GB2576138A - Communications system control unit and releasable attachment mechanism - Google Patents

Communications system control unit and releasable attachment mechanism Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2576138A
GB2576138A GB1811853.9A GB201811853A GB2576138A GB 2576138 A GB2576138 A GB 2576138A GB 201811853 A GB201811853 A GB 201811853A GB 2576138 A GB2576138 A GB 2576138A
Authority
GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
lug
releasable attachment
attachment mechanism
front surface
bracket
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
GB1811853.9A
Other versions
GB201811853D0 (en
Inventor
Rees Daniel
Marconi Matteo
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Ruroc Ip Holdings Ltd
Original Assignee
Ruroc Ip Holdings Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ruroc Ip Holdings Ltd filed Critical Ruroc Ip Holdings Ltd
Priority to GB1811853.9A priority Critical patent/GB2576138A/en
Publication of GB201811853D0 publication Critical patent/GB201811853D0/en
Publication of GB2576138A publication Critical patent/GB2576138A/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
    • A45F5/00—Holders or carriers for hand articles; Holders or carriers for use while travelling or camping
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
    • B62J45/00—Electrical equipment arrangements specially adapted for use as accessories on cycles, not otherwise provided for
    • B62J45/10—Arrangement of audio equipment; Supports therefor
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
    • B62J11/00—Supporting arrangements specially adapted for fastening specific devices to cycles, e.g. supports for attaching maps
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62K—CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
    • B62K11/00—Motorcycles, engine-assisted cycles or motor scooters with one or two wheels
    • B62K11/14—Handlebar constructions, or arrangements of controls thereon, specially adapted thereto
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/163—Wearable computers, e.g. on a belt
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/0007—Bracelets specially adapted for other functions or with means for attaching other articles
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
    • A45F5/00—Holders or carriers for hand articles; Holders or carriers for use while travelling or camping
    • A45F2005/008—Hand articles fastened to the wrist or to the arm or to the leg
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
    • A45F2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45F
    • A45F2200/05—Holder or carrier for specific articles
    • A45F2200/0516—Portable handheld communication devices, e.g. mobile phone, pager, beeper, PDA, smart phone
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
    • A45F2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45F
    • A45F2200/05—Holder or carrier for specific articles
    • A45F2200/0525—Personal portable computing devices, e.g. laptop, tablet, netbook, game boy, navigation system, calculator
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04B—TRANSMISSION
    • H04B1/00—Details of transmission systems, not covered by a single one of groups H04B3/00 - H04B13/00; Details of transmission systems not characterised by the medium used for transmission
    • H04B1/38—Transceivers, i.e. devices in which transmitter and receiver form a structural unit and in which at least one part is used for functions of transmitting and receiving
    • H04B1/3827—Portable transceivers
    • H04B1/3888—Arrangements for carrying or protecting transceivers

Abstract

A releasable attachment mechanism component is provided comprising a lug 12 with a lip 22 standing proud of a front surface, and an aperture 20 extending through the lug. A second releasable attachment mechanism component (34, figure 3) comprises a slot (42, fig 3) for receiving the lug, the slot having a recess for receiving the lip 22 and a bolt (50, fig 3) for passing through the aperture 20. The bolt may be biased towards the interior of the slot. The lug may be provided on a wrist strap (24, fig 5) or a bracket (54, fig 6) for a motorcycle handlebar. The bracket may comprise two, hinged, substantially C-shaped parts (56, 58, fig. 6). A communications control unit (32, fig. 4) may have a slot for receiving the lug, so that it can be placed either on the wrist strap or bracket as desired. Also disclosed is a kit of parts comprising the communications control unit, a wrist strap, a bracket and a releasable attachment mechanism to attach the control unit to either the strap or the bracket.

Description

The present invention relates to a communications system control unit and releasable attachment mechanism, particularly a push-to-talk radio control switch for use by motorcyclists.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
Motorcycle riders often use two-way radios to communicate with each other while riding as part of a group or to communicate with a passenger. Two-way radios allow users to transmit on a particular frequency and receive broadcasts from others on that frequency. Typically, a ‘push-to-talk’ switch is used to control the two-way radio. The push-to-talk switch is a push button connected to the two-way radio transceiver. When the button is depressed, the transceiver broadcasts sound from the user’s microphone over the radio frequency for reception by other users. When the button is released, the transceiver does not transmit and the user can receive broadcasts from other users.
Two-way radio transceivers for motorcycle riders are often provided on a motorcycle helmet. This is convenient as a microphone may be located adjacent the user’s mouth and the transceiver may be provided on the side of the helmet, close to the microphone.
In such arrangements, it is possible to provide a push-to-talk switch on the side of the helmet, but this is considered unsafe as the rider would have to take a hand off the handlebar to activate the switch, risking loss of control of the motorcycle.
One solution to this problem is to provide a push-to-talk switch on the motorcycle handlebar. A problem with this approach is that the switch takes up space on the handlebar. This can make the motorcycle more difficult to control, particularly when a large number of other switches are present, for example to control headlights or other functions.
A further problem is that if a user owns a helmet with a two-way radio, and has attached the controlling push-to-talk switch to his motorcycle’s handlebars, it is impossible or inconvenient to use the helmet radio when riding as a passenger on another motorcycle.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved system for controlling two-way radios for motorcyclists.
STATEMENT OF INVENTION
According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a releasable attachment mechanism component comprising a lug, the lug having a front surface, a lip being provided on an upper edge of the front surface, proud of the front surface and an aperture extending into the lug.
The releasable attachment mechanism component, when used with the releasable attachment mechanism component of the second aspect of the invention, provides a means for rapidly attaching two bodies together and releasing the bodies from each other once attached. The working and advantages of the component and its optional features will be explained after introduction of the second aspect of the invention.
The aperture may extend into the lug parallel to the front surface.
The upper edge of the front surface may be bevelled. This makes it easier to insert the lug into a slot and remove it from the slot rapidly without the lug becoming stuck in the slot.
An upper edge of a rear surface of the lug may be bevelled, the rear surface being opposite the front surface. This makes it easier to insert the lug into a slot and remove it from the slot rapidly without the lug becoming stuck in the slot.
The lug may be elongate, the distance between the front surface and rear surface of the lug being greater than the widths of the front surface and rear surface. This allows the lug to pivot about the lip in a slot with a high degree of support from the sides of the slot, so that the lug can be rapidly inserted into the slot.
According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a releasable attachment mechanism component comprising a slot for receiving a lug of the first aspect of the invention, the slot having an interior volume defined by a side wall and an end wall, a recess being provided in a front surface of the side wall for receiving the lip of the lug, and a movable bolt in another surface of the side wall for entering the aperture of the lug.
In combination with the releasable attachment mechanism component of the first aspect of the invention, this provides a means for rapidly attaching two bodies together and releasing the bodies from each other once attached. The lug of the first aspect may be inserted into the slot of the second aspect. The lug is inserted with the lip foremost, i.e. the lip is the first part of the lug to enter the slot. As the lug moves into the slot, the lip is received in the recess of the slot. After the lip is received in the recess of the slot, the lug pivots about the lip, moving further into the slot. The lip is retained in the recess by contact between an edge surface of the lip and an edge surface of the recess. This pivoting motion eventually brings the aperture of the lug to the same position as the bolt. The bolt moves or is moved into the aperture. In this position, the lug is firmly retained in the slot by contact between the lip and the recess and between the bolt and the aperture. The lug cannot be removed from the slot without removing the bolt. To release the lug, the bolt is removed from the slot. The motion of inserting the lug into the slot can be made rapidly as the lug is guided in the movement by contact with the slot.
The recess may be provided adjacent the end wall of the slot. This provides that the lug must be fully inserted into the slot before the lip is caught in the recess.
The movable bolt may be provided in a lateral surface of the side wall, the lateral surface being a surface which is substantially perpendicular to the front surface. This allows the bolt to be biased against a lateral surface of the lug, which is advantageous because, while the lug pivots relative to the slot, the lateral surfaces slide past one another and do not vary in distance from one another, allowing the bolt to slide over the lateral surface of the lug with little resistance. The end surfaces of the lug, i.e. the surface with the lip and the opposite surface, vary in separation from the surfaces of the slot during the movement, which would result in more resistance to movement from the bolt if the bolt were biased against one of these surfaces.
The bolt may be biased towards the interior of the slot. This allows the bolt to automatically enter the aperture when the aperture is positioned adjacent to the bolt, so that user intervention is not required, i.e., it is a latch arrangement. This is particularly advantageous when the mechanism is for use with a motorcycle, as the user will typically be wearing gloves, making manipulation of the mechanism difficult.
The bolt may terminate obliquely to form an angled latching surface relative to the axis of the bolt. This allows the bolt to be forced out of the way of the lug without direct user intervention. Before the lug is inserted into the slot, the bolt will protrude into the slot. As the lug moves into the slot, an upper surface of the lug will push on the latching surface of the bolt and force the bolt out of the interior of the slot, against the bias of the bolt.
According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit of parts including: a wrist strap, the wrist strap having a releasable attachment mechanism component of a first type; a bracket for attachment to a handlebar of a motorcycle, the bracket having a releasable attachment mechanism component of the first type; and a communications system control unit, the communications system control unit having wireless communication means, at least one button arranged to control the wireless communication means and a releasable attachment mechanism component of a second type, in which the releasable attachment mechanism components of the first type are adapted to cooperate with the releasable attachment mechanism component of the second type to releasably attach the communications system control unit to the bracket or the wrist strap.
The kit provides a control unit for a communications system that can be alternately used on the handlebars of a motorcycle or attached to the user’s wrist. This is advantageous as it allows the control unit to be used by the driver, who has access to the handlebars, or by a passenger or pillion rider, who does not. The wrist strap is for attachment around a user’s wrist, for example around the wrist of a pillion rider. The releasable attachment mechanism component allows the control unit to be releasably attached to the wrist strap. The bracket provides a mount on the handlebar of the motorcycle for attachment of the control unit when required by the driver. The control unit allows the user, whether the driver or pillion rider, to control their communications system without needing to reach to a headset mounted control. This improves safety, as the rider or passenger needs to move less to control the communications system, and unnecessary movement while the motorcycle is in motion may unbalance the motorcycle. This also minimises distraction to the driver. When the control unit is worn on the wrist strap, the wearer may activate the control unit by pressing the button, for example pressing the control unit against the side of his leg or a part of the motorcycle so that the button is depressed. As an example, the control unit may be a push-to-talk switch arranged to control a twoway radio.
The releasable attachment mechanism components of the first type may be male releasable attachment mechanism components, and the releasable attachment mechanism components of the second type may be female releasable attachment mechanism components.
The releasable attachment mechanism components of the first type may each comprise a lug, the lug having a front surface, a lip being provided on an upper edge of the front surface, proud of the front surface and an aperture extending into the lug.
The releasable attachment mechanism component of the second type may comprise a slot for receiving a lug of the releasable attachment mechanism components of the first type, the slot having an interior volume defined by a side wall, a recess being provided in a front surface of the side wall for receiving the lip of the lug, and a movable bolt in another surface of the side wall for entering the aperture of the lug.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a wrist strap comprising a flexible elongate element for securing around a user’s wrist and a releasable attachment mechanism component attached to the flexible elongate element, the releasable attachment component comprising a lug, the lug having a front surface, a lip being provided on an upper edge of the front surface, proud of the front surface and an aperture extending into the lug.
The wrist strap allows a communications system control unit to be worn on a user’s wrist, via attachment to the releasable attachment mechanism component. Advantageously, the communications system control unit can be detached from the wrist strap for attachment to the handlebar of a motorcycle. This allows the same communications system control unit to be used while driving a motorcycle, i.e. when attached to the handlebar, and while riding as a passenger, i.e. when attached to the wrist strap. While attached to the wrist strap, the communications system control unit is easily accessible to the wearer, who can activate a button on the unit by pressing it against his leg or a part of the motorcycle.
The flexible elongate element and releasable attachment component may be configured such that, when the flexible elongate element is secured around a user’s wrist, the releasable attachment component is in a dorsal position relative to the wrist.
This allows the wearer of the wrist strap to activate a communications system control unit attached to the wrist strap conveniently, by pressing the unit against a body part or a part of the motorcycle.
The lug may be overmoulded on the flexible elongate element. This provides a durable and easily manufactured means of joining the lug to the flexible elongate element. It also allows the lug and flexible elongate element to be made from different materials. For example, it may be desirable to manufacture the flexible elongate element from silicone and the lug from a more rigid plastics material.
According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a bracket comprising fixing means for attaching the bracket to a handlebar of a motorcycle and a releasable attachment mechanism component attached to the fixing means, the releasable attachment mechanism component comprising a lug, the lug having a front surface, a lip being provided on an upper edge of the front surface, proud of the front surface and an aperture extending into the lug.
The bracket allows a communications system control unit to be attached to a motorcycle handlebar, via attachment to the releasable attachment mechanism component. Advantageously, the communications system control unit can be detached from the handlebar for attachment to a wrist strap worn by a user. This allows the same communications system control unit to be used while driving a motorcycle, i.e. when attached to the handlebar, and while riding as a passenger, i.e. when attached to the wrist strap. While attached to the bracket on the handlebar, the communications system control unit is easily accessible to the driver of the motorcycle.
The fixing means may include first and second bracket portions, each bracket portion being a substantially C-shaped body sized to receive the handlebar of a motorcycle in the concavity of the C shape.
The bracket portions are for clamping around a handlebar of a motorcycle.
The bracket portions may be hinged together. This allows for easy attachment and removal of the bracket to or from the handlebar.
A resilient insert may be provided on a concave inner surface of each bracket portion for abutting a handlebar. This improves the grip of the bracket on the handlebar. When the bracket is tightened on the handlebar by bringing the bracket portions closer together, the resilient inserts are compressed between the bracket portions and the handlebar.
The concave inner surface of each bracket portion may include a plurality of grooves, the direction of the grooves being in the plane of the C-shape, and each resilient insert may include a plurality of ridges on an external convex surface of the resilient insert for reception in the grooves of the bracket portion.
This provides a stronger engagement between the bracket portions and the resilient inserts, preventing the bracket portions from sliding off the resilient inserts along the axis of the handlebar.
Each resilient insert may include a further plurality of ridges disposed on an inner concave surface of the resilient insert, the direction of the further plurality of ridges being perpendicular to the plane of the C-shape. This allows the resilient insert to compress more tightly around the handlebar, and accommodates any small irregularity in the handlebar, for example a screw head or ridge on the handlebar.
According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a communications system control unit comprising wireless communication means, at least one button arranged to control the wireless communication means, and a releasable attachment mechanism component comprising a slot for receiving a lug, the slot having an interior volume defined by a side wall, a recess being provided in a front surface of the side wall for receiving a lip of the lug, and a movable bolt in another surface of the side wall for entering an aperture of the lug.
The communications system control unit allows a user to control a communications system, for example a two-way radio. The communications system control unit may be a push-to-talk switch. The releasable attachment mechanism component allows the communications system control unit to be attached to either a bracket on a handlebar of a motorcycle, or a wrist strap worn by a user. This allows the communications system to be controlled conveniently and safely, regardless of whether the user is driving the motorcycle or is a passenger.
The communications system control unit may further comprise operating means attached to the movable bolt for operating the bolt. This allows a user to conveniently disengage the bolt from an aperture of a lug received in the slot to detach the communications system control unit from another releasable attachment mechanism component.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made by way of example only to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a releasable attachment mechanism component;
Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a wrist strap including the releasable attachment mechanism component of Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows an exploded perspective view of a communications system control unit;
Figure 4 shows a perspective view from below of the communications system control unit of Figure 3 in an assembled state;
Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the communications system control unit of Figure 3 attached to the wrist strap of Figure 2; and
Figure 6 shows an exploded perspective view of a bracket for a handlebar of a motorcycle.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring firstly to Figure 1, a releasable attachment mechanism component is indicated generally at 10.
The releasable attachment mechanism component 10 includes a lug 12. The lug 12 is an elongate body having a front surface 14, a rear surface, an upper surface 16 and two lateral surfaces 18.
The lug 12 is slightly wedge-shaped, so that it is larger at its rear end than at the front end.
An aperture 20 is provided in the lug 12. The aperture 20 is provided in the rear end of the lug 12. In this embodiment, the aperture 20 is a through aperture. That is, the aperture 20 extends from one lateral surface 18 to the other lateral surface 18. In other embodiments, the aperture 20 may not be a through aperture but may instead be blind. The axis of the aperture 20 is parallel to the front surface 14. The axis of the aperture 20 is also parallel to the upper surface 16.
A lip 22 is provided on the front surface 14. The lip 22 is a protrusion which is proud of the front surface 14. The lip 22 has a lower surface (obscured in Figure 1) which extends from the front surface 14 of the lug 12 substantially perpendicular to the front surface 14. The upper surface 16 of the lug extends over the front surface 14 to form an upper surface of the lip 22. The upper surface 16 curves towards the lower surface of the lug 12. The lip 22is therefore wedge shaped.
A rear upper edge of the lug 12 is bevelled. The rear upper edge is the join between the rear surface of the lug 12 and the upper surface 16 of the lug 12.
Referring now to Figure 2, a wrist strap is indicated generally at 24. The wrist strap 24 includes a flexible elongate element 26. The flexible elongate element is a strip of silicone. A buckle arrangement 28 is provided at one end of the flexible elongate element and a series of adjustment holes 30 is provided at the other end. These features are well known and so will not be described further.
A lug 12 is provided on the flexible elongate element. The lug 12 is provided on an upper surface of the flexible elongate element. The lug 12 is identical to the lug of Figure 1. The lug 12 is moulded onto the elongate flexible element 26, for example in an overmould.
Referring now to Figure 3, a communications system control unit is indicated generally at 32. The communications system control unit comprises a rigid housing 34 and a plurality of push buttons 36. The housing 34 is a two-part housing having an upper part and a lower part. The push buttons 36 are provided beneath a resilient cover 38. The resilient cover 38 is provided on the upper part of the housing The push buttons 36 are provided on a printed circuit board (PCB) 40. Five buttons 36 are provided.
The PCB 40 and buttons 36 are arranged to control a two-way radio. It is envisaged that some of the buttons 36 may be assigned to increase or decrease the volume of the radio or mute the radio. One of the buttons 36 is a push-to-talk button. When the push-to-talk button is depressed, the PCB causes the two-way radio to transmit. The PCB 40 is connected to the two-way radio via a wireless communications technology, for example Bluetooth (RTM).
The control unit 32 includes a slot 42 (better appreciated in Figure 4). The slot 42 is an oblong recess in the lower part of the housing 34. The slot 42 is shaped and sized to receive the lug 12 tightly. The slot 42 is defined by a side wall 44 and an end wall 46. The side wall includes 4 sections arranged to form a prism. The prism is closed at one end by the end wall 46.
A recess (not shown) is provided. The recess is an elongate depression in the side wall 44. The recess is provided in a shorter section of the side wall 44. The recess is provided near the end wall 46.
A bore 48 is provided in the housing 34. The bore 48 is a cylindrical through- aperture communicating between the side wall 44 of the slot 42 and the exterior of the housing 34.
A bolt 50 is provided in the bore 48. The bolt 50 is slidable within the bore 48. The bolt 50 is slidable between an engaged position, in which the bolt 50 protrudes into the slot 42 and a released position, in which the bolt 50 is clear of the slot 42.
The bolt 50 includes a nut 52 at an end of the bolt 50. The end with the nut is the opposite end to the end which is within the slot 42 in the engaged position. The nut 52 is knurled for grip. The bolt may be pulled from the engaged position to the retracted position by a user by means of the nut 52. A spring (not shown) is provided to bias the bolt 50 into the slot 42, i.e. into the engaged position.
The end of the bolt 50 which protrudes into the slot 42 in the engaged position is slanted relative to an axis of the slot. That is, the bolt terminates obliquely to form an angled latching surface relative to the axis of the bolt.
Referring now to Figure 4, the control unit 32 is shown in an assembled state.
Referring now to Figure 5, the control unit 32 is shown attached to the wrist strap 24. The lug 12 is received in the slot 42. The upper surface 16 of the lug abuts the end wall 46 of the slot 42. The lip 22 of the lug 12 is received in the recess of the slot 42. The bolt 50 extends into the aperture 20 of the lug 12. The lug cannot be removed from the slot 42 because it is held in place by contact between the lower surface of the lip 22 and the recess of the slot 42, and by contact between the bolt 50 and an inner surface of the aperture 20.
To remove the control unit 32, the user pulls on the nut 52 to draw the bolt 50 clear of the aperture 20. The lug 12 is then free to pivot within the slot 42. This is because of the bevelled upper rear and upper front edges of the lug 12. The lug 12 pivots about the point of contact between the lower surface of the lip 22 and the recess. As the lug 12 pivots, the lip 22 is drawn clear of the recess, and the lug 12 can be freely removed from the slot 42.
To fix the control unit 32 to the wrist strap 24, the lug 12 of the wrist strap 24 is inserted into the slot 42, with the lip 22 foremost. The lip 22 is pushed to the end wall 46 and the lug 12 is pivoted in the slot 42 to move the lip 22 into the recess. The lug 12 is then pivoted further in the slot 42, bringing the rear end of the lug 12 further into the slot 42. The upper surface 16 of the lug engages the latching surface of the bolt 50 and pushes the bolt 50 into the bore 48 and out of the slot 42. Eventually, the aperture 20 of the lug 12 overlaps the bore 48 and the bolt 50 is free to slide into the aperture 20. The bolt 50 is pushed into the aperture 20 by the biasing spring.
Referring now to Figure 6, a bracket for a motorcycle handlebar is indicated generally at 54. The bracket 54 includes an upper bracket portion 56 and a lower bracket portion 58. Each bracket portion has a C-shaped inner profile 60.
The upper and lower bracket portions 56, 58 are hinged together by a pin 62. The hinge is provided at an end of each bracket portion.
Each bracket portion includes a plurality of grooves 64. The grooves 64 are provided on a concave inner surface of each bracket portion 56, 58. The grooves 64 are aligned in the plane of the C-shaped profile.
The upper bracket portion 56 includes a lug 12. The lug 12 is identical to the lug 12 of Figure 1. The lug 12 is provided on an upper surface of the upper bracket portion 56.
A resilient insert 66 is provided in each bracket portion 56, 58. Each resilient insert 66 is a curved strip of material having a concave inner surface and a convex outer surface.
A plurality of ridges 68 is provided on the convex outer surface of each insert 66. The ridges 68 are aligned in a plane normal to the axis of curvature of each insert 66. That is, the ridges 68 are curved around the convex surface of each insert. The ridges 68 are sized to be received tightly in the grooves 64 of the bracket portions 56, 58.
A further plurality of ridges 70 is provided on the concave inner surface of each insert 66. The ridges 70 are aligned with the axis of curvature of each insert 66. That is, the ridges 70 are straight on the concave inner surface. The ridges 70 are resilient and can conform to any irregularities on the handlebar.
The inserts 66 are moulded from silicone.
It is envisaged that fixing means will be provided at the end of each bracket portion opposite to the hinge (not shown). The fixing means may be an internally threaded aperture provided through each bracket portion, arranged to line up when the bracket portions are brought together. An externally threaded screw may then be inserted in the aperture and tightened to hold the bracket portions together and compress the inserts around the handlebar.
It is envisaged that the wrist strap 24, communications system control unit 32 and bracket 54 will be provided as a kit. The owner of the kit can then associate the control unit 32 with a two-way radio, for example provided in a motorcycle helmet. The bracket 54 can be affixed to the handlebar of a motorcycle of the user by tightening the bracket portions 56, 58 around the handlebar to compress the resilient inserts 66 between the handle portions 56, 58 and the handlebar. This provides a tight friction fit.
The owner can then choose to attach the control unit 32 either to the lug 12 of the wrist strap 24, or to the lug 12 of the bracket 54. For example, when driving the motorcycle, the owner may choose to attach the control unit 32 to bracket 54 on the handlebar of the motorcycle. This allows the owner to conveniently use the control unit 32 to control the two-way radio without taking his hand off the handlebar. If riding as a passenger, the owner may choose to detach the control unit 32 from the bracket 54 and attach the control unit 32 to the wrist strap 24, worn on the owner’s wrist. The owner can then control the two-way radio by accessing the control unit with his other hand, or by 5 pushing the control unit 32 against a body part or part of the motorcycle if it is not safe to user the other hand. In this configuration, the owner does not need access to the handlebars of the motorcycle.
It will be appreciated that the lug could be provided on another piece of clothing instead 10 of the wrist strap. For example, the lug could be attached to a glove.
These embodiments are provided by way of example only, and various changes and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (25)

1. A releasable attachment mechanism component comprising a lug, the lug having a front surface, a lip being provided on an upper edge of the front surface, proud of the front surface and an aperture extending into the lug.
2. A releasable attachment mechanism component as claimed in claim 1, in which the aperture extends into the lug parallel to the front surface.
3. A releasable attachment mechanism component as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, in which the upper edge of the front surface is bevelled.
4. A releasable attachment mechanism component as claimed in any of claims 1 to 3, in which an upper edge of a rear surface of the lug is bevelled, the rear surface being opposite the front surface.
5. A releasable attachment mechanism component as claimed in any of claims 1 to 4, in which the lug is elongate, the distance between the front surface and rear surface of the lug being greater than the widths of the front surface and rear surface.
6. A releasable attachment mechanism component comprising a slot for receiving a lug as claimed in any preceding claim, the slot having an interior volume defined by a side wall and an end wall, a recess being provided in a front surface of the side wall for receiving the lip of the lug, and a movable bolt in another surface of the side wall for entering the aperture of the lug.
7. A releasable attachment mechanism component as claimed in claim 6, in which the recess is provided adjacent the end wall of the slot.
8. A releasable attachment mechanism component as claimed in claim 6 or claim 7, in which the movable bolt is provided in a lateral surface of the side wall, the lateral surface being a surface which is substantially perpendicular to the front surface.
9. A releasable attachment mechanism component as claimed in any of claims 6 to 8, in which the bolt is biased towards the interior of the slot.
10. A releasable attachment mechanism component as claimed in any preceding claim, attached to a bracket for attachment to a handlebar of a motorcycle.
11. A releasable attachment mechanism component as claimed in any preceding claim, attached to a wrist strap.
12. A kit of parts including:
a wrist strap, the wrist strap having a releasable attachment mechanism component of a first type;
a bracket for attachment to a handlebar of a motorcycle, the bracket having a releasable attachment mechanism component of the first type; and a communications system control unit, the communications system control unit having wireless communication means, at least one button arranged to control the wireless communication means and a releasable attachment mechanism component of a second type, in which the releasable attachment mechanism components of the first type are adapted to cooperate with the releasable attachment mechanism component of the second type to releasably attach the communications system control unit to the bracket or the wrist strap.
13. A kit of parts as claimed in claim 12, in which the releasable attachment mechanism components of the first type are male releasable attachment mechanism components, and the releasable attachment mechanism components of the second type are female releasable attachment mechanism components.
14. A kit of parts as claimed in claim 12 or claim 13, in which the releasable attachment mechanism components of the first type each comprise a lug, the lug having a front surface, a lip being provided on an upper edge of the front surface, proud of the front surface and an aperture extending into the lug.
15. A kit of parts as claimed in any of claims 12 to 14, in which the releasable attachment mechanism component of the second type comprises a slot for receiving a lug of the releasable attachment mechanism components of the first type, the slot having an interior volume defined by a side wall, a recess being provided in a front surface of the side wall for receiving the lip of the lug, and a movable bolt in another surface of the side wall for entering the aperture of the lug.
16. A wrist strap comprising a flexible elongate element for securing around a user’s wrist and a releasable attachment mechanism component attached to the flexible elongate element, the releasable attachment component comprising a lug, the lug having a front surface, a lip being provided on an upper edge of the front surface, proud of the front surface and an aperture extending into the lug.
17. A wrist strap as claimed in claim 16, in which the flexible elongate element and releasable attachment component are configured such that, when the flexible elongate element is secured around a user’s wrist, the releasable attachment component is in a dorsal position relative to the wrist.
18. A bracket comprising fixing means for attaching the bracket to a handlebar of a motorcycle and a releasable attachment mechanism component attached to the fixing means, the releasable attachment mechanism component comprising a lug, the lug having a front surface, a lip being provided on an upper edge of the front surface, proud of the front surface and an aperture extending into the lug.
19. A bracket as claimed in claim 18 in which the fixing means includes first and second bracket portions, each bracket portion being a substantially C-shaped body sized to receive the handlebar of a motorcycle in the concavity of the C shape.
20. A bracket as claimed in claim 19, in which the bracket portions are hinged together.
21. A bracket as claimed in any of claims 18 to 20, in which a resilient insert is provided on a concave inner surface of each bracket portion for abutting a handlebar.
22. A bracket as claimed in claim 21, in which the concave inner surface of each bracket portion includes a plurality of grooves, the direction of the grooves being in the plane of the C-shape, and in which each resilient insert includes a plurality of ridges on an external convex surface of the resilient insert for reception in the grooves of the bracket portion.
23. A bracket as claimed in claim 21 or claim 22, in which each resilient insert includes a further plurality of ridges disposed on an inner concave surface of the resilient insert, the direction of the further plurality of ridges being perpendicular to the plane of the C-shape.
24. A communications system control unit comprising wireless communication means, at least one button arranged to control the wireless communication means, and a releasable attachment mechanism component comprising a slot for receiving a lug, the slot having an interior volume defined by a side wall, a recess being provided in a front surface of the side wall for receiving a lip of the lug, and a movable bolt in another surface of the side wall for entering an aperture of the lug.
25. A communications system control unit as claimed in claim 24, further comprising operating means attached to the movable bolt for operating the bolt.
GB1811853.9A 2018-07-20 2018-07-20 Communications system control unit and releasable attachment mechanism Withdrawn GB2576138A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1811853.9A GB2576138A (en) 2018-07-20 2018-07-20 Communications system control unit and releasable attachment mechanism

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Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1811853.9A GB2576138A (en) 2018-07-20 2018-07-20 Communications system control unit and releasable attachment mechanism

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GB201811853D0 GB201811853D0 (en) 2018-09-05
GB2576138A true GB2576138A (en) 2020-02-12

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Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2030563A (en) * 1932-12-13 1936-02-11 Barnes Lawrence John Strap fastener
GB2281340A (en) * 1993-08-28 1995-03-01 Seaflex Limited Releasable clip for remote actuation
WO2009007316A1 (en) * 2007-07-06 2009-01-15 Eurotech Spa Attachment device for a wearable electronic apparatus and wearable electronic apparatus comprising said attachment device
WO2011023661A1 (en) * 2009-08-24 2011-03-03 Fidlock Gmbh Mechanical closure having a locking device
US20140225349A1 (en) * 2013-02-08 2014-08-14 Paleo-Tech Concepts Sport motorcycle gps bracket
DE102017115570A1 (en) * 2016-07-11 2018-01-18 Vaude Gmbh & Co. Kg Two-piece buckle with a fastener for fixing the buckle to a flat surface of a bag in particular a bicycle bag
US20180160779A1 (en) * 2016-12-09 2018-06-14 Dubrosky & Tracy Patent Service Corp. Locking Garment Fastener

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2030563A (en) * 1932-12-13 1936-02-11 Barnes Lawrence John Strap fastener
GB2281340A (en) * 1993-08-28 1995-03-01 Seaflex Limited Releasable clip for remote actuation
WO2009007316A1 (en) * 2007-07-06 2009-01-15 Eurotech Spa Attachment device for a wearable electronic apparatus and wearable electronic apparatus comprising said attachment device
WO2011023661A1 (en) * 2009-08-24 2011-03-03 Fidlock Gmbh Mechanical closure having a locking device
US20140225349A1 (en) * 2013-02-08 2014-08-14 Paleo-Tech Concepts Sport motorcycle gps bracket
DE102017115570A1 (en) * 2016-07-11 2018-01-18 Vaude Gmbh & Co. Kg Two-piece buckle with a fastener for fixing the buckle to a flat surface of a bag in particular a bicycle bag
US20180160779A1 (en) * 2016-12-09 2018-06-14 Dubrosky & Tracy Patent Service Corp. Locking Garment Fastener

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