Lanyard clamp

Abstract

The invention relates to a lanyard clamp. The disclosure describes clamps for lanyards, such as safety hat lanyards. The clamps include opposing teeth that move to a closed / clamping position to secure the lanyard to a user, such as to the user's clothing. The clamps include a body, a lever, and a clamp piece. Opposing teeth are located on the clamp piece and the body. The clamps include a plurality of pivot connections between the body, the lever, and the clamp piece. The teeth on the clamp piece can be arranged along an arcuate path and / or can have a tooth depth that facilitates engagement with a material, such as clothing.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese invention patent application No. 201980076053.2, filed on December 13, 2019, entitled "Tethering Clamp".

[0002] Cross-referencing of related patent applications

[0003] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 779,300, filed on December 13, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This invention relates generally to the field of lacing clamps, and more specifically to lacing clamps for attaching various devices (such as construction equipment, tools, safety equipment, etc.) to a user's clothing. Background Technology

[0005] In a particular embodiment, the lanyard clamp discussed herein is used to attach a safety helmet to the clothing of a worker wearing the helmet. A safety helmet is a protective device designed to absorb the force of objects that would otherwise strike the head of a person wearing the helmet. Safety helmets are frequently worn in the construction industry, among other uses.

[0006] In some situations, such as when construction workers are working at heights on a building frame, if a safety helmet falls off a worker's head, the worker's head may not be adequately protected. Helmet lanyards with clips help prevent users from losing their helmets if they fall off their heads by attaching the helmet to the user's clothing. Helmet lanyards typically include loops for attaching to the helmet and clips for attaching to the user's clothing (e.g., shirt collars, T-shirts, undershirts, jacket pockets, jacket collars, fall protection gear, straps, belts, etc.). Summary of the Invention

[0007] In various embodiments, this disclosure describes a lanyard clamp for attaching equipment (such as tools, safety equipment, etc.) to a user. In specific embodiments, this disclosure describes various embodiments of using a lanyard to attach a safety helmet to a worker. One end of the lanyard is an attachment part (such as a loop with a fastener) that attaches to the user's equipment, such as a safety helmet. The other end of the lanyard is a clamp that attaches the lanyard to the worker, such as to clothing worn by the worker. This disclosure describes clamps with clamping structures suitable for a variety of clothing materials with varying thicknesses and properties (e.g., relatively smooth surfaces, low compressibility).

[0008] In one embodiment, the lacing system (such as a helmet lacing device) includes a resilient lacing cord. One end of the lacing cord includes a connecting member (such as a helmet connecting member) that can engage with a device (such as a helmet), and the other end of the lacing cord includes a clamp configured to be detachably attached to clothing. The clamp includes two arms extending from a clamp body that define an opening. A first tooth protrudes from the first arm toward a second arm. The clamp further includes a lever pivotally connected to the second arm and pivotally connected to an engaging member that includes a second tooth engaging with the first tooth. The engaging member is pivotally connected not only to the lever but also to the clamp body. The clamp further includes a spring that biases a first end of the lever away from the clamp body, thereby biasing a second end of the lever toward the first tooth, which is connected to the engaging member. As a result, the spring biases the second tooth of the engaging member toward the first tooth. The first and second teeth include multiple rows of teeth angled toward the interior of the clamp opening. The second teeth are arranged along a curved outer surface of the engaging member. The second tooth section includes multiple rows of teeth arranged in an alternating manner relative to each other.

[0009] In another embodiment, the lacing system (such as a helmet lacing device) includes a resilient lacing. One end of the lacing includes a connecting member (such as a helmet connecting member) that can engage with a device (such as a helmet), and the other end of the lacing includes a clamp configured to be detachably engaged with clothing. The clamp includes two arms extending from a clamp body that define an opening. A first tooth projects from the first arm toward a second arm. The clamp further includes a lever slidably coupled to the clamp body. The lever is pivotally coupled to an engaging member that includes a second tooth engaging with the first tooth. The engaging member is also pivotally coupled to the second arm. The clamp further includes a spring that biases the lever away from the engaging member, thus biasing the engaging member to rotate the second tooth toward the first tooth. As the lever slides toward the engaging member against the spring bias, the second tooth of the engaging member moves away from the first tooth. The first and second teeth include multiple rows of teeth angled toward the interior of the clamp opening. The second tooth is arranged along a curved outer surface of a rotating member. The second tooth section includes multiple rows of teeth arranged in an alternating manner relative to each other.

[0010] In another embodiment, the lanyard system (such as a helmet lanyard device) includes a resilient lanyard. One end of the lanyard includes a connecting member (such as a helmet connecting member) that can engage with a device (such as a helmet), and the other end of the lanyard includes a clamp configured to be detachably attached to clothing. The clamp includes two arms defining an opening. A first tooth protrudes inward from the first arm toward the second arm. The clamp further includes a button slidably connected to the second arm, which is rigidly connected to a second tooth that engages with the first tooth. As the button moves toward the end of the second arm, the second tooth moves toward the first tooth. The clamp further includes a spring that biases the button toward the end of the second arm, thus biasing the second tooth toward the first tooth. As the button slides against the spring bias, the second tooth moves away from the first tooth. The first and second teeth are arranged along parallel surfaces and include multiple rows of teeth angled toward the interior of the clamp opening.

[0011] In another embodiment, the lacing device (such as a helmet lacing system) includes a resilient lacing cord. One end of the lacing cord includes a connecting member (such as a helmet connecting member) that can engage with a device (such as a helmet), and the other end of the lacing cord includes a clamp configured to be detachably engaged with clothing. The clamp includes two arms defining an opening. A ramp-like end of the second arm projects from the end of the first arm. The clamp includes an engaging member rotatably coupled to the second arm, the engaging member including a thumb grip and a second tooth that engages with a first tooth. The engaging member is rotatably coupled to the second arm at a pivot position different from the center of the engaging member. The second tooth and the thumb grip project radially outward from the center of the engaging member. The engaging member is configured to rotate in a first direction until the thumb grip abuts against the first arm, thereby preventing further rotation of the engaging member in the first direction.

[0012] Another embodiment relates to a tethering clamp including a body, a lever pivotally connected to the body, a clamping member pivotally connected to the lever, a first plurality of teeth extending from the clamping member toward the body, and a second plurality of teeth extending from the body toward the clamping member. The lever pivots relative to the body about a first axis. The clamping member pivots relative to the lever about a second axis. The clamping member is also pivotally connected to the body and pivots relative to the body about a third axis. The first, second, and third axes are spaced apart from each other. The clamping member is movable about the second and third axes between an open position and a clamping position. In the clamping position, the second plurality of teeth abut against the first plurality of teeth.

[0013] Another embodiment relates to a tethering clamp including a body, a clamping member pivotally connected to the body, a first plurality of teeth, and a second plurality of teeth extending from the body toward the first plurality of teeth. Each of the first plurality of teeth includes an end. The first plurality of teeth extends from the clamping member in an orientation such that the end of the first plurality of teeth is located on an arcuate path. When the tethering clamp is in a closed position, the second plurality of teeth abut against the first plurality of teeth.

[0014] Another embodiment relates to a tethering clamp including a body, a clamping member pivotally coupled to the body, a first plurality of teeth extending from the clamping member toward the body, and a second plurality of teeth extending from the body toward the clamping member. The clamping member is movable relative to the body between an open position and a clamping position. In the clamping position, the second plurality of teeth abut against the first plurality of teeth. The first plurality of teeth has a tooth depth between 0.12 inches and 0.18 inches. The second plurality of teeth has a tooth depth between 0.12 inches and 0.18 inches.

[0015] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the following detailed description, and these additional features and advantages will be apparent in part to those skilled in the art from the description or by practice of the embodiments as included in the written description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary.

[0016] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles and operation of various different embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figures 1 to 4 The standard existing technology helmet tether is shown.

[0018] Figure 5A This is a perspective view of a tethering system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] Figure 5B This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5A A detailed view of the tethering clamps of the tethering system.

[0020] Figure 6 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5B Top view of the rigging clamp.

[0021] Figure 7 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5B A cross-sectional perspective view of the tethering clamp.

[0022] Figure 8 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5B A side perspective view of the clamp body of the tethering clamp.

[0023] Figure 9 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5B A side view of the clamp body of the tethering clamp.

[0024] Figure 10 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5B Front perspective view of the clamp body of the tethering clamp.

[0025] Figure 11 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5B A bottom perspective view of the clamping element of the tethering clamp.

[0026] Figure 12 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5B Top perspective view of the clamping element of the tethering clamp.

[0027] Figure 13 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5B Side view of the clamping element of the tethering clamp.

[0028] Figure 14 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5B A top perspective view of the lever of the tethering clamp.

[0029] Figure 15 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5B A top perspective view of the lever of the tethering clamp.

[0030] Figure 16 This is a side view of a helmet lanyard clamp according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0031] Figure 17 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 16 A cross-sectional side view of the helmet lanyard clamp.

[0032] Figure 18 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 16 A perspective view of the helmet lanyard clamp.

[0033] Figure 19 This is a side view of a helmet lanyard clamp according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0034] Figure 20 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 19 A cross-sectional side view of the helmet lanyard clamp.

[0035] Figure 21 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 19 A perspective view of the helmet lanyard clamp.

[0036] Figure 22 This is a side view of a helmet lanyard clamp according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0037] Figure 23 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 22 A cross-sectional side view of the helmet lanyard clamp.

[0038] Figure 24 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 22 A perspective view of the helmet lanyard clamp.

[0039] Figure 25 This is a side view of a helmet lanyard clamp according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0040] Figure 26 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 25 A cross-sectional side view of the helmet lanyard clamp.

[0041] Figure 27 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 25 Front perspective view of the helmet lanyard clamp.

[0042] Figure 28 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 25 Rear perspective view of the helmet lanyard clamp. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, various embodiments of lanyard systems, such as helmet lanyards, are illustrated. The various embodiments of helmet lanyards discussed herein include a variety of clamps of different designs configured to remain attached to the worker's clothing even when a force (e.g., the force of a falling hard object) attempts to pull the clamps away from the clothing.

[0044] refer to Figures 1 to 4 This illustration shows a prior art tethering system 10 with a standard prior art clamp 12. Generally, the tethering system includes a clamp 12 connected to a tether 14, the tether having an attachment ring 16. The attachment ring 16 passes through a hole in the helmet and is secured via a ring fastener 18. The clamp 12 includes a clamp 20 with a single pivot 22 for clamping / locking a user's clothing 24 between opposing sets of teeth within the clamp 20. As will be described in more detail below, the clamp design of this application is considered to provide improved usability and clamping compared to prior art clamp designs (such as clamp 12) through a variety of different features discussed herein (e.g., multiple pivot axes, shape / positioning of clamping teeth, tooth depth, etc.).

[0045] refer to Figures 5A to 15 The diagram illustrates a lacing system, such as lacing system 50, according to an exemplary embodiment. Generally, lacing system 50 includes a clamp, shown as lacing clamp 52, attached to a first end of lacing cable 54. An attachment device, shown as a loop attachment 56, is located at a second end of lacing cable 54. Generally, clamp 52 is configured to attach to a user / worker, for example, by engaging a user's clothing, and loop attachment 56 is configured to attach to equipment, such as tools or safety equipment (e.g., a helmet). In one particular embodiment, lacing system 50 is a helmet lacing system for securing a user's helmet to his or her clothing. In this embodiment, attachment loop 56 passes through a hole in the helmet and is secured via a loop fastener 58. As shown, lacing cable 54 engages attachment loop 56 to clamp 52. In various different embodiments, lacing cable 54 is made of an elastic material configured to absorb energy when the helmet falls from the user's head. Clamp 52 is used to attach the lacing cable to the user's clothing.

[0046] refer to Figure 5B The clamp 52 includes a clamping member 60 and a body 62. The clamp 52 includes teeth shown as clamping teeth 64 extending away from the clamping member 60 toward the body 62, and teeth shown as clamping teeth 66 extending from the body 62 toward the clamping member 60. Figure 5B In the particular design and orientation shown, the clamping teeth 64 generally extend downward toward the clamping teeth 66. In this way, the clamping teeth 64 define the top surface of the clamping or holding region 68, and the clamping teeth 66 define the bottom surface of the clamping or holding region 68.

[0047] Overall, the top surface defined by the upper clamping teeth 64 is configured to rotate about a pivot when the user raises or lowers the lever associated with the clamp 52. The C-shaped body 62 positions the pivot and the lower clamping teeth such that when the clamp 52 is in the open position ( Figure 5B (As shown) Move to the clamping or closed position ( Figure 7 As shown in the diagram, the upper teeth 64 and lower teeth 66 are aligned and engaged. In some embodiments, the C-shaped body 62 allows for slight deformation of the body to accommodate larger materials and provides a clamping spring force to hold the user's clothing.

[0048] As discussed herein, the applicant believes that the clamp design discussed herein is suitable for engagement with a wide variety of clothing materials. For example, when a user's helmet falls from his or her head, a pulling force is applied between the user's clothing (e.g., the clothing shown) and the clamp. In some cases, if the user's clothing material is too thin, the clamping teeth of the clamp may not have sufficient clamping force to overcome the pulling force when the user's helmet falls. That is, if the user's shirt material is too thin, the helmet lanyard will fail. Similarly, if the user's clothing is too thick, some lanyard clamps cannot hold the user's clothing in the clamp and therefore cannot secure it to the user's clothing. Likewise, the material properties of the user's clothing may affect the pulling force the clamp can withstand before the clothing is pulled out. For example, knitted cotton has different friction and compression properties compared to wool, polyester, flame-retardant materials, etc. Accordingly, the clamp design discussed herein provides clamping compatibility with a wide variety of clothing materials.

[0049] Specifically, in various embodiments, the clamp design discussed herein provides sufficient clamping force for a variety of materials and thicknesses to provide a functional helmet lanyard. In various embodiments, the clamp design discussed herein is configured such that as clothing material is pulled out of the clamp, the teeth clamp the material and tighten it further. For example, Figures 5A to 28 The clamp design shown is configured to accommodate clothing material and provide sufficient clamping force along with the clothing material, which, for the illustrative purpose only, is, but is not limited to, 0-4 mm thick, and the clamp design can provide a peak tensile force of 100 lbs or greater before the clamp disengages. In contrast, the applicant argues that standard clamp designs, such as... Figures 1 to 4 The clamp design shown may fail under a pull of 30 lbs or less. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the teeth of the clamp design discussed herein, such as clamping teeth 64 and 66, are arranged at an inward angle to enhance the clamping grip on clothing materials (compared to teeth perpendicular to the pull).

[0050] refer to Figures 5B to 15 The design details of clamp 52 are shown and described. The applicant believes that the design of the clamp provides improved functionality, including improved clamping force and adaptability to clamping a variety of different clothing materials. Clamp 52 includes a lever 70. Lever 70 is pivotally connected to body 62 via a first pivot connection 72 defining a first pivot axis 74. Generally, when the user presses down on lever handle 76, lever 70 pivots about axis 74 and causes clamp 52 to move. Figure 5B The opening position is shown in the diagram. Figure 6 A top view of clamp 52 is shown, which also shows lever 70. (See diagram below.) Figure 6As shown, the lever handle 76 has a tapered shape and a recess that facilitates the user's actuation of the lever 70.

[0051] refer to Figure 5B and Figure 7 The operation details of clamping member 60 and lever 70 are shown in more detail. Clamp 52 includes a second pivoting connection 80 that pivotally connects clamping member 60 to lever 70, such that clamping member 60 pivots relative to lever 70 about a second pivot axis 82. Clamp 52 includes a third pivoting connection 84 that pivotally connects clamping member 60 to body 62, such that clamping member 60 also pivots relative to body 62 about a third pivot axis 86. Generally, when lever 70 is actuated to move about pivot axis 74, clamping member 60 can move about axes 82 and 86 to an open position. Figure 5B As shown in the diagram, in the open position, clamping teeth 64 and 66 are separated to allow materials, clothing, etc., to be inserted into the clamping area 68. The clamping member 60 can also move in opposite directions about axes 82 and 86 to the closed position. Figure 7 As shown in the diagram, in the closed position, clamping teeth 64 and clamping teeth 66 engage or overlap, so that materials, clothing, etc. will be clamped between teeth 64 and 66 in the closed position.

[0052] The clamp 52 includes a biasing element, shown as a spring 88. Generally, the spring 88 is biased to hold the clamp 52 in the closed position until the user applies force to the handle 76 of the lever 70. Figure 7 In this orientation, spring 88 is biased to provide an upward force on the lower surface of lever 70 below handle 76. This causes lever 70 to rotate clockwise about pivot connection 72. By rotating clockwise, clamping engagement end 90 of lever 70 moves clamping member 60 about axes 82 and 86, causing clamping teeth 64 to engage with clamping teeth 66, thereby assuming clamp 52 in a closed / clamped position.

[0053] When the user presses down on the handle 76, the spring 88 is compressed, and the lever 70 rotates counterclockwise about the pivot connection 72. By rotating the lever 70 counterclockwise, the clamping member 60 pivots about axes 82 and 86, causing the clamping teeth 64 to move away from the clamping teeth 66, thereby putting the clamp 52 into the open position.

[0054] The movement of lever 70 and clamping member 60 is as follows Figure 7The position of the pivot axis is shown as follows. In the length direction of the clamp 52 (e.g., in the direction between the tethering end and the clamping end), the pivot axis 82 is located between pivot axes 74 and 86, and pivot axis 74 is located between spring 88 and pivot axis 82. In the height direction of the clamp 52 (e.g., in the direction perpendicular to the tooth 66), the vertical distance between pivot axis 82 and tooth 66 is less than the vertical distance between pivot axis 86 and tooth 66. Further, in this arrangement, both pivot axes 82 and 86 are located above tooth 66.

[0055] refer to Figures 8 to 10 The diagram shows a view of the body 62 with the clamping member 60 and lever 70 removed. The body 62 includes a bottom wall 92, a first side wall 94, and a second side wall 96, with side walls 94 and 96 extending away from and substantially perpendicular to the bottom wall 92. A first pair of openings 98 are defined on the side walls 94 and 96 and receive a pivot connection 72. Figure 7 (As shown in the diagram). The second pair of openings 100 are defined on the sidewalls 94 and 96 and receive the pivot connection 84 ( Figure 7 (as shown in the image).

[0056] refer to Figure 9 The details of the clamping teeth 66 of the body 62 are shown. Figure 9 As shown, each clamping tooth 66 includes an end 102, a leading edge 104, and a trailing edge 106. Figure 9 In the illustrated embodiment, the leading edge 104 forms a non-parallel, non-perpendicular angle with respect to the vertical axis and with respect to the trailing edge 106. Further, the tooth 66 is shaped such that the end 102 is located on a substantially horizontal plane (e.g., such that the horizontal plane intersects at least three ends 102 of the tooth 66, or such that the plane intersecting at least three ends 102 of the tooth 66 forms an angle of ±10 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane).

[0057] Still referencing Figure 9 Tooth 66 defines the tooth depth D1. In Figure 9 In this orientation, D1 is the vertical distance between the end 102 and the lowest point 108 between adjacent teeth 66. In various embodiments, D1 is between 0.05 inches and 0.5 inches, and more specifically between 0.1 inches and 0.3 inches, and more specifically between 0.12 inches and 0.18 inches, and more specifically 0.15 inches. The applicant has determined that, for a variety of common clothing fabric types and thicknesses, the tooth depth within this range alone, or in combination with the depth of the teeth 66, provides improved clamping. In one embodiment, D1 represents the average depth of all teeth 66, and in another embodiment, D1 represents the maximum depth of all teeth 66.

[0058] refer to Figures 11 to 13 A detailed view of the clamping member 60 is shown. Teeth 64 extend from the clamping member 60 and generally define a portion of the peripheral surface of the clamping member 60. The clamping member 60 includes a second or upper surface 110, which is generally opposite to the teeth 64 and defines a recess 112. (As shown in...) Figure 7 As best shown, the recess 112 receives the clamping engagement end 90 of the lever 70.

[0059] The clamping member 60 includes a first sidewall 114 and a second sidewall 116. The clamping member 60 also includes a first pair of openings 118 defined by the sidewalls 114 and 116, and an opening 120. The opening 118 receives a pivot connection 80. Figure 7 ), and the opening 120 receives the pivot connection portion 84 ( Figure 7 To form the pivot connection 84, the opening 120 in the clamping member 60 is aligned with the opening 100 in the body 62, and the pivoting member (such as a pin or shaft) extends through the openings 120 and 100, thereby connecting the body 62 to the clamping member 60.

[0060] refer to Figure 13 The details of the clamping teeth 64 of the clamping member 60 are shown. Figure 13 As shown, each clamping tooth 64 includes an end 122, a leading edge 124, and a trailing edge 126. Figure 13 In the illustrated embodiment, the leading edge 124 forms a non-parallel, non-perpendicular angle with respect to the trailing edge 126. Furthermore, the clamping member 60 and the teeth 64 are shaped such that the end 122 is located on the arcuate path 128.

[0061] Still referencing Figure 13 The tooth depth D2 is defined by tooth 64. Figure 13 In this orientation, D2 is the vertical distance between the end 122 and the lowest point 132 between adjacent teeth 66. In various embodiments, D2 is between 0.05 inches and 0.5 inches, and more specifically between 0.1 inches and 0.3 inches, and more specifically between 0.12 inches and 0.18 inches, and more specifically 0.15 inches. The applicant has determined that, for a variety of different common clothing fabric types and thicknesses, the tooth depth within this range alone, or in combination with the depth of teeth 64, provides improved clamping. In one embodiment, D2 represents the average depth of all teeth 64, and in another embodiment, D2 represents the maximum depth of all teeth 66.

[0062] refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15A detailed view of lever 70 is shown. The lower surface of lever 70 includes a cavity or recess 130 defined within the body of lever 70, which receives or captures the upper end of spring 88. Recess 130 holds spring 88 in place relative to lever 70 during the opening and closing of clamp 52.

[0063] refer to Figure 15 The lever 70 includes two side walls 140 and 142 and a middle wall 144. A series of three aligned openings 146 are formed in each side wall 140 and 142 and the middle wall 144. The openings 146 receive the pivot connection 72. Figure 7 As will generally be understood, in order to form the pivot connection 72, the opening 146 in the lever 70 is aligned with the opening 98 in the body 62, and a pivoting member (such as a pin or shaft) extends through the openings 98 and 146, thereby connecting the lever 70 to the body 62. Figure 15 As shown, the opening 146 is elongated in the longitudinal direction (e.g., oval or elliptical). This shape allows for some translational movement of the lever 70 relative to the body 62, which in turn provides the desired movement of the clamping member 60 during the opening and closing of the clamp 52.

[0064] Reference Figure 14 and Figure 15 The lever 70 includes an opening 148 formed at the clamping engagement end 90. The opening 148 receives the pivot connection portion 80. Figure 7 To form the pivot connection 80, the opening 148 in the lever 70 is aligned with the opening 118 in the clamping member 60, and the pivot connection (such as a pin or shaft) extends through the openings 148 and 118, thereby connecting the lever 70 to the clamping member 60.

[0065] Reference Figures 16 to 18 The image illustrates a clamp 200 according to an exemplary embodiment. Except for the differences discussed herein, clamp 200 is substantially the same as clamp 52. Similar to clamp 52, clamp 200 includes a lever 202 and a spring (similar to spring 88) for applying a clamping force between rotating clamping teeth 204 and body teeth 206. Lever 202 is attached to body 208 via an arm inserted into a slot. Lever 202 is attached to rotating teeth 204 via a connecting pin positioned through opening 212, which allows lever 202 and rotating teeth 204 to rotate relative to each other. Rotating teeth 204 is attached to body 208 via a pivot (e.g., a pin) through opening 210.

[0066] A spring applies a force between the spring seat structures to push the lever 202 away from the body. As a result, the spring force is converted into a compressive force between the rotating teeth 204 and the body teeth 206. The ends of the rotating teeth 204 are arranged along an arc or curved path (e.g., a logarithmic spiral shape, a circle) to allow materials of various thicknesses to be inserted between the rotating teeth and the body teeth, while still maintaining sufficient clamping force between the two teeth. Similarly, the numerous teeth are staggered to provide sufficient clamping and engagement at many rotational positions (e.g., depending on the material thickness). Likewise, the sharpness and orientation of the teeth are designed to withstand high tensile forces on a variety of materials, making this design suitable for a variety of fabrics, including but not limited to cotton, polyester, wool, and elastic fibers.

[0067] refer to Figures 19 to 21 This illustrates a clamp 250 according to an exemplary embodiment. Except for the differences discussed herein, clamp 250 is substantially the same as clamp 52. Clamp 250 is a “sliding” type clamp and functions similarly to the “lever” design of clamps 52 and 200, and has many of the same advantages. Sliding member 252 is connected to rotating tooth 254 via a connecting pin positioned through opening 260. Sliding member 252 is connected to body 258 via an arm that slides in a slot in body 258. Rotating tooth 254 is connected to body 258 via a pin through pivot opening 262. Rotating tooth 254 is arranged in a helical shape such that it rotates about a pivot with the rotating tooth. In this arrangement, the distance between the body tooth and the rotating tooth varies, thereby accommodating materials of various thicknesses. A spring (similar to spring 88) presses against sliding member 252 and body 258 to move sliding member 252 in a rearward direction (e.g., ...). Figure 19 (As shown). Moving the slider 252 in the rearward direction causes the rotating tooth 254 to rotate counterclockwise (in... Figures 19 to 21 The orientation of the rotating teeth 254 and the main body teeth 256 is adjusted upwards, thereby shortening the distance between them and applying compressive force to the material between the opposing sets of teeth. The user can resist the spring and press the slider forward to "open" the teeth to insert or remove clothing between them.

[0068] refer to Figures 22 to 24The image shows a clamp 300 according to an exemplary embodiment. Except for the differences discussed herein, clamp 300 is substantially the same as clamps 52 and 250. Clamp 300 is an embodiment of a "sliding clamp" type clamp having an upper toothed block 302 that slides along a ramp 304 to adjust the distance between the upper toothed block 302 and the lower toothed portion 306, thereby accommodating materials of various thicknesses. The body 308 includes a slot 310 through which a button 312 of the upper toothed block 302 extends. A spring 314 applies a force that presses the upper toothed block 302 along the ramp 304 towards a "closed" position. Thus, the spring 314 applies a compressive force between the upper toothed portion 316 and the lower toothed portion 306.

[0069] refer to Figures 25 to 28 The image shows a clamp 350 according to an exemplary embodiment. Except for the differences discussed herein, clamp 350 is substantially the same as clamps 52 and 300. Clamp 350 is a “thumb roller” design and has only a few parts. A rotating tooth 352 rotates about a pivot extending through an opening 354 (e.g., via a through pin). The user can rotate the rotating tooth 352 into an “open position” by rotating a thumb-pinch 356. The opening 354 and the associated pivot are eccentric to the rotating tooth 352 to provide a cam that allows the distance between the rotating tooth and the body to change during operation of the clamp 350. The body 358 includes a ramp 360 near the opening 362 of the C-shaped body 358, which provides increased clamping force if material is pulled out of the clamp 350 without manual opening. For example, as material is pulled out from the C-shaped opening defined between the teeth 352 and the ramp 360, the material is pressed upward against the rotating teeth 352 by the body ramp 360, thereby increasing the clamping force. Similarly, as the material is pulled out, the rotating teeth 352 rotates in a direction that closes the opening, thereby enhancing the clamping between the teeth 352 and the body ramp 360. In some embodiments, a torsion spring may be provided to bias the rotating teeth in a counterclockwise direction (from the perspective shown above).

[0070] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments in detail, and that this application is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the specification or shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the terminology is for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered restrictive.

[0071] Given this description, other modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this description is to be interpreted as illustrative only. The constructions and arrangements shown in several different exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. While only a few embodiments are described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., changing the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportions, parameter values, mounting arrangements, materials used, colors, orientations, etc.) without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Some elements shown in the integral molding may be composed of multiple parts or elements, the positions of elements may be reversed or otherwise changed, and the nature or number or position of discrete elements may be varied or altered. According to alternative embodiments, the order or sequence of any process, logical algorithm, or method steps may be changed or reordered. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of several different exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0072] Unless otherwise expressly stated, no method set forth herein is intended in any way to require its steps to be performed in a specified order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually enumerate the order in which its steps should be followed, or where the claims or specification do not specifically state that the steps should be limited to a particular order, it is by no means to imply any particular order can be inferred. Furthermore, the article “a” used herein is intended to include one or more parts or elements, and is not intended to be construed as referring to only one. As used herein, “rigid connection” refers to a connection of two parts in such a way that, when subjected to force, these parts move together in a fixed positional relationship.

[0073] Various embodiments of the present invention relate to any combination of any features, and any such combination of features may be claimed in this application or a future application. Any feature, element, or component of any exemplary embodiment discussed above may be used alone or in combination with any feature, element, or component of any other embodiment discussed above.

Claims

1. A tethering system, comprising: A tethering cable having a first end and a second end; An attachment ring, the attachment ring being coupled to the first end of the tether, the attachment ring including a ring fastener and configured to be coupled to a helmet, the attachment ring passing through a hole in the helmet and being secured by the ring fastener, the hole being configured to receive the attachment ring; A tether clamp, the tether clamp being connected to the second end of the tether, the tether clamp comprising: ontology; A clamping element, which is pivotally connected to the body; A plurality of first teeth, wherein the plurality of first teeth extend from the clamping member toward the body, wherein each of the plurality of first teeth includes an end, wherein the plurality of first teeth extend from the clamping member along an orientation such that the end of the plurality of first teeth is located on an arcuate path; and A plurality of second teeth extend from the body toward the plurality of first teeth, wherein, when the tether clamp is in the closed position, the plurality of second teeth abut against the plurality of first teeth, and wherein the arcuate path of the ends of the plurality of first teeth is convex relative to the plurality of second teeth; Wherein, the body and the clamping member together define the fixture opening; and Each of the plurality of second teeth includes an end, a leading edge, and a trailing edge opposite to the leading edge. The leading edge of each of the plurality of second teeth is angled toward the interior of the clamp opening, and the trailing edge of each of the plurality of second teeth is substantially aligned with the end in the vertical direction.

2. The tethering system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The plurality of second teeth extend from the body along an orientation such that the ends of the plurality of second teeth are located in a substantially horizontal plane.

3. The tethering system of claim 1, further comprising a lever pivotally connected to the body such that the lever pivots relative to the body about a first axis, wherein, The clamping member is pivotally connected to the lever about a second axis, wherein the clamping member pivots relative to the body about a third axis, wherein the first axis, the second axis, and the third axis are spaced apart from each other and are parallel to each other.

4. The tethering system as claimed in claim 3, wherein, When the clamping member is in the closed position, the second axis is closer to the plurality of second teeth than the third axis.

5. The tethering system of claim 3, further comprising a biasing element located between the body and the lever, wherein, The biasing element biases the clamping member toward the closed position.

6. The tethering system as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The body defines a length direction extending from the tethering end of the body to the clamping end of the body, and further, wherein the first axis is located between the biasing element and the second axis in the length direction, and the second axis is located between the first axis and the third axis in the length direction.

7. The tethering system as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The second axis and the third axis are located above the plurality of second teeth in a height direction perpendicular to the length direction.

8. The tethering system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The tooth depth of the plurality of first teeth is between 0.12 inches and 0.18 inches.

9. A tethering clamp, comprising: ontology; A clamping member, pivotally coupled to the body, the clamping member including a first sidewall defined by an outer surface of the clamping member and a second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall and defined by the outer surface of the clamping member, wherein the clamping member is movable relative to the body between an open position and a closed position; A plurality of first teeth, wherein the plurality of first teeth extend from the clamping member toward the body, wherein each of the plurality of first teeth includes an end, and wherein the plurality of first teeth extend from the clamping member along an orientation such that the end of the plurality of first teeth is located on a convex arcuate path, and wherein the plurality of first teeth define a plurality of rows of teeth extending over the entire width of the clamping member from the first sidewall to the second sidewall.

10. The tethering clamp as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The body and the clamping member together define a clamping opening, wherein the plurality of first teeth are angled toward the interior of the clamping opening.

11. The tethering clamp as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The tooth depth of the plurality of first teeth is between 0.12 inches and 0.18 inches.

12. The tethering clamp of claim 11, further comprising a plurality of second teeth extending from the body toward the plurality of first teeth, wherein, When the tether clamp is in the closed position, the plurality of second teeth abut against the plurality of first teeth, wherein the tooth depth of the plurality of second teeth is between 0.12 inches and 0.18 inches, and wherein the plurality of second teeth are angled toward the interior of the clamp opening.

13. The tethering clamp of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of second teeth extending from the body toward the clamping member, wherein, Each of the plurality of second teeth includes an end, wherein each of the plurality of second teeth extends from the body in an orientation such that the end of the plurality of second teeth is located in a substantially horizontal plane.

14. The tethering clamp of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of second teeth extending from the body toward the plurality of first teeth, wherein, When the tether clamp is in the closed position, the plurality of second teeth abut against the plurality of first teeth.

15. A rigging clamp, comprising: ontology; A lever, which is pivotally connected to the body, such that the lever pivots relative to the body about a first axis; A clamping member, pivotally connected to the lever about a second axis, the clamping member including a first sidewall defined by an outer surface of the clamping member, a second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall and defined by the outer surface of the clamping member, and a bottom surface located between the first sidewall and the second sidewall, wherein the clamping member is movable relative to the body between an open position and a closed position; and A plurality of first teeth are coupled to the bottom surface of the clamping member and extend from the clamping member toward the body, wherein each of the plurality of first teeth includes an end, wherein the plurality of first teeth extend from the clamping member along an orientation such that the end of the plurality of first teeth is located on a convex arcuate path; The plurality of first teeth are defined as multiple rows of teeth extending over the entire width of the clamping member from the first sidewall to the second sidewall. Wherein, the clamping member pivots relative to the body about a third axis; and The first axis, the second axis, and the third axis are spaced apart from each other and are parallel to each other.

16. The tethering clamp of claim 15, further comprising a plurality of second teeth extending from the body toward the clamping member, wherein, In the closed position, the plurality of second teeth abut against the plurality of first teeth, and the plurality of first teeth engage with the plurality of second teeth.

17. The tethering clamp as claimed in claim 16, wherein, Each of the plurality of second teeth includes an end, wherein the plurality of second teeth extend from the body along an orientation such that the end of the plurality of second teeth is located in a substantially horizontal plane.

18. The tethering clamp as claimed in claim 16, wherein, The second axis and the third axis are located above the plurality of second teeth in the height direction.

19. The tethering clamp as claimed in claim 16, wherein, When the clamping member is in the closed position, the second axis is closer to the plurality of second teeth than the third axis.

20. The tethering clamp of claim 16, further comprising a biasing element located between the body and the lever, wherein, The biasing element biases the clamping member toward the closed position.

21. The tethering clamp as claimed in claim 16, wherein, The convex arcuate path of the end of the plurality of first teeth causes the first portion of the plurality of first teeth to be located between the second axis and the plurality of second teeth.

22. The tethering clamp as claimed in claim 15, wherein, The second axis and the third axis are located above the plurality of first teeth in the vertical direction.

23. The tethering clamp as described in claim 15, wherein, The lever has a tapering shape.

24. The tethering clamp as claimed in claim 17, wherein, The body and the clamping member together define a clamping opening, wherein the plurality of second teeth are angled toward the interior of the clamping opening.

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