US20170215530A1 - Wristband clasp assembly - Google Patents
Wristband clasp assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170215530A1 US20170215530A1 US15/009,571 US201615009571A US2017215530A1 US 20170215530 A1 US20170215530 A1 US 20170215530A1 US 201615009571 A US201615009571 A US 201615009571A US 2017215530 A1 US2017215530 A1 US 2017215530A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- strap
- lateral bar
- apertures
- prongs
- lip
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
- A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
- A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
- A44C5/18—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like
- A44C5/20—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for open straps, chains or the like
- A44C5/2071—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for open straps, chains or the like with the two ends of the strap or chain overlapping each other and fastened by an action perpendicularly to the main plane of these two ends
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
- A44B—BUTTONS, PINS, BUCKLES, SLIDE FASTENERS, OR THE LIKE
- A44B11/00—Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts
- A44B11/006—Attachment of buckle to strap
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
- A44B—BUTTONS, PINS, BUCKLES, SLIDE FASTENERS, OR THE LIKE
- A44B11/00—Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts
- A44B11/20—Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts engaging holes or the like in strap
- A44B11/22—Buckle with fixed prong
- A44B11/223—Buckle with fixed prong fixed on a movable element
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
- A44B—BUTTONS, PINS, BUCKLES, SLIDE FASTENERS, OR THE LIKE
- A44B11/00—Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts
- A44B11/25—Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts with two or more separable parts
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to wrist-worn devices and, more particularly, to wrist-worn devices including a wristband clasp having a snag-guard.
- a wristband clasp is used to secure two straps of a wristband together around a user's wrist.
- Many different styles of wristband clasps exist most of which are permanently connected to the end of one strap of the wristband and engage the other strap in order to adjustably connect the two straps.
- These wristband claps generally allow the overlapping portion of the other strap exposed with the potential of being snagged during everyday use.
- most wristband clasps have a loop through which the end of the other strap is threaded. This acts to retain the overlapping portion of the other strap to prevent snagging; however, the slidable nature of this loop allows for the other strap to slip out or the loop to slip off the other strap.
- Existing wristbands typically have a clasp for connecting the two straps and a separate snag-guard or loop to deal with the excess portion of the connecting strap.
- These wristband loops are configured to engage the overlapping portion of the other strap by snap connecting or other means for detachable engagement.
- These types of wristband loops act as a snag guard simply by securing the overlapping portion of the other strap to the connecting strap; however, the end of the other strap is generally left unguarded. Even though this end is a small portion, it is still susceptible to snagging.
- an improved wristband clasp that connects the two straps and simultaneously acts as a snag guard that is easily adjustable to the wearer's wrist is desired.
- the invention provides a wristband clasp assembly defining of a hollow body for receiving a pair of straps of a wristband.
- the hollow body has an upper lateral bar disposed above the straps and a lower lateral bar that is disposed below the straps, when worn.
- the body includes one or more prongs extending from one of the bars passing through corresponding apertures defined by the straps.
- the upper and lower bars can be offset from each other to inhibit the strap from detaching from the prongs.
- a wristband assembly having a first strap and a second strap.
- Each strap has a plurality of apertures arranged thereon such that the apertures on each strap align, allowing for prongs of a clasp member to pass through and connect each strap.
- the clasp member secures the first strap to the second strap, and has an upper lateral bar disposed at an offset position above a lower lateral bar.
- a plurality of prongs extending from the lower lateral bar configured to pass through the corresponding apertures defined on the first strap and the second strap, thereby securing the straps together.
- the upper lateral bar and the lower lateral bar are spaced sufficiently to receive both the first and second strap simultaneously. In this arrangement, the upper lateral bar acts as a snag-guard
- each prong of the clasp member has an upper lip, and an intermediate lip disposed at an intermediate position between the lower lateral bar and the upper lip.
- Each lip is slightly larger than the corresponding apertures through which the prongs pass through, allowing each lip to hold a strap in place when engaged.
- the distance between the surface of the lower lateral bar and the intermediate lip is sufficient to receive the thickness of the second strap, and the distance between the second lip and the first lip is sufficient to receive the thickness of the first strap.
- the clasp member acts as a snag-guard to the first strap and simultaneously as the sole means of connection between the two straps.
- the prongs of the lower lateral bar and the corresponding apertures of the straps can be triangular. Additionally, the prongs and corresponding apertures of the straps can be arranged in a straight line, traversing the width of the lower lateral bar and the straps. Alternatively, the prongs and corresponding apertures of the straps can be arranged in an offset alignment.
- the upper lateral bar can have a ridge at its edge to further prevent inadvertent snagging.
- the wristband assembly has a strap assembly with a first strap and a second strap, each strap having a plurality of apertures disposed thereon in alignment.
- the clasp member has an upper lateral bar disposed at an offset position above a lower lateral bar.
- the upper lateral bar acts as a snag-guard and has a plurality of prongs extending therefrom, capable of passing through corresponding apertures defined on the first strap and the second strap to secure the straps together.
- the upper lateral bar and the lower lateral bar spaced sufficiently to receive both the first and second strap simultaneously.
- Each prong extending from the upper lateral bar has an upper lip, and an intermediate lip disposed at an intermediate position between the upper lateral bar and the upper lip.
- Each of these lips is slightly larger than the corresponding apertures through which the prongs pass through, such that the distance between the surface of the upper lateral bar and the intermediate lip is sufficient to receive the thickness of the second strap, and the distance between the intermediate lip and the upper lip is sufficient to receive the thickness of the first strap.
- the clasp member acts as the sole connecter of the two straps and simultaneously as a snag-guard to the first strap when the clasp member is engaged with both straps.
- the wristband assembly has a strap assembly with a first strap and a second strap, each strap having a plurality of apertures disposed thereon in alignment.
- the clasp member secures the first strap to the second strap, and has an upper lateral bar disposed at an offset position above a lower lateral bar.
- the upper lateral bar has a plurality of prongs extending therefrom, the prongs capable of passing through corresponding apertures defined on the first strap.
- the lower lateral bar has a plurality of prongs extending therefrom, the lower prongs capable of passing through corresponding apertures defined on the second strap.
- the upper lateral bar and the lower lateral bar are far enough apart to receive both the first and second strap simultaneously.
- the prongs of the upper lateral bar each have a lip disposed at the end, the distance between the surface of the upper lateral bar and the lip being sufficient receive the thickness of the first strap, wherein the lip is slightly wider than the corresponding apertures of the first strap such that when engaged with the first strap, the lip retains the first strap.
- the prongs of the lower lateral bar each have a lip disposed at the end, the distance between the surface of the lower lateral bar and the lip being sufficient to receive the thickness of the second strap, wherein the lip is slightly wider than the corresponding apertures of the second strap such that when engaged with the second strap, the lip retains the second strap.
- the clasp member acts as the sole connecter of the two straps and simultaneously as a snag-guard to the first strap when the clasp member is engaged with both straps.
- FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a wristband assembly in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 1B is a side perspective view of the wristband assembly of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the clasp member of the wristband assembly of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 2B is a top view of the clasp member of the wristband assembly of FIGS. 1A-B .
- FIG. 2C is a side view of the clasp member of the wristband assembly of FIGS. 1A-B .
- FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the bottom of the clasp member of the wristband assembly of FIGS. 1A-B .
- FIG. 2E is a front view of the clasp member of the wristband assembly of FIGS. 1A-B .
- FIG. 2F is a back view of the clasp member of the wristband assembly of FIGS. 1A-B .
- FIG. 3A is a perspective view of clasp member engaged with the second strap of the wristband assembly of FIGS. 1A-B .
- FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the bottom of the clasp member engaged with the second strap of the wristband assembly of FIGS. 1A-B .
- FIG. 4 is a top view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of the clasp member in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the clasp member in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the bottom of yet another alternative embodiment of the clasp member in accordance with the invention.
- FIGS. 1A-B there is shown a wristband assembly 10 having a first strap 12 and a second strap 14 , connected by a clasp member 20 .
- the first strap 12 and the second strap 14 have a plurality of apertures 16 that align with each strap 12 , 14 , allowing the wearer to adjust the size of the wristband assembly 10 .
- the clasp member 20 has an upper lateral bar 22 that is disposed above the straps 12 , 14 and a lower lateral bar 24 that is disposed below the straps 12 , 14 , when worn.
- the upper lateral bar 22 and the lower lateral bar 24 are substantially flat, in order to be flush with the straps 12 , 14 when engaged.
- the upper lateral bar 22 and the lower lateral bar 24 are connected by two sidewalls 23 .
- the upper lateral bar 22 is positioned such that when the last set of apertures 40 of the second strap 14 are engaged with the prongs 26 . As such, the strap 14 is disengaged from the clasp member 20 by lifting the first strap 12 from an intermediate portion of the strap 14 .
- a plurality of prongs 26 extend out from the lower lateral bar 24 , designed to pass through corresponding apertures 16 defined on both the first 12 and second 14 straps.
- the prongs 26 are disposed proximate to the front edge of the lower lateral bar 24 , such that the remaining portion of the lower lateral bar 24 can sufficiently support the straps 12 , 14 when engaged.
- the upper lateral bar 22 is offset from the lower lateral bar 24 in order to inhibit the first strap 12 from disengaging from the prongs 26 if the end of the first strap 12 is snagged on an object.
- the prongs 26 and corresponding apertures 16 on the straps 12 , 14 are triangular. As best seen in FIGS. 2E-F , each prong 26 extends from the lower lateral bar 24 , having an intermediate lip 28 at an intermediate portion, and an upper lip 30 spaced distally therefrom. In the exemplary embodiment, the upper lip is disposed atop the prong. The intermediate lip 28 and the upper lip 30 are sized sufficiently larger than the shaft 29 of the prong 26 , and the corresponding size of the apertures 16 to require a small amount of force when pressing the prongs 26 through each aperture 16 .
- the straps 12 , 14 are made of an elastic material so that each aperture 16 can expand when the lip 28 , 30 of the prongs 26 pass through the apertures 16 .
- the upper lip 30 is disposed below the upper lateral bar 22 , allowing sufficient space to sandwich the second strap 14 between the intermediate lip 28 and the lower lateral bar 24 .
- the distance between the intermediate lip 28 and the upper lip 30 is sufficient to sandwich the first strap 12 therebetween.
- the prongs 26 push all the way through the desired set of apertures 16 on the second strap 14 , such that the second strap 14 is secured by being sandwiched between lower lateral bar 24 and the intermediate lip 28 of the prongs.
- the first strap 12 is then connected. The first strap 12 is pulled around the user's wrist, and then pushed down on the clasp member 20 such that the prongs 16 , extending up through the second strap 14 , engage with the desired set of apertures 16 on the first strap 12 .
- the overlap of the first strap 12 with the clasp member 20 can be changed.
- the arrangement and shape of the prongs 26 and corresponding apertures 16 of the straps 12 , 14 can vary.
- the prongs 26 are triangular, and arranged in straight line.
- Alternative embodiments could have more, or less, prongs or different shapes, e.g. circular, rectangular, etc. as exemplified in FIG. 4 .
- the prongs 26 could be arranged in an offset alignment, or be arranged in multiple columns and/or rows.
- the arrangement and shape of the prongs 26 should substantially match those of the apertures 16 along each strap 12 , 14 .
- the shape of each prong and corresponding aperture could be arranged with different geometric shapes and alignments.
- each row of apertures could have a circular prong and a rectangular prong, where the corresponding row of apertures has a circular aperture and a rectangular aperture.
- Any variation in shape, size, or arrangement of the prongs and apertures can be used, so long as the apertures of both straps align with each other and correspond with the arrangement of the prongs.
- the prongs 26 could be arranged in a rectangular orientation, where the first row is only tall enough to engage the second strap 14 and the second row is tall enough to engage both straps 12 , 14 .
- the clasp member 20 is engaged with the second strap 14 through both rows of prongs 26 , where the first strap 12 is only engaged by the second, taller row.
- the second strap 14 of the wristband assembly 10 is depicted.
- the clasp member 20 is engaged with the second strap 14 .
- the prongs 26 of the clasp member 20 are pushed through the desired set of apertures 16 on the second strap 14 .
- the length of the prongs 26 is sufficient to extend above the second strap 14 to securely engage the apertures 16 of the first strap 12 when engaged therewith, as shown in FIG. 1 .
- the size of the strap assembly can be adjusted by engaging the prongs 26 with the apertures 16 of the second strap 14 at the desired position.
- the upper lateral bar 22 of the clasp member 20 is arranged such that it prevents the edge of the first strap 12 from being snagged and disconnecting from the clasp member 20 .
- the first strap 12 can also be engaged with the prongs 26 of the clasp member 20 at an intermediate location, with the end of the first strap 12 guided below the upper lateral bar 22 .
- the upper lateral bar 22 acts as a snag guard to prevent the first strap 12 from inadvertent disengagement from the clasp member 20 .
- the upper lateral bar 22 guards the first strap 12 from being lifted from the end.
- the apertures 16 in the intermediate portion of the first strap 12 are engaged with the clasp member 20 , the end of the first strap 12 is threaded between the upper 22 and lower lateral bars 24 .
- the upper lateral bar 22 will absorb the force and keep the intermediate portion of the first strap 12 engaged with the prongs 26 of the clasp member 20 .
- the clasp member 20 is not permanently connected to either strap 12 , 14 of the wristband assembly 10 .
- the clasp member 20 can engage any of set of apertures 26 on either strap 12 , 14 . This allows the clasp member 20 to be positioned such that the upper lateral bar 22 acts as an anti-snag barrier covering the end of the first strap 12 . It also allows the user to attach the clasp member 20 to the second strap 14 at the location that best fits the user's wrist when the first strap 12 is connected. Even when the first strap 12 extends through the clasp member 20 , the upper lateral bar 22 prevents the first strap 12 from disengaging the clasp member 20 . If the tip edge of the first strap 12 catches on something and bends backward, the upper lateral bar 22 prevents the strap 12 from detaching from the prongs 26 .
- the clasp member 20 is not permanently connected to either strap 12 , 14 , it allows the wristband assembly 10 to be easily modified to cater to left-handed users.
- the user of the wristband assembly 10 wraps the straps 12 , 14 around his or her wrist to determine which aperture set 26 and alignment fits the user's wrist. Then the user slides the second strap 14 through the clasp member 20 , that is, between the upper 22 and lower lateral bars 24 to the desired set of apertures 16 and presses the strap 14 down, snap-fitting the prongs 26 through said apertures 16 .
- the prongs 26 are pressed through the second strap 14 , passing over the second lip 30 , and over the intermediate lip 28 until the intermediate lip 28 of the prongs 26 has secured the second strap 14 .
- the remaining length of the prongs 26 and the upper lip 30 stick out above the second strap 14 .
- the user After connecting the clasp member 20 to the second strap 14 , the user connects the first strap 12 to the clasp member 20 .
- the user will arrange the fit of the wristband assembly 10 such that the last set of apertures 40 on the first strap 12 engages the remaining length of the prongs 26 .
- the wristband assembly 10 is secure. As shown in FIGS. 1A & 1B , the back edge of the upper lateral bar 22 is positioned ahead of the end of the first strap 12 . This prevents the tip of the first strap 12 from inadvertent snagging and disengagement from the clasp member 20 .
- the prongs 26 are located on the upper lateral bar 22 , extending downward therefrom.
- the clasp member 20 is connected to the first strap 12 (outer strap) at the end portion, and then the second strap 14 (inner strap) is threaded through the clasp member 20 to the desired position and then engaged with the prongs 26 in the corresponding apertures 16 .
- both lateral bars 22 , 24 have prongs 26 extending therefrom.
- the upper lateral bar 22 has prongs 52 facing downward, and the lower lateral bar 24 has prongs 54 facing upwards.
- the prongs 26 on each bar 22 , 24 are sized to engage with only one strap.
- the upper prongs 52 on the upper lateral bar 22 engage with the first strap 12 and the lower prongs 54 on the lower lateral bar 24 engage with the second strap 14 .
- the present invention provides a wristband assembly having a clasp member that acts as the connector of the two straps, and simultaneously acts as a snag-guard.
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- Professional, Industrial, Or Sporting Protective Garments (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates generally to wrist-worn devices and, more particularly, to wrist-worn devices including a wristband clasp having a snag-guard.
- A wristband clasp is used to secure two straps of a wristband together around a user's wrist. Many different styles of wristband clasps exist, most of which are permanently connected to the end of one strap of the wristband and engage the other strap in order to adjustably connect the two straps. These wristband claps generally allow the overlapping portion of the other strap exposed with the potential of being snagged during everyday use. To guard against snagging, most wristband clasps have a loop through which the end of the other strap is threaded. This acts to retain the overlapping portion of the other strap to prevent snagging; however, the slidable nature of this loop allows for the other strap to slip out or the loop to slip off the other strap.
- Existing wristbands typically have a clasp for connecting the two straps and a separate snag-guard or loop to deal with the excess portion of the connecting strap. These wristband loops are configured to engage the overlapping portion of the other strap by snap connecting or other means for detachable engagement. These types of wristband loops act as a snag guard simply by securing the overlapping portion of the other strap to the connecting strap; however, the end of the other strap is generally left unguarded. Even though this end is a small portion, it is still susceptible to snagging.
- Therefore, an improved wristband clasp that connects the two straps and simultaneously acts as a snag guard that is easily adjustable to the wearer's wrist is desired.
- Briefly, and in general terms, the invention provides a wristband clasp assembly defining of a hollow body for receiving a pair of straps of a wristband. The hollow body has an upper lateral bar disposed above the straps and a lower lateral bar that is disposed below the straps, when worn. The body includes one or more prongs extending from one of the bars passing through corresponding apertures defined by the straps. The upper and lower bars can be offset from each other to inhibit the strap from detaching from the prongs.
- More specifically, in an exemplary embodiment, a wristband assembly is provided having a first strap and a second strap. Each strap has a plurality of apertures arranged thereon such that the apertures on each strap align, allowing for prongs of a clasp member to pass through and connect each strap. The clasp member secures the first strap to the second strap, and has an upper lateral bar disposed at an offset position above a lower lateral bar. A plurality of prongs extending from the lower lateral bar configured to pass through the corresponding apertures defined on the first strap and the second strap, thereby securing the straps together. The upper lateral bar and the lower lateral bar are spaced sufficiently to receive both the first and second strap simultaneously. In this arrangement, the upper lateral bar acts as a snag-guard
- In a detailed aspect of an exemplary embodiment, each prong of the clasp member has an upper lip, and an intermediate lip disposed at an intermediate position between the lower lateral bar and the upper lip. Each lip is slightly larger than the corresponding apertures through which the prongs pass through, allowing each lip to hold a strap in place when engaged. The distance between the surface of the lower lateral bar and the intermediate lip is sufficient to receive the thickness of the second strap, and the distance between the second lip and the first lip is sufficient to receive the thickness of the first strap.
- When the two straps are connected via the clasp member, the clasp member acts as a snag-guard to the first strap and simultaneously as the sole means of connection between the two straps.
- The prongs of the lower lateral bar and the corresponding apertures of the straps can be triangular. Additionally, the prongs and corresponding apertures of the straps can be arranged in a straight line, traversing the width of the lower lateral bar and the straps. Alternatively, the prongs and corresponding apertures of the straps can be arranged in an offset alignment. The upper lateral bar can have a ridge at its edge to further prevent inadvertent snagging.
- In yet another detailed aspect of an exemplary embodiment, the wristband assembly has a strap assembly with a first strap and a second strap, each strap having a plurality of apertures disposed thereon in alignment. The clasp member has an upper lateral bar disposed at an offset position above a lower lateral bar. The upper lateral bar acts as a snag-guard and has a plurality of prongs extending therefrom, capable of passing through corresponding apertures defined on the first strap and the second strap to secure the straps together. The upper lateral bar and the lower lateral bar spaced sufficiently to receive both the first and second strap simultaneously. Each prong extending from the upper lateral bar has an upper lip, and an intermediate lip disposed at an intermediate position between the upper lateral bar and the upper lip. Each of these lips is slightly larger than the corresponding apertures through which the prongs pass through, such that the distance between the surface of the upper lateral bar and the intermediate lip is sufficient to receive the thickness of the second strap, and the distance between the intermediate lip and the upper lip is sufficient to receive the thickness of the first strap. The clasp member acts as the sole connecter of the two straps and simultaneously as a snag-guard to the first strap when the clasp member is engaged with both straps.
- In yet another detailed aspect of an exemplary embodiment, the wristband assembly has a strap assembly with a first strap and a second strap, each strap having a plurality of apertures disposed thereon in alignment. The clasp member secures the first strap to the second strap, and has an upper lateral bar disposed at an offset position above a lower lateral bar. The upper lateral bar has a plurality of prongs extending therefrom, the prongs capable of passing through corresponding apertures defined on the first strap. The lower lateral bar has a plurality of prongs extending therefrom, the lower prongs capable of passing through corresponding apertures defined on the second strap. The upper lateral bar and the lower lateral bar are far enough apart to receive both the first and second strap simultaneously. The prongs of the upper lateral bar each have a lip disposed at the end, the distance between the surface of the upper lateral bar and the lip being sufficient receive the thickness of the first strap, wherein the lip is slightly wider than the corresponding apertures of the first strap such that when engaged with the first strap, the lip retains the first strap. The prongs of the lower lateral bar each have a lip disposed at the end, the distance between the surface of the lower lateral bar and the lip being sufficient to receive the thickness of the second strap, wherein the lip is slightly wider than the corresponding apertures of the second strap such that when engaged with the second strap, the lip retains the second strap. The clasp member acts as the sole connecter of the two straps and simultaneously as a snag-guard to the first strap when the clasp member is engaged with both straps.
- The embodiment utilizing prongs on the upper lateral bar and the lower lateral bar, the corresponding apertures of the first strap do not need to match those of the second strap.
- For purposes of summarizing the invention and the advantages achieved over the prior art, certain advantages of the invention have been described herein. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.
- All of these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the invention herein disclosed. These and other embodiments of the present invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments having reference to the attached figures, the invention not being limited to any particular preferred embodiment disclosed.
- Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings in which:
-
FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a wristband assembly in accordance with the invention. -
FIG. 1B is a side perspective view of the wristband assembly ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the clasp member of the wristband assembly ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 2B is a top view of the clasp member of the wristband assembly ofFIGS. 1A-B . -
FIG. 2C is a side view of the clasp member of the wristband assembly ofFIGS. 1A-B . -
FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the bottom of the clasp member of the wristband assembly ofFIGS. 1A-B . -
FIG. 2E is a front view of the clasp member of the wristband assembly ofFIGS. 1A-B . -
FIG. 2F is a back view of the clasp member of the wristband assembly ofFIGS. 1A-B . -
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of clasp member engaged with the second strap of the wristband assembly ofFIGS. 1A-B . -
FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the bottom of the clasp member engaged with the second strap of the wristband assembly ofFIGS. 1A-B . -
FIG. 4 is a top view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of the clasp member in accordance with the invention. -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the clasp member in accordance with the invention. -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the bottom of yet another alternative embodiment of the clasp member in accordance with the invention. - Referring now to the drawings, and particularly
FIGS. 1A-B , there is shown awristband assembly 10 having afirst strap 12 and asecond strap 14, connected by aclasp member 20. Thefirst strap 12 and thesecond strap 14 have a plurality ofapertures 16 that align with eachstrap wristband assembly 10. - With reference to
FIGS. 1A-B andFIGS. 2A-2F , theclasp member 20 has an upperlateral bar 22 that is disposed above thestraps lateral bar 24 that is disposed below thestraps lateral bar 22 and the lowerlateral bar 24 are substantially flat, in order to be flush with thestraps lateral bar 22 and the lowerlateral bar 24 are connected by twosidewalls 23. The upperlateral bar 22 is positioned such that when the last set ofapertures 40 of thesecond strap 14 are engaged with theprongs 26. As such, thestrap 14 is disengaged from theclasp member 20 by lifting thefirst strap 12 from an intermediate portion of thestrap 14. - A plurality of
prongs 26 extend out from the lowerlateral bar 24, designed to pass through correspondingapertures 16 defined on both the first 12 and second 14 straps. Theprongs 26 are disposed proximate to the front edge of the lowerlateral bar 24, such that the remaining portion of the lowerlateral bar 24 can sufficiently support thestraps lateral bar 22 is offset from the lowerlateral bar 24 in order to inhibit thefirst strap 12 from disengaging from theprongs 26 if the end of thefirst strap 12 is snagged on an object. - In an exemplary embodiment, the
prongs 26 andcorresponding apertures 16 on thestraps FIGS. 2E-F , eachprong 26 extends from the lowerlateral bar 24, having anintermediate lip 28 at an intermediate portion, and anupper lip 30 spaced distally therefrom. In the exemplary embodiment, the upper lip is disposed atop the prong. Theintermediate lip 28 and theupper lip 30 are sized sufficiently larger than theshaft 29 of theprong 26, and the corresponding size of theapertures 16 to require a small amount of force when pressing theprongs 26 through eachaperture 16. Thestraps aperture 16 can expand when thelip prongs 26 pass through theapertures 16. Theupper lip 30 is disposed below the upperlateral bar 22, allowing sufficient space to sandwich thesecond strap 14 between theintermediate lip 28 and the lowerlateral bar 24. The distance between theintermediate lip 28 and theupper lip 30 is sufficient to sandwich thefirst strap 12 therebetween. - As shown in
FIGS. 1A-B , when theclasp member 20 is engaged with thesecond strap 14, theprongs 26 push all the way through the desired set ofapertures 16 on thesecond strap 14, such that thesecond strap 14 is secured by being sandwiched between lowerlateral bar 24 and theintermediate lip 28 of the prongs. Once theclasp member 20 is secured to thesecond strap 14 at the desired location, thefirst strap 12 is then connected. Thefirst strap 12 is pulled around the user's wrist, and then pushed down on theclasp member 20 such that theprongs 16, extending up through thesecond strap 14, engage with the desired set ofapertures 16 on thefirst strap 12. As discussed below, the overlap of thefirst strap 12 with theclasp member 20 can be changed. - The arrangement and shape of the
prongs 26 andcorresponding apertures 16 of thestraps prongs 26 are triangular, and arranged in straight line. Alternative embodiments could have more, or less, prongs or different shapes, e.g. circular, rectangular, etc. as exemplified inFIG. 4 . Additionally, theprongs 26 could be arranged in an offset alignment, or be arranged in multiple columns and/or rows. The arrangement and shape of theprongs 26 should substantially match those of theapertures 16 along eachstrap - In an alternative embodiment, the
prongs 26 could be arranged in a rectangular orientation, where the first row is only tall enough to engage thesecond strap 14 and the second row is tall enough to engage bothstraps clasp member 20 is engaged with thesecond strap 14 through both rows ofprongs 26, where thefirst strap 12 is only engaged by the second, taller row. - Referring now to
FIGS. 3A-B , thesecond strap 14 of thewristband assembly 10 is depicted. As shown, theclasp member 20 is engaged with thesecond strap 14. Theprongs 26 of theclasp member 20 are pushed through the desired set ofapertures 16 on thesecond strap 14. The length of theprongs 26 is sufficient to extend above thesecond strap 14 to securely engage theapertures 16 of thefirst strap 12 when engaged therewith, as shown inFIG. 1 . - Referring back to
FIGS. 1A-B , positioning of theclasp member 20 on thesecond strap 14, the size of the strap assembly can be adjusted by engaging theprongs 26 with theapertures 16 of thesecond strap 14 at the desired position. The upperlateral bar 22 of theclasp member 20 is arranged such that it prevents the edge of thefirst strap 12 from being snagged and disconnecting from theclasp member 20. When thefirst strap 12 is engaged with theclasp member 20, the end of thefirst strap 12 is guarded by the upperlateral bar 22 of theclasp member 20. Alternatively, thefirst strap 12 can also be engaged with theprongs 26 of theclasp member 20 at an intermediate location, with the end of thefirst strap 12 guided below the upperlateral bar 22. In either configuration, the upperlateral bar 22 acts as a snag guard to prevent thefirst strap 12 from inadvertent disengagement from theclasp member 20. When the end of thefirst strap 12 is engaged with theprongs 26 of theclasp member 20, the upperlateral bar 22 guards thefirst strap 12 from being lifted from the end. When theapertures 16 in the intermediate portion of thefirst strap 12 are engaged with theclasp member 20, the end of thefirst strap 12 is threaded between the upper 22 and lower lateral bars 24. In this configuration, if the end of thefirst strap 12 gets snagged on something that lifts the end of thefirst strap 12 upward, the upperlateral bar 22 will absorb the force and keep the intermediate portion of thefirst strap 12 engaged with theprongs 26 of theclasp member 20. - The
clasp member 20 is not permanently connected to eitherstrap wristband assembly 10. Theclasp member 20 can engage any of set ofapertures 26 on eitherstrap clasp member 20 to be positioned such that the upperlateral bar 22 acts as an anti-snag barrier covering the end of thefirst strap 12. It also allows the user to attach theclasp member 20 to thesecond strap 14 at the location that best fits the user's wrist when thefirst strap 12 is connected. Even when thefirst strap 12 extends through theclasp member 20, the upperlateral bar 22 prevents thefirst strap 12 from disengaging theclasp member 20. If the tip edge of thefirst strap 12 catches on something and bends backward, the upperlateral bar 22 prevents thestrap 12 from detaching from theprongs 26. - Additionally, since the
clasp member 20 is not permanently connected to eitherstrap wristband assembly 10 to be easily modified to cater to left-handed users. - In use, the user of the
wristband assembly 10 wraps thestraps second strap 14 through theclasp member 20, that is, between the upper 22 and lowerlateral bars 24 to the desired set ofapertures 16 and presses thestrap 14 down, snap-fitting theprongs 26 through saidapertures 16. Theprongs 26 are pressed through thesecond strap 14, passing over thesecond lip 30, and over theintermediate lip 28 until theintermediate lip 28 of theprongs 26 has secured thesecond strap 14. The remaining length of theprongs 26 and theupper lip 30, stick out above thesecond strap 14. After connecting theclasp member 20 to thesecond strap 14, the user connects thefirst strap 12 to theclasp member 20. The user will arrange the fit of thewristband assembly 10 such that the last set ofapertures 40 on thefirst strap 12 engages the remaining length of theprongs 26. After pressing thefirst strap 12 down over theprongs 26, thewristband assembly 10 is secure. As shown inFIGS. 1A & 1B , the back edge of the upperlateral bar 22 is positioned ahead of the end of thefirst strap 12. This prevents the tip of thefirst strap 12 from inadvertent snagging and disengagement from theclasp member 20. - In an alternative embodiment, as depicted in
FIG. 5 , theprongs 26 are located on the upperlateral bar 22, extending downward therefrom. In this embodiment, theclasp member 20 is connected to the first strap 12 (outer strap) at the end portion, and then the second strap 14 (inner strap) is threaded through theclasp member 20 to the desired position and then engaged with theprongs 26 in the correspondingapertures 16. - In yet another alternative embodiment, depicted in
FIG. 6 , bothlateral bars prongs 26 extending therefrom. The upperlateral bar 22 hasprongs 52 facing downward, and the lowerlateral bar 24 hasprongs 54 facing upwards. Theprongs 26 on eachbar upper prongs 52 on the upperlateral bar 22 engage with thefirst strap 12 and thelower prongs 54 on the lowerlateral bar 24 engage with thesecond strap 14. - It should be appreciated from the foregoing that the present invention provides a wristband assembly having a clasp member that acts as the connector of the two straps, and simultaneously acts as a snag-guard.
- The present invention has been described above in terms of presently preferred embodiments so that an understanding of the present invention can be conveyed. However, there are other embodiments not specifically described herein for which the present invention is applicable. Therefore, the present invention should not to be seen as limited to the forms shown, which is to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.
Claims (18)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/009,571 US20170215530A1 (en) | 2016-01-28 | 2016-01-28 | Wristband clasp assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/009,571 US20170215530A1 (en) | 2016-01-28 | 2016-01-28 | Wristband clasp assembly |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20170215530A1 true US20170215530A1 (en) | 2017-08-03 |
Family
ID=59385807
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US15/009,571 Abandoned US20170215530A1 (en) | 2016-01-28 | 2016-01-28 | Wristband clasp assembly |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20170215530A1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD911205S1 (en) * | 2019-01-23 | 2021-02-23 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Wristband for portable electronic device |
EP4082379A1 (en) * | 2021-04-26 | 2022-11-02 | The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd | Bracelet clasp |
US11857031B1 (en) * | 2023-02-28 | 2024-01-02 | Apple Inc. | Attachment systems for electronic devices |
USD1030513S1 (en) * | 2023-11-17 | 2024-06-11 | Shenzhen Qipurui Technology Co., Ltd. | Watch case with strap |
-
2016
- 2016-01-28 US US15/009,571 patent/US20170215530A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD911205S1 (en) * | 2019-01-23 | 2021-02-23 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Wristband for portable electronic device |
EP4082379A1 (en) * | 2021-04-26 | 2022-11-02 | The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd | Bracelet clasp |
JP2022168822A (en) * | 2021-04-26 | 2022-11-08 | ザ・スウォッチ・グループ・リサーチ・アンド・ディベロップメント・リミテッド | bracelet clasp |
JP7492982B2 (en) | 2021-04-26 | 2024-05-30 | ザ・スウォッチ・グループ・リサーチ・アンド・ディベロップメント・リミテッド | Bracelet Clasp |
US11857031B1 (en) * | 2023-02-28 | 2024-01-02 | Apple Inc. | Attachment systems for electronic devices |
USD1030513S1 (en) * | 2023-11-17 | 2024-06-11 | Shenzhen Qipurui Technology Co., Ltd. | Watch case with strap |
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Owner name: RUFUS ARMOR LLC, CALIFORNIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:GRIFONI, GABRIEL;REEL/FRAME:037639/0217 Effective date: 20160122 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |
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Owner name: ARROW ELECTRONICS, INC, COLORADO Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:RUFUS LABS, INC. (F/K/A RUFUS ARMOR, LLC);REEL/FRAME:047062/0051 Effective date: 20151016 |