Heavy Tool Tether

Abstract

Apparatuses and methods for tethering devices capable of securing heavy articles are disclosed. In one possible embodiment, a tethering device comprises: an extension and retraction mechanism with a non-tangling coil system portion; a first attachment mechanism coupled to a first end portion of the extension and retraction mechanism; and, a second attachment mechanism coupled to a second end portion of the extension and retraction mechanism. The tethering device is capable of bearing a substantially heavy load. The first attachment mechanism may comprise a carabiner, and the second attachment mechanism may comprise a carabiner or a clip mechanism with male and female portions. A tertiary attachment mechanism may also be provided, which provides an internal attachment in the device to prevent it from extending. In one possible method for tethering a heavy article, a first attachment mechanism is attached to a user's person is provided, with the first attachment mechanism coupled to a first end of an extension / retraction mechanism. A second attachment mechanism is attached to a heavy article, with the second attachment mechanism coupled to a second end of the extension / retraction mechanism. The extension of the extension / retraction mechanism is caused by applying a force against a coil system of the extension / retraction mechanism, and the retraction of the extension / retraction mechanism is caused by removing the force.

Description

[0001]This application claims the benefit of provisional application No. 61 / 201,592 to Salentine, which was filed on 12 Dec. 2008.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates generally to securing articles, and more particularly to tethering devices and methods for securing heavy articles, with one end of such a device mounted to a structure, a user's person, or the like, and another end mounted to a heavy article.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]Tethering devices are well known in the art. Various tethering devices have been developed for use with tools, hardware, and other helpful devices. However, tethering devices may be used for holding heavier tools and the like, and many tethering devices known in the art are not strong enough for heavier applications and may become dangerous should breakage occur. A tethering device that can withstand heavier applications is beneficial so safety can be maximized and tool damage and...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]The present invention seeks to provide tethering devices / tethers for tools and the like with an improved mechanism to minimize entanglement, with the tethering devices being durable, inexpensive, easy to operate and adjust, capable of withstanding heavy applications, and capable of extension and retraction. In one embodiment according to the present invention, a tethering device is provided comprising an extension and retraction mechanism with a non-tangling coil system portion, a first attachment mechanism coupled to a first end portion of the extension and retraction mechanism, and a second attachment mechanism coupled to a second end portion of the extension and retraction mechanism. The tethering device is capable of bearing a substantially heavy load.

Problems solved by technology

However, tethering devices may be used for holding heavier tools and the like, and many tethering devices known in the art are not strong enough for heavier applications and may become dangerous should breakage occur.

However, many known tethering devices are prone to entanglement.

This can be particularly problematic when tethering devices are coupled with retraction / extension capabilities.

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