Rope binding tool

Abstract

A rope harness comprises a braid layer (3) formed in the shape of a loop to form a waistband (1) or a leg loop (2). The braid layer (3) comprises first and second yarns (6a, 7a) knitted to form a braid extending from one longitudinal end to the other. The first and second yarns (6a, 7a) join the two ends and the two transverse edges, respectively. The braid layer (3) presents a wide portion (3b) and a narrow portion (3a) that are offset in length. The braid layer (3) has at least one fold defining fold lines (8) extending predominantly in the first direction (XX) to form the narrow portion (3), the at least one fold having a support portion (3 ') and an overlap portion (3' ') folded onto the support portion (3'), the overlap portion (3 '') and the support portion (3 ') having a common first yarn (6a) and a second yarn (7a).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to a rope harness. Background Art

[0002] In the field of working at heights, it is known to use a rope harness having a waistband and a pair of leg loops. The rope harness is usually provided with an adjustment system configured to adjust the perimeter of the waistband or the leg loops.

[0003] In a conventional manner, the adjustment system is formed by two elements, which are usually an adjustment buckle and an adjustment webbing. The adjustment webbing passes through the adjustment buckle and is blocked to define the value of the perimeter. Once a fall occurs, the two elements of the adjustment system are connected to each other by one or more resistance bands that provide the mechanical strength of the loop.

[0004] It is known to manufacture the waistband or the leg loops using a single webbing having a large constant width. The wider the webbing, the lower the pressure between the webbing and the user in the event of a fall, thus reducing the risk of injury. However, using a webbing with a large constant width is not very practical and / or not very comfortable, because a trade-off must be found between the size and the contact surface. The stiffness of the webbing limits the comfort of the user.

[0005] To enhance the comfort of the user, a comfort foam can be installed between the webbing and the user. The comfort foam extends over almost the entire perimeter of the waistband to engage the two elements of the adjustment system. The width of the webbing is defined to withstand the forces of a fall. The webbing is substantially arranged in the middle of the width of the comfort foam. The comfort foam distributes the pressure exerted by the webbing on the user's body. A good trade-off must be found between the width of the webbing and the characteristics of the comfort foam (especially the width, thickness and flexibility) in order to provide good comfort when wearing the harness. An embodiment is illustrated in document EP0736310.

[0006] To improve the comfort of the harness, the single webbing has been replaced by two webbing straps with smaller widths, which makes it possible to change the distribution of the forces exerted by the waistband on the user in the event of a fall. On the other hand, a trade-off must be found between the widths of the two straps and their spacing to provide acceptable or good comfort. As an alternative, as shown in document EP2383018, the webbing is divided into two parts. The webbing can be divided into two parts in the longitudinal direction, or a second webbing is fixed on top of the first webbing in the thickness direction.

[0007] In an alternative embodiment shown in the document WO2005 / 000413, a webbing with a variable width is proposed along the perimeter of the belt. The width is reduced in the area interacting with the adjustment system in order to reduce the size of the front part of the harness. Due to its manufacturing method, the width modification is applied symmetrically in the length direction of the webbing, making it difficult to produce a webbing with a suitable shape to form an ergonomic waist belt or leg loop.

[0008] These tricky problems exist particularly in climbing harnesses, where the user may remain suspended in his harness for a long time, which means that the harness must therefore offer a greater degree of comfort. A gain in comfort is obtained by using comfort foam, which results in a greater volume.

[0009] To improve comfort, it has been proposed to use thin webbings or cords made of a rigid material, which are arranged in a substantially uniform manner over the entire width of a comfort foam or a moderately rigid fabric support. The webbings are fixed to the support defining the waist belt such that the forces borne by the plurality of bands / cords in the event of a fall are transmitted to the user's body in a more uniform manner by means of the fabric support. However, although this configuration gives good results, this configuration is long and cumbersome to implement because the plurality of bands / cords must be arranged on the fabric support and then fixed according to a predefined pattern such that the tension of the bands / cords over the entire surface of the comfort foam (e.g. over the entire width of the webbing) is substantially the same in the event of a fall.

[0010] According to another embodiment shown in the document EP1834543, the waist belt is formed by a webbing and the weft threads are eliminated in a part of the webbing in order to free the warp threads from each other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the warp threads. The warp threads are spaced apart from each other to locally increase the width of the belt. The warp threads are blocked relative to each other by means of a support, by gluing or by stitching. This configuration is cumbersome and the support device reduces the compactness performance.

[0011] In the document FR3007994, it has also been proposed to produce a cord harness, the waist belt of which is laser cut into the form of a blanket or a webbing. The laser cutting step ensures a more or less large area to be formed, in order to define a waist belt with a shape better adapted to the morphology of the user, by means of a lumbar support area, a hip support area and a thinner end for attaching the adjustment system. However, it is obvious that the mechanical properties of this architecture are low because the lateral edges do not withstand any force in the event of a fall.

[0012] Document EP0736310 discloses a rope harness. The thigh loop of the rope harness is formed by a strap provided with a folding portion extending from one end to the other along the length of the strap. The folded area has a constant width over the entire length of the strap. The folded area forms an area with two thicknesses of the webbing. The folded area is a more rigid area. Outside the folded area, i.e., in the single-thickness area, the strap has a variable width, where some threads extend from one end to the other and all other threads are mechanically inactive as they do not continuously extend over the entire length of the strap. The technical result is substantially the same as that of FR3007994. Summary of the Utility Model

[0013] An object of the present utility model is to provide a rope harness that presents a better trade-off between its size and comfort while remaining easy to implement.

[0014] According to a feature of the present utility model, the rope harness includes a waistband, a pair of leg loops, a woven layer in the form of a loop to form the waistband or leg loops, and a closure member fixed to the first end and the opposite second end of the woven layer to close the loop.

[0015] The woven layer includes a first yarn and a second yarn woven together to form a fabric that extends seamlessly from the first end to the opposite second end in a first direction. The first yarn extends continuously from the first end to the second end to provide the mechanical strength of the loop, while the second yarn extends in a second direction.

[0016] The woven layer presents a wide portion having a greater width than the narrow portion, and the wide portion and the narrow portion are offset in the first direction when measuring the width in the second direction.

[0017] The remarkable feature of the rope harness is that the woven layer has at least one folding portion. The at least one folding portion defines a folding line that extends mainly in the first direction and includes a component in the second direction to form the narrow portion. The folding portion includes a support portion and an overlapping portion folded onto the support portion;

[0018] wherein the overlapping portion and the support portion each have a first yarn, and wherein the overlapping portion and the support portion have a common second yarn, and the wide portion and the narrow portion have the same number of first yarns.

[0019] Advantageously, the overlapping portion and the support portion have a common first yarn.

[0020] In a specific configuration, the waistband or leg loop has a first end that is thicker than the central region. The central region is arranged between the opposite first end and the second end in the first direction, and the thickness is measured perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction. The waistband and the leg loop have an inner surface designed to contact the user and an opposite outer surface.

[0021] In an advantageous refinement, the folding line defines an angle of less than 30° with respect to the first direction.

[0022] Preferably, the overlapping portion covers at least 50% of the width of the support portion, which width extends from the first edge to the second edge.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the overlapping portion covers 100% of the width of the support portion.

[0024] In an advantageous refinement, the first yarn of the overlapping portion is offset from the first yarn of the support portion.

[0025] Preferably, the narrow portion has at least one seam defining the offset between the first yarns.

[0026] In another advantageous refinement, the closure is selected from an adjustment system that is connected to the first end and the second end of the woven layer and is configured to close and adjust the circumference of the loop, or an opening and closing system that is connected to both ends of the woven layer and is configured to open and close the loop.

[0027] Preferably, the closure is an adjustment system including a first webbing portion and a second buckle portion, the first webbing portion including a strap designed to be inserted into the buckle of the second buckle portion, and wherein the narrow portion forms the strap and the first yarn is inserted into the buckle.

[0028] Advantageously, the closure is an adjustment system including a first webbing portion and a second buckle portion, the first webbing portion including a strap designed to be inserted into the buckle of the second buckle portion, and wherein the narrow portion forms a wire element attaching the buckle, and the first yarn bypasses a portion of the buckle to attach the buckle to the woven layer.

[0029] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a rope harness, which is easy to implement and enables the formation of a harness with a better trade-off between comfort and compactness.

[0030] This result is preferably achieved by a method for manufacturing a rope harness, the method comprising the steps of:

[0031] - providing a woven band including a first yarn woven with a second yarn to form a fabric, the first yarn extending in a first direction and the second yarn extending in a second direction, the woven band having a thickness;

[0032] - Cut the woven tape into a predetermined shape to define a woven layer designed to form a belt or leg loop for a cable tie-down, the weaving extending seamlessly from a first end to a second end in a first direction and from a first edge to a second edge in a second direction, each first yarn extending continuously from the first end to the second end in the first direction to achieve mechanical continuity, and a second yarn extending continuously from the first edge to the second edge, wherein each second yarn mechanically engages all of the first yarns in the second direction;

[0033] - Fold a portion of the woven layer to form a wide portion and a narrow portion, the wide portion and the narrow portion being woven and offset in the first direction, the width being measured in the second direction, the narrow portion being obtained by folding with at least one fold line extending mainly in the first direction, the narrow portion having at least two thicknesses of the woven layer, the two thicknesses of the woven layer being mechanically joined by the continuity of the first and second yarns.

[0034] Preferably, forming the closure involves forming an adjustment system including a first webbing portion and a second buckle portion, the first webbing portion and the second buckle portion being located at the first end and the second end of the woven layer respectively and being configured to adjust the circumference of the belt or leg loop, each first yarn extending continuously from the first webbing portion to the second buckle portion in the first direction to achieve mechanical continuity. The first yarns of the two thicknesses of the narrow portion extend to the first webbing portion. Description of the Drawings

[0035] Other advantages and features will become more clearly apparent from the following description of specific embodiments and implementation modes of the present invention given solely by way of non-limiting example and shown in the drawings, wherein:

[0036] Figure 1 A perspective view of the tie-down is schematically shown;

[0037] Figure 2 A perspective view of a specific embodiment of the tie-down is schematically shown;

[0038] Figure 3 A front view of the woven layer designed to form a belt according to one embodiment is schematically shown;

[0039] Figure 4 A front view of a specific portion of the woven layer is schematically shown;

[0040] Figure 5 Schematically shown is Figure 4 A front view of the specific portion of the woven layer shown in after folding;

[0041] Figure 6 Schematically shown is Figure 4Front view of a specific part of the braided layer shown, where several regions have different mechanical properties;

[0042] Figure 7 A belt is schematically shown that is designed to be cut to form one or more braided layers representing a waistband or leg loop. Detailed description of the invention

[0043] Figures 1 to 7 Different embodiments of a harness including a waistband 1 and a pair of leg loops 2 are shown. As Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown, the harness further includes a braided layer 3 that is arranged in the form of a loop and is designed to form the waistband 1 or the leg loop 2. The loop is closed by a closure 4. The closure 4 is fixedly arranged at the first end 3a and the second end 3b of the loop. The first end 3a and the second end 3b are opposite to each other in the first direction XX.

[0044] According to an embodiment, the closure 4 is selected from an adjustment system 5 configured to adjust the circumference of the braided layer in the form of a loop, or an opening and closing system configured to open and close the loop, or a seam that firmly holds the two ends of the loop in place. Figure 2 Different adjustment systems that are also opening and closing systems are shown.

[0045] The adjustment system 5 preferably includes a first part and a second part that cooperate with each other to adjust the circumference of the loop. Advantageously, the first part is a first webbing part 5a and the second part is a second buckle part 5b. The second buckle part 5b has a buckle through which the webbing of the first webbing part 5a passes to adjust the circumference. The first webbing part 5a and the second buckle part 5b are fixedly arranged at each of the ends of the braided layer 3 in the first direction XX. The webbing of the first webbing part 5a is fixed in the buckle of the second buckle part 5b to set the circumference of the loop. The opening and closing system is associated with the braided layer 3 in the same way, where the first part is fixed to the first end 3a and the second part is fixed to the second end 3b.

[0046] The braided layer 3 includes longitudinal yarns 6 and transverse yarns 7 that are braided together to form a braid. The longitudinal yarns 6 extend in the first direction XX while the transverse yarns 7 extend in a second direction YY perpendicular to the first direction XX. The braid extends seamlessly from the first end 3a to the opposite second end 3b in the first direction XX. The braid extends seamlessly from the first edge 3c to the opposite second edge 3d in the second direction YY.

[0047] The longitudinal yarns 6 include a first yarn 6a. Each first yarn 6a extends continuously in the first longitudinal direction XX from a first end 3a to an opposite second end 3b to provide the mechanical strength required for the belt 1 or the leg loop 2 in the event of a fall. The first yarn 6a is fixed to the closure to ensure the mechanical integrity of the loop in the closed position in the event of a fall.

[0048] The transverse yarns 7 include a second yarn 7a extending in a second direction YY. The second yarn 7a extends continuously in the second direction YY from a first edge 3c to an opposite second edge 3d and connects the first yarns 6a, preferably all the first yarns 6a.

[0049] The woven layer 3 includes the first yarns 6a and the second yarns 7a, and the first yarns 6a and the second yarns 7a are interwoven to provide the required mechanical properties in the first direction XX and the second direction YY. Advantageously, the woven layer 3 has a first region in which the woven longitudinal yarns 6 are only the first yarns 6a. The first woven region extends continuously in the second direction YY. Preferably, the first woven region is unique, that is, all the first yarns 6a are included in the first region. The first woven region is formed only by the first yarns 6a, so as to provide the strength of the woven layer 3 in the first direction XX in the event of a fall to ensure the integrity of the loop.

[0050] The first yarns 6a may include only yarns with the same or substantially the same resistance to ensure a predetermined mechanical strength in the first direction XX. As an alternative, the first yarns 6a may include yarns with different mechanical strengths in order to achieve a better trade-off between mechanical strength and the surface occupied by the first yarns 6a in the second direction YY. The nature and cross-section of the first yarns 6a are defined so as to obtain the required mechanical properties in the first direction XX. Advantageously, all the first yarns 6a are the same.

[0051] To improve the comfort when the user is suspended in his harness, it is advantageous to have as large a mechanically active contact surface as possible to place the load on a large number of first yarns 6a. However, the width of the harness cannot be increased too much so as not to compromise the comfort, weight and compressibility (if applicable) of the latter when it is not in the suspended state.

[0052] The woven layer 3 has a thickness defined by the diameter of the yarns used and one or more weaves applied.

[0053] The braided layer 3 preferably presents a wide portion 3f and a narrow portion 3e, the wide portion 3f having a greater width than the narrow portion 3e. The wide portion 3f and the narrow portion 3e are braided. The wide portion 3f and the narrow portion 3e are offset in the first direction XX. The width is measured in the second direction YY. The variation in the width of the braided layer 3 enables the shape of the waistband 1 or the leg loop 2 to be better adjusted to match the morphology of the user. The seamless braiding in the XX and YY directions results in a better pressure distribution when the user is suspended. Preferably, the wide portion 3f is in the dorsal part of the waistband 1 or in the rear part of the leg loop 2. On the other hand, the narrow portion 3e is preferably in the abdominal part so as not to impede the user when the user bends forward. The front part of the leg loop 2 can also be associated with a less wide portion since the absorption of strain is mitigated. This adaptation of the shape enables the harness to be lightened.

[0054] In order to withstand high stresses in the event of a fall, a large number of first yarns 6a are stressed. In prior art configurations, this result is obtained using a single strap of large width. The wider the strap, the greater the number of first yarns 6a that will be stressed. This width is much larger than the width required to withstand the fall load, but this results in a reduced pressure on the user. However, in return, the adjustment system is larger in volume.

[0055] In order to provide a braided layer 3 that presents a better trade-off between strength in the first direction XX and comfort represented by the width in the second direction YY, the braided layer 3 preferably has at least one narrow portion 3e and one wide portion 3f. The narrow portion 3e is formed by at least one fold. The fold is defined by a fold line 8, which represents the boundary of the narrow portion 3e where the braided layer 3 is folded onto itself. The fold line 8 mainly extends in the first direction XX so that the first yarns 6a work effectively in the event of a fall. Preferably, the fold line 8 also has a component in the second direction YY.

[0056] When the fold line 8 is parallel to the second direction YY or almost parallel to the second direction YY, the mechanical stress in the fold region causes two portions of the first yarns 6 disposed on both sides of the fold to work differently.

[0057] The fold region is formed by the braided layer 3, which defines a support portion 3′ and an overlapping portion 3”, as Figure 4 shown. As Figure 5As shown, the overlapping portion 3″ is folded onto the support portion 3′. The support portion 3″ and the overlapping portion 3′ have one or more common first yarns 6a. The overlapping of the support portion 3′ by the overlapping portion 3″ makes it possible to reduce the effective width of the knitted layer 3 while maintaining the number of first yarns 6a, and the knitted layer 3 will be stressed in the case of a fall. By folding and locally increasing the thickness, a large number of first yarns 6a can act in a situation such as the back portion of the waistband 1 or the rear portion of the leg loop 2.

[0058] The overlapping portion 3″ and the support portion 3′ have a common second yarn 7a, thus enabling better force transmission in the folded portion. Using the common first yarn 6a and the second yarn 7a between the overlapping portion 3″ and the support portion 3′ ensures better force transmission.

[0059] Using the first yarn 6a that connects the two ends 3a and 3b and passes through the wide area 3f and the narrow area 3e makes it possible to provide a knitted layer 3 that can be better adjusted to fit the user's body shape while having a large number of first yarns 6a. The wide area 3f and the narrow area 3e have the same number of first yarns 6a. The second yarn 7a that connects the two thicknesses ensures good transmission of force between the two folded layers, and the two thicknesses provide greater stiffness. Advantageously, for each given group of continuous first yarns, such as at least ten first yarns, the number of yarns per centimeter is constant from the first end to the second end. It is also advantageous that the number of yarns per centimeter in the portion containing the first yarns is constant from one end to the other in the YY direction.

[0060] Increasing the thickness makes it possible to locally increase the stiffness of the knitted layer 3, which may be advantageous near an adjustment system or an opening and closing system to facilitate the use of the latter, especially when wearing gloves.

[0061] The same number of first yarns 6a pass through the narrow portion 3e and the wide portion 3f. They have the same or substantially the same mechanical properties in the first direction XX. The distribution of the first yarns 6a over at least two thicknesses of the knitted layer 3a makes it possible to use a large number of first yarns 6a, thus making it possible to reduce the cross-section of the first yarns 6a and / or reduce the thickness of the comfort foam. In certain cases, the waistband 1 and / or the leg loop 2 do not have comfort foam. Reducing the cross-section of the yarns ensures an improvement in the flexibility of the knitted layer 3.

[0062] Folding is an operation that is easy to perform and well mastered, thus enabling the economical formation of a harness.

[0063] In a preferred manner, the longitudinal yarn 6 includes a first yarn 6a and an additional first yarn 6b. The additional first yarn 6b does not continuously extend from the first end 3a to the second end 3b and / or is not fixed to the closure 4 at least at one of their ends. The additional first yarn 6b is joined to the first yarn 6a by a second yarn 7a to ensure mechanical cohesion from the first edge 3c to the second edge 3d.

[0064] In the event of a fall, the additional first yarn 6b will not be subjected to as much stress as the first yarn 6a and cannot be used for the purpose of ensuring the mechanical integrity of the harness. The additional first yarn 6b is woven together with the second yarn 7a such that at least one woven area extending beyond the first yarn in the wide part 3f is formed. The at least one woven area ensures that the user's comfort is enhanced by slightly absorbing strain and by increasing the contact area with the user.

[0065] The additional first yarn 6b is preferably made of a material different from the material forming the first yarn 6a. In a preferred manner, the first yarn 6a forms a single area continuously extending in the second direction YY. The additional first yarn 6b forms one or two woven areas on one or both sides of the area formed by the first yarn 6a in the second direction YY.

[0066] In a preferred manner, the fold line 8 defines an angle of less than 30° with the first direction XX. More preferably, the fold line 8 defines an angle of less than 20°. The smaller the angle, the closer the behavior between the folded first yarn 6a and the non-folded first yarn 6a. Advantageously, the fold line 8 defines an angle of at least equal to 5° to achieve a good trade-off between the length of the narrow part 3e in the first direction XX and the length of the overlapping part 3″ in the second direction YY.

[0067] In a preferred manner, each first yarn 6a is not continuous with the other first yarns 6a, and each second yarn 7a is not continuous with the other second yarns 7a. In other words, the first yarn 6a and the second yarn 7a are not formed by a single yarn. The first yarn 6a and the second yarn 7a are cut at their two terminals. The second yarn 7a provides a transverse mechanical connection between the first yarns 6a by mechanically connecting all the first yarns 6a, and more preferably all the longitudinal yarns 6.

[0068] The woven layer 3 can be formed by cutting a fabric or a webbing, for example by laser cutting. The fabric or the webbing has warp yarns and weft yarns woven together in a predetermined two-dimensional or three-dimensional layout. Then the fabric or the webbing is cut according to a predetermined pattern to form the woven layer 3 with the first yarn 6a and the additional first yarn 6b (if applicable) correctly positioned.

[0069] After the fabric or webbing has been cut, the first yarns 6a are independent of each other in response to the pinning stress in the longitudinal direction XX. The second yarns 7a are independent of each other in response to the pinning stress in the second direction YY. Cutting the initial material to form the woven layer 3 makes it impossible to determine which yarns are the weft yarns and which yarns are the warp yarns.

[0070] The independence of the second yarns 7a in the second direction YY enables the woven material to have greater flexibility compared to a fabric in which the first yarns 6 or the second yarns 7 correspond to one and the same yarn.

[0071] Advantageously, the narrow part 3e has a width that is at least 30% smaller than the width of the wide part 3f. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the particular embodiment shown, the narrow part 3e is formed by a single fold of the woven layer 3. Another narrow part 3e can be provided by two folds with two fold lines 8 for the narrow part 3e. The choice between a single fold line 8 or two fold lines 8 depends on the shape of the narrow part 3e and the ease of making the cuts and folds.

[0072] The narrow part 3e formed by at least one fold enables a part of the woven layer 3 to overlap another part of the woven layer 3 in the thickness direction perpendicular to the first direction XX and the second direction YY. To enable the first yarns 6a to function well, it is advantageous that the first yarns 6a of the two thicknesses of the narrow part 3e deviate as Figure 5 shown. The narrow part 3e has at least one seam 9 that defines the deviation between the first yarns 6a. In other words, it is disadvantageous to want to form a second fold in the continuity of the first fold such that the first yarns 6a are arranged parallel to each other. Two consecutive folds close to each other in the first direction XX will create an asymmetry in the forces applied between different first yarns 6a.

[0073] In a particularly advantageous configuration, the narrow area 3e is narrow enough to form a webbing belt that can pass through a conventional buckle of the adjustment system 5. This embodiment is particularly advantageous because the first yarns 6a of the woven layer 3 form the belt of the first webbing part 5a, i.e., the part that passes through the buckle and moves in the buckle to define the circumference of the loop and is fixed in the buckle to secure the circumference of the loop.

[0074] This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it avoids having to attach the webbing to the ends of the woven layer 3 to achieve mechanical continuity between the woven layer 3 and the first webbing part 5a. The transfer of force is better applied. The woven layer 3 then forms part of the adjustment system 5.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment, the end of the braided layer 3 designed to receive the second buckle part 5b forms a narrow part 3e. The narrow part 3e is obtained by at least one folding line. In a particular case, the braided layer 3 is folded such that the width is equal to or substantially equal to the width of the webbing of the buckle supporting the second buckle part 5b. In another particular case, the narrow part 3e forms a wire element such as a band of the buckle supporting the second buckle part 5b. The wire element forms a closed loop. The loop is closed by a seam extending in the second direction YY (e.g., from one edge to the other). The buckle of the adjustment system 5 is enclosed in the loop. In this particular case, the braided layer 3 forms part of the adjustment system 5. For the previous configuration, the folding of the braided layer 3 allows for a large contact surface with the user in the wide part having a large number of first yarns 6a (e.g., the back of the harness) and for holding the large number of first yarns 6a in the adjustment system 5. Near the mid-sagittal plane, the width of the braided layer 3 is reduced so as not to inconvenience the user when the user bends forward.

[0076] In order to achieve a better trade-off between comfort and ease of adjustment, it is advantageous for the two ends of the braided layer 3 to be narrow parts 3e. The first narrow part 3e is designed to fix or form the band of the first webbing part 5a, and the second narrow part 3e is designed to fix the second buckle part 5b or to fix the buckle. This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it allows for a harness with reduced weight to be achieved.

[0077] Particularly advantageously, the folding region (i.e., the region where two thicknesses of the braided layer 3 overlap) is fixed to each other by at least one fastening seam 9. The use of the fastening seam 9 allows for the positions of the first yarns 6a to be fixed relative to each other and for a stiffer narrow part 3e to be formed. The increased stiffness results in a more uniform stress of the first yarns 6a compared to a region where the two thicknesses of the braided layer 3 can deform independently of each other.

[0078] The cord harness can be manufactured by a simple and easy-to-implement manufacturing method.

[0079] A braided material band is provided, which includes longitudinal yarns 6 braided with transverse yarns 7. The braided material at least includes first yarns 6a braided with second yarns 7a in one or more predetermined braiding patterns. The band can be a fabric or possibly a webbing. The first yarns 6a extend in the first direction XX, and the second yarns 7a extend in the second direction YY. The band has a thickness. In a preferred manner, a fabric is used so as to provide greater freedom regarding the shape and / or definition of braided regions with different mechanical properties (e.g., differences in the yarns used or the braiding patterns used). The use of the fabric enables one or more braiding patterns to be formed that are arranged asymmetrically with respect to the first direction XX or with respect to the second direction YY, which is preferred for forming several patterns representing the waistband 1 and / or the leg loops 2 on the same band.

[0080] The strip is cut into a predetermined shape to define the braided layer 3, which is designed to form the waistband 1 or the leg loop 2 of the harness. The braid extends continuously from a first end 3a to a second end 3b in a first direction XX, and from a first edge 3a to a second edge 3d in a second direction YY. Each first yarn 6a extends continuously in the first direction XX, for example from a first webbing portion 5a to a second buckle portion 5b, to provide mechanical continuity. The second yarns 7a extend continuously from a first edge 3c to a second edge 3d.

[0081] Each second yarn 7a mechanically engages all the first yarns 6a in the second direction YY and is discontinuous with the other second yarns 7a. Each first yarn 6a is discontinuous with the other first yarns 6a. Each first yarn 6a preferably engages all the second yarns 7a.

[0082] A portion of the braided layer 3 is folded to form a wide portion 3f and a narrow portion 3e. The wide portion 3f and the narrow portion 3e are braided. The wide portion 3f and the narrow portion 3e are offset in the first direction XX. The width is measured in the second direction YY.

[0083] The narrow portion 3e is obtained by folding at least one fold line 8 extending mainly in the first direction XX. The narrow portion 3e has at least two thicknesses of the braided layer 3. The two thicknesses of the braided layer 3 are mechanically joined by the continuity of the first yarns 6a and the second yarns 7a.

[0084] The first webbing portion 5a and the second buckle portion 5b are formed to be arranged at two opposite ends of the braided layer 3 in the first direction XX and are configured to adjust the perimeter of one of the waistband 1 or the leg loop 2. Each first yarn 6a extends continuously from the first webbing portion 5a to the second buckle portion 5b in the first direction XX to provide mechanical continuity. The first yarns 6a of the two thicknesses of the narrow portion 3e extend from the first webbing portion 5a to the second buckle portion 5b.

[0085] When forming the braided material strip, the first braided yarns 6a and the second yarns 7a are braided to form a braided pattern representing the waistband 1 or the leg loop 2. The braided pattern is cut, for example by laser cutting, to form the braided layer 3. In a preferred manner, the cutting pattern includes a braided portion formed by the first yarns 6a and the second yarns 7a and one or more additional portions formed by additional first yarns 6b and additional second yarns 7b braided together. The additional first yarns 6b are arranged in a manner parallel to the first yarns 6a. The characteristics of the first yarns 6a, their number, and the braiding pattern with the second yarns 7a are pre-defined to withstand a set of stresses representing the waistband 1 or the leg loop 2.

[0086] The shape of the braided layer 3, in particular the shape of the braiding pattern formed by the first yarn 6a and the second yarn 7a, is provided by a loom. The shape of the additional pattern formed by the additional first yarn 6b and the second yarn 7a is defined by the same loom. All patterns are made in a single braiding operation, i.e., by a single loom and in a single run.

[0087] Depending on the configuration, the first yarn 6a and the second yarn 7a are, respectively, the warp yarn and the weft yarn, or the weft yarn and the warp yarn.

[0088] A number of patterns representing the belt and / or the leg loop are formed on the same belt by a single loom in a single weaving operation. The belt is then cut in order to identify the number of braided layers 3 designed to form the belt 1 and / or the leg loop 2. One and the same belt undergoes a number of successive cuts in order to form different patterns representing belts 1 with different lengths and / or widths and / or different patterns representing leg loops 2 with different lengths and / or widths.

[0089] In a preferred manner, the braided layer 3 representing the belt 1 or the leg loop 2 includes a central strip that has only the first yarn 6a in the XX direction and extends mainly in the first direction XX. The pattern preferably includes one or more additional regions that extend from the central strip and form at least a part of one edge of the braided layer 3.

[0090] Once the belt has been cut to form the braided layer, a fold is made that defines a fold line 8. The fold enables the width of the braided layer 3 to be reduced while the first yarn 6a and the second yarn 7a have mechanical continuity. One or more folds reduce the width of the braided layer 3 and ensure a substantially constant tensile strength from the first end 3a to the second end 3b.

[0091] In a preferred manner, a stitching step is performed on the folded area in order to stop the position of the first yarn 6a relative to each other in the first direction XX, for at least two superimposed thicknesses. This makes it possible to have a more uniform deformation between the two thicknesses of the braided layer 3 and thus a more uniform stress of the first yarn 6a.

[0092] In a particular embodiment, the first webbing member 5a includes a webbing stitched to one end of the woven layer. The width of the webbing corresponds to the width of the narrow portion 3e so as to apply stress to all of the first yarns 6a. In another particular embodiment, the second buckle portion 5b includes a webbing stitched to one end of the woven layer 3. The width of the webbing corresponds to the width of the narrow portion 3e so as to apply stress to all of the first yarns 6a. Preferably, the webbing is fastened by stitching. The stitching yarn passes through a plurality of thicknesses of the fabric woven layer 3 in the thickness direction. The stitching of the two folded portions of the woven material enables the positions of the two folded portions to be fixed, thereby fixing the spatial configuration of the first yarns 6a.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment, the overlapping portion 3″ includes first yarns 6b and additional first yarns 6b, and the overlapping portion 3″ has the same shape as the shape of the support portion 3′. The overlapping portion 3” and the support portion 3′ are fixed to each other by stitching yarns 9. Although the overlapping portion 3″ has additional first yarns 6b, the complete coverage of the support portion 3′ from one edge to the other enables the mechanical function of the narrow portion 3e to be obtained.

[0094] This configuration is particularly advantageous because it enables the waistband 1 or the leg loop 2 to be formed with a large proportion of first yarns 6a compared to the longitudinal yarns 6. The waistband 1 or the leg loop 2 can be formed without a comfort foam, thereby reducing weight and volume. The woven layer 3 can be made of a fabric including two folded portions, that is, having two sets of weft yarns and warp yarns arranged on top of each other. One folded portion provides the mechanical strength of the woven layer 3. The other folded portion forms a protective layer to prevent direct contact of the first yarns 6a on the surface of the woven layer 3.

[0095] When the second yarn 7a has a constant diameter between the narrow portion 3e and the wide portion 3f, forming the folded portion enables a woven layer 3 to be formed that is thicker than the wide portion 3f. When the second yarn 7a is the same or substantially the same between the narrow portion 3a and the wide portion 3f, the folded portion increases the stiffness of the narrow portion 3e relative to the wide portion 3f. When the first yarns 6a form a webbing passing through the buckle of the adjustment system, increasing the stiffness is particularly advantageous. This enables better control of the belt when dealing with the belt. If desired, the second folded portion can be formed of a material having a lower static and / or dynamic coefficient of friction than the coefficient of friction of the first yarns 6a in order to better hold the loop at the selected circumference.

[0096] In order to form the narrow portion 3e or the end of the narrow portion 3e, it is also advantageous to select a second yarn 7a that is different from the other second yarns 7a in order to have a lower static coefficient of friction and / or dynamic coefficient of friction than the static coefficient of friction and / or dynamic coefficient of friction of the first yarns 6a in order to better hold the loop at the selected circumference. The second yarn 7a can also be selected to adjust the stiffness value of the narrow portion 3e or a part of the narrow portion 3e.

[0097] Such an embodiment can be used to form the narrow portion 3e, which is designed to receive the second buckle portion 5b or attach the buckle.

[0098] As an alternative or addition to the braided layer 3 including the narrow portion 3e obtained by folding, it is particularly advantageous to provide a braided layer 3 having a number of braided portions continuously arranged in the first direction XX and / or the second direction YY and presenting different technical characteristics. As previously mentioned, the braided layer 3 presents a fabric that continuously extends from the first end 3a to the opposite second end 3b in the first direction XX and continuously extends from the first edge 3c to the second edge 3d in the second direction YY.

[0099] The braided layer 3 includes longitudinal yarns 6 and transverse yarns 7 braided together. The longitudinal yarns 6 include a first yarn 6a continuously extending from the first end 3a to the second end 3b to provide the mechanical strength of the loop.

[0100] It is particularly advantageous to provide two adjacent regions in each pair of adjacent regions to present different mechanical properties. The two adjacent regions have a common longitudinal or transverse yarn. The difference in mechanical properties between the two adjacent regions corresponds to at least one characteristic selected from:

[0101] - The difference in the chemical composition and / or diameter of the transverse yarns of two adjacent regions offset in the first direction XX,

[0102] - The difference in the chemical composition and / or diameter of the longitudinal yarns of two adjacent regions offset in the second direction YY,

[0103] - The difference in the warp and weft density patterns of the transverse yarns,

[0104] - The difference in the braiding pattern between the transverse yarns and the longitudinal yarns.

[0105] In a preferred manner, the two different adjacent regions are continuously arranged only in the first direction XX or only in the second direction YY. In other words, the two different adjacent regions share only the longitudinal yarns 6 or only the transverse yarns 7. Figure 4 and Figure 6 The braided layer 3 having different regions arranged one behind the other in the first direction XX or the second direction YY is shown. The regions 3g, 3h, 3i, 3j, 3k, 3l, 3m, and 3n are different regions arranged one behind the other in the first direction XX, and the first direction XX can be the weft direction or the warp direction. The regions 3o and 3p are different regions arranged one behind the other in the second direction YY, and the second direction YY can be the warp direction or the weft direction.

[0106] The use of at least a first region (e.g., 3g) and a second region (e.g., 3h, 3g and 3h being arranged continuously in a first direction XX and being traversed by a first yarn 6a) enables the functionalization of the woven layer 3 while having good force transmission from a first end 3a to a second end 3b, i.e., adapting the mechanical properties of the woven layer 3 to handle specific problems. The functionalization is achieved by using different second yarns 7a and / or different weaving patterns between the first region and the second region.

[0107] The first region has a first type of second yarn 7a and a first weaving pattern. The second region has a second type of second yarn 7a and a second weaving pattern. The first type of second yarn is different from the second type of second yarn and / or the first weaving pattern is different from the second weaving pattern. For example, the different regions 3g - 3n are all different from adjacent regions by a mixture of different second yarns.

[0108] The first region is different from the second region by a difference in water permeability in the thickness direction. The water permeability is measured by a test according to the ISO 2528 standard or according to the EN ISO 12572 standard. The difference in permeability enables better regulation of sweating. For example, a part of the wide section 3j or 3l has a higher water permeability than the regions 3g or 3h because the wide regions 3j or 3l are designed to have more continuous contact with the body. Therefore, it must be able to better eliminate sweating.

[0109] As an alternative or in addition, the first region is different from the second region by a difference in air permeability in the thickness direction. The air permeability is measured by a test according to the ISO 9237 standard.

[0110] As an alternative or in addition, the first area is different from the second area by a difference in the bending strength of the force applied in the thickness direction ZZ. The difference in bending strength enables the adjustment of the comfort of the woven layer.

[0111] As an alternative or in addition, the first region is different from the second region by a difference in thickness, which enables the modulation of comfort and thus better adjustment of the mechanical properties to match the morphology of the user. Advantageously, there is a difference in thickness between the regions 3g and 3h to better adjust the ease of use of the parts involved when operating the adjustment device 5 or the opening - closing device.

[0112] As an alternative or complementary solution, the first region and the second region differ by a difference in elasticity in the second direction YY. The difference in elasticity enables the first yarn 6a to have different movements relative to each other in the second direction YY depending on the region, so that the shape of the woven layer can be better adjusted to match the morphology of the user. Regions 3h and 3j have different flexibilities in order to be better adjusted to meet the requirements of the user hanging in his harness.

[0113] In Figure 6 In the preferred manner shown, the woven layer 3 has at least three consecutive regions in the first direction XX. The at least three regions define two regions separated by a hinge region. The weaving and / or properties of the second yarn in the hinge region are configured to define a preferential bending in the first direction XX in response to a force in the ZZ direction. The hinge region exhibits a lower stiffness than the two adjacent regions. For example, region 3k forms a hinge region between regions 3j and 3l.

[0114] Advantageously, the woven layer 3 is provided with regions having a greater stiffness at each end of the woven layer 3. The regions with greater stiffness are preferably one of the narrow portions. More preferably, the two ends of the woven layer 3 are narrow portions 3e. For example, regions 3g and 3h exhibit a greater stiffness than regions 3j, 3k, 3l, 3m, and 3n in order to have greater comfort in the region of almost continuous contact with the body, and greater stiffness in the portion of the body where the pressure is lower results in less comfort.

[0115] When the woven layer 3 has a folding region, i.e., a region formed by two superimposed layers of the woven layer 3, it is advantageous for the second yarn 7a of the folding region to be formed of a second yarn different from the second yarn of the adjacent region of the folding region. Preferably, the folding region includes a second yarn 7a having a greater stiffness. For example, the second yarns used to form regions 3g, 3h, and 3i are different from the second yarn 7a used in region 3j and may be different from each other.

[0116] In a particular embodiment, the woven layer 3 has an end that is a folding region. The folding region has a region with greater stiffness and a softer region arranged continuously in the first direction XX. The softer region is designed to be folded onto itself and fixed by a stitching seam to secure the buckle or the buckle of the opening and closing device of the second buckle part 5b. For example, region 3g uses a second yarn 7a different from the second yarn of region 3h so that it can be easily folded relative to the folding line parallel to the second direction YY.

[0117] The use of the soft region makes it easier to fold the end of the woven layer 3 that is already a folded layer. Subsequently, the four layers of fabric are superimposed on each other. For example, the thickness of region 3g should be reduced relative to region 3h.

[0118] Functionalizing the braiding layer 3 by adjusting the mechanical properties of the second yarn 7a or the fabric makes it possible to provide a braiding layer 3 with a small thickness and which more closely matches the user's requirements.

[0119] Modifying the second yarn 7a to define at least two zones can be achieved in different ways. The difference in the second yarn 7a between the first zone and the second zone can be selected from different diameters, different chemical compositions or different surface states.

[0120] In one and the same zone, the second yarn 7a can be identical or can present a mixture between several yarns of different natures and / or dimensions.

[0121] In a particular case, the first zone is defined by a second yarn 7a of a first nature, for example a second yarn made of a high-resistance polyamide formed by multifilaments, and the second zone is defined by a mixture of a second yarn 7a of a first nature and a second yarn 7a of a second nature, for example a second yarn 7a made of a high-resistance polyamide and a second yarn 7a of the monofilament type.

[0122] The second yarn 7a extends from a first edge 3c to a second edge 3d in a second direction YY, the braiding layer 3 defining successive transverse zones 3g - 3n in which there is a uniformity of the second yarn 7a. Two successive transverse zones can differ from one another by a difference in the chemical composition of the second yarn 7a.

[0123] In a preferred manner, the braiding pattern is identical from the first edge 3c to the second edge 3d in a given transverse zone. Advantageously, for a given transverse zone 3g - 3n, the warp and weft densities are constant.

[0124] The braiding layer 3 has longitudinal zones 3o - 3p which extend in a first direction XX and which present a uniformity in the longitudinal yarns 6 used. The braiding layer 3 includes at least a first longitudinal zone 3o formed by all or part of the first yarn 6a. When the first yarn 6a is identical, the first yarn 6a only defines the first longitudinal zone 3o. When the first yarn 6a has two different types of yarns separated in a second direction YY to provide two different mechanical properties, the first yarn 6a defines a first longitudinal zone and a second longitudinal zone.

[0125] In an advantageous manner, the braiding layer 3 has at least two different longitudinal zones 3o and 3p. The second longitudinal zone 3p does not have the first yarn 6a.

[0126] The longitudinal regions and the transverse regions cross each other to define different functional regions, which have mechanical properties different from those of the immediately adjacent functional regions in the first direction XX or the second direction YY. Using a common longitudinal yarn 6 or a common transverse yarn 7 enables adaptation of the properties of the braided layer 3 while resulting in better force transmission. This avoids having to add one or more layers to the braided layer 3.

[0127] The braided layer 3 is obtained from a woven tape including a number of different functional regions. The tape has weft strips advancing in the weft direction and / or warp strips advancing in the warp direction. Preferably, in the warp strips, the composition of the warp yarns is constant from one edge of the warp strip to the other, and the same warp yarns have the same arrangement. Preferably, in the weft strips, the weft density of the weft yarns is constant from one edge of the weft strip to the other, and the same weft yarns have the same arrangement. The woven tape includes at least one weft strip and a number of warp strips or at least one warp strip and a number of weft strips.

[0128] Figure 7 A specific embodiment of a woven tape designed to form the waistband 1 is shown. The tape pattern is represented to provide better clarity and corresponds to the path taken by the cutting tool to form the braided layer 3.

[0129] The warp strips cross the weft strips to define regions having precise mechanical properties, which are derived from the weft and warp yarns used and the weaving pattern employed. The region is preferably in the form of a rectangle. The warp and weft yarns are selected, and the weaving program of the loom is configured to form multiple regions of the tape by different weft and warp strips.

[0130] The woven tape is formed by a loom. The loom weaves different yarns that will form the longitudinal yarn 6 and the transverse yarn 7 according to a predefined program. The woven tape has differences from the immediately adjacent regions in the warp or weft direction by at least the yarns used and / or the weaving pattern.

[0131] The woven tape is cut, for example by laser cutting, to form the braided layer 3, which is designed to form a waistband or a leg loop. It is even possible to form two leg loops from one and the same tape. The tape may include one or more patterns representing the waistband and / or one or more patterns representing a leg loop or a pair of leg loops. The weft strips and the warp strips form longitudinal strips and transverse strips, and vice versa. The weft strips and the warp strips have been defined in their dimensions and their mechanical properties to form a braided layer presenting specific mechanical properties. The woven tape is cut to position the weft strips and the warp strips in the expected positions of the transverse strips and the longitudinal strips, and vice versa.

[0132] Since the loom provides a great deal of freedom in the way it forms the weft and warp stripes, it is even possible to form two leg loops using the same woven tape. The woven tape may include one or more patterns representative of the waistband 1 and / or one or more patterns representative of the leg loop 2 or a pair of leg loops 2. The patterns may be arranged one after another in the weft or warp direction.

[0133] As Figure 7 shown, a single woven tape may contain waistband patterns of different sizes to form a waistband 1 suitable for users of different body sizes. The same is true for the leg loop 2.

[0134] Since the tape is woven using a loom, especially a jacquard loom, the shape of the area is free, enabling the woven tape to be formed in a single loom operation with patterns that are more suitable for forming several patterns representative of the waistband and / or leg loops, thus limiting waste compared to the manufacture of stripes.

[0135] The woven tape is cut relative to a reference in the woven tape in order to form a woven layer 3 having areas of the woven tape corresponding to areas of the woven layer with different technical characteristics.

Claims

1. A harness, comprising a waist belt (1), a pair of leg loops (2), a braided layer (3), and a closure member (4), wherein the braided layer (3) is in the form of a loop to form the waist belt (1) or the leg loops (2), and the closure member (4) is fixed to a first end (3a) and an opposite second end (3b) of the braided layer (3) to close the loop; in, The braided layer (3) comprises a first yarn (6a) and a second yarn (7a), wherein the first yarn (6a) and the second yarn (7a) are braided together to form a braid extending continuously from the first end (3a) to the opposite second end (3b) in a first direction (XX), the first yarn (6a) extending continuously from the first end (3a) to the second end (3b) to provide mechanical strength to the loop, and the second yarn (7a) extending in a second direction (YY); wherein the braided layer (3) presents a wide portion (3f) having a greater width than a narrow portion (3e), the wide portion (3f) and the narrow portion (3e) are offset in the first direction (XX), and the width is measured in the second direction (YY); Characterized in that the woven layer (3) has at least one folding portion defining a folding line (8), the folding line (8) mainly extending in the first direction (XX) and including a component in the second direction (YY) to form the narrow portion (3e), the folding portion comprising a supporting portion (3') and an overlapping portion (3") folded onto the supporting portion (3'); The overlapping portion (3") and the supporting portion (3') have a plurality of common first yarns (6a) and a plurality of common second yarns (7a), and the wide portion (3f) and the narrow portion (3e) have the same number of first yarns (6a).

2. The rope tie according to claim 1, characterized in that: The overlapping portion (3") and the supporting portion (3') have a common first yarn (6a).

3. The rope tie according to claim 1, characterized in that: The waist belt (1) or the leg loop (2) has a first end (3a) which is thicker than a central area, the central area is arranged between the opposite first end (3a) and the second end (3b) in the first direction (XX), and the thickness is measured perpendicular to the first direction (XX) and the second direction (YY), and the waist belt (1) and the leg loop (2) have an inner surface designed to contact a user and an opposite outer surface.

4. The rope harness according to claim 1, characterized in that: The folding line (8) defines an angle smaller than 30° relative to the first direction (XX).

5. The rope tie according to claim 1, characterized in that: The overlapping portion (3") covers at least 50% of the width of the supporting portion (3'), the width extending from the first edge (3c) to the second edge (3d).

6. The rope tie according to claim 5, characterized in that: The overlapping portion (3") covers 100% of the width of the supporting portion (3').

7. The rope harness according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first yarn (6a) of the overlapping portion (3") is offset from the first yarn (6a) of the supporting portion (3').

8. The rope tie according to claim 7, characterized in that: The narrow portion (3e) has at least one seam (10) defining a deviation between the first yarns (6a).

9. The rope harness according to claim 1, characterized in that: The closure member (4) is selected from an adjustment system (5) connected to the first end (3a) and the second end (3b) of the braided layer (3) and configured to close and adjust the circumference of the loop, or is selected from an opening and closing system connected to both ends of the braided layer and configured to open and close the loop.

10. The rope harness according to claim 9, characterized in that: The closure (4) is an adjustment system (5), comprising a first webbing portion (5a) and a second buckle portion (5b), the first webbing portion (5a) comprising a strap designed to be inserted into a buckle of the second buckle portion (5b), and wherein the narrow portion (3e) forms the strap, the first yarn (6a) being inserted into the buckle.

11. The rope harness according to claim 9, characterized in that: The closure (4) is an adjustment system (5) comprising a first webbing portion (5a) and a second buckle portion (5b), wherein the first webbing portion (5a) comprises a strap designed to be inserted into a buckle of the second buckle portion (5b), and wherein the narrow portion (3e) forms a thread element for attaching the buckle, and the first yarn (6a) passes around a portion of the buckle to attach the buckle to the braided layer (3).

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