WO2022182812A1 - Belt with integral loop attachment - Google Patents

Abstract

A belt with integral loop attachment including at least some of a belt layer having one or more pairs of cord apertures formed therethrough; an accessory attachment layer having an attachment layer cord aperture formed therethrough attached or coupled to an outer surface of the belt layer; an optional stiffener layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of the belt layer, wherein stiffener layer cord apertures are formed therethrough to be aligned with cord apertures formed through the belt layer; and at least one attachment cord, wherein terminal ends of the attachment cord are positioned through the aligned cord apertures and the aligned stiffener layer cord apertures to form a loop of the attachment cord on an outer side of the belt layer, wherein at least a portion of the attachment cord extends through the attachment layer cord aperture.

Description

BELT WITH INTEGRAL LOOP ATTACHMENT

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 63/153,295, filed February 24, 2021 , the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR

DEVELOPMENT [0002] Not Applicable.

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM

LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX [0003] Not Applicable.

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL

[0004] The disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. Unless otherwise noted, all trademarks and service marks identified herein are owned by the applicant.

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

1. Field of the Present disclosure

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of belt attachment systems. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a belt with one or more integral loop attachments.

2. Description of Related Art

[0006] It is generally known to include a metal D-ring as part of the buckle or sewn into the webbing of a tactical, gun, or Rigger’s belt. Typically, the D-ring is provided to allow the wearer to clip in or be attached to a securing element of a structure or aircraft. Once attached to the securing element, they are able to operate in an otherwise precarious environment, such as, for example, near the edge of a structure or in the doorway of an aircraft, without the risk of falling from the structure or aircraft.

[0007] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles, or the like, which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0008] However, the typical D-ring attachment on a Rigger’s belt has various shortcomings. For example, known D-ring attachments can be snagged if not held close to the belt. In order to reduce the chance of the D-ring attachment being snagged, a Velcro tab is typically on a portion of the belt that can be woven through the D-ring attachment to hold the D-ring attachment close to the belt. Unfortunately, this requires a relatively large amount of “real estate” on the belt and subtracts from the amount of usable space for attaching or securing items around the circumference of the belt.

[0009] Even when the D ring is held close to the belt, the open portion of the D ring is still able to be snagged or catch on matter.

[0010] In order to overcome these and other shortcomings of known Rigger’s belts and to provide certain advantages over known Rigger’s belt, the belt with integral loop attachment of the present disclosure provides at least some of a belt assembly having one or more portions of attachment cord that can extend from one or more portions of the belt. In various exemplary embodiments, each of the attachment cords can be selectively tucked into at least a portion of the belt when not in use. Then, each of the attachment cords can be withdrawn from an interior portion of the belt for use. After use, the attachment cords can again be tucked into at least a portion of the belt.

[0011] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the belt with integral loop attachment of the present disclosure provides at least some of a belt layer formed of an elongate portion of material, wherein one or more pairs of cord apertures are formed through the belt layer at spaced apart locations, and wherein each terminating end portion of the belt layer engages a mating buckle coupling element; an accessory attachment layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an outer surface of the belt layer, wherein an attachment layer cord aperture is formed through the accessory attachment layer, wherein the attachment layer cord aperture is formed of a generally semicircular or arced aperture, wherein the attachment layer cord aperture is aligned to extend between one of the one or more pairs of cord apertures formed through the belt layer; a stiffener layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of the belt layer, wherein one or more pairs of stiffener layer cord apertures are formed through the stiffener layer at spaced apart locations, and wherein each stiffener layer cord aperture is formed to be aligned with a corresponding cord aperture formed through the belt layer; an inner cover layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of the belt layer, wherein the stiffener layer is positioned between the belt layer and the inner cover layer; a belt releasable fastener element attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of the inner cover layer; and at least one attachment cord, wherein terminal ends of a portion of an attachment cord are positioned through the aligned cord apertures and the aligned stiffener layer cord apertures so as to form a loop of the attachment cord on an outer side of the belt layer, wherein at least a portion of the attachment cord extends through the attachment layer cord aperture.

[0012] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the belt layer comprises a single portion of nylon webbing.

[0013] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the belt layer comprises various portions of similar or dissimilar materials attached or coupled together. [0014] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the belt layer comprises various portions of similar or dissimilar materials attached or coupled together.

[0015] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the belt layer, the stiffener layer, the inner cover layer, the belt releasable fastener element, and the accessory attachment layer are attached or coupled together one or more attachment elements.

[0016] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the belt layer, the stiffener layer, the inner cover layer, the belt releasable fastener element, and the accessory attachment layer are attached or coupled together via stitching.

[0017] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, at least a portion of the inner surface of the inner cover layer is covered by a mating portion of a belt releasable fastener element.

[0018] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the accessory attachment layer is formed of a portion of Hypalon fabric.

[0019] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the stiffener layer is included to provide additional stiffening to the belt assembly.

[0020] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the stiffener layer may extend along a substantial portion of the belt layer.

[0021] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, each cord aperture includes a grommet to reinforce side wall portions of the cord aperture.

[0022] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, an attachment layer cord aperture flap is formed between an inner apex of the attachment layer cord aperture and the terminal ends of the attachment layer cord aperture. [0023] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, terminal ends of the attachment cord are attached or secured together.

[0024] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the portion of the attachment cord that extends through the attachment layer cord aperture can be urged through the attachment layer cord aperture and between the outer surface of the belt layer and an inner surface of the accessory attachment layer.

[0025] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, a tuck / pull tab is attached or coupled to a portion of each attachment cord.

[0026] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the buckle coupling elements comprise a belt buckle bar and a corresponding belt buckle locking lever. [0027] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the buckle coupling element includes a slidable attachment cord.

[0028] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, an attachment cord D-ring is attached or coupled to the belt layer.

[0029] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, each attachment cord is formed of a separate, discrete portion of cord secured to at least a portion of the belt layer.

[0030] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the attachment cord comprises a single, continuous portion of attachment cord interwoven along a portion of the belt assembly, so as to protrude from at least a portion of the belt layer. [0031] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the attachment cord is secured to an inner surface of the belt layer and extends, through cord apertures formed in the belt layer, to attachment loops that extend from the outer surface of the belt layer.

[0032] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the attachment cord extends through cord apertures formed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the belt layer.

[0033] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the attachment cord extends through cord apertures formed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the belt layer.

[0034] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the attachment cord extends through two pairs of cord apertures formed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the belt layer to also form an attachment loop proximate each of the buckle coupling elements.

[0035] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the belt with integral loop attachment also includes a backplate base, wherein one or more pairs of backplate cord apertures are formed through the backplate base, at spaced apart locations, and wherein each backplate cord apertures is formed to be aligned with a corresponding cord aperture formed through the belt layer.

[0036] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, a backplate anchor extends from a portion of the backplate base.

[0037] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the belt with integral loop attachment of the present disclosure provides at least some of a belt layer formed of an elongate portion of material, wherein one or more pairs of cord apertures are formed through the belt layer at spaced apart locations, and wherein each terminating end portion of the belt layer engages a mating buckle coupling element; an accessory attachment layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an outer surface of the belt layer, wherein an attachment layer cord aperture is formed through the accessory attachment layer, wherein the attachment layer cord aperture is formed of a generally semicircular or arced aperture, wherein the attachment layer cord aperture is aligned to extend between one of the one or more pairs of cord apertures formed through the belt layer; a stiffener layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of the belt layer, wherein one or more pairs of stiffener layer cord apertures are formed through the stiffener layer at spaced apart locations, and wherein each stiffener layer cord aperture is formed to be aligned with a corresponding cord aperture formed through the belt layer; an inner cover layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of the belt layer, wherein the stiffener layer is positioned between the belt layer and the inner cover layer; and at least one attachment cord, wherein terminal ends of a portion of an attachment cord are positioned through the aligned cord apertures and the aligned stiffener layer cord apertures so as to form a loop of the attachment cord on an outer side of the belt layer, wherein at least a portion of the attachment cord extends through the attachment layer cord aperture.

[0038] In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the belt with integral loop attachment of the present disclosure provides at least some of a belt layer formed of an elongate portion of material, wherein one or more pairs of cord apertures are formed through the belt layer at spaced apart locations; an accessory attachment layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an outer surface of the belt layer, wherein an attachment layer cord aperture is formed through the accessory attachment layer, wherein the attachment layer cord aperture is aligned to extend between one of the one or more pairs of cord apertures formed through the belt layer; an inner cover layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of the belt layer, wherein the stiffener layer is positioned between the belt layer and the inner cover layer; and at least one attachment cord, wherein terminal ends of a portion of an attachment cord are positioned through the aligned cord apertures and the aligned stiffener layer cord apertures so as to form a loop of the attachment cord on an outer side of the belt layer, wherein at least a portion of the attachment cord extends through the attachment layer cord aperture.

[0039] Accordingly, the present disclosure separately and optionally provides a belt with integral loop attachment that allows a belt to be easily and readily attached or coupled to a securing element.

[0040] The present disclosure separately and optionally provides a belt with integral loop attachment that provides an aperture through which an attachment cord can extend to allow the attachment cord to be used.

[0041] The present disclosure separately and optionally provides a belt with integral loop attachment that provides an at least partially flexible attachment cord. [0042] The present disclosure separately and optionally provides a belt with integral loop attachment that provides an attachment cord that can selectively be extended from the belt or at least partially positioned within at least a portion of the belt.

[0043] The present disclosure separately and optionally provides a belt with integral loop attachment that provides an aperture through which an attachment cord can be inserted to be tucked are positioned within at least a portion of the belt.

[0044] The present disclosure separately and optionally provides a belt with integral loop attachment that provides an aperture having a flap that allows an attachment cord to be more easily tucked or positioned within a portion of the belt. [0045] The present disclosure separately and optionally provides a belt with integral loop attachment that provides one or more attachment cords that require comparatively less “real estate” of a portion of a belt.

[0046] These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure are described in or are apparent from the following detailed description of the exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure and the accompanying figures. Other aspects and features of embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the following description of specific, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure in concert with the figures.

[0047] While features of the present disclosure may be discussed relative to certain embodiments and figures, all embodiments of the present disclosure can include one or more of the features discussed herein. Further, while one or more embodiments may be discussed as having certain advantageous features, one or more of such features may also be used with the various embodiments of the systems, methods, and/or apparatuses discussed herein. In similar fashion, while exemplary embodiments may be discussed below as device, system, or method embodiments, it is to be understood that such exemplary embodiments can be implemented in various devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure. [0048] Any benefits, advantages, or solutions to problems that are described herein with regard to specific embodiments are not intended to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature(s) or element(s) of the present disclosure or the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] As required, detailed exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the present disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms, within the scope of the present disclosure. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimized to illustrate details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present disclosure.

[0050] The exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, and wherein:

[0051] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure;

[0052] FIG. 2 illustrates a rear view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure; [0053] FIG. 3 illustrates an upper perspective view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0054] FIG. 4 illustrates a more detailed, upper, perspective view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein an exemplary attachment cord is in an extended position, according to the present disclosure;

[0055] FIG. 5 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein an exemplary attachment cord is in a retracted position, according to the present disclosure;

[0056] FIG. 6 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein an exemplary attachment cord is in an extended position, according to the present disclosure;

[0057] FIG. 7 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein an exemplary attachment cord includes a tuck / pull tab and is in a retracted position, according to the present disclosure;

[0058] FIG. 8 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein an exemplary attachment cord includes a tuck / pull tab and is in a retracted position, according to the present disclosure;

[0059] FIG. 9 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein an exemplary attachment cord includes a tuck / pull tab and is urged toward an extended position, according to the present disclosure;

[0060] FIG. 10 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein an exemplary attachment cord is in an extended position, according to the present disclosure;

[0061] FIG. 11 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein an exemplary attachment cord is in an extended position and wherein a portion of an accessory attachment layer is partially removed from a belt layer, according to the present disclosure;

[0062] FIG. 12 illustrates a more detailed, rear view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure;

[0063] FIG. 13 illustrates a more detailed, rear view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein a portion of a belt releasable fastener element layer is partially removed from an inner cover layer and the belt layer, according to the present disclosure;

[0064] FIG. 14 illustrates a more detailed, rear view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein a portion of a belt releasable fastener element layer is partially removed from an inner cover layer and the belt layer, and wherein a portion of the inner cover layer is partially removed from the belt layer, according to the present disclosure; [0065] FIG. 15 illustrates a more detailed, top view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein a portion of a belt releasable fastener element layer is partially removed from an inner cover layer and the belt layer, and wherein a portion of the inner cover layer is partially removed from the belt layer, according to the present disclosure;

[0066] FIG. 16 illustrates a more detailed, rear view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a backplate base, according to the present disclosure; [0067] FIG. 17 illustrates a more detailed, top view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a backplate base, according to the present disclosure;

[0068] FIG. 18 illustrates a more detailed, rear view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a backplate base, according to the present disclosure;

[0069] FIG. 19 illustrates a more detailed, top view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a backplate base, according to the present disclosure;

[0070] FIG. 20 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein an exemplary attachment cord is in a retracted position, according to the present disclosure;

[0071] FIG. 21 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein an exemplary attachment cord is in an extended position, according to the present disclosure;

[0072] FIG. 22 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, wherein an exemplary first attachment cord is in an extended position and wherein an exemplary second attachment cord is also in an extended position, according to the present disclosure;

[0073] FIG. 23 illustrates a front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure;

[0074] FIG. 24 illustrates a front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of an attachment cord slidable loop, wherein an exemplary attachment cord is in an extended position, according to the present disclosure; [0075] FIG. 25 illustrates a side view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of an attachment cord slidable loop, wherein an exemplary attachment cord is in an extended position, according to the present disclosure; [0076] FIG. 26 illustrates a front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of an attachment cord slidable loop slidably attached to an exemplary belt, wherein an exemplary attachment cord is in an extended position, according to the present disclosure;

[0077] FIG. 27 illustrates a more detailed, front, perspective view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment with an exemplary buckle coupling element, according to the present disclosure; [0078] FIG. 28 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment with an exemplary buckle coupling element, according to the present disclosure;

[0079] FIG. 29 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment with an exemplary buckle coupling element, according to the present disclosure; [0080] FIG. 30 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment with an exemplary buckle coupling element, according to the present disclosure; [0081] FIG. 31 illustrates a more detailed, front, perspective view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment with an exemplary buckle coupling element, according to the present disclosure;

[0082] FIG. 32 illustrates a more detailed, front view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment with an attachment cord D-ring, according to the present disclosure; [0083] FIG. 33 illustrates a more detailed, top view of certain exemplary components of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment with an attachment cord D-ring, according to the present disclosure; [0084] FIG. 34 illustrates a front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure;

[0085] FIG. 35 illustrates a front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure;

[0086] FIG. 36 illustrates a front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure;

[0087] FIG. 37 illustrates a front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure;

[0088] FIG. 38 illustrates a front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure; [0089] FIG. 39 illustrates a front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure; [0090] FIG. 40 illustrates a front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure; and

[0091] FIG. 41 illustrates a front view of certain exemplary components of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT

DISCLOSURE

[0092] For simplicity and clarification, the design factors and operating principles of the belt with integral loop attachment according to the present disclosure are explained with reference to various exemplary embodiments of a belt with integral loop attachment according to the present disclosure. The basic explanation of the design factors and operating principles of the belt with integral loop attachment is applicable for the understanding, design, and operation of the belt with integral loop attachment of the present disclosure. It should be appreciated that the belt with integral loop attachment can be adapted to many applications where a belt with integral loop attachment can be used.

[0093] As used herein, the word "may" is meant to convey a permissive sense (i.e., meaning "having the potential to"), rather than a mandatory sense (/.e., meaning "must"). Unless stated otherwise, terms such as “first” and “second”, “right” and “left”, “top” and “bottom”, “upper” and “lower”, and “horizontal” and “vertical” are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the exemplary embodiments and/or elements such terms describe. Thus, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate temporal or other prioritization of such exemplary embodiments and/or elements. [0094] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term “coupled” is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). The term coupled, as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The terms "a" and "an" are defined as one or more unless stated otherwise.

[0095] Throughout this application, the terms "comprise" (and any form of comprise, such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and any form of have, such as "has" and "having"), "include", (and any form of include, such as "includes" and "including") and "contain" (and any form of contain, such as "contains" and "containing") are used as open-ended linking verbs. It will be understood that these terms are meant to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer, step, or group of elements, integers, or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer, step, or group of elements, integers, or steps. As a result, a system, method, or apparatus that "comprises”, "has”, "includes”, or "contains" one or more elements possesses those one or more elements but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Similarly, a method or process that "comprises”, "has”, "includes" or "contains" one or more operations possesses those one or more operations but is not limited to possessing only those one or more operations.

[0096] It should also be appreciated that, for simplicity and clarification, certain embodiments of the present disclosure may be described using terms such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, “right”, “left”, “upper”, “lower”, “outer”, and/or “inner”. However, it should be understood that these terms are merely used to aid in understanding of the present disclosure are not to be construed as limiting the systems, methods, devices, and/or apparatuses of the present disclosure. Additionally, it should be appreciated that, unless otherwise stated, the design factors and operating principles of the presently disclosed belt with integral loop attachment may optionally be used in a “mirror image” assembly, wherein elements shown and/or described as being included in or on a right side portion may optionally be included in or on a left side portion. Alternatively, certain of the elements that are shown and/or described as being included in or on a back portion may optionally be included in or on a front portion, or vice versa.

[0097] It should also be appreciated that the terms “belt with integral loop attachment”, “attachment cord”, “accessory attachment layer”, “belt layer”, and “inner cover layer” are used for basic explanation and understanding of the operation of the systems, methods, and apparatuses of the present disclosure. Therefore, the terms “belt with integral loop attachment”, “attachment cord”, “accessory attachment layer”, “belt layer”, and “inner cover layer” are not to be construed as limiting the systems, methods, and apparatuses of the present disclosure.

[0098] Furthermore, it should be appreciated that, for simplicity and clarification, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be shown and/or described with reference to a certain number of attachment cords being included on various portions of the belt with integral loop attachment. However, it should be appreciated that the inclusion and/or placement of any number of attachment cords is not essential to the belt with integral loop attachment of the present disclosure.

[0099] Turning now to the appended drawing figures, FIGS. 1-33 illustrate certain elements and/or aspects of an exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure. FIGS. 34-39 illustrate certain elements and/or aspects of an alternative exemplary embodiment of a belt with integral loop attachment, according to the present disclosure.

[00100] As illustrated most clearly in FIGS. 1-23, the belt assembly 100 comprises an elongate portion of material, wherein opposing ends or end portions of the belt layer 110 are repeatably releasably joinable together by a buckle. In various exemplary embodiments, the portion of material comprises a single portion of nylon webbing. Alternatively, as illustrated, the elongate portion of material comprises various portions of nylon webbing or other materials attached or coupled together to form a laminate belt assembly 100 having multiple layers of material.

[00101] For example, as illustrated most clearly in FIGS. 10-15, the belt assembly 100 comprises a belt layer 110, a stiffener layer 150, an inner cover layer 140, a belt releasable fastener element 130, and an accessory attachment layer 120.

[00102] In various exemplary embodiments, each of the belt layer 110, the stiffener layer 150, the inner cover layer 140, the belt releasable fastener element 130, and/or the accessory attachment layer 120 may optionally be attached or coupled to one or more other layers by attachment elements, such as heat welding and/or stitching 107 proximate a perimeter of the respective belt layer 110, stiffener layer 150, inner cover layer 140, belt releasable fastener element 130, and/or accessory attachment layer 120. In certain exemplary embodiments, all of the layers are aligned and attached or coupled together by the same attachment elements (i.e., all of the layers are stitched together). Alternatively, two or more adjacent layers may be attached or coupled together and one or more additional layer(s) may be attached or coupled to previously joined layers.

[00103] As illustrated, certain of the attachment elements (i.e., stitching 107) may be aligned substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt assembly 100. Alternatively, certain of the attachment elements may be aligned substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt assembly 100.

[00104] In certain exemplary embodiments, the attachment elements comprise stitching 107. Alternatively, the attachment elements may optionally comprise adhesive bonding, heat, ultrasonic, or other types of welding, screws, rivets, pins, mating hook and loop portions, snap or releasable fasteners, or other known or later developed means or methods for permanently or releasably attaching or coupling the rear attachment interface portion to the accessory.

[00105] In various exemplary embodiments, the belt layer 110 comprises a webbing material and extends to terminating ends or end portions. Each of the terminating ends or end portions engages a buckle coupling element 105 of the buckle. The buckle comprises mating portions of buckle coupling elements 105. In various exemplary embodiments, the buckle comprises a cobra buckle.

Alternatively, the buckle comprises a slidably adjustable buckle or other quick release buckle. [00106] The belt layer 110 engages the buckle coupling elements 105 so as to be adjustable relative to at least one of the buckle coupling elements 105 allowing a degree of adjustment of the overall size (circumference) of the belt layer 110.

[00107] It should be appreciated that the specific elements of the belt layer 110 and/or buckle are not limited to any particular material or style and may comprise any known or later developed belt layer 110 and/or buckle material or construction. Thus, it should be appreciated that the elements used to comprise the belt layer 110 and/or buckle are a design choice, based upon the desired characteristics of the belt layer 110 and/or buckle.

[00108] The buckle may optionally comprise a mating pair of buckle coupling elements 105, a male buckle coupling element 105 and a corresponding female buckle coupling element 105, positioned at opposing end portions of the belt layer 110. In this manner, the male buckle coupling element 105 may be attached or coupled to the corresponding female buckle coupling element 105, to maintain the belt layer 110 in a closed or buckled configuration. If the male buckle coupling element 105 is released from the corresponding female buckle coupling element 105, the buckle may be separated to provide the belt layer 110 in an open or unbuckled configuration.

[00109] By including a mating pair of buckle coupling elements 105, each of the buckle coupling elements 105 may be separated, allowing the belt assembly 100 to be put on or taken off.

[00110] The belt assembly 100 includes a belt assembly inner surface 103 and a belt assembly outer surface 104. Generally, the belt assembly inner surface 103 faces toward the torso/waist of the wearer, as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 3, while the belt assembly outer surface 104 faces away from the body of the wearer. In various exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the belt layer outer surface 114 of the belt layer 110 includes an accessory attachment layer 120 formed in or attached or coupled to the belt layer outer surface 114 of the belt layer 110. In various exemplary embodiments, the accessory attachment layer 120, if included, has an accessory attachment layer inner surface 122 and an accessory attachment layer outer surface 123. The accessory attachment layer 120, if included, includes a plurality of accessory attachment apertures 124 or other features that allow an accessory to be attached or coupled to the belt, via interaction with the accessory attachment layer 120.

[00111] At least a portion of the belt layer inner surface 113 of the belt layer 110 is covered by a mating portion of a belt releasable fastener element 130. In various exemplary embodiments, the belt releasable fastener element 130 may optionally comprise a portion of hook and loop fastener, such as Velcro. It should be appreciated that, in various exemplary embodiments the belt releasable fastener element 130 may comprise a mating portion of another releasable coupler or releasable fastener, such as, for example, a portion or mating element of a hook- and-pile fastener or touch fastener, a slidably engaging fastener such as "Dual Lock" or "Duotec", a male/female snap-release buckle, a ziplock fastening device, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other fastening, closure, or other releasably mating attachment device known to those skilled in the art.

[00112] The belt assembly 100 is assembled so as to be at least partially adjustable relative to the buckle coupling elements 105, to allow for at least some size adjustment. In various exemplary, the belt releasable fastener element 130 is attached or coupled to the belt layer inner surface 113 of the belt layer 110 so as to extend continuously and cover the belt assembly inner surface 103 of the belt assembly 100 between an area at or proximate each of the buckle coupling elements 105. Alternatively, the belt releasable fastener element 130 comprises a plurality of individual belt releasable fastener elements 130 attached or coupled to the belt assembly inner surface 103 of the belt assembly 100 between an area at or proximate each of the buckle coupling elements 105.

[00113] In certain exemplary embodiments, the accessory attachment layer 120 is formed of a portion of a fabric-type or other material, such as, for example, chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSPE) synthetic rubber (CSM). In certain exemplary embodiments, the accessory attachment layer 120 is formed of a portion of Hypalon fabric. However, the present disclosure is not so limited. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, the accessory attachment layer 120 may be formed of a rigid material, a semi-rigid material, or a substantially flexible material.

[00114] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, all or portions of the accessory attachment layer 120 may be made of any fabric or other material, such as, for example, woven fabrics, canvas, acrylics, sheet fabrics, films, nylon, spandex, vinyl, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), neoprene, or the like. Alternatively, all or portions of the accessory attachment layer 120 may be formed from multiple, similar or dissimilar materials. In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the accessory attachment layer 120 may be water-resistant or may include a cushion material. [00115] In various exemplary embodiments, both the belt layer 110 and the inner cover layer 140 are formed of a nylon webbing or similar material.

[00116] In various exemplary embodiments, the stiffener layer 150 is included to provide additional stiffening to the belt assembly 100. In various exemplary embodiments, the stiffener layer 150 comprises a portion of Teflon or other similar material. As illustrated, the stiffener layer 150 may extend along a substantial portion of the belt layer 110.

[00117] As a further example, in certain exemplary embodiments, the stiffener layer 150 may be formed of a substantially rigid material, such as plastic, having an appropriate, workable thickness. Alternate materials of construction of the stiffener layer 150 may include one or more of the following: steel, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, polytetrafluoroethylene, and/or other metals, as well as various alloys and composites thereof, glass-hardened polymers, polymeric composites, polymer or fiber reinforced metals, carbon fiber or glass fiber composites, continuous fibers in combination with thermoset and thermoplastic resins, chopped glass or carbon fibers used for injection molding compounds, laminate glass or carbon fiber, epoxy laminates, woven glass fiber laminates, impregnate fibers, polyester resins, epoxy resins, phenolic resins, polyimide resins, cyanate resins, high-strength plastics, nylon, glass, or polymer fiber reinforced plastics, thermoform and/or thermoset materials, and/or various combinations of the foregoing. Thus, it should be understood that the material or materials used to form the stiffener layer 150 is a design choice based on the desired strength and/or functionality of the stiffener layer

150.

[00118] It should be appreciated that the terms fabric and material are to be given their broadest meanings and that the particular fabric(s) or material(s) used to form the belt layer 110, the stiffener layer 150, the inner cover layer 140, the belt releasable fastener element 130, and/or the accessory attachment layer 120 is a design choice based on the desired appearance, strength, and/or functionality of the belt assembly 100.

[00119] The belt assembly 100 of the present disclosure is operable with the belt layer 110, the stiffener layer 150, the inner cover layer 140, the belt releasable fastener element 130, and the accessory attachment layer 120. However, the belt assembly 100 is also operable with the single belt layer 110, but preferably includes at least two layers, including at least the belt layer 110 and the accessory attachment layer 120. The size and shape of the various layers of the belt assembly 100 is a design choice, based upon, for example, the desired size and shape of the belt assembly 100.

[00120] The belt layer 110 includes one or more pairs of belt layer cord apertures 118 formed through the belt layer 110, at spaced apart locations. The spacing or distance between paired belt layer cord apertures 118 is a design choice based upon the desired length of potentially exposed attachment cord 170 provided through each attachment layer cord aperture 125. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 4-6, the spacing between paired belt layer cord apertures 118 may be approximately 1.5 inches to 2 inches. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 22, the spacing between paired belt layer cord apertures 118 may be approximately 5.5 inches to 6 inches. Each of the belt layer cord apertures 118 may comprise an aperture formed through the belt layer 110 and may optionally include a grommet to reinforce the side wall portions of the belt layer cord aperture 118.

[00121] In various exemplary embodiments, in order to add additional strength to resist pull-through of the attachment cord 170, stiffener layer cord apertures 155, formed through the stiffener layer 150, are also formed so as to be aligned with the belt layer cord apertures 118 formed through the belt layer 110.

[00122] Alternatively, as illustrated in FIGS. 16-19, a backplate base 160 is included either with the stiffener layer 150 or as a replacement to at least a portion of the stiffener layer 150. In these exemplary the backplate base 160 includes one or more backplate fastener apertures 164 that allow backplate fasteners 165 to be positioned therethrough to secure the backplate base 160 to at least the belt layer 110 and optionally the belt layer 110 and the stiffener layer 150. The backplate base 160 includes backplate cord apertures 168 that may be aligned with the belt layer cord apertures 118 formed through the belt layer 110. By allowing an attachment cord 170 to be positioned across a portion of the backplate base 160 and through the backplate cord apertures 168, additional strength and resistance against pull-through of the attachment cord 170 is provided.

[00123] In certain exemplary embodiments, a backplate anchor 166 extends from a portion of the backplate base 160. The backplate anchor 166, if included provides a protrusion that allows at least a portion of the attachment cord 170 to be wrapped around at least a portion of the backplate anchor 166 to further secure the attachment cord 170 to the backplate base 160.

[00124] An attachment layer cord aperture 125 is formed through the accessory attachment layer 120. Each attachment layer cord aperture 125 is formed so as to extend between at least portions of the paired belt layer cord apertures 118. By providing an attachment layer cord aperture 125, at least a portion of the attachment cord 170 may extend from the belt layer 110, through the attachment layer cord aperture 125.

[00125] In various exemplary embodiments, each attachment layer cord aperture 125 is formed of a generally semicircular or arced aperture with the belt layer cord apertures 118 positioned proximate the terminal ends 126 the attachment layer cord aperture 125 and an inner apex 127 and an outer apex 128 of the attachment layer cord aperture 125 extend away from the belt layer cord apertures 118 (either upward or downward).

[00126] An attachment layer cord aperture flap 129 is formed between an inner apex 127 of the attachment layer cord aperture 125 and the terminal ends 126 of the attachment layer cord aperture 125.

[00127] Once the belt layer 110, the optional stiffener layer 150, the optional backplate base 160 accessory attachment layer 120 are appropriately aligned, terminal ends of a portion of an attachment cord 170 are positioned through the aligned belt layer cord apertures 118, stiffener layer cord apertures 155, and/or backplate cord apertures 168 so as to form a loop of the attachment cord 170 on an outer side of the belt layer 110. The portion of the attachment cord 170 that extends toward the belt assembly inner surface 103 of the belt assembly 100 is attached or secured together, such as, for example, by a square knot or other single knot or series of knots, so as not to be pulled through the aligned belt layer cord apertures 118, stiffener layer cord apertures 155, and/or backplate cord apertures 168.

[00128] As illustrated in FIGS. 20-22, attachment layer cord apertures 125’ are formed separate from the attachment layer cord aperture 125 formed through the accessory attachment layer 120. In these exemplary embodiments, each attachment cord 170 extends through the respective belt layer cord apertures 118 and a portion of the attachment cord 170 may optionally be urged through the separate attachment layer cord apertures 125’.

[00129] The portion of the attachment cord 170 that extends from the belt layer 110, toward the belt assembly outer surface 104 of the belt assembly 100 provides a loop attachment for the belt assembly 100. In various exemplary embodiments, the cord used to form the attachment cord 170 may optionally comprise a nylon or other cord formed of braided or interwoven strands and is selected so as to be able to provide a desired break strength. In various exemplary embodiments, the break strength is sufficient to allow the attachment cord 170 to be used as lifesaving, rescue, or climbing equipment.

[00130] When not in use, the attachment cord 170 can be selectively tucked through a portion of the attachment layer cord aperture 125 and into at least a portion of the belt assembly 100. To do this, a portion of the attachment is urged through the attachment layer cord aperture 125 and between a belt layer outer surface 114 of the belt layer 110 and an accessory attachment layer inner surface 122 of the accessory attachment layer 120. If the attachment layer cord aperture flap 129 is included as a portion of the attachment layer cord aperture 125, attachment layer cord aperture flap 129 can assist in allowing the attachment cord 170 to be more easily positioned between the accessory attachment layer 120 and the belt layer 110. By allowing the attachment cord 170 to be positioned between the accessory attachment layer 120 and the belt layer 110, as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 5, the attachment cord 170 can be retracted and stored within the belt assembly 100, so as not to be snagged or caught, when not in use. [00131] When an attachment cord 170 is to be used, such as, for example, to secure the belt assembly 100 to a securing element of a structure or aircraft, the attachment cord 170 is withdrawn from the attachment layer cord aperture 125 as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 6, so as to be presented in an extended position. Thus, each of the attachment cords 170 can be individually withdrawn from an interior portion of the belt for use and can again be tucked into at least a portion of the belt assembly 100, for storage.

[00132] The attachment layer cord aperture flap 129, if included, increases the ease with which the attachment cord 170 can be placed in a retracted position for storage or accessed to be withdrawn to the extended position, for use.

[00133] As illustrated in FIGS. 7-9, a tuck / pull tab 175 may optionally be attached or coupled to a portion of each attachment cord 170. In various exemplary embodiments, each tuck / pull tab 175 is attached or coupled to a portion of each attachment cord 170 so as to have one or more ears extending from the attachment cord 170. By including the tuck / pull tab 175, the attachment cord 170 can be more easily urged between the accessory attachment layer 120 and the belt layer 110. Optionally, one or more ears of each tuck / pull tab 175 may be positioned between accessory attachment layer 120 and the belt layer 110, thus further securing the attachment cord 170 in a retracted position. The ears of the tuck / pull tab 175 also provide an extended portion of material giving greater surface area to grasp or purchase for withdrawing the attachment cord 170 for use.

[00134] In various exemplary embodiments, in the retracted position, one ear of the tuck / pull tab 175 may be allowed to extend through the attachment layer cord aperture, away from the accessory attachment layer 120, providing a readily accessible pull tab for withdrawing the attachment cord 170.

[00135] FIGS. 1-22, illustrate various exemplary embodiments of the belt assembly 100, wherein the paired belt layer cord apertures 118 are formed so as to extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt assembly 100. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 38-39, the paired belt layer cord apertures 118 may optionally be formed so as to extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt assembly 100. Thus, the attachment cord 170 may optionally extend so that the loop of the extension cord is substantially parallel or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt assembly 100. [00136] FIGS. 24-26, illustrate various exemplary embodiments attachment cord slidable loop 180, wherein an attachment loop 182 is formed of a portion of material, defining an attachment loop aperture 184 within the attachment loop 182. Belt layer cord apertures 118 are formed through a portion of the attachment loop 182 and an attachment layer cord aperture 125 and attachment cord 170 are included, substantially as described above. However, the attachment cord slidable loop 180 is a separate and discrete component, which allows a portion of a belt to be slidably received within the attachment loop aperture 184. By providing the attachment cord slidable loop 180, the features of the integral loop attachment can optionally be provided to a belt.

[00137] While the various layers included in the belt assembly 100 are not fully illustrated, it should be appreciated that the apertures, attachment board, attachment layer cord aperture 125, attachment layer cord aperture flap 129, and the like correspond to and operate similarly to the corresponding elements, as described above with reference to the belt assembly 100.

[00138] As illustrated in FIGS. 27-31 , the buckle coupling elements 105 may optionally comprise a belt buckle bar 190 and a corresponding belt buckle locking lever 192. As illustrated, to engage the buckle coupling elements 105, a portion of the belt buckle locking lever 192 is positioned through the corresponding buckle coupling element 105 such that the belt buckle bar 190 is positioned at least partially within the belt buckle locking lever 192. When the belt buckle locking lever 192 is urged to a closed position, the belt buckle bar 190 is locked within the belt buckle locking lever 192.

[00139] In various exemplary embodiments, the buckle coupling element 105 comprises an injection molded or other element that includes a slidable attachment cord 172. The slidable attachment cord 172 allows a device, such as, for example, the carabiner, to be attached or coupled to and slidable along the slidable attachment cord 172. In certain exemplary embodiments, as further illustrated in FIG. 31 , a buckle coupling pad element 194 may also be included, which includes an attachment cord 170 that is extendable through at least a portion of one of the buckle coupling elements 105.

[00140] As illustrated in FIGS. 32-33, an attachment cord D-ring 178 may optionally be attached or coupled to a belt layer 110. In various exemplary embodiments, the attachment cord D-ring 178 comprises a loop of cord that is positioned through adjacent layers of the belt layer 110. By providing a flexible attachment cord D-ring 178, disadvantages of a rigid, metal D-ring are overcome.

[00141] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-23, each attachment cord 170 is formed of a separate, discrete portion of cord secured to at least the belt layer 110. As illustrated in FIGS. 34-39, the attachment cord 170 may optionally comprise a single, continuous portion of attachment cord 170. The attachment cord 170 is interwoven along the length of the belt assembly 100, so as to protrude from the belt layer 110, where desired and be attached or coupled to the belt layer 110, at various attachment points or areas, via securing stitches 109, as desired, to prevent withdrawal of the attachment cord 170 from the belt assembly 100.

[00142] In various exemplary embodiments, Class 7 stitch or lockstitch is used to secure portions of the attachment cord 170 to the belt layer 110. FIGS. 34-39 illustrate an exemplary routing of the attachment cord 170 relative to the belt layer 110. As illustrated, the attachment cord 170 is secured to a belt layer inner surface 113 of the belt layer 110 and extends, through belt layer cord apertures 118 formed in the belt layer 110, to attachment loops 182 that extend from the belt layer outer surface 114 of the belt layer 110.

[00143] As illustrated in FIGS. 34-35, the attachment cord 170 extends through belt layer cord apertures 118 formed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt layer 110 (and belt assembly 100) to form three attachment loops 182. [00144] As illustrated in FIGS. 36-37, the attachment cord 170 extends through belt layer cord apertures 118 formed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt layer 110 (and belt assembly 100) to form three attachment loops 182. Additionally, the attachment cord 170 extends through two pairs of belt layer cord apertures 118 formed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt layer 110 (and belt assembly 100) to also form two attachment loops 182 proximate the buckle coupling elements 105.

[00145] As illustrated in FIGS. 38-39, the attachment cord 170 extends through belt layer cord apertures 118 formed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt layer 110 (and belt assembly 100) to form three attachment loops 182. Additionally, the attachment cord 170 extends through two pairs of belt layer cord apertures 118 formed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt layer 110 (and belt assembly 100) to also form two attachment loops 182 proximate the buckle coupling elements 105.

[00146] As illustrated in FIGS. 40-41 , the attachment cord 170 extends through belt layer cord apertures 118 formed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt layer 110 (and belt assembly 100) to form three attachment loops 182. Additionally, the attachment cord 170 extends through two pairs of belt layer cord apertures 118 formed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt layer 110 (and belt assembly 100) to also form two attachment loops 182 proximate the buckle coupling elements 105.

[00147] The terminal end portions of the attachment cord 170 are secured within the belt, via securing knots 177 formed adjacent the belt layer inner surface 113 of the belt layer 110. Each securing knot 177 increases the size and/or shape of the attachment cord 170, such that the securing knot 177 is not able to be pulled through an adjacent belt layer cord aperture 118. In certain exemplary embodiments, one or more securing stitches 109 are utilized to further secure the attachment cord 170 within the belt assembly 100. Alternatively, the securing knots 177 may be utilized without additional securing stitches 109.

[00148] It should be appreciated that the number, placement, and lengths of loops or attachment cord 170 portions that extend from the belt layer 110 is a design choice and can be varied, as desired. It should also be appreciated that one or more portions of the attachment cord 170 may extend from the belt layer outer surface 114 of the belt layer 110 substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt layer 110, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the belt layer 110, or in a combination of substantially parallel and substantially perpendicular arrangements, as desired.

[00149] A more detailed explanation of the instructions regarding how to interweave the attachment cord 170 between the belt layer 110 and the belt layer cord apertures 118 is not provided herein because it is believed that the level of description provided herein is sufficient to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to understand and practice the systems, methods, and apparatuses, as described. [00150] While the present disclosure has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments outlined above, the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as set forth above, are intended to be illustrative, not limiting and the fundamental disclosed systems, methods, and/or apparatuses should not be considered to be necessarily so constrained. It is evident that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular variation set forth and many alternatives, adaptations modifications, and/or variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[00151] Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, it is understood that every intervening value, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the present disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges and is also encompassed within the present disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the present disclosure.

[00152] It is to be understood that the phraseology of terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. [00153] In addition, it is contemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variations described herein may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein.

[00154] Accordingly, the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments will reveal the general nature of the present disclosure, such that others may, by applying current knowledge, change, vary, modify, and/or adapt these exemplary, non-limiting embodiments for various applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure and elements or methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in practicing the present disclosure. Any and all such changes, variations, modifications, and/or adaptations should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed exemplary embodiments and may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[00155] Also, it is noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “and”, “said”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Conversely, it is contemplated that the claims may be so- drafted to require singular elements or exclude any optional element indicated to be so here in the text or drawings. This statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely”, “only”, and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements or the use of a “negative” claim limitation(s).

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A belt with integral loop attachment, comprising: a belt layer formed of an elongate portion of material, wherein one or more pairs of cord apertures are formed through said belt layer at spaced apart locations, and wherein each terminating end portion of said belt layer engages a mating buckle coupling element; an accessory attachment layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an outer surface of said belt layer, wherein an attachment layer cord aperture is formed through said accessory attachment layer, wherein said attachment layer cord aperture is formed of a generally semicircular or arced aperture, wherein said attachment layer cord aperture is aligned to extend between one of said one or more pairs of cord apertures formed through said belt layer; a stiffener layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of said belt layer, wherein one or more pairs of stiffener layer cord apertures are formed through said stiffener layer at spaced apart locations, and wherein each stiffener layer cord aperture is formed to be aligned with a corresponding cord aperture formed through said belt layer; an inner cover layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of said belt layer, wherein said stiffener layer is positioned between said belt layer and said inner cover layer; a belt releasable fastener element attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of said inner cover layer; and at least one attachment cord, wherein terminal ends of a portion of an attachment cord are positioned through said aligned cord apertures and said aligned stiffener layer cord apertures so as to form a loop of said attachment cord on an outer side of said belt layer, wherein at least a portion of said attachment cord extends through said attachment layer cord aperture.

2. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said belt layer comprises a single portion of nylon webbing.

3. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said belt layer comprises various portions of similar or dissimilar materials attached or coupled together.

4. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said belt layer comprises various portions of similar or dissimilar materials attached or coupled together.

5. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said accessory attachment layer is formed of a portion of Hypalon fabric.

6. The belt of claim 1 , wherein each cord aperture includes a grommet to reinforce side wall portions of said cord aperture.

7. The belt of claim 1 , wherein an attachment layer cord aperture flap is formed between an inner apex of said attachment layer cord aperture and said terminal ends of said attachment layer cord aperture.

8. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said terminal ends of said attachment cord are attached or secured together.

9. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said buckle coupling elements comprise a belt buckle bar and a corresponding belt buckle locking lever.

10. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said buckle coupling element includes a slidable attachment cord.

11. The belt of claim 1 , wherein each attachment cord is formed of a separate, discrete portion of cord secured to at least a portion of said belt layer.

12. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said attachment cord comprises a single, continuous portion of attachment cord interwoven along a portion of said belt assembly, so as to protrude from at least a portion of said belt layer.

13. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said attachment cord is secured to an inner surface of said belt layer and extends, through cord apertures formed in said belt layer, to attachment loops that extend from said outer surface of said belt layer.

14. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said attachment cord extends through cord apertures formed substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis of said belt layer.

15. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said attachment cord extends through cord apertures formed substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said belt layer.

16. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said attachment cord extends through two pairs of cord apertures formed substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said belt layer to also form an attachment loop proximate each of said buckle coupling elements.

17. The belt of claim 1 , wherein said portion of said attachment cord that extends through said attachment layer cord aperture can be urged through said attachment layer cord aperture, between said outer surface of said belt layer and an inner surface of said accessory attachment layer.

18. A belt with integral loop attachment, comprising: a belt layer formed of an elongate portion of material, wherein one or more pairs of cord apertures are formed through said belt layer at spaced apart locations; an accessory attachment layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an outer surface of said belt layer, wherein an attachment layer cord aperture is formed through said accessory attachment layer, wherein said attachment layer cord aperture is formed of a generally semicircular or arced aperture, wherein said attachment layer cord aperture is aligned to extend between one of said one or more pairs of cord apertures formed through said belt layer; a stiffener layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of said belt layer, wherein one or more pairs of stiffener layer cord apertures are formed through said stiffener layer at spaced apart locations, and wherein each stiffener layer cord aperture is formed to be aligned with a corresponding cord aperture formed through said belt layer; an inner cover layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of said belt layer, wherein said stiffener layer is positioned between said belt layer and said inner cover layer; and at least one attachment cord, wherein terminal ends of a portion of an attachment cord are positioned through said aligned cord apertures and said aligned stiffener layer cord apertures so as to form a loop of said attachment cord on an outer side of said belt layer, wherein at least a portion of said attachment cord extends through said attachment layer cord aperture.

19. The belt of claim 18, wherein at least a portion of said inner surface of said inner cover layer is covered by a mating portion of a belt releasable fastener element.

20. A belt with integral loop attachment, comprising: a belt layer formed of an elongate portion of material, wherein one or more pairs of cord apertures are formed through said belt layer at spaced apart locations; an accessory attachment layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an outer surface of said belt layer, wherein an attachment layer cord aperture is formed through said accessory attachment layer, wherein said attachment layer cord aperture is aligned to extend between one of said one or more pairs of cord apertures formed through said belt layer; an inner cover layer attached or coupled to at least a portion of an inner surface of said belt layer, wherein said stiffener layer is positioned between said belt layer and said inner cover layer; and at least one attachment cord, wherein terminal ends of a portion of an attachment cord are positioned through said aligned cord apertures and said aligned stiffener layer cord apertures so as to form a loop of said attachment cord on an outer side of said belt layer, wherein at least a portion of said attachment cord extends through said attachment layer cord aperture.