NL2018860B1

NL2018860B1 - Strap tensioning device and method

Info

Publication number: NL2018860B1
Application number: NL2018860A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Van Berlo Perry
Original assignee: Cordstrap B V
Priority date: 2017-05-05
Filing date: 2017-05-05
Publication date: 2018-05-08

Abstract

In a first aspect, the current invention concerns a device for tensioning straps, said device comprising a strap tensioning tool, which tensioning tool comprises a body and a tensioning means, whereby said tensioning means is connected to said body, and adapted for engaging and tensioning a first strap end portion leaving a buckle; said device further comprises an anchorage module, which anchorage module comprises a bypass arm, attached to said body, for bypassing said buckle, and which anchorage module further comprises an anchorage shaft, which anchorage shaft is one-way ratably connected to said bypass arm, and adapted for engaging and anchoring a second strap end portion leaving said buckle. In a second aspect, the invention relates to an anchorage module, for use in conjunction with a tensioning tool. In a third aspect, the invention concerns a method for tensioning straps around objects.

Description

STRAP TENSIONING DEVICE AND METHOD

Technical field

The invention pertains to the technical field of strap tensioning devices, and to the technical field of methods for tensioning straps.

Background

Devices for tensioning straps are known in the art.

For instance, WO 8 400 023 A1 discloses a manually operated apparatus for tightening bands, for binding objects. In order to do so, the band in question is wrapped around the object to be bound, whereby its band ends are connected to each other by means of a buckle. As such, a band loop is formed around the object, which loop is closed via the buckle. Two free band ends thereby leave the buckle in opposite directions. The apparatus is then employed for further tightening this band loop. For this purpose, the apparatus is provided with a tensioning roller that is rotatingly driven by an electromotor. One of the above free band ends is fed to the tensioning roller. By tensioning it, the strap loop as a whole is tensioned around the object. In doing so, it is important to stabilize the apparatus to a sufficient degree, such that it is not drawn towards the buckle, and vice versa, upon tensioning of the strap. First of all, it is therefore required that the object has a flat surface. It is then possible for the apparatus to rest on or against the latter surface, via a flat bearing plate. The latter element is also sometimes referred to as a "gripper foot", or a "clamping foot". Additionally, this bearing plate is brought underneath the band loop, such that it is pushed against the object upon tightening of the band. The apparatus is further provided with band clamping means, for clamping a section of the band loop against its bearing plate.

These and similar devices always require a bearing plate to be brought underneath the strap loop. However, such a bearing plate introduces an amount of slack in the band, such that the band loop will no longer be tightened optimally, after removal of the tool. This effect is particularly pronounced in tensioning straps around small objects. Indeed, the bearing plate then takes up a relatively higher volume within the strap loop. A similar effect is noted when tensioning straps around objects having a round and/or irregularly shaped surface, because the flat bearing plate then no longer optimally fits to the surface of the object. In case of small objects, it is even not possible to include the bearing plate in the strap loop.

Attempts have been made for minimizing the above disadvantages, for instance by reducing the bearing plate size. However, the slackening effect of bearing plates will always persist, up to a certain degree. US 2013 167 479 A1 discloses an apparatus for making a buckle joint at the ends of a flexible strap, in case the strap is wrapped around a round, irregularly shaped, or small object. To this end, the apparatus is provided with a protruding nose. This protruding nose can be pressed against the buckle, obtaining the same effect: an immobilization of the securing apparatus with respect to the buckle, during tensioning of the strap. Other devices known in the art employ similar protrusions, that either press against or hook into the buckle. A drawback of these tensioning devices is that there is a direct contact between the device and the buckle. Both the device and the buckle can get damaged as a result of friction. Also the strap may be damaged, such that an optimal tensioning can no longer be guaranteed. Additionally, the tension device may be subject to wear, as a result of these friction effects.

In view of the above, there is a need in the art for an improved device for tensioning straps. In particular, this device should allow for tensioning straps around small, round, and irregularly-shaped objects. Moreover, this device should avoid direct contact with the buckle. Preferably, the device is cheap and simple to manufacture, and easy to use.

The present invention aims to resolve at least some of the problems mentioned above. Summary of the invention

In a first aspect, the invention provides a device for tensioning straps, according to claim 1. A key advantage of the tensioning device is that it provides an alternative solution for its stabilization with respect to the strap loop. To this end, it incorporates an anchorage module, having a bypass arm for bypassing the buckle, and providing an anchorage point for a strap end portion at the opposite side of the buckle, via the anchorage shaft. In particular, there is no direct contact between the tensioning device and the buckle, such that friction damage of device, strap, and/or buckle is avoided. For the same reason, the device will be less subject to wear. Moreover, it is no longer necessary to include a bearing plate within the strap loop, such that the optimal tensioning is maintained in the strap loop upon removal of the tensioning device.

As a result of the one-way rotable connection of the anchorage shaft to the bypass arm, the second strap end portion can be anchored to the anchorage shaft in a highly convenient way. As such, the device is easier-to-use, ergonomic, more professional, and it allows for tensioning straps much faster, and with less errors. Preferably, said one-way rotable anchorage shaft has a slot, such that it provides an even more convenient anchorage of the second strap end portion.

In a second aspect, the invention provides an anchorage module according to claim 11, which anchorage module is appropriate for attachment to the body of a strap tensioning tool. Preferably, said anchorage module is configured for being attached to a strap tensioning tool, thereby forming the device according to any of claims 1 to 10. The corresponding advantages can be repeated in this regard.

In a third aspect, the invention provides a method according to claim 13, for tensioning a strap around an object. Said method provides an anchorage for the second strap end portion, at the opposite side of the buckle. The corresponding advantages mentioned above can be repeated in this regard. In particular, the present invention provides an easy, ergonomic, more professional, and faster method, which method is less prone to errors. Preferably, said method is performed using the device according to any of claims 1 to 10. The corresponding advantages can be repeated in this regard.

Description of figures

Figure 1 represents a device and its external power supply, according to an embodiment of the invention, for tensioning a strap around a bundle of pipes.

Figures 2A-D illustrate how the anchorage module according to an embodiment of the invention can provide an anchorage point for a free strap end.

Figure 3 shows a device and its external power supply, according to an embodiment of the invention, whereby a one strap end is fed to the tensioning means, and whereby the other strap end is anchored to the anchorage shaft.

Figure 4A represents a strap tensioning tool having a bearing plate.

Figures 4B-C show an anchorage module according to an embodiment of the invention; said anchorage module can serve as an extension to a strap tensioning tool.

Figure 5 represents a manually-driven device for tensioning straps, according to an embodiment of the invention.

Detailed description of the invention

The present invention concerns a device for tensioning straps, an anchorage module for use in conjunction with a tensioning tool, and a method for tensioning a strap around an object.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions are included to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention. As used herein, the following terms have the following meanings: "A", "an", and "the" as used herein refers to both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. By way of example, "an object" refers to one or more than one object. "About" and "approximately" as used herein referring to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of +/-20% or less, preferably +/-10% or less, more preferably +/-5% or less, even more preferably +/-1% or less, and still more preferably +/-0.1% or less of and from the specified value, in so far such variations are appropriate to perform in the disclosed invention. However, it is to be understood that the value to which the modifier "about" refers is itself also specifically disclosed. "Comprise", "comprising", and "comprises" and "comprised of" as used herein are synonymous with "include", "including", "includes" or "contain", "containing", "contains" and are inclusive or open-ended terms that specifies the presence of what follows e.g. component and do not exclude or preclude the presence of additional, non-recited components, features, element, members, steps, known in the art or disclosed therein.

Throughout this document, "an object" should be understood as comprising one or more objects. The term "an object" preferably refers to one or more objects that are small, round, and/or irregularly shaped, and even more preferably, "an object" refers to bundles of one or more small, elongate objects having a round and/or irregularly shaped outer surface. However, it is stressed that the present invention can be applied to one or more objects of any shape and size, and to bundles of such objects.

The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range, as well as the recited endpoints.

In a first aspect, the invention provides a device for tensioning straps, said device comprising a strap tensioning tool, which tensioning tool comprises a body and a tensioning means, and whereby said tensioning means is connected to said body, and adapted for engaging and tensioning a first strap end portion leaving a buckle; said device further comprises an anchorage module, which anchorage module comprises a bypass arm, attached to the body of the tensioning tool, for bypassing said buckle. In particular, said anchorage module further comprises an anchorage shaft, which anchorage shaft is one-way rotably connected to said bypass arm, and adapted for engaging and anchoring a second strap end portion leaving said buckle and whereby said anchorage shaft has a slot for receiving said second strap end portion. A key advantage of the tensioning device is that it provides an alternative solution for its stabilization with respect to the strap loop. To this end, it incorporates an anchorage module, having a bypass arm for bypassing the buckle, and providing an anchorage point for a strap end portion at the opposite side of the buckle, via the anchorage shaft. When tensioning the first strap end portion via the tensioning means, a tension force is built up in the first free strap end, and thus in the strap loop as a whole, by passage of strap through the corresponding side of the buckle. However, excessive slip of the buckle with respect to the tensioning device is thereby avoided, since the second strap end portion is anchored to the device, at the opposite side of the buckle, via the anchorage shaft.

In particular, there is no direct contact between the tensioning device and the buckle, such that friction damage of device and/or buckle is avoided. For the same reason, the device will be less subject to wear. Moreover, it is no longer necessary to include a bearing plate within the strap loop, such that the optimal tensioning is maintained in the strap loop upon removal of the tensioning device. This is particularly important, where the device is used for strapping small, round, and/or irregularly shaped objects, and bundles of such objects. Additionally, since no such bearing plate is included, the range of applicability of the tensioning device is largely broadened, as compared to devices that feature a curved or irregularly shaped bearing plate, corresponding to the specific shape of the shape of the specific object to be bound.

The "tensioning means" of the tensioning tool may comprise any mechanism known in the art, for pulling a strap end portion towards the tensioning tool. For instance but not limited thereto, the tensioning means may comprise a slit wheel, a pair of rollers, a moveable gripper, or any other mechanism known in the art.

The expressions "one-way rotably", "one-way ratable", and "one-way ratability" should be understood as only allowing a single sense of rotation about the shaft axis, which sense is either clockwise or counterclockwise. The latter sense of rotation will be addressed as the "allowable rotation sense". This means that the anchorage shaft can be turned manually, relative to the by-pass arm, in the allowable rotation sense. In the opposite sense of rotation however, the anchorage shaft resists any rotation, preferably up to an applied force couple corresponding to the highest allowable tensioning force in the strap end portion being anchored thereto, as specified below. More preferably, said anchorage shaft resists any rotation, up to an applied force couple that is at least twice as large as the latter value, and even more preferably at least tenfold as large. As such, the anchorage shaft will provide a solid anchorage point for the tensioning device, upon tensioning the strap.

The one-way ratable anchorage shaft is implemented according to techniques that are in principle well-known and well-understood. For instance but not limited thereto, the anchorage shaft comprises a saw-toothed strip on its radial surface, which sawtoothed strip co-acts with one or more pivotable ratchets thereto provided on the bypass arm. Latter co-action is thereby such that only a single relative sense of rotation between the anchorage shaft and the bypass arm is allowed. However, other implementations of said one-way ratable connection are possible.

For performing the anchorage, the second strap end portion is fed to slot in the the anchorage shaft. Subsequently, the anchorage shaft and the strap end portion are turned manually, at least up to the point where a part of the strap end portion is wound about one or more underlying layers of the same strap end portion. Any tension in the strap end portion will then result in said underlying layers being clamped, against the anchorage shaft and/or against underlying/overlying portions of strap. As such, the strap end portion is conveniently anchoraed to the anchorage shaft. Preferably, said shaft is turned over at least 180°, more preferably over at least 270°, and even more preferably over at least 360°. For instance but not limited thereto, the anchorage shaft has a textured radial surface, e.g. featuring a toothed pattern. An improved anchorage of the second strap end portion about the anchorage shaft can then be obtained, as a result of an increase in mutual friction. For the strap end portion to be pulled out of its anchorage, said under- and overlying layers need to slip in an opposite direction, which is prohibited by mutual friction, up to a certain corresponding force couple. Preferably, the slot edges are rounded off, such as to avoid cutting into the strap.

Alternative tensioning devices could be envisaged, whereby the anchorage shaft is fixedly connected to the bypass arm, such that no relative rotation about the shaft axis is possible at all. However, the second strap end portion would then need to be weaved and/or wound manually about the stationary anchorage shaft, and through its slot. This is cumbersome; it is even more cumbersome, the ticker and/or stiffer the strap is, and the shorter the strap end portions are. Alternatively, the device as a whole is turned and/or rotated, for the purpose of anchoring the second strap end portion. This might be possible in case of a small hand tool, yet this is highly inconvenient in case of large and heavy tensioning devices, and especially in case of tensioning devices that are provided with an electric or pneumatic cable, for external supply of electric or pneumatic power, or in case of tensioning devices having an external power supply. Also, this is only possible if sufficient space is provided for turning/rotating the device as a whole, which is problematic when tensioning straps in small places, or in places that are difficult to reach.

As a result of the one-way ratable connection of the anchorage shaft to the bypass arm, the second strap end portion can be anchored to the anchorage shaft in a highly convenient way. As such, the device is easier-to-use, ergonomic, more professional, and it allows for tensioning straps much faster, and with less errors.

The device according to the present invention may be used for a variety of applications in the field of load securing. For instance, it may be used for strapping, where relatively small bands are used, with a width from 13 to 20 mm, and where relatively low forces are needed, preferably up to 5000 N. Secondly, the device may be used for lashing purpose. Typically, bands for lashing have a width between 20 and 60 mm. Applied forces may vary between 2000 and 25000 N.

For instance, the tensioning device according to the present invention can be designed for specific lashing applications, where it needs to withstand a specific range of strap tensioning forces. When used for tensioning load securing straps in utility vehicles, it is particularly advantageous if a range of the maximum permissible tensile load of more than 10 kN and less than or equal to 200 kN is selected. Such an arrangement of the tensioning device is particularly advantageous, since the tensioning straps customary in commercial vehicles have load areas of this type and thus a compatible use is made possible. Alternatively, the device can rather be designed for specific strapping applications, around objects and/or bundles of objects. Yet another possibility is a device according to the present invention, which device is multi-deployable, in such a sense that it can be used for both lashing and strapping, thereby covering a broad range strap tensioning forces that can be applied using the device, and broad ranges of suitable strap widths and strap thicknesses.

Straps to be used according to the current invention include composite straps, polypropylene straps or polyester straps with or without a polymer coating. According to a non-limiting embodiment, the current invention is used in conjunction with polyester straps, comprising polyester yarns, either woven or composite yarns. Straps produced of composite yarns will by preference be coated in a polymer coating such as polypropylene or polyethylene. Straps for strapping purposes have typical widths ranging from 13 mm to 32 mm. Preferably, the device is used for tensioning straps via buckles. According to a non-limiting embodiment of the invention, typical of strapping applications, the strap forms a strap loop around an object, which loop is closed by a buckle. Two strap end portions leave the buckle in substantially opposite directions. According to another, non-limiting embodiment of the invention, typical of lashing applications, two straps each have their respective anchoring point on one end, while their other ends are joined by means of a buckle. Again, two respective trap end portions leave the buckle in substantially opposite directions. In any case, the straps are tensioned, by applying a tensioning force to one or both of the strap end portions, thereby pulling a part of the strap through the buckle. Preferably, said buckle is a selflocking buckle, such as a wire buckle, a ladder buckle, or any other suitable buckle known in the art. However, even a rectangular/circular ring may be employed. The strap end portions then form loops through said ring, and are folded back on the respective straps after tensioning. They are subsequently attached to the straps by means of gluing, welding, soldering, heat-bonding, sewing, or any other technique known in the art.

Preferably, but not necessarily so, said slot is provided through the axis of the anchorage shaft. The anchorage shaft is then a cylindrical, slotted shaft. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the anchorage shaft has the form of a fork having two or more fork legs, and thus forming at least one slot for receiving said second strap end portion, between said legs. In yet an alternative embodiment of the invention, the anchorage shaft comprises two or more elongate members having a round, moon-shaped or half-circular cross-section. These elongate members are then provided parallel to each other, on the bypass arm, such that at least one such slot is formed between them. Additionally, they are one-way rotably connected to the bypass arm, as a group.

An additional advantage of the present invention, is that a much stronger anchoring can be obtained, by further turning the anchorage axis, for instance over more than 360°, preferably over about 720° or more, and preferably over maximally 1080°. This is because more underlying layers of strap are clamped. This would be very cumbersome to obtain in case of an anchorage shaft that is fixedly connected to the bypass arm.

According to a further or alternative embodiment of the device, said slot has a thickness of minimally 0.2 mm and maximally 15 mm. Preferably, said slot thickness is minimally 0.5 mm, and preferably said slot thickness is maximally 10 mm, more preferably maximally 5 mm. Suitable slot thicknesses depend on the types of strap to be employed. Preferably, the slot is at least as thick as the minimal strap thickness to be employed. Advantageously, the slot is then suitable for receiving the second strap end portion. Typical straps to be employed in the invention have strap thicknesses ranging from 0.5 mm to 5 mm.

According to a further or alternative embodiment of the device, said slot has a width of minimally 5 mm and maximally 120 mm. Preferably, said slot width is minimally 9 mm, and preferably said slot width is minimally 9 mm, and preferably said slot width is maximally 90 mm. More preferably, said slot width is minimally 13 mm. Suitable slot widths depend on the types of strap to be employed. Preferably, the slot is at least as wide as the minimal strap width to be employed. Advantageously, the slot is then suitable for receiving the second strap end portion. Typical straps to be employed in the invention have strap widths ranging from 9 mm to 60 mm.

According to a further or alternative embodiment of the device, said anchorage shaft has a free end portion, and that said slot extends through said free end portion. An advantage is that the strap can then be slid sideways into the slot, along the anchorage shaft axis. This further expedites the anchorage procedure.

According to a further or alternative embodiment of the device, the separation between said tensioning means and said anchorage shaft is minimally 40 mm and maximally 800 mm. More preferably, said separation is minimally 80 mm, and more preferably said separation is maximally 400 mm. The term "separation", as used herein, refers to the free distance between the anchorage shaft and the tensioning means, which distance is under normal circumstances occupied during tensioning by the buckle and by a part of the first and second free strap end portions. Preferably, said separation is at least greater than the dimension of the buckle, along the direction pointing from the tensioning means towards the anchorage shaft. It is then possible for the bypass arm to bypass the buckle, and to provide an anchorage point for the second strap end portion at the opposite side of the buckle, via the anchorage shaft.

Upon tensioning, the strap loop shortens because lengths of strap are pulled through the buckle, thereby lengthening the first strap end portion. Tension is built up by wounding/pulling the opposite side of the first strap end portion about/through the tensioning means. As such, the buckle typically slips towards the tensioning means, upon tensioning of the strap loop, and the first strap end portion in particular. Additionally, the buckle will typically slip towards the tensioning means, up to the point where a balancing tension is installed between the buckle and the anchorage shaft, via the second strap end portion. In any case, it might be possible that the buckle contacts the tensioning means during tensioning. Among other things, this might depend on the elasticity of the strap, the (manually) applied pretension in the strap loop, prior to the actual tensioning via the device. In particular, it depends on the location where the tensioning device is applied, relative to the buckle: whether the buckle is positioned rather towards the anchorage shaft, or rather towards the tensioning means. In the latter case, tensioning of the first strap end portion might relatively quick result in the buckle contacting the tensioning means. A major advantage of the anchorage shaft's one-way rotability is that it is fairly easy to prevent the buckle from contacting the tensioning means in such cases. To this end, the tensioning means is operated in its reverse sense, such that at least a part of the first strap end portion is released (e.g. unwound, in case the tensioning means is a slit wheel). Subsequently and/or simultaneously, the anchorage shaft is further turned in its allowable rotation sense, thereby winding the second strap end portion further about said shaft, and thereby shifting the buckle towards said shaft. Tensioning via the tensioning means is now resumed. This cycle might be repeated any number of times, for instance each time the buckle has approached the tensioning means, and risks contacting said tensioning means when tensioning any further. Preferably, the separation between said tensioning means and said anchorage shaft is minimally 80 mm, such that the above cycle only has to be repeated a limited number of times, if any. According to a further or alternative embodiment of the device, said tensioning means is a tensioning shaft, which tensioning shaft is parallel to said anchorage shaft. Advantageously, the buckle, the first strap end portion being tensioned, and the second end portion being anchored, are then substantially in line with each other during tensioning. This ensures an optimal tightening of the strap, through the buckle.

According to a further or alternative embodiment of the device, said tensioning shaft is rotatingly driven, relative to said body, whereby the tensioning shaft equally has a slot, for receiving said first strap end portion. According to a non-limiting example, the tensioning shaft is a windlass, in the form of a slit wheel. An advantage is that it is straightforward to feed the first strap end portion to the tensioning shaft, and to subsequently tension said strap end portion. However, a "slotted shaft" should be understood in a broad fashion, as set out above.

Preferably, the device is provided with a system for rotatingly driving said tensioning shaft. According to a further or alternative embodiment of the device, said device is driven electrically or pneumatically. However, it is equally possible for the device to be provided with a hand crank or a lever, for rotatingly driving said tensioning device manually. Any other means for rotatingly driving said tensioning device may be employed.

According to a further or alternative embodiment of the device, said device is further provided with adaptor means, configured for receiving an external power supply. For instance, the device can be an extension to an external power supply that provides a mechanical rotation movement. The device then transmits said supplied rotation movement to its tensioning shaft. The external power supply comprises preferably one of the following: an electric drill, a pneumatic drill, an electric screwdriver, a right-angle grinder, or a circular saw. Most preferably, said external power supply is an electrical screwdriver or drill. Said power supply is preferably battery-powered, such as comprising a battery pack. The nature and design of the adaptor module part of the assembly according to the current invention allows attachment of various sorts of power supplies (on one and the same adaptor means), readily known on the market. Possible examples of suitable power supplies are for instance the Milwaukee® M12 or M18 drill model, the Dewalt DCD 785/ 795/ 985/ 995 model, the Makita DDF 451 or the Bosch GSR 18 model (amongst others) and the right-angle drill, e.g. Milwaukee 12v Right Angle Drill C12RAD & BAG Angled Drill - C12RAD22.

Preferably, the CBT35 Battery Tensioner of Cordstrap is employed as an external power supply. The present device is then used as an extension to said CBT35, whereby its adaptor means provides a co-action of both. However, any suitable external power supply may be employed.

According to a further or alternative embodiment of the device, said device comprises means for cutting, braking and/or welding straps. An advantage of the device comprising cutting or breaking means, is that the redundant strap end portions can be cut immediately after tensioning. Tension is thereby maintained in the straps, by means of the buckle, while the device can be removed freely. Welding means can be used for connecting strap ends to the strap loop, thereby ensuring the durability.

According to a further or alternative embodiment of the device, said bypass arm is detachably attached to the body of the tensioning tool. Throughout this document, the term "detachably attached" denotes that the bypass arm may be attached to, and detached from the body of the tensioning tool, without disassembly or deformation of said bypass arm or said body. According to a non-limiting embodiment, the tensioning tool has a bearing plate. As such, the bypass arm can be omitted, when employing the tensioning tool as a traditional tensioning tool with clamping foot.

In a second aspect, the invention provides an anchorage module, which anchorage module is appropriate for attachment to the body of a strap tensioning tool. In particular, said anchorage module comprises a bypass arm and an anchorage shaft, which anchorage shaft is one-way rotably connected to said bypass arm, and adapted for engaging and anchoring a strap end portion and whereby said anchorage shaft has a slot for receiving said second strap end portion. Preferably, said anchorage module is configured for being attached to a strap tensioning tool, thereby forming the device as described above. In this regard, all the above advantages can be repeated. Additionally, it provides an easy solution for transforming a tensioning tool into the above-described device.

In a third aspect, the invention provides a method for tensioning a strap around an object, said method comprising the steps of: providing a strap having two strap end portions, looping said strap around an object, and threading said strap end portions through a buckle, such that a loop of strap is formed, which loop encircles said object and is closed by said buckle, and whereby said strap end portions leave the buckle in substantially opposite directions, - feeding one of said strap end portions to a one-way ratable anchorage shaft, and turning said anchorage shaft in its allowable rotation sense, thereby anchoring said strap end portion to said anchorage shaft, and - feeding the other strap end portion to the tensioning means of a strap tensioning tool, and tensioning said strap end portion through said buckle, thereby tensioning said loop of strap around said object.

Preferably, the anchorage shaft is rotably provided at fixed position relative to the tensioning means. The above method thus provides an anchorage for the second strap end portion, at the opposite side of the buckle. The corresponding advantages mentioned above can be repeated in this regard. In particular, the present invention provides an easy, ergonomic, more professional, and faster method, which method is less prone to errors. Preferably, said method is performed using the device described above. Preferably, the strap loop is pretensioned manually, by pulling the strap end portions manually through the buckle, prior to employing the strap tensioning device.

According to a further or alternative embodiment of the method, said tensioning is interrupted at least a single time, whereby said tensioning means is operated in reverse sense, and whereby said anchorage shaft is further turned in its allowable rotation sense, after which said tensioning is resumed. In doing so, the buckle has shifted towards the anchorage shaft, such that it no longer risks contacting the tensioning means, upon tensioning further. The advantages are as set out above.

The present invention may thereto be described by the following embodiments: 1. A device for tensioning straps, said device comprising a strap tensioning tool, which tensioning tool comprises a body and a tensioning means, and whereby said tensioning means is connected to said body, and adapted for engaging and tensioning a first strap end portion leaving a buckle; said device further comprises an anchorage module, which anchorage module comprises a bypass arm, attached to the body of the tensioning tool, for bypassing said buckle, characterized in that said anchorage module further comprises an anchorage shaft, which anchorage shaft is one-way rotably connected to said bypass arm, and adapted for engaging and anchoring a second strap end portion leaving said buckle, and whereby said anchorage shaft has a slot for receiving said second strap end portion. 2. The device according to previous embodiment 1, characterized in that said slot has a thickness of minimally 0.2 mm and maximally 15 mm. 3. The device according to any of embodiments 1 and 2, characterized in that said slot has a width of minimally 5 mm and maximally 120 mm. 4. The device according to any of embodiments 1 to 3, characterized in that said anchorage shaft has a free end portion, and that said slot extends through said free end portion. 5. The device according to any of the previous embodiments, characterized in that the separation between said tensioning means and said anchorage shaft is minimally 40 mm and maximally 800 mm. 6. The device according to any of the previous embodiments, characterized in that said tensioning means is a tensioning shaft, which tensioning shaft is parallel to said anchorage shaft. 7. The device according to previous embodiment 6, characterized in that said tensioning shaft is rotatingly driven, relative to said body, and that it has a slot for receiving said first strap end portion. 8. The device according to any of the previous embodiments, characterized in that said device is driven electrically or pneumatically. 9. The device according to any of the previous embodiments, characterized in that said device is further provided with adaptor means, configured for receiving an external power supply. 10. The device according to any of the previous embodiments, characterized in that said bypass arm is detachably attached to the body of the tensioning tool. 11. An anchorage module, which anchorage module is appropriate for attachment to the body of a strap tensioning tool, characterized in that said anchorage module comprises a bypass arm and an anchorage shaft, which anchorage shaft is one-way rotably connected to said bypass arm, and adapted for engaging and anchoring a strap end portion, and whereby said anchorage shaft has a slot for receiving said strap end portion. 12. The anchorage module according to previous embodiment 11, characterized in that said anchorage module is configured for being attached to a strap tensioning tool, thereby forming the device according to any of embodiments 1 to 10. 13. A method for tensioning a strap around an object, said method comprising the steps of: providing a strap having two strap end portions, looping said strap around an object, and threading said strap end portions through a buckle, such that a loop of strap is formed, which loop encircles said object and is closed by said buckle, and whereby said strap end portions leave the buckle in substantially opposite directions, feeding one of said strap end portions to a one-way ratable anchorage shaft, and turning said anchorage shaft in its allowable rotation sense, thereby anchoring said strap end portion to said anchorage shaft, and feeding the other strap end portion to the tensioning means of a strap tensioning tool, and tensioning said strap end portion through said buckle, thereby tensioning said loop of strap around said object. 14. The method according to previous embodiment 13, characterized in that said tensioning is interrupted at least a single time, whereby said tensioning means is operated in reverse sense, and whereby said anchorage shaft is further turned in its allowable rotation sense, after which said tensioning is resumed. 15. The method according to any of embodiments 13 and 14, characterized in that said method is performed using the device according to any of embodiments 1 to 10.

The invention is further described by the following non-limiting examples and figures, which further illustrate the invention, and are not intended to, nor should they be interpreted to, limit the scope of the invention.

Figure 1 represents a device and an external power supply 1, according to an embodiment of the invention, for tensioning a strap around a bundle of pipes 2. In order to do so, the strap forms a strap loop 3 around the bundle, which loop 3 is closed by a buckle 4. For instance, a wire buckle is employed. Two strap end portions 5, 6 leave the buckle 4 in substantially opposite directions. The strap loop 3 can now be tensioned, by applying a tensioning force to the first strap end portion 5 leaving the buckle 4, while having anchored the second strap end portion 6 to the device, at the opposite side of the buckle 4. Such a fully-tensioned strap 7 is shown in the background of the figure.

The device itself comprises a tensioning tool 8, comprising a body 9 and a tensioning means 10. The latter has the form of a slit wheel, to which the first strap end portion 5 can be fed. The tensioning tool 8 further comprises a bearing plate 11 and clamping means 12, for clamping a piece of strap against said bearing plate 11, when employing the tensioning tool 8 in a traditional fashion. However, in the case of tensioning straps about small objects and/or objects having a round or irregularly shaped surface, the use of the bearing plate 11 and the clamping means 12 is omitted. The tensioning tool 8 is further provided with guiding means 13, for guiding the first strap end portion 5 being tensioned, and with adaptor means 14, for receiving an external power supply 1. The external power supply 1 is a battery-powered, cordless electric drill, for providing a rotation movement to the slit wheel tensioning means 10, via the adaptor means 14.

The device is further provided with an anchorage module 15. This anchorage module 15 comprises a bypass arm 16, attached to the body 9 of the tensioning tool 8, for bypassing the buckle 4. At the opposite side of the buckle 4, said bypass arm 16 is provided with an anchorage shaft 17, for engaging and anchoring a second strap end portion 6 leaving the buckle 4. For the purpose of being able to conveniently anchor the second strap end portion 6 to the anchorage shaft 17, said anchorage shaft 17 is one-way rotably connected to the bypass arm 16, and it has a slot 18 for receiving a strap.

Figures 2A-D illustrate how the anchorage module 15 according to an embodiment of the invention can provide an anchorage point for a free strap end. The anchorage shaft 17 is one-way rotably connected to the bypass arm 16, where the allowable rotation sense is clockwise, from the point of view of the figure. Figure 2A shows a first step in the anchorage procedure, where the second strap end portion 6 is inserted into the slot 18. This can be done radially and/or axially with respect to the anchorage shaft 17; the anchorage shaft 17 is connected to the bypass arm at one end portion, while its opposite end portion is free, and whereby the slot 18 conveniently extends through the latter free end portion. Figures 2B-D show how the anchorage shaft 17 is subsequently turned clockwise, which is preferably done manually. The anchorage shaft 17 is turned, up to the point where a part of the second strap end portion 6 is wound about an underlying layer of the same strap end portion 6. This is over at least 360°, in the embodiment of the figure. Any tension in the strap end portion 6 will now result in said underlying layer being clamped, between the anchorage shaft 17, and the overlying portion of strap. For the strap end portion 6 to be pulled out of its anchorage, said under- and overlying layers need to slip in an opposite direction, which is prohibited by mutual friction, up to a certain corresponding force couple. The slot 18 edges are rounded off, such as to avoid cutting into the strap.

Figure 3 shows a device and its external power supply 1, according to an embodiment of the invention, whereby one strap end portion 5, the so-called "first strap end portion" is fed to the tensioning means 10, and whereby the other strap end portion 6, the so-called "second strap end portion" is anchored to the anchorage shaft 17. Upon actuation of the external power supply 1, a rotation movement is transferred to the slit wheel tensioning means 10. In doing so, the first strap end portion 5 is tensioned, while the second strap end portion 6 remains anchored to the anchorage shaft 17, at the opposite side of the buckle 4. This prohibits any excessive slip of strap loop 3 and buckle 4, relative to the tensioning device, upon tensioning.

Figure 4A represents a strap tensioning tool 8 having a bearing plate 11. The bearing plate 11 is pushed underneath the strap loop 3, and a piece of strap is clamped against said bearing plate 11, via clamping means 12 thereto provided. This prohibits any excessive slip of strap loop 3 and buckle 4, upon tensioning. The tensioning tool 8 can be employed for tensioning straps around relatively large objects featuring a flat side portion.

Figures 4B-C show an anchorage module 15 according to an embodiment of the invention. It has a bypass arm 16 and an anchorage shaft 17 having a slot 18. In particular, said anchorage module 15 can serve as an extension to a strap tensioning tool 8 of figure 4A. To this end, the anchorage module 15 is attached to said tensioning tool 8, either detachably or irreversibly. In the present embodiment, bolts 19 are provided to do so, which bolts 19 co-act with threaded bores thereto provided in the tensioning tool 8. However, any attachment technique can be employed, for instance welding, gluing, clamping, and any other technique known in the art.

Figure 5 represents a manually-driven device for tensioning straps, according to an embodiment of the invention. This device has a lever 20, for manually transferring a rotation movement to the slit wheel tensioning means 10. Said slit wheel engages a first strap end portion 5, for the purpose of tensioning it. It further has guiding means 13. In particular, the device is provided with an anchorage module 15 having a bypass arm 16 and an anchorage shaft 17, which anchorage shaft has a slot for receiving a second strap end portion 6.

The elements on the figures are: 1. External power supply 2. Bundle of pipes 3. Strap loop 4. Buckle 5. First strap end portion 6. Second strap end portion 7. Fully-tensioned strap 8. Tensioning tool 9. Body 10. Tensioning means 11. Bearing plate 12. Clamping means 13. Guiding means 14. Adaptor means 15. Anchorage module 16. Bypass arm 17. Anchorage shaft 18. Slot 19. Bolt 20. Lever

It is supposed that the present invention is not restricted to any form of realization described previously and that some modifications can be added to the presented examples and figures, without reappraisal of the appended claims.

Claims

A device for tensioning cord tapes, the device comprising a cord tape tensioning tool 8, which cord tape tensioning tool 8 comprises a body 9 and a tensioning means 10, and wherein said tensioning means 10 is connected to said body 8, and adapted for accepting and clamping a first cord tape end part 5, which first cord tape end part 5 leaves a buckle 4; the device furthermore comprises an anchoring module 15, which anchoring module 15 comprises a passage arm 16, connected to the body 9 of the cord-belt clamping tool 8, for passing said buckle 4, characterized in that said anchoring module 15 further comprises an anchoring shaft 17 comprises, which anchoring shaft 17 is rotatably connected on one side to said passage arm 16, and which is adapted to receive and anchor a second cord belt end part 6, which second cord belt end part 6 also leaves that buckle 4, and wherein said anchoring shaft 17 is provided with a slot 18 for receiving said second cord tape end portion 6.

The device according to the preceding claim 1, characterized in that said slot 18 has a thickness of a minimum of 0.2 mm and a maximum of 15 mm.

The device according to any of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that said slot 18 has a width of at least 5 mm and at most 120 mm.

The device according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that said anchoring shaft 17 has a free end, and that the slot 18 extends through that free end.

The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the separation between said tensioning means 10 and said anchoring axis 17 is a minimum of 40 mm and a maximum of 800 mm.

The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said tensioning means 10 is a clamping axis, which clamping axis is parallel to said anchoring axis 17.

The device according to the preceding claim 6, characterized in that said clamping shaft 8 is rotatably driven with respect to said body 9, and that it has a slot 18 for receiving said first cord tape end part 5.

The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is electrically or pneumatically driven.

The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is further provided with an adapter means 14 configured to receive an external power source 1.

The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said passage arm 16 is releasably connected to the body 9 of said cord-band tensioning tool 8.

11. An anchoring module 15, which anchoring module 15 is suitable for connecting it to the body 9 of a cord tensioner tool 8, characterized in that said anchoring module 15 comprises a passage arm 16 and an anchoring shaft 17, which anchoring shaft 17 is unilateral is rotatably connected to said passage arm 16, and adapted to receive and anchor a cord tape end portion 6, and wherein said anchoring shaft 17 has a slot 18 for receiving said cord tape end portion 6.

The anchoring module 15 according to the preceding claim 11, characterized in that said anchoring module 15 is configured for connecting it to a cord-tape clamping tool 8, thereby forming the device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

A method for tensioning a cord tape around an object 2, the method comprising the steps of: providing a cord tape with two cord tape end portions 5, 6, arranging said cord tape around an object 2, stringing said cord tape end parts 5, 6 through a buckle 4, in such a way that a cord band loop 3 is formed, which loop 3 goes around that object 2 and is closed by means of said buckle 4, and wherein said cord band end parts 5, 6 leave that buckle 4 along substantially opposite directions, inserting one of said cord tape end portions 5, 6 into a one-sided rotatable anchoring axis 17, and rotating said anchoring axis 17 into its permissible direction of rotation, said cord band end portion 6 being associated with that anchoring axis is anchored, and inserting the other cord tape end part 5 into the tensioning means 10 of a cord tape clamping tool 8, and clamping said cord tape end part 5 through said buckle 4, said cord tape enclosing loop 3 n that object 2 is being clamped.

The method according to the preceding claim 13, characterized in that said clamping is interrupted at least once, said tensioning means 10 being driven in the opposite sense, and wherein said anchoring axis 17 is further rotated in its permissible direction of rotation, after which the clamping is resumed.

The method according to any of the preceding claims 13 and 14, characterized in that said method is carried out by means of the device according to one of claims 1 to 10.