Ratchet adjustment system

Abstract

A ratchet adjustment system has an elongated adjustment strip with teeth extending along the strip. The teeth form a ratchet mechanism when ends of the strip are inserted into a locking mechanism having a base plate and locking devices. The strip ends are inserted into the locking devices from opposite directions, so that the system forms a closed circle. The circumference of the system is reduced by pressing opposite sides of the strip together so that the insertion ends are inserted further through the locking devices, and the circumference is increased by pulling the strip away from the locking devices. Depending on the geometry of the teeth and locking devices, the amount of force needed to reduce and increase the circumference could be equal, or the amount of force required to reduce the circumference could be less than the amount required to increase the circumference.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]This invention relates to an adjustment system for increasing and decreasing the circumference of an article, such as a sleeve cuff. In particular the invention relates to an adjustment system using a ratcheting device to adjust the circumference of the article.[0003]2. The Prior Art[0004]In some articles of apparel, such as jacket sleeve cuffs and pant cuffs in athletic clothing, the size of the cuff needs to be adjusted to be more secure around the wrist or ankle of the user. Traditionally, this adjustment was accomplished via a strap that could be tightened around the cuff, either with a buckle or a hook-and-loop type closure, such as VELCRO®.[0005]The disadvantage to using a buckle is that the buckle is very cumbersome and uncomfortable to adjust with only one hand, which is necessary in the case of a sleeve cuff. In particular, if the size is too small, it can be difficult to use the buckle or release it with a sin...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is a adjustment system for tightening and loosening a cuff or other closed circular object. The system can be mounted inside or outside of the object and is protected from damage and environmental factors. It can be easily adjusted with one hand, even while wearing gloves. The system includes a cover plate that protects the locking mechanism. The longitudinal sides of the strip form a wall to guide the strip ends and provide stability and stiffness to the mechanism. The technical effects of the system include improved convenience, durability, and ease of adjustment.

Problems solved by technology

The disadvantage to using a buckle is that the buckle is very cumbersome and uncomfortable to adjust with only one hand, which is necessary in the case of a sleeve cuff.

In particular, if the size is too small, it can be difficult to use the buckle or release it with a single hand, especially if the user is wearing gloves.

The disadvantage to using the hook and loop type closure is that the rough surfaces on the closure parts attract a significant amount of debris, which can be unsightly and decrease the adhesiveness of the parts.

These closures can also be unattractive, as they have to be placed around the outside of the cuff in order to be operable.

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