b of the disc 1324 increases, then causing the release of the links 101, 102, as seen in figure 13 . These can then slide freely in the single blocker. In this example, the actuator 1325 is made by the extension, the fixed jaw 1323 is made by a side wall 1323a, 1323b of the housing and the movable jaw 1324 is made by an edge 1324a, 1324b of the disc. Unlike the previous embodiment, the upper link and the lower link are blocked in separate areas. The upper link 101 is interposed between a part of the first side wall 1323a of the housing and a part 1324a of the first edge of the disc facing the first side wall. The lower link 102 is inserted between a part of the second side wall 1323b of the housing and a part 1324b of the second edge of the disc facing the second side wall. By separating these two blockages, the reliability of the single blocker is improved by reducing the risk of tangling of the links between them and the risk of one link slipping along the other. In addition, these dissociated tightening makes it possible to maintain tightening even if one of the blockings is lacking. This embodiment is described in the document EP1495691 .

The figures 14 to 16 show a third embodiment of these two adjustment devices for the third attachment element 13.

As described above, the attachment element 13 comprises a fastener 131 in the form of hooks defining a passage for receiving a fastening element 221 of a strap 21, here, in this case a loop. These hooks 131 are arranged so as to be able to disengage the hooking element from the fastening element of the strap. One can envision other fastening solutions 131 for fixing the fastening element in a removable manner or not with the fastening element of the strap.

A particularity of this blocker is that it does not include an elastic means for bringing the movable jaw towards the fixed jaw. This makes it possible to reduce the number of pieces of the ascender. The ascender is robust (less wear) and easy to use.

In this example, the single blocker 132 comprises a body 1325 in which is formed a through opening 1327 delimited by two longitudinal walls 1325u, 1325v and two side walls 1325a, 1325b, as well as a movable jaw 1324 arranged so as to partially close the l 'opening 1327. The movable jaw 1324 is adapted to translate longitudinally in the opening 1327, from one longitudinal wall 1325u, 1325v to the other 1325v, 1325u. Thus, this construction makes it possible to create a passage 1327u between the movable jaw 1324 and a longitudinal wall 1325u and a passage 1327v between the movable jaw 1324 and a longitudinal wall 1325v. To define the ascender, we consider the "high" / "low", "upper" / "lower" parts, with reference to the position of the ascender as shown in figure 15 . The movable jaw 1324 comprises a central longitudinal rib 1324c extending vertically, upwards, so as to define two housings arranged on either side of the rib 1324c. Each of these housings is delimited by the rib 1324c, an upper face of the jaw 1324 and a side wall 1325a, 1325b of the blocker body 1325. The single blocker 132 is designed to accommodate a portion of the upper link 101, close to the end 1012, and a portion of the lower link 102, close to the end 1021. For this embodiment, upstream, the upper link 101 passes through passage 1327v, from bottom to top, then into the housing delimited by rib 1324c, an upper face of jaw 1324 and side wall 1325a of blocker body 1325 and then passes through passage 1327u, from top at the bottom, to continue, downstream, to its end 1012. This arrangement is illustrated in figures 15 . Regarding the lower link 102, this passes through the passage 1327v, from bottom to top, then in the housing delimited by the rib 1324c, an upper face of the jaw 1324 and the side wall 1325b of the body 1325 of the blocker and passes then through passage 1327u, from top to bottom, to continue to its end 1021. This arrangement is not illustrated but it is identical to that shown in figure 15 .

In the case of a continuous link 10, the ends 1012 and 1021 are connected so as to form a loop 103 as seen above. The loop 103 is thus produced at the exit of the single blocker 132, after the links 101, 102 have passed through the passage 1327u.

The blocker link blocking configuration is shown in figure 15 . In this configuration, the body 1325 of the blocker is substantially aligned with the orientation of the links 101, 102 upstream and downstream of the blocker. At passage 1327u, the links are bent at an angle close to 90 ° against an edge of the longitudinal wall 1325u of the body 1325 of the blocker which makes it possible to slow down the movement of the links relative to the body 1325, at this edge . Furthermore, in this configuration of orientation of the links, in particular upstream, the more a link is put under tension at its tightening part, the more it will exert a force on the movable jaw 1324 to push it towards the longitudinal wall 1325u of the blocker body 1325, as represented by arrow F at figure 15 . This translation of the movable jaw 1324 causes the pinching of the links 101, 102 respectively between a part 1324a, 1324b of the movable jaw 1324 and a part 1323a, 1323b of the longitudinal wall 1325u of the body 1325 of the blocker. These parts 1323a, 1323b of the longitudinal wall 1325u correspond to the fixed jaw 1323. The links are then blocked, secured to the body 1325 of the blocker. The higher the tension of the tightening part of the links, the more the links are clamped between the jaws 1323, 1324 of the blocker. To tension the tightening part of a link, simply reduce the length of the tightening part of the link while the backpack is worn. Therefore, the perimeter of the trunk at this level will exert a force on the tightening part of the link, perpendicular to the trunk, and, as the length of the tightening part of the link is fixed, this results in an increase in the tension of the link .

The blocker link release configuration is shown in figure 16 . Thus, to release the links, it suffices to rotate the body 1325 around the axis of the fastener 131 as shown by the arrow R on the figure 16 . Here, we consider that the field 1325 corresponds to the single blocker actuator 132. By thus lifting the actuator 1325, the links 101, 102 are reoriented with respect to the blocker 132, upstream and downstream of the blocker. This new orientation of the links frees the links at passage 1327u. In this configuration, the orientation of the downstream link is substantially aligned with the passage 1327u, the link is therefore no longer retained at this level. It can therefore slide freely through the 1327u passage. Furthermore, the orientation of the downstream link with respect to the movable jaw 1324 is such that the link no longer exerts a significant force on the movable jaw 1324 to push it towards the longitudinal wall 1325u of the body 1325 of the ascender. There is therefore no more pinching between the jaws 1323, 1324 of the blocker. The links are then released and can slide freely in the passages 1327u, 1327v.

To adjust the tightness of the links against the user's body, the user rocks the ascender into its release configuration, as shown in figure 16 . Secondly, he pulls on the ends 1012, 1021 of the links 101, 102 or puts under tension the tightening part of the links 101, 102, until the desired length of the upper link of the tightening parts of the links is obtained, c 'that is to say, the parts of the links between the hooking element 13 and the hooking element 11 and the length of the lower link desired between the hooking element 13 and the hooking element 12 . Then, he folds down the actuator 1325 (movement in the direction opposite to the arrow R shown in figure 16 ) to switch the ascender to its blocking configuration shown in figure 15 .

Advantageously, the central rib 1324c is pierced by a transverse hole 1324d so as to be able to attach a cord, not shown, to the movable jaw. Thus, the user can grasp the cord and pull on it in a direction which makes it possible to cause the moving jaw to move away from the fixed jaw, thus releasing the links. This construction facilitates the tilting of the two adjustment devices into a release configuration with a simple gesture.

In the figures 15 and 16 , we illustrate the operation of the blocker acting on the upper link 101. This operation is transposed directly to the operation of the blocker acting on the lower link 102.

In this embodiment, the upper link and the lower link are blocked in separate areas. By separating these two blockages, the reliability of the single blocker is improved by reducing the risk of tangling of the links between them and the risk of one link slipping along the other. In addition, these dissociated tightening makes it possible to maintain tightening even if one of the blockings is lacking.

Advantageously, the first and second adjustment devices 1321, 1322 are self-tightening devices in the sense that in the absence of stress from the actuator, if the links are pulled upstream, that is to say , if we exert a tension on the tightening part of the links, we further block the links between the jaws. This secures tightening and adjustment.

According to one embodiment, if the links are pulled downstream, that is to say, at the level of the actuating part, the links can be slid in the blocker. This facilitates adjustment as the user does not need to act on the actuator.

Advantageously, the first and second adjustment devices 1321, 1322 are self-locking devices in the sense that in the rest position, in the absence of user demand, they block the links passing through them. This characteristic is obtained by virtue of an elastic means 1326 as is the case with the first two embodiments illustrated above. Alternatively, this characteristic can be achieved by a particular construction as is the case with the third embodiment illustrated above. This specificity of the adjustment devices makes the single blocker 132 also self-locking.

The adjustment of the carrying of the backpack will now be explained through the example illustrated in the figures 2 and 3 .

First, the user installs the adjustment system on the backpack as shown in the figure 2 . This operation consists in connecting the hooking elements 11, 12 and 13 with respectively one of the fixing elements 212 of the first strap 21 and in connecting the hooking elements 14 and 15 with respectively one of the fixing elements 222 of the first strap 22. The connection is made via the attachments 111, 121, 131, 141, 151 of the hooking elements 11, 12, 13, 14, 15. As described above, each strap comprises a succession of fastening elements 212, 222 distributed vertically, along each shoulder strap. The user then chooses the fixing elements 212, 222 to which he wants to connect the hooking elements 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 according to his wish for wearing comfort. It can thus adjust the vertical positions of the attachment points of the adjustment system.

In this configuration, the upper link 101 and the lower link 102 are disconnected from the hooking elements 14 and 15. Thus, the user can easily put his backpack in place. He is not embarrassed to put on the suspenders.

Secondly, the user connects the upper link 101 with the hooking element 14 and / or the upper link 102 with the hooking element 15, according to his need, as shown in the figure. figure 3 . The connection is made via the hooks 142, 152 of the hooking elements 14, 15.

Thirdly, the user grasps the loop 103 or the gripping means 104 and pulls on it. Because the hooking element 13 is fixed on the first strap 21, via the fastener 131 / fixing element 212 connection, this traction on the upper and lower links causes the links to be released in the blocker 132. The user exerts traction until the desired tightness / fit is obtained. As soon as it obtains the desired setting, it releases the loop. The blocker reacts by blocking the links which makes it possible to freeze the length of the tightening part of the upper link, that is to say, the part of the link between the hooking element 13 and the hooking element 11 and the length of the tightening part of the lower link, that is, the part of the link between the attachment element 13 and the attachment element 12. This adjustment operation is simple and intuitive. It allows fast, simultaneous, balanced and comfortable tightening. It is always possible for the user to have a dissociated tightening between the upper link and the lower link. For this, he must pull on a single strand 1012, 1021 of the loop 103 and not on the loop.

During this operation, by pulling on the ends of the links 101, 102, the user first brings these front parts of the backpack closer together, then, secondly, he increases the plating, the tightening of the bag. back against the user's body.

The backpack is then configured for good carrying comfort.

To modify this holding configuration, the user acts on the actuator 1325 to release the links from the blocker 132. Therefore, it suffices to exert a force on the links to relax them, to increase the length of the tightening part of the upper link, that is to say, the part of the upper link between the hooking element 13 and the hooking element 11 and the length of the tightening part of the lower link, that is to say , the part of the lower link between the hooking element 13 and the hooking element 12. This thus makes it possible to adjust the distance between the front part 211 of a first strap 21 of the backpack 2 and the part front 221 of a second strap 22 of the backpack.

To remove the backpack, the user disengages the upper link 101 from the hooking element 14 and the upper link 102 from the hooking element 15. He can then easily remove his backpack.

This first embodiment of the adjustment system comprising five hooking elements 11-15 has the advantage of being practical for setting up and removing the backpack. Indeed, the use of the fourth 14 and fifth hooking elements 15 fixed on the second strap 22 allows easy coupling or uncoupling of the links 101, 102 with the second strap. With a simple gesture, the user can connect a link 101, 105 with the corresponding hooking element 14, 15. In this embodiment, this connection is made using simple hooks 141, 151.

The invention is not limited to the use of five hooking elements 11-15.

According to a second embodiment, illustrated on figure 17 , the adjustment system comprises only three attachment elements 11, 12 and 13. In this case, the third attachment element 13 is intended to be fixed on the first strap 21 while the first 11 and second attachment elements 12 are intended to be fixed on the second strap 22. This construction is simple and requires only two types of hooking elements.

According to a third embodiment, illustrated on figure 18 , the adjustment system comprises only four hooking elements 11, 12, 13 and 14. In this case, the first 11 and third hooking elements 13 are intended to be fixed on the first strap 21 while the second 12 and fourth hooking elements 14 are intended to be fixed on the second strap 22. In this example, three types of hooking elements are used.

The adjustment system may include more than five hooking elements and in particular arranged more hooking elements similar to the fourth 14 and fifth hooking elements 15. Each link 101, 102 then forms as many zigzags as desired.

Thus, according to certain embodiments, the first hooking element 11 and / or the second hooking element 12 can be connected to the second strap 22 and therefore not necessarily to the same strap as that to which the third element is connected. hook 13.

According to a variant, the hooking elements 14; 15 are directly secured to the corresponding strap, for example, by gluing or sewing. In this case, they mainly comprise a hook 142; 152. According to one embodiment, the backpack may comprise a succession of hooks / attachment elements distributed vertically along a strap, permanently attached to the strap. Thus, the user can very quickly choose which of the hooking elements he wishes to use in relation to his needs.

As mentioned above, the adjustment system advantageously comprises at least one hooking element 14, 15 provided with a guide element 141, 151 designed to receive, in a removable manner, a portion of a link. This feature makes it possible to facilitate the connection and disconnection of a portion of a link with a shoulder strap, which can make it easier to put on and take off the backpack.

The invention is not limited to these embodiments. It is possible to combine these embodiments.

The invention is not limited to the embodiments previously described but extends to all the embodiments covered by the appended claims.

Nomenclature

1. 1- Adjustment system
   • 10- Continuous link
     • 101- Upper link
       • 1011- First end
       • 1012- Second end
     • 102- Lower link
       • 1021- First end
       • 1022- Second end
     • 103- Buckle
     • 104- Means of gripping
   • 11- First hooking element
     111- Tie
   • 12- Second hooking element
     121- Tie
   • 13- Third hanging element
     • 131- Tie
     • 132- Single blocker
       • 1321- First adjustment device
       • 1322- Second adjustment device
       • 1323- Fixed jaw
         • 1323a- Part engaged with the upper link
         • 1323b- Part engaged with the lower link
       • 1324- Movable jaw
         • 1324a- Part engaged with the upper link
         • 1324b- Part engaged with the lower link
         • 1324c- Rib
         • 1324d- Transverse hole
       • 1325- Actuator; Body
         • 1325a, b- Side wall
         • 1325u, v- Longitudinal wall
       • 1326- Medium elastic
       • 1327, u, v- Passage
   • 14- Fourth element of grip
     • 141- Tie
     • 142- Hook
   • 15- Fifth hanging element
     • 151- Tie
     • 152- Hook
2. 2- Backpack
   • 21- First strap
     • 211- Anterior part
     • 212- Fasteners
   • 22- Second strap
     • 221- Anterior part
     • 222- Fasteners
   • 23- Back panel

Claims (10)

1. Carrying item (2) provided with a first shoulder strap (21) and a second shoulder strap (22) that are fixed to a back panel and one or more pockets, front or back, the carrying item comprising a system (1) for adjusting the separation between the front part (211) of the first shoulder strap (21) and the front part (221) of the second shoulder strap (22), the adjustment system comprising:

   - a top link (101) delimited by a first end (1011) and a second end (1012),

   - a bottom link (102) delimited by a first end (1021) and a second end (1022),

   - a first attachment element (11) intended to be fixed onto a shoulder strap (21, 22), the first attachment element being secured to the top link at its first end,

   - a second attachment element (12) intended to be fixed onto a shoulder strap (21, 22), the second attachment element being secured to the bottom link at its second end,

   - a third attachment element (13) intended to be fixed onto the first shoulder strap (21), the third attachment element being secured to the top link, close to its second end, the third attachment element being secured to the bottom link, close to its first end, the third attachment element comprising

   a first adjustment device (1321) making it possible to adjust the relative position of the link between the top link and the third attachment element,
   a second adjustment device (1322) making it possible to adjust the relative position of the link between the bottom link and the third attachment element,
   each front part (211, 221) of a shoulder strap (21, 22) bearing fixing elements (212, 222) and the first (11) and/or the second attachment element (12) being mounted removably on one of the fixing elements (212, 222) so as to allow the adjustment of the vertical position of the first attachment element (11) and/or the second attachment element (12).
2. Carrying item (2) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the adjustment system also comprises:

   - a fourth attachment element (14) intended to be fixed onto the second shoulder strap, the fourth attachment element forming a loop for the top link, and/or

   - a fifth attachment element (15) intended to be fixed onto the second shoulder strap, the fifth attachment element forming a loop for the bottom link.
3. Carrying item (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the fourth attachment element comprises a guiding element (142) designed to receive, removably, a portion of the top link and/or in that the fifth attachment element comprises a guiding element (152) designed to receive, removably, a portion of the bottom link.
4. Carrying item (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the top link and the bottom link form a single continuous link (10), the second end of the top link constituting the first end of the bottom link.
5. Carrying item (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the adjustment system comprises a gripping means (104) secured to the continuous link, at a loop (103) formed by the continuous link between the first adjustment device and the second adjustment device.
6. Carrying item (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bottom link and/or the top link are elastic.
7. Carrying item (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bottom link and/or the top link are cords.
8. Carrying item (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first adjustment device and the second adjustment device form a single ascender (132) comprising two jaws (1323, 1324) between which the top link and the bottom link pass, the two jaws being movable relative to one another so that, when the jaws converge, the top link and the bottom link are pinched between the two jaws and, when the jaws are separated, the top link and the bottom link are free to slide inside the single ascender.
9. Carrying item (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the third attachment element (13) comprises a housing in cylinder form, dimensioned so that it can pass through a fixing loop/element (212, 222), when the main axis of the loop and the main axis of the cylinder are substantially aligned, and so that it can no longer pass through the fixing loop/element, when the main axis of the loop and the main axis of the cylinder are substantially at right angles.
10. Adjustment system (1) for a carrying item (2), said system being defined according to one of the preceding claims.

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