NZ750030B2 - A Connector - Google Patents
A Connector Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- NZ750030B2 NZ750030B2 NZ750030A NZ75003019A NZ750030B2 NZ 750030 B2 NZ750030 B2 NZ 750030B2 NZ 750030 A NZ750030 A NZ 750030A NZ 75003019 A NZ75003019 A NZ 75003019A NZ 750030 B2 NZ750030 B2 NZ 750030B2
- Authority
- NZ
- New Zealand
- Prior art keywords
- projection
- carriage
- male
- guide
- connector
- Prior art date
Links
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 46
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 29
- 230000000295 complement Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 abstract 1
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 8
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 8
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 7
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000004753 textile Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006011 modification reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000002035 prolonged Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007779 soft material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 101700063108 zif-1 Proteins 0.000 description 1
Abstract
Embodiments of the invention provide a connector addressing the problem of connecting a soft or flexible article to a substrate, the connector including a male structure comprising a base and a projection, the projection defining a head and a stem connecting the head to the base, the head having a diameter greater than the diameter of the stem, the male structure base defining at least one tag extending substantially perpendicular to the projection. The connector includes a carriage structure comprising a base which defines a socket arranged to receive the projection of the male structure, the carriage structure defining at least one tag extending substantially parallel to the socket. The connector also provides a guide structure which defines a guide cavity arranged to receive the male structure projection when the male structure projection is located within the socket of the carriage structure, the guide cavity defining an entry zone and a compression zone, the entry zone having a diameter greater than the diameter of the male structure projection head and the compression zone having a diameter less than the diameter of the male structure projection head. Movement of the carriage structure relative to the length of the guide cavity from the entry zone to the compression zone compresses at least a portion of the perimeter of the carriage structure socket between the guide structure and the base of the male structure, thereby connecting the male structure and carriage structure. iameter greater than the diameter of the stem, the male structure base defining at least one tag extending substantially perpendicular to the projection. The connector includes a carriage structure comprising a base which defines a socket arranged to receive the projection of the male structure, the carriage structure defining at least one tag extending substantially parallel to the socket. The connector also provides a guide structure which defines a guide cavity arranged to receive the male structure projection when the male structure projection is located within the socket of the carriage structure, the guide cavity defining an entry zone and a compression zone, the entry zone having a diameter greater than the diameter of the male structure projection head and the compression zone having a diameter less than the diameter of the male structure projection head. Movement of the carriage structure relative to the length of the guide cavity from the entry zone to the compression zone compresses at least a portion of the perimeter of the carriage structure socket between the guide structure and the base of the male structure, thereby connecting the male structure and carriage structure.
Description
A CONNECTOR
Technical Field
This invention relates to a connector. In preferred embodiments the
connector provided can be used to engage an article which has a flexible
exterior surface.
Background art
In a number of applications there is a need to provide a connection to an
article covered with or composed of a soft flexible material. For example
vehicles such as boats, aircraft and motorhomes contain cushions or
squabs used in combination with various articles of furniture. Squabs and
the furniture they are matched with are upholstered with fabrics and
incorporate soft internal padding or stuffing materials.
In some situations a squab may need to be removed from a piece of
furniture and stowed securely when vehicle manoeuvres are underway.
For example, this situation can occur in rough weather when experienced
by boats or with aircraft flying through turbulent air.
It is preferable to have the ability to secure squabs to articles of furniture
with connectors which can be engaged quickly and easily, and which also
allow for quick and easy disconnections. It is also preferable for such
connectors to be hidden from view once engaged, which can make the
operation of the connector difficult when a clear line of sight is
unavailable.
In the case of squabs it is also preferable for the connector used to have a
relatively flat or low profile, preventing its components from pressing into
the body of a person in contact with and compressing the material of the
squab.
Due to the soft and/or flexible nature of these types of articles the
provision of an effective connector system presents some challenges. One
problem is that the flexible nature of textile upholstery makes connections
to an intermediate rigid connector susceptible to stress and fatigue over
time – potentially resulting in the fabric eventually ripping.
It would therefore be of advantage to have an improved connector which
addressed any or all of the above issues, or at least that provided an
alternative choice to the prior art. In particular it would be of advantage
to have an improved connector which could provide a strong secure
connection between two soft or flexible surfaces. A connector used in such
applications which could be quickly and easily engaged and disengaged
from a number of angles of attack - preferably without line of sight -
would also be of advantage. An improved connector which could be used
in these applications and which has a relatively flat or low profile would
also be of advantage.
Disclosure of Invention
According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a
connector for a soft and/or flexible article, the connector including
a male structure comprising a base and a projection, the projection
defining a head and a stem connecting the head to the base, the head
having a diameter greater than the diameter of the stem, the male
structure base defining at least one tag extending substantially
perpendicular to the projection, and
a carriage structure comprising a base which defines a socket arranged to
receive the projection of the male structure, the carriage structure
defining at least one tag extending substantially parallel to the socket,
a guide structure which defines a guide cavity arranged to receive the
male structure projection when the male structure projection is located
within the socket of the carriage structure, the guide cavity defining an
entry zone and a compression zone, the entry zone having a diameter
greater than the diameter of the male structure projection head and the
compression zone having a diameter less than the diameter of the male
structure projection head,
wherein movement of the carriage structure relative to the guide cavity
from the entry zone to the compression zone compresses at least a
portion of the perimeter of the carriage structure socket between the
guide structure and the base of the male structure.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a
connector for engaging flexible articles, the connector including
a male structure formed from a base and a projection, the projection
40 defining a head and a stem connecting the head to the base, the head
having a diameter greater than the diameter of the stem, the male
structure base defining at least one stitching tag extending substantially
perpendicular to the projection, and
a carriage structure formed from a base which defines a socket arranged
to receive the projection of the male structure, the carriage structure
defining at least one stitching tag extending substantially parallel to the
socket, and
a guide structure which defines a guide cavity arranged to receive the
male structure projection when located within the socket of the carriage
structure, the guide cavity defining an entry zone and a compression
zone, the entry zone having a diameter greater than the diameter of the
male structure projection head and the compression zone having a
diameter less than the diameter of the male structure projection head,
wherein movement of the carriage structure along the length of the guide
cavity from the entry zone to the compression zone compresses at least a
portion of the perimeter of the carriage structure socket between the
guide structure and the base of the male structure.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a
connector substantially as described above wherein movement of the
carriage structure relative to the length of the guide cavity from the entry
zone to the compression zone applies a force which urges the male
structure projection through and away from the socket of the carriage
structure.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a
connector substantially as described above wherein movement of the
carriage structure relative the guide cavity from the entry zone to the
compression zone engages the guide structure with the stem of the male
structure projection and prevents the head of the male structure
projection from being withdrawn from the socket of the carriage
structure.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a
connector substantially as described above wherein said at least one tag
of the male structure is formed from a flexible material.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a
connector substantially as described above wherein said at least one tag
of the carriage structure is formed from a flexible material.
Preferably the connector provided by the invention is formed from a male
structure to be fixed to a first fabric covered article, and a carriage
structure to be fixed to a second fabric covered article. A further guide
structure is also provided as a part of the connector, this guide being
used to engage and disengage the other elements of the connector with
each other.
The base of each carriage and male structure may each define one or
more tag used to allow a flexible connection to the articles to be
connected. The connection may comprise stitching.
A stitching tag may be formed from a soft and/or flexible material which
allows each structure to be sewn on to a fabric or textile surface. Sewn
connections are strong yet flexible ways of engaging components together
and also are unlikely to fatigue over time with prolonged use.
In preferred embodiments the base of either or both the carriage and
male structures may define a plurality of stitching tags. Several stitching
tags may be disposed around the perimeter of these structures to provide
multiple points of attachment and to resist separation forces applied from
a number of directions.
In various preferred embodiments either or both of the entire carriage
and/or male structures may be formed from a soft flexible material which
facilitates stitched connections to a flexible article. For example, in one
embodiment both the male structure and carriage structure may be
moulded entirely from soft nylon material, with each stitching tag defining
a line or region with a limited thickness through which stitches can be
sewn.
However, in alternative embodiments these structures may not
necessarily be entirely moulded from soft or flexible materials. For
example, in alternative embodiments either or both of these structures
may have a soft flexible material co-moulded over another rigid material
to define the stitching tag and base required.
Reference in general throughout this specification will however be made
to both the male structure and carriage structure being moulded entirely
from a soft flexible material such as nylon. Again, those skilled in the art
40 will appreciate that alternative arrangements of the invention are
envisioned for other embodiments and reference to the above should in
no way be seen as limiting.
The base of the male structure may define a projection which extends
with a substantially perpendicular orientation to any stitching tag or tags
formed by the structure. This projection is formed from a stem which
extends from the base and which terminates in a head, where the head of
the projection has a diameter greater than that of the stem. This
arrangement of the stem and the head therefore forms an undercut
region next to the stem between the head and the base of the structure.
The base of the carriage structure also defines a socket arranged to
receive the male structure projection, with this socket being aligned
approximately parallel to any stitching tags defined by the carriage
structure. This socket is defined by an aperture with a substantially
complementary form or shape to that of the head of the male structure
projection and preferably has a diameter, width or length substantially
equal to or slightly larger than the diameter of the head of the male
structure projection.
The connector’s guide structure may also define a guide cavity. When the
three components of the connector are assembled together this guide
cavity may be used to receive the male structure’s projection when the
projection is inserted through the socket of the carriage structure. The
assembled arrangement may therefore sandwich the carriage structure
between the male structure and the guide structure, with both sets of
stitching tags extending substantially parallel to one another. This
arrangement may result in the assembled connector also having a
relatively low profile or restricted height, which is dictated by the height
or extent of the male structure projection.
The guide cavity formed in the guide structure is arranged to at least
partially enclose a section of the male projection, where this cavity has a
span, width or diameter which varies over the longitudinal length of the
cavity. This variation in the diameter of the cavity defines separate zones
within the cavity, being an entry zone and a compression zone. The
diameter of the entry zone may be greater than the diameter of the male
structure projection head, while the diameter of the compression zone is
less than the diameter of the male structure projection head. This
40 arrangement allows the projection head to be freely inserted into and
potentially through the entry zone, while the three parts of the connector
will be firmly engaged together when the projection extends into and
potentially through the compression zone.
Preferably the guide structure may be formed from a rigid or hard
material. These types of materials will resist compression forces, allowing
the material of the guide structure to act to compress and trap various
parts of the male and carriage structures respectively. In a further
preferred embodiment the guide structure may be moulded from
transparent polycarbonate. Polycarbonate has a low visual impact and is a
strong and incompressible material, compared to nylon and various
mouldable plastics.
In a preferred embodiment a carriage track formed on the guide structure
may also incorporate a lateral undulation, projection or recess used to
mark the point of transition between the guide cavities entry zone and
compression zone. This feature can provide an operator of the connector
with vibration and sound-based feedback indicating that the carriage has
transition between these two zones. Furthermore, this form of lateral
undulation can also resist inadvertent movement of the carriage structure
out of either zone unless a threshold force is applied to move the
carriage.
In a preferred embodiment the restricted or reduced diameter of the
guide cavities compression zone may be formed by a projecting ledge
extending around the perimeter of this zone within the guide cavity. This
projecting ledge will therefore act to translate the head of the male
projection structure in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel
of the carriage, preferably acting to push the head through the guide
cavity and to engage the sidewalls of the cavity with the stem of the male
projection.
In a further preferred embodiment an angled ramping surface may be
formed at the ends of this projecting ledge to smoothly transition the
head of the male structure projection on to the ledge as it travels through
to the compression zone.
In a preferred embodiment the guide structure may define an aperture
which can be used by an operator as a handle or finger pull system to
move the carriage structure relative to the guide structure. In a further
40 preferred embodiment this handle aperture may be formed at one end of
the guide structure, providing the operator with information on the
orientation of the assembled connector without necessarily having line of
sight to the connector.
Reference in general will be made in this specification to the connector
provided being used to connect together to soft or flexible articles,
preferably being covered by fabric or textiles. Those skilled in the art will
appreciate that references made to soft or flexible articles also
encompasses articles covered or coated in soft or flexible materials. In
such embodiments a flexible connection may be made between these
articles and the connector, where the connector acts as an intermediary
element to connect to articles together.
Reference in general will also be made in this specification to these
articles being a cushion or squab which is to be connected to a fabric or
textile covered furniture structure. Again, those skilled should appreciate
that the invention may be used in other applications as desired.
References made in this specification to the diameter of a feature,
element or component of the connector relate to embodiments where
such a component has a symmetrical or regular nature. Those skilled in
the art will appreciate that the invention may be readily adapted to
employ non-symmetrical or non-regular components and such references
to diameters per se should be interpreted relative to the appropriate with
length, width or depth dimension of such equivalent components.
Reference in general in this specification will however be made to the
guide structure defining a pair of tracks located on opposite exterior
edges of the guide structure. Again, however those skilled in the art will
appreciate that alternative arrangements are also envisioned for other
embodiments.
As used herein the term ‘diameter’ refers broadly to transverse
measurement of something; width or thickness and is not limited to the
width or thickness of a circle or prism, for example.
As used herein the term ‘socket’ refers broadly to opening or a cavity into
which an inserted part is designed to fit and is not limited to a hollow or
cavity.
As used herein the term ‘cavity’ refers broadly to any empty space within
a solid object, is not limited to an enclosed volume and includes, for
example, a cavity formed by a U-shaped planar object.
As used herein the determiners ‘a’ or ‘an’ is not limited to meaning ‘one’
of the relevant noun or article and does not exclude, for example,
‘another’ article.
As used herein the term ‘compress’ refers broadly to press together or
between and does not require, for example, macroscopic deformation.
As used herein the conjunction ‘or’ is used non-exclusively so, for
example, A or B does not exclude A and B. To give an example, “soft or
flexible article” includes any article that is soft and includes any article
that is flexible and does not exclude flexible articles that are soft or
exclude soft articles that are flexible.
As used herein the terms ‘comprise’ or ‘comprising’ are not intended to
refer to a complete set of features, for example, so an article ‘comprising’
a component may also ‘comprise’ another component.
Brief description of the drawings
An example embodiment of the invention is now discussed with reference
to the drawings in which:
Figure 1a shows an underside view of a male structure provided in
accordance with a preferred embodiment,
Figure 1b shows a top view of the male structure of figure 1a,
Figure 1c shows a perspective underside view of the male structure
of figures 1 a and 1b,
Figure 1d shows a side view of the male structure of figures 1a-1c,
Figure 2a shows a top view of a carriage structure used in
combination with the male structure of figures 1a-1d,
Figure 2b shows an underside perspective view of the carriage
structure of figure 2a,
Figure 2c shows a side view of the carriage structure of figures 2a
and 2b,
Figure 3a shows a top view of a guide structure used in combination
40 with the male structure of figures 1a-1d and the carriage structure
of figures 2a-2c,
Figure 3b shows a perspective view of the guide structure of figure
Figures 4a and 4b show perspective and top views of the
combination of the carriage and guide structures of figures 2 and 3,
Figures 5a, 5b and 5c show a number of underside perspective
views illustrating various configurations of the male, carriage and
guide structures of figures 1-3, and
Figures 6a and 6b show an underside view and side cross-section
view of the assembled engaged connector illustrated with respect to
figure 5c.
Best modes for carrying out the Invention
Figures 1a-1d show a number of views of a male structure which forms
part of a connector provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment.
The male structure 1 includes a base 2 and a projection 3. The projection
is formed from a head 4 and a stem 5 used to connect the head 4 to the
base 2. As can be seen from figure 1d in particular, the head 4 has a
diameter greater than the diameter of the stem 5. This results in an
undercut region 4a below the head 4 and above the base 2 adjacent to
the stem 5.
The base 2 also defines three stitching tags 6 extending substantially
perpendicular to the projection 3. Each tag 6 includes a linear region 6a of
reduced thickness which is used to receive stitches employed to sew the
male structure to a flexible surface.
Figures 2a-2c show a number of views of a carriage structure 7 provided
in accordance with the same embodiment illustrated with respect to the
male structure of figures 1a-1d.
The carriage structure 7 includes a base 8 which defines a socket 9
arranged to receive the projection of the male structure. The diameter of
the socket 9 is greater than the diameter of the projection head 4.
The carriage structure base 8 defines two stitching tags 10 extending
substantially parallel to the socket and located on opposite sides of the
structure. Again, each stitching tag 10 includes a linear region 10a of
reduced thickness which is used to receive stitches employed to sew the
40 carriage structure to a flexible surface.
The base 8 of the carriage structure 7 also defines two travel stops 11
used to impede motion of the carriage structure 7 past a certain point on
the guide structure 13 discussed below with respect to figures 3a and 3b.
Also defined by the base is a pair of complimentary recesses 12 which
engage with features of the guide structure again discussed below with
respect to figures 3a and 3b.
Figure 3a and 3b show a pair of views of a guide structure 13 used in
combination with the male structure of figures 1a-1d and the carriage
structure of figures 2a-2c.
The guide structure 13 defines an open-ended guide cavity 14 arranged
to receive the male structure projection 3 when located within the socket
9 of the carriage structure 7. In the example shown the open-ended guide
cavity is U-shaped.
The guide cavity 14 defines an entry zone 15 and a compression zone 16,
where the entry zone has a diameter greater than the diameter of the
male structure projection head 4. The compression zone has a diameter
less than the diameter of the male structure projection head 4. The
reduced diameter of the compression zone is formed by the provision of a
projecting ledge 17 extending around the perimeter of this zone within
the guide cavity 14. An angle ramping surface 17a is formed at the ends
of the projecting ledge to smoothly transition the head of the male
structure projection on to the ledge as it travels relative to the guide
structure 13 through to the compression zone 16.
The guide structure 13 defines a finger pull aperture 18 which can be
used by an operator to move the carriage structure relative to the guide
structure. As can be seen from figures 3a and 3b the finger pull aperture
18 is formed at one end of the guide structure 13, providing the operator
with information on the orientation of the assembled connector without
necessarily having line of sight to the connector.
The guide structure 13 defines a pair of tracks 19, each located on the
opposite exterior edge of the guide structure running the length of the
guide cavity. Each track 19 has a longitudinal axis running parallel to the
longitudinal axis of the guide cavity 14.
These tracks 19 have a complimentary form to the recesses 12 formed in
the carriage structure 7 which engage together to guide or control the
motion of the carriage as it traverses the guide cavity.
Each track 19 incorporates lateral undulations 20 used to mark the point
of transition between the guide cavities entry zone 15 and compression
zone 16. As the carriage structure moves over these undulations they
provide an operator of the connector with vibration and sound-based
feedback indicating that the carriage has transition between these two
zones. These features also resist inadvertent movement of the carriage
structure out of either zone unless a threshold force is applied to move
the carriage.
At the inner closed end of the guide cavity a stop recess 21 is provided to
receive one of two travel stops 11 formed in the carriage structure 7. At
the opposite open end of the guide cavity a pair of stop projections 22 are
provided to stop the movement of the carriage structure off the end of
the guide structure.
During use the carriage structure and guide structure are engaged
together as shown with respect to figures 4a and 4b. The stitching tags of
the carriage structure 7 are sewn to a flexible surface of an article to be
connected using the invention. Figures 4a and 4b show the carriage
structure socket located over the entry zone of the guide structure. The
carriage 7 and guide 13 structures are engaged together by the tracks 19
of the guide engaging with the complimentary recesses 12 of the carriage
structure. Each of the stop projections 22 prevent further movement of
the carriage structure away from the finger pull aperture 18 of the guide
structure 13, while the tracks 19 and recesses 12 work together to control
motion of the carriage towards the finger pull aperture 18.
Figures 5a shows an underside perspective of the engaged guide 13 and
carriage 13 structures shown in figure 4 when positioned adjacent to the
male structure of figure 1. In this arrangement the article sewn to the
tags 6 of the male structure is disconnected from the article sewn to the
tags 10 of the carriage structure. These stitched connections are
facilitated by each of these structures being moulded from soft nylon in
the embodiment shown.
40 Figure 5b shows the configuration of these structures when the male
projection is inserted through the socket of the carriage when the carriage
sits over the entry zone of the guide structure. In this arrangement all the
structures of the connector are in contact but are not engaged firmly with
one another, and the male projection can be easily withdrawn from the
carriage socket.
Figure 5c shows the configuration of these structures when the male
projection is inserted through the socket of the carriage when the carriage
has been moved along the length of the guide cavity to sit over the
compression zone. The passage of the projection head up on to the
projecting ledge 17 is assisted by the angle ramping surfaces 17a formed
at the ends of the projecting ledge.
Figures 6a and 6b also show an underside view and side cross-section
view of the assembled engaged connector illustrated with respect to
figure 5c.
In this configuration the smaller diameter of the guide cavity compression
zone applies a force which urges the head of the male structure projection
through and away from the socket of the carriage structure. This action
results in the guide structure being engaged with the stem of the male
structure projection and prevents the head of the male structure
projection from being withdrawn from the socket of the carriage
structure. Concurrent with the engagement of the guide structure with
the male structure projection, a portion of the perimeter of the carriage
structure socket 9 is also compressed between the guide structure and
the base of the male structure.
Figure 6a shows how the rigid guide structure is used in this configuration
to compress and lock together the soft flexible nylon carriage structure
and male structure.
In the embodiment shown the guide structure is formed from a hard
polycarbonate material, while each carriage and male structure is formed
from soft nylon. In the embodiment shown, the hard material of the guide
structure is polycarbonate. In the embodiment shown, the soft material of
the is nylon.
In use the male projection may be inserted through the socket of the
carriage structure with the carriage structure being moved along the
40 longitudinal length of the guide cavity to connect and disconnect the three
components.
When the carriage and associated male structure are positioned adjacent
to the guide cavity’s entry zone these three components may be easily
separated from one another, allowing for separation of the flexible articles
sewn to each of the male and carriage structures.
When the carriage and associated male structure are positioned adjacent
to the guide cavities compression zone the smaller diameter of the guide
cavity applies a force which urges the head of the male structure
projection through and away from the socket of the carriage structure.
This action results in the guide structure being engaged with the stem of
the male structure projection and prevents the head of the male structure
projection from being withdrawn from the socket of the carriage
structure. Concurrent with the engagement of the guide structure with
the male structure projection, at least a portion of the perimeter of the
carriage structure socket is also compressed between the guide structure
and the base of the male structure.
In various preferred embodiments the guide structure may define at least
one track or projecting rail which has a longitudinal axis running parallel
to the longitudinal axis of the guide cavity. In such embodiments the
carriage structure may also form or define a complimentary receiving
cavity to engage with such a track on the guide, these two features
cooperating with each other to guide or control the motion of the carriage
as it traverses the guide cavity. In a further preferred embodiment the
guide structure may define a pair of tracks, each located on the opposite
exterior edge of the guide structure running the length of the guide
cavity. This pair of tracks can guide the motion of the carriage structure in
addition to locking the carriage structure on to the guide structure.
Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that alternative arrangements
of such tracks and complimentary receiving cavities can be utilised in
other embodiments. For example, in some alternative embodiments one
or more projecting tracks may be formed by the carriage structure, with a
complimentary receiving cavity or cavities being formed in the guide
structure. With such embodiments this combination of track and receiving
cavity may again guide the motion of the carriage relative to the guide
structure and also preferably lock the carriage to the guide structure.
In alternative embodiments the materials of the carriage may be
substituted for the material of the male structure and the material of the
male structure may be substituted for the material of the carriage.
In use the male projection may be inserted through the socket of the
carriage structure with the carriage structure being moved along the
longitudinal length of the guide cavity to connect and disconnect the three
components.
When the carriage and associated male structure are positioned adjacent
to the guide cavity’s entry zone these three components may be easily
separated from one another, allowing for separation of the flexible articles
sewn to each of the male and carriage structures.
When the carriage and associated male structure are positioned adjacent
to the guide cavities compression zone the smaller diameter of the guide
cavity applies a force which urges the head of the male structure
projection through and away from the socket of the carriage structure.
This action results in the guide structure being engaged with the stem of
the male structure projection and prevents the head of the male structure
projection from being withdrawn from the socket of the carriage
structure. Concurrent with the engagement of the guide structure with
the male structure projection, at least a portion of the perimeter of the
carriage structure socket is also compressed between the guide structure
and the base of the male structure.
In various preferred embodiments the guide structure may define at least
one track or projecting rail which has a longitudinal axis running parallel
to the longitudinal axis of the guide cavity. In such embodiments the
carriage structure may also form or define a complimentary receiving
cavity to engage with such a track on the guide, these two features
cooperating with each other to guide or control the motion of the carriage
as it traverses the guide cavity. In a further preferred embodiment the
guide structure may define a pair of tracks, each located on the opposite
exterior edge of the guide structure running the length of the guide
cavity. This pair of tracks can guide the motion of the carriage structure in
addition to locking the carriage structure on to the guide structure.
Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that alternative arrangements
of such tracks and complimentary receiving cavities can be utilised in
40 other embodiments. For example, in some alternative embodiments one
or more projecting tracks may be formed by the carriage structure, with a
complimentary receiving cavity or cavities being formed in the guide
structure. With such embodiments this combination of track and receiving
cavity may again guide the motion of the carriage relative to the guide
structure and also preferably lock the carriage to the guide structure.
Various embodiments of the invention provide an improved connector
which facilitates a strong secure connection between two soft or flexible
surfaces.
These embodiments allow the number of components to be sewn to
articles to be connected together, providing a flexible engagement to the
intermediary connector provided by the invention.
In various embodiments of the invention the connector can be quickly and
easily engaged and disengaged from a number of angles by a user who
does not necessarily need to see the connector to operate it.
In various embodiments of the invention the components of the connector
can be implemented to provide the operator with nonvisual feedback on
the orientation and also configuration of the components of the connector
relative to each other.
In various embodiments the invention can also provide a connector which
has a relatively flat or low profile, facilitating use of the invention in
furniture focused applications.
In some embodiments the locking together of the carriage and male
structure is provided by friction between the carriage and male structure.
Embodiments of the present invention provide a connector with the ability
to engage a soft or and/or flexible article.
In various preferred embodiments the connector provided can act as an
intermediary element to allow such soft flexible articles to be
interchangeably connected and disconnected from one another. However,
in other embodiments the connector provided may engage with a flexible
article and connect this article to a further rigid or hard surface if
required.
40 The reader will appreciate that compression of the carriage and male
structure may place the projection 3 under tension. The reader will also
appreciate that resilient strain in the projection 3 will maintain
compression of the carriage structure and male structure. The reader will
appreciate that resilient strain in the projection 3 may be substituted in
alternative embodiments for resilience under compression required by the
carriage. The reader will further appreciate that in these embodiments the
carriage of the preferred embodiment, which is formed of a soft nylon to
allow compression, may be substituted for a harder material.
In alternative embodiments of the invention the stitching tags may be
substituted for tags which are suitable for affixing by means known as
alternatives for stitching. These means may include bonding, fusing,
riveting and adhering to give some examples.
Embodiments of the present invention provide a connector with a male
structure which is received unimpeded into a carriage structure before it
is locked in place. In some embodiments this unimpeded receiving is
arranged by the carriage having a socket which has a diameter greater
than the male structure. In some embodiments this unimpeded receiving
and locking is arranged by the locking being arranged by a guide which
has a socket with an entry zone which has a greater diameter than the
male structure so that the guide does not impede male structure being
received in the carriage. These embodiments allow the male structure or
carriage structure to secure items with flexible articles that may not be
well adapted to transferring force to overcome any mechanical
impedance.
In various embodiments the guide having a compression zone into which
the male structure moving relative to the guide moves to cause
compression forces with a magnitude that is multiples of the magnitude of
force which is required for the male structure to be received in the
carriage. This may overcome a problem associated with flexible elements
to be connected in that the flexible articles can transfer only limited force
by nature of their flexibility. This is particularly where articles require
secure connection despite not being suitable to transfer force for a
connector.
In various embodiments the guide, carriage and male structure are locked
in place by friction. In some embodiments the friction is facilitated by
compression. In alternative embodiments to the present invention
pressure to cause compression is traded for frictional properties of the
40 parts.
Embodiments of the present invention provide a connector with a male
structure which is locked to a carriage by a force applied to a guide
transverse to the male structure. This may secure articles which may lie
substantially flat on a surface to which the article is to be secured, or
another article, because movement of parts, the guide in these examples,
is substantially along a juncture between the article and surface or
between two articles.
The reader will appreciate that in some embodiments an entry zone of the
guide cavity with a diameter greater than the diameter of the head of the
projection of the male structure may be to allow entry of the head into
the guide cavity and/or entry of the head into the socket.
In some embodiments the guide acts to force between the head of the
projection of the male structure and the carriage to press the carriage
against the base of the male structure.
In alternative embodiments undercuts may be provided by two or more
projections.
In alternative embodiments any alternative shape to a U-shape guide
cavity may be used and may include semi-ellipses, open rectangles, or V-
shapes and suitable adaptions to the geometry of the ramp will be
apparent to the reader.
It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the
embodiments described herein and further and additional embodiments
within the spirit and scope of the invention will be apparent to the skilled
reader from the examples illustrated with reference to the drawings. In
particular, the invention may reside in any combination of features
described herein or may reside in alternative embodiments or
combinations of these features with known equivalents to given features.
Modifications and variations of the example embodiments of the invention
discussed above will be apparent to those skilled in the art and may be
made without departure of the scope of the invention.
Claims (13)
1. A connector for a soft or flexible article, the connector including a male structure comprising a base and a projection, the projection defining a head and a stem connecting the head to the base, the head 5 having a diameter greater than the diameter of the stem, the male structure base defining at least one tag extending substantially perpendicular to the projection, and a carriage structure comprising a base which defines a socket arranged to receive the projection of the male structure, the carriage structure 10 defining at least one tag extending substantially parallel to the socket, a guide structure which defines a guide cavity arranged to receive the male structure projection when the male structure projection is located within the socket of the carriage structure, the guide cavity defining an 15 entry zone and a compression zone, the entry zone having a diameter greater than the diameter of the male structure projection head and the compression zone having a diameter less than the diameter of the male structure projection head, wherein movement of the carriage structure relative to the length of the 20 guide cavity from the entry zone to the compression zone compresses at least a portion of the perimeter of the carriage structure socket between the guide structure and the base of the male structure.
2. The connector of claim 1 wherein movement of the carriage 25 structure relative to the length of the guide cavity from the entry zone to the compression zone applies a force which urges the male structure projection through and away from the socket of the carriage structure.
3. The connector of claim 1 or claim 2 wherein movement of the 30 carriage structure relative to the length of the guide cavity from the entry zone to the compression zone engages the guide structure with the stem of the male structure projection and prevents the head of the male structure projection from being withdrawn from the socket of the carriage structure. 35
4. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein said at least one tag of the male structure is formed from a flexible material.
5. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein said at least one tag of the carriage structure is formed from a flexible material.
6. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein either or both of the entire carriage or male structures may be formed from a soft flexible material which facilitates stitched connections to a flexible article.
7. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein either or both of 5 these structures may have a soft flexible material co-moulded over another rigid material to define the stitching tag and base required.
8. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the base of the male structure defines a projection which extends with a substantially perpendicular orientation to any stitching tag or tags formed by the 10 structure.
9. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the socket is defined by an aperture with a substantially complementary form or shape to that of the head of the male structure projection and has a diameter, width or length substantially equal to or slightly larger than the diameter 15 of the head of the male structure projection.
10. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein the diameter of the entry zone is greater than the diameter of the male structure projection head, while the diameter of the compression zone is less than the diameter of the male structure projection head. 20
11. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the restricted or reduced diameter of the guide cavities compression zone is formed by a projecting ledge extending around the perimeter of this zone within the guide cavity.
12. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 11 comprising a lateral 25 undulation, projection or recess capable of marking the point of transition between the guide cavities entry zone and compression zone.
13. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 12 wherein the guide structure defines an aperture which can be used by an operator as a handle or finger pull system to move the carriage structure relative to the 30 guide structure.
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ750030B2 true NZ750030B2 (en) | 2021-06-29 |
Family
ID=
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