Rope restraining device and rope tensioning device

Abstract

The present application provides rope restraint devices and rope tensioning devices that may incorporate shackles or other devices for selective interconnection to anchors. The device employs a selectively rotatable cam lever having a plurality of teeth and a gripping geometry that cooperates with a corresponding geometry in the rope carrier to restrain the rope. Tension in the rope will allow the rope to pass through the device in one direction, but tension in the opposite direction will prevent the rope from moving through the device.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 516,538, filed on July 31, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This application is related to U.S. Patent No. 8,997,315, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] The embodiments of the present application described herein are devices configured to selectively receive and secure a rope. In some alternative configurations, the device can be used as a pulley before the rope is secured. Background Art

[0005] In many situations, being able to quickly and efficiently attach the end of a rope to an object is advantageous. Typically, the user must tie the rope to the object, which can require knowledge of effective knot tying. In these situations, the user may be unable to apply tension after tying the knot or easily untie it. Furthermore, knots rely on the friction and structure of the rope itself to maintain a secure hold. While highly reliable when tied correctly, knots require proper training and practice to ensure safety, something many users lack.

[0006] Therefore, developed the device for bridging the gap between rope and object, thereby eliminated the device that knot, swaging fitting or other may not provide safe interconnection.Some devices in these devices are intended to make rope remain to be permanently constructed in the device or interconnected with the device, and other devices then allow rope to be selectively removed.The device that is used for rope maintenance also varies because of device design.For example, common boat cleat utilizes tortuous path, and wherein rope is wound around the physical constraint in the device or passes the physical constraint in the device to tighten rope, thereby relies on the friction between the overlapping rope parts and rope is kept in place.Obviously, the knot in this sense is also a kind of tortuous path maintenance scheme.Typical boat cleat is a kind of static device that is permanently attached to anchoring position, and purpose is when using this device at every turn, rope to be tightened is introduced into device and removed from device subsequently.

[0007] Another type of rope cleat relies more on a slightly tortuous path, where the holding device physically deforms the rope. These rope holding devices are often called jam cleats. Like marine cleats, these types of devices are designed to be permanently attached to the anchoring location. This type of device comes in many forms, from ridged wedge-shaped channels to ridged rotating cam wheels that grip the rope as it is pulled through the device.

[0008] Figure 1 A common rope retention device, marketed by Carolina North Mfg. as the Rope Ratchet 8, is shown. This device mechanically clamps a rope between two conical wheels. When the rope is pulled toward the central axis of the rotating wheels, the faceted surfaces of the two opposing wheels engage the rope without contacting it through the camming rims. This device utilizes a ratchet feature to lock the wheels, preventing rotation when the rope is constrained between the opposing wheel faces and under tension, effectively securing the rope. While this type of device can be constructed as part of an initial setup, it is intended to retain the rope in the device during subsequent use. Therefore, the device / rope combination is used to adjust the rope length between anchor points (anchor point 1 is where the device is secured, and anchor point 2 is where an auxiliary hook is anchored, which is secured to the end of the rope extending from the device). As described above, the rope can be introduced into and removed from this type of device. However, this process is often cumbersome, and therefore, optimal utilization of the device occurs when the rope is retained in the device during subsequent use. One consequence of this is that the rope used with the device is often tailored to the device, or vice versa. This means that the components that make up the device are sized to accommodate a specific rope diameter. Furthermore, this type of device utilizes a separate hook (or shackle) that is rotatably secured to the device to serve as a connection to the primary anchoring location. Given the load rating and rope diameter the device is intended to support, the overall size (and number of components) of the device / hook combination can become quite large.

[0009] One advantage of the independently rotatable hooks provided by some existing systems is that the load applied to the rope automatically centers the device / rope / hook along a single axis aligned along the length of the rope under tension. Therefore, a rope retainer coupled to a rotatable hook reduces off-axis loading. Those skilled in the art will understand that off-axis loading generally refers to a situation in which the applied load is misaligned with the intended direction of force transmission. In other words, the load is not applied directly along the axis of the device (ideally, this is the case), but rather at an angle to that axis, which increases friction and wear and reduces efficiency. Furthermore, off-axis loading can pose safety risks, particularly in applications where precise control of load and force is crucial. Unpredictable forces and increased wear can lead to unexpected failures or accidents, particularly in critical applications such as rescue operations or industrial lifting. Off-axis loading is a common weakness in rope retaining devices.

[0010] Figure 2 Another device sold by Nite-Ize, Inc. under the brand name XT12, this device incorporates a rotating cam 14 into a hook and loop anchor attachment 15. Compared to the Rope Ratchet, The XT takes up less space per equivalent load rating. Furthermore, because the cam retainer is integrated with the hook, off-axis loads can be a weak link in this design. Another point worth mentioning is that open-channel bayonet-style rope tie-downs can exacerbate this vulnerability to off-axis loads.

[0011] By nature of their design, the CamJam XT and rope ratchet type devices are intended to be located at one end of a rope configuration, often referred to as a fixed end configuration. In contrast, in devices for ascending a rope, the load-supporting device travels along the rope, rather than attaching the rope end to a specific anchor point. The rock climber / rope ascender 16 is an example of such a rope device (see Figure 3 ). Note that for a rope ascender, the load force binding the device to the rope must be removed before the device can be repositioned along the rope, which is the primary intent of the device design, as it allows the device to be moved in one direction along the length of the rope by alternating the directional load forces applied to the rope. In contrast, the rope ratchet, The XT and similar devices can be used as static pulleys, where a rope is pulled through the device and exits the device in a direction approximately opposite to the direction the rope entered the device.

[0012] By design, ascenders require that the load force in the rope (or more precisely, the load force binding the device to the rope) be removed from the rope before the device can be repositioned along or removed from the rope. The user is typically required to introduce a load force greater than and in the opposite direction of the force binding the rope to the device to begin removing the rope. Both XT-type rope retaining devices offer a way to release the rope tension that binds the rope to the device without first reversing the direction of the tension in the rope. However, the amount of rope tension that a user can release can easily differ by a factor of three or more compared to the device's rated working load limit, making it nearly impossible for the user to release the introduced rope tension, especially when the rope tension approaches the device's working load limit. Therefore, at higher working loads, the user must apply a greater and opposite load force to the rope to release it from the device. At least in theory, a marine rope tie allows the user to release the tension from the rope by simply untangling it from a tortuous rope path. However, if improperly operated, the rope can suddenly release from the marine tie device and cause injury. Furthermore, if the user incorrectly configures the rope in the marine tie device, releasing the rope while it is under tension may require cutting the rope.

[0013] When user interaction, device size, available configurations, and cord selection are considered, other shortcomings that limit the overall effectiveness of current cord tensioning and securing devices arise. Utility Model Content

[0014] One aspect of some embodiments of the present application described herein is to provide an improved rope restraint device that is configured to significantly reduce the occurrence of off-axis, the rope restraint device being configured to accommodate ropes of various sizes and being easy to use. More specifically, one embodiment of the present application includes a hook, shackle, eyelet, or other device adapted to be selectively or permanently interconnected to an anchor that is operatively interconnected to a rope bracket. The rope bracket is configured to receive and support a rope in tension and also accommodate a cam rod that is biased toward a lower interior surface of the bracket. The device adapted to be interconnected to the anchor, bracket, and / or cam rod may employ a hard stop that limits rotation, which helps prevent pinching and off-axis loading.

[0015] During operation, the cam lever rotates away from the lower inner surface, allowing the rope to be admitted. Releasing the cam lever effectively secures the rope within the bracket and prevents movement of the rope in a direction opposite to the insertion direction, i.e., preventing the rope from being pulled out of the rope bracket. In effect, reversing the tension further engages the cam lever with the rope, thereby increasing the tightening force. In this way, the proposed device functions as a one-way pulley. Complete rope release is achieved by rotating the cam lever in a direction opposite to the lower inner surface of the bracket, thereby increasing the space between the cam lever and the lower inner surface and disengaging the cam lever from the rope.

[0016] Thus, the embodiments described herein selectively constrain the rope, thereby avoiding the shortcomings of current rope retention devices. Furthermore, features of the embodiments described herein can be used as pulley-type rope retention devices or rope ascender-type devices. Another benefit is that the devices described herein can be configured to require only intuitive movements. Furthermore, some embodiments benefit from having a proportionally small footprint relative to the rated working load limit, while avoiding off-axis loading and incorporating a tension release capability consistent with the working load limit of the device.

[0017] The hooks and loops or aspects thereof described in one or more of U.S. Patent Nos. D626393, D934662, D934663, D942840, D943400, D935310, 10584736, D850241, D953147, D1035412, 11629749, D943400, D1024741, 11761473, D1024742, D1026625, and 11920627, which are incorporated herein by reference, may be utilized in some embodiments of the present application described herein.

[0018] Therefore, one aspect of the present application is to provide a rope restraint device, the rope restraint device comprising: a hook member adapted to be interconnected to an anchor member; a bracket interconnected to the hook member in a rotatable manner, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall being interconnected by a bottom wall, the first side wall and the second side wall comprising a tapered portion located near the bottom wall, wherein: the bottom wall has a cylindrical profile defined by a linear cross-section in a transverse direction between the first side wall and the second side wall, and the bottom wall has an arcuate profile portion extending from a bottom surface of the bracket in an axial direction extending from a proximal end portion toward a distal end portion of the bracket, wherein the arcuate profile portion is associated with the bottom surface, and wherein a portion of the first side wall and a portion of the second side wall define the arcuate profile portion; a cam lever positioned within the bracket and configured to rotate relative to the bracket , the cam lever has a gripping geometry portion, the gripping geometry portion includes a plurality of teeth facing the arcuate profile portion, the gripping geometry portion has a first lateral width portion located at the proximal end portion and a second lateral width portion located at the distal end portion, the width of the second lateral width portion being smaller than the width of the first lateral width portion; wherein the distal end portion of the cam lever is biased toward the distal end portion of the bracket; and wherein the rotation of the cam lever for separating the distal end portion of the cam lever from the distal end portion of the bracket forms an opening between the gripping geometry portion and the bottom wall of the bracket, the opening being suitable for receiving ropes of more than one diameter; and wherein, in the operation of the distal end portion of the cam lever toward the distal end portion of the bracket, the rotation of the cam lever reduces the size of the opening and prevents the rope from exiting the bracket in a direction substantially corresponding to the proximal end portion of the bracket.

[0019] Another aspect of some embodiments is to provide a rope restraint device, the rope restraint device comprising: a hook member adapted to be interconnected to an anchor member; a bracket interconnected to the hook member in a rotatable manner, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall being interconnected by a bottom wall, the first side wall and the second side wall comprising a tapered portion located near the bottom wall, wherein: the bottom wall has a cylindrical profile defined by a linear cross-section in a transverse direction between the first side wall and the second side wall, and the bottom wall has an arcuate profile portion extending from a bottom surface of the bracket in an axial direction extending from a proximal end portion toward a distal end portion of the bracket, wherein the arcuate profile portion is associated with the bottom surface, and wherein a portion of the first side wall and a portion of the second side wall define the arcuate profile portion; a cam lever, the cam lever being positioned within the bracket and configured to rotate relative to the bracket, the cam lever having a gripping geometry portion, the gripping geometry portion comprising a plurality of teeth facing the arcuate profile portion, the gripping geometry portion having a first transverse profile portion located at the proximal end portion width portion and a second lateral width portion at the distal end, the width of the second lateral width portion being less than the width of the first lateral width portion; wherein the distal end of the cam lever is biased toward the distal end of the bracket; and wherein rotation of the cam lever to separate the distal end of the cam lever from the distal end of the bracket forms an opening between the gripping geometry and the bottom wall of the bracket, the opening being adapted to receive ropes of more than one diameter; and wherein rotation of the cam lever during movement of the distal end of the cam lever toward the distal end of the bracket reduces the size of the opening and prevents the rope from exiting the bracket in a direction substantially corresponding to the proximal end of the bracket; and wherein the cam lever has a proximal hard stop and a distal hard stop, the proximal hard stop and the distal hard stop of the cam lever cooperating with corresponding proximal hard stops and distal hard stops on the hook that limit rotation of the cam lever, and wherein the first side wall and the second side wall of the bracket have a recess that receives a portion of the hook that limits rotation of the bracket.

[0020] Another aspect of some embodiments is to provide a rope restraint device, the rope restraint device comprising: a hook member adapted to be interconnected to an anchor member; a bracket rotatably interconnected to the hook member, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall being interconnected by a bottom wall, the first side wall and the second side wall comprising a tapered portion located near the bottom wall, wherein: the bottom wall has a cylindrical profile defined by a linear cross-section in a transverse direction between the first side wall and the second side wall, and the bottom wall has an arcuate profile extending from a bottom surface of the bracket in an axial direction extending from a proximal end portion toward a distal end portion of the bracket, wherein the arcuate profile is associated with the bottom surface, and wherein a portion of the first side wall and a portion of the second side wall define the arcuate profile; a cam lever, the cam lever being positioned within the bracket and configured to rotate relative to the bracket, the cam lever having a gripping geometry portion, the gripping geometry portion comprising a plurality of teeth facing the arcuate profile portion, the gripping geometry portion having a first lateral width portion located at the proximal end portion and a plurality of teeth located at the distal end portion. a second lateral width portion, the width of the second lateral width portion being less than the width of the first lateral width portion; wherein the distal end of the cam lever is biased toward the distal end of the bracket; and wherein rotation of the cam lever to separate the distal end of the cam lever from the distal end of the bracket forms an opening between the gripping geometry and the bottom wall of the bracket, the opening being adapted to receive more than one diameter of rope; and wherein rotation of the cam lever during movement of the distal end of the cam lever toward the distal end of the bracket reduces the size of the opening and prevents the rope from exiting the bracket in a direction generally corresponding to the proximal end of the bracket; and wherein the cam lever has a proximal hard stop and a distal hard stop, the proximal hard stop and the distal hard stop of the cam lever cooperating with corresponding proximal hard stops and distal hard stops on the hook member that limit rotation of the cam lever, and wherein the first and second side walls of the bracket have recesses that receive portions of the hook member that limit rotation of the bracket; and wherein the cam lever and the bracket have different rotation limits.

[0021] Another aspect of some embodiments is to provide a rope restraint device, the rope restraint device comprising: a hook member adapted to be interconnected to an anchor member; a bracket rotatably interconnected to the hook member, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall being interconnected by a bottom wall, the first side wall and the second side wall comprising a tapered portion located near the bottom wall, wherein: the bottom wall has a cylindrical profile defined by a linear cross-section in a transverse direction between the first side wall and the second side wall, and the bottom wall has an arcuate profile extending from a bottom surface of the bracket in an axial direction extending from a proximal end portion toward a distal end portion of the bracket, wherein the arcuate profile is associated with the bottom surface, and wherein a portion of the first side wall and a portion of the second side wall define the arcuate profile; a cam lever, the cam lever being positioned within the bracket and configured to rotate relative to the bracket, the cam lever having a gripping geometry portion, the gripping geometry portion comprising a plurality of teeth facing the arcuate profile portion, the gripping geometry portion having a first groove located at the proximal end portion and a second lateral width portion at the distal end, the second lateral width portion having a width less than the width of the first lateral width portion; wherein the distal end of the cam lever is biased toward the distal end of the bracket; and wherein rotation of the cam lever to separate the distal end of the cam lever from the distal end of the bracket forms an opening between the gripping geometry and the bottom wall of the bracket, the opening being adapted to receive more than one diameter of rope; and wherein rotation of the cam lever during movement of the distal end of the cam lever toward the distal end of the bracket reduces the size of the opening and prevents the rope from exiting the bracket in a direction generally corresponding to the proximal end of the bracket; and wherein the cam lever and the bracket are rotatably interconnected to the hook member by a pivot pin, wherein rope tension will cause the bracket and / or the cam lever to rotate relative to the hook member, and wherein relative rotation of the bracket and relative rotation of the cam lever aligns a force vector associated with the rope tension with the center of mass of the pivot pin and the hook member to reduce off-axis loading of the device.

[0022] Another aspect of some embodiments is to provide a rope restraint device, the rope restraint device comprising: a hook member adapted to be interconnected to an anchor member; a bracket rotatably interconnected to the hook member, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall being interconnected by a bottom wall, the first side wall and the second side wall comprising a tapered portion located near the bottom wall, wherein: the bottom wall has a cylindrical profile defined by a linear cross-section in a transverse direction between the first side wall and the second side wall, and the bottom wall has an arcuate profile extending from a bottom surface of the bracket in an axial direction extending from a proximal end portion toward a distal end portion of the bracket, wherein the arcuate profile is associated with the bottom surface, and wherein a portion of the first side wall and a portion of the second side wall define the arcuate profile; a cam lever positioned within the bracket and configured to rotate relative to the bracket, the cam lever having a gripping geometry , the gripping geometry includes a plurality of teeth facing the arcuate profile, the gripping geometry having a first lateral width portion at the proximal end and a second lateral width portion at the distal end, the width of the second lateral width portion being smaller than the width of the first lateral width portion; wherein the distal end of the cam lever is biased toward the distal end of the bracket; and wherein the rotation of the cam lever to separate the distal end of the cam lever from the distal end of the bracket forms an opening between the gripping geometry and the bottom wall of the bracket, the opening being suitable for receiving ropes of more than one diameter; and wherein, in the operation of the distal end of the cam lever toward the distal end of the bracket, the rotation of the cam lever reduces the size of the opening and prevents the rope from exiting the bracket in a direction substantially corresponding to the proximal end of the bracket; and wherein the gripping geometry has a groove extending from the proximal end to the distal end.

[0023] Another aspect of some embodiments is to provide a rope restraint device, the rope restraint device comprising: a hook member adapted to be interconnected to an anchor member; a bracket rotatably interconnected to the hook member, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall being interconnected by a bottom wall, the first side wall and the second side wall comprising a tapered portion located near the bottom wall, wherein: the bottom wall has a cylindrical profile defined by a linear cross-section in a transverse direction between the first side wall and the second side wall, and the bottom wall has an arcuate profile extending from a bottom surface of the bracket in an axial direction extending from a proximal end portion toward a distal end portion of the bracket, wherein the arcuate profile is associated with the bottom surface, and wherein a portion of the first side wall and a portion of the second side wall define the arcuate profile; a cam lever, the cam lever being positioned within the bracket and configured to rotate relative to the bracket, the cam lever having a gripping geometry portion, the gripping geometry portion comprising a plurality of teeth facing the arcuate profile portion, the gripping geometry portion The shape has a first lateral width portion located at the proximal end and a second lateral width portion located at the distal end, the width of the second lateral width portion being smaller than the width of the first lateral width portion; wherein the distal end of the cam lever is biased toward the distal end of the bracket; and wherein the rotation of the cam lever for separating the distal end of the cam lever from the distal end of the bracket forms an opening between the gripping geometric portion and the bottom wall of the bracket, the opening being suitable for receiving ropes of more than one diameter; and wherein the rotation of the cam lever during the operation of the distal end of the cam lever toward the distal end of the bracket reduces the size of the opening and prevents the rope from exiting the bracket in a direction substantially corresponding to the proximal end of the bracket; and wherein the plurality of teeth are defined by a structural member having a short lateral edge portion and a long lateral edge portion and a groove located between the short lateral edge portion and the long lateral edge portion, and wherein the short lateral edge portion and the long lateral edge portion are alternately arranged from one tooth portion toward an adjacent tooth portion.

[0024] Another aspect of some embodiments of the present application provides a rope tensioning device, the rope tensioning device comprising: a bracket, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein a support structure extends between the first side wall and the second side wall, the bracket defining a cylindrical surface, the cylindrical surface having a cross-section including a generally linear portion extending from the first side wall toward the second side wall; and a brake member pivotally connected to the bracket, the brake member having a brake surface biased toward the cylindrical surface, the brake surface defining a plurality of teeth facing the cylindrical surface of the bracket; and wherein a gap is provided between the cylindrical surface and the plurality of teeth, the gap varying in height along a lateral width of the bracket extending between the first side wall and the second side wall.

[0025] Another aspect of some embodiments of the present application provides a rope tensioning device, the rope tensioning device comprising: a bracket, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein a support structure extends between the first side wall and the second side wall, the bracket defining a cylindrical surface, the cylindrical surface having a cross-section including a generally linear portion extending from the first side wall toward the second side wall; and a brake member pivotally connected to the bracket, the brake member having a brake surface biased toward the cylindrical surface, the brake surface defining a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth facing the cylindrical surface of the bracket; and wherein a gap is provided between the cylindrical surface and the plurality of teeth, the gap varying in height along a lateral width of the bracket extending between the first side wall and the second side wall; and wherein the brake member has a proximal hard stop and a distal hard stop for limiting rotation of the cam rod, and wherein the first side wall and the second side wall of the bracket have a recess for limiting rotation of the bracket.

[0026] Another aspect of some embodiments of the present application provides a rope tensioning device, the rope tensioning device comprising: a bracket, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein a support structure extends between the first side wall and the second side wall, the bracket defining a cylindrical surface, the cylindrical surface having a cross-section including a generally linear portion extending from the first side wall toward the second side wall; and a brake member pivotally connected to the bracket, the brake member having a brake surface biased toward the cylindrical surface, the brake surface defining a plurality of teeth facing the cylindrical surface of the bracket; and wherein a gap is provided between the cylindrical surface and the plurality of teeth, the gap varying in height along a lateral width of the bracket extending between the first side wall and the second side wall; and wherein the brake member has a proximal hard stop and a distal hard stop for limiting rotation of the cam rod, and wherein the first side wall and the second side wall of the bracket have a recess for limiting rotation of the bracket; and wherein the cam rod and the bracket have different rotation limits.

[0027] Another aspect of some embodiments of the present application provides a rope tensioning device, the rope tensioning device comprising: a bracket, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein a support structure extends between the first side wall and the second side wall, the bracket defining a cylindrical surface, the cylindrical surface having a cross-section including a generally linear portion extending from the first side wall toward the second side wall; and a brake member pivotally coupled to the bracket, the brake member having a brake surface biased toward the cylindrical surface, the brake surface defining a plurality of teeth facing the cylindrical surface of the bracket; and wherein , a gap is provided between the cylindrical surface and the plurality of teeth, the gap varying in height along a transverse width of the bracket extending between the first side wall and the second side wall; and wherein the brake member and the bracket are rotatably interconnected to the hook or ring by a pivot pin, wherein rope tension will cause the bracket and / or the brake member to rotate relative to the hook or ring, and wherein relative rotation of the bracket and relative rotation of the brake member aligns a force vector associated with the rope tension with the pivot pin and the center of mass of the hook or ring to reduce off-axis loading of the device.

[0028] Another aspect of some embodiments of the present application provides a rope tensioning device, the rope tensioning device comprising: a bracket, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein a support structure extends between the first side wall and the second side wall, the bracket defining a cylindrical surface, the cylindrical surface having a cross-section including a generally linear portion extending from the first side wall toward the second side wall; and a brake member, the brake member being pivotally connected to the bracket, the brake member having a brake surface biased toward the cylindrical surface, the brake surface defining a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth facing the cylindrical surface of the bracket; and wherein a gap is provided between the cylindrical surface and the plurality of teeth, the gap varying in height along a lateral width of the bracket extending between the first side wall and the second side wall; and wherein the brake surface has a groove.

[0029] Another aspect of some embodiments of the present application provides a rope tensioning device, the rope tensioning device comprising: a bracket, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein a support structure extends between the first side wall and the second side wall, the bracket defining a cylindrical surface, the cylindrical surface having a cross-section including a generally linear portion extending from the first side wall toward the second side wall; and a brake member, the brake member being pivotally connected to the bracket, the brake member having a brake surface biased toward the cylindrical surface, the brake surface defining a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth facing the cylindrical surface of the bracket; and wherein a gap is provided between the cylindrical surface and the plurality of teeth, the gap varying in height along a lateral width of the bracket extending between the first side wall and the second side wall; and wherein the plurality of teeth are defined by a structural member having a short lateral edge portion and a long lateral edge portion and a groove located between the short lateral edge portion and the long lateral edge portion, and wherein the short lateral edge portion and the long lateral edge portion are alternately arranged from one tooth portion toward an adjacent tooth portion.

[0030] Some embodiments of the present application also provide a method for reacting to rope tension, comprising: providing a rope tensioning device, the rope tensioning device comprising: a bracket, comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, a bottom wall extending between the first side wall and the second side wall, the bottom wall defining a cylindrical surface, a cross-section of the cylindrical surface having a generally linear portion extending from the first side wall toward the second side wall; and a cam lever, the cam lever being pivotally coupled to the bracket, the cam lever having a gripping geometry portion biased toward the cylindrical surface, the gripping geometry portion defining a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth facing toward the bracket a cylindrical surface; applying pressure to the cam lever to rotate the cam lever and separate the distal end of the cam lever from the distal end of the bracket to create or expand an opening between the gripping geometry and the bottom wall of the bracket; inserting one end of a rope into the opening; pulling a length of rope through the bracket; releasing the cam lever, thereby allowing the cam lever to rotate toward the proximal end of the device to reduce the size of the opening and squeeze the rope between the cam lever and the bottom wall of the bracket; and wherein the rope is prevented from exiting the bracket in a direction generally corresponding to the proximal end of the bracket, but the rope can move through the bracket.

[0031] Some embodiments of the present application also provide a method for reacting to rope tension, comprising: providing a rope tensioning device, the rope tensioning device comprising: a bracket, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, a bottom wall extending between the first side wall and the second side wall, the bottom wall defining a cylindrical surface, a cross-section of the cylindrical surface having a generally linear portion extending from the first side wall toward the second side wall; and a cam lever, the cam lever being pivotally connected to the bracket, the cam lever having a gripping geometry portion biased toward the cylindrical surface, the gripping geometry portion defining a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth facing the cylindrical surface of the bracket; applying pressure to the cam lever to rotate the cam lever, and separating the distal end of the cam lever from the distal end of the bracket, thereby forming an opening or and a bracket having an opening for expansion; inserting one end of a rope into the opening; pulling a length of rope through the bracket; releasing the cam lever, thereby allowing the cam lever to rotate toward the proximal end of the device to reduce the size of the opening and squeeze the rope between the cam lever and the bottom wall of the bracket; and wherein the rope is prevented from exiting the bracket in a direction generally corresponding to the proximal end of the bracket, but is enabled to move through the bracket; and wherein the cam lever and the bracket are rotatably interconnected to the hook or ring by a pivot pin, wherein rope tension will cause the bracket and / or cam lever to rotate relative to the hook or ring, and wherein relative rotation of the bracket and relative rotation of the cam lever aligns the force vector associated with the rope tension with the pivot pin and the center of mass of the hook or ring to reduce off-axis loading of the device.

[0032] The contents of the present invention are not intended to represent, nor should they be interpreted as representing, the full content and scope of the present invention. That is, these aspects and advantages, as well as other aspects and advantages, will become apparent from the disclosure of the invention described herein. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments, aspects, objectives, and configurations are neither complete nor exhaustive. It is understood that other embodiments of the present application may utilize one or more of the features described above or below, alone or in combination. Furthermore, references herein to "the present application" or aspects thereof should be understood as certain embodiments of the present application, and need not be interpreted as limiting all embodiments to a particular description. The present application is set forth in various levels of detail in the present invention, as well as in the drawings and detailed description, and the elements, parts, etc. included or not included in the present invention are not intended to limit the scope of the present application. Other aspects of the present application will become more apparent from the detailed description, particularly with reference to the drawings and detailed description. Figure 1 It becomes more obvious when reading together.

[0033] The advantages, embodiments, and / or features described above are not necessarily complete or exhaustive, especially with respect to the patentable subject matter disclosed herein. Other benefits, embodiments, and / or features of the present application may be used alone or in combination as described above and / or in the accompanying drawings and / or in the following description.

[0034] As used herein, the phrases "at least one," "one or more," and "and / or" are open-ended expressions that can be used as both conjunctions and disjuncts. For example, each of the expressions "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "one or more of A, B, and C," "one or more of A, B, or C," and "A, B, and / or C" means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together.

[0035] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, dimensions, conditions, and so forth, used in the specification and drawings are to be understood as approximations that are subject to modification in all instances as required by the particular application of the novel assemblies and methods described herein.

[0036] As used herein, the term "a" or "an" entity refers to one or more of that entity. Thus, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more" and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein.

[0037] As used herein, "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof are intended to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Thus, the terms "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof can be used interchangeably herein.

[0038] It should be understood that the term "means" as used herein should be given the broadest possible interpretation under 35 USC § 112(f). Therefore, claims containing the term "means" should cover all structures, materials, or acts described herein and all equivalents thereof. Furthermore, the structures, materials, or acts and their equivalents should include all contents described in the summary of the invention, the brief description of the drawings, the detailed description, and the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the present application and, together with the general description of the application given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of these inventions.

[0040] Figure 1 One form of prior art rope tightening device is shown.

[0041] Figure 2 One form of prior art rope tightening device is shown.

[0042] Figure 3One form of prior art rope ascender is shown.

[0043] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of a rope restraint and selective release device according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0044] Figure 5a Shown Figure 4 A perspective view of the device shown in FIG.

[0045] Figure 5b is similar to Figure 5a , wherein the cam lever is rotated to an open position such that the rope bracket is configured to receive the rope.

[0046] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 An exploded perspective view of the device shown in FIG.

[0047] Figure 7a yes Figure 4 Side view of the device.

[0048] Figure 7b yes Figure 4 A side view of a device in which the cam lever is configured to receive a rope.

[0049] Figure 7c is a side view of the device with the spring door in the open position.

[0050] Figure 8a for Figure 4 A perspective view of the hook body of the device shown in FIG.

[0051] Figure 8b Another three-dimensional view of the hook body.

[0052] Figure 8c Another three-dimensional view of the hook body.

[0053] Figure 9a yes Figure 4 A side view of the cam lever of the device is shown in FIG.

[0054] Figure 9b It is a three-dimensional diagram of the cam lever.

[0055] Figure 9c It is a three-dimensional diagram of the cam lever.

[0056] Figure 9d yes Figure 9c Left view of .

[0057] Figure 10a yes Figure 4 A bottom perspective view of the rope bracket of the device shown in FIG.

[0058] Figure 10b yes Figure 10a Front view of .

[0059] Figure 10c yes Figure 10a A top-down perspective view of .

[0060] Figure 11a yes Figure 4 A side view of the device with the cam lever in the closed position.

[0061] Figure 11b yes Figure 4 Side view of the device with the rope inserted between the cam lever and the rope bracket.

[0062] Figure 11c The following side view is shown: This side view shows that the rope is Figure 4 The device is constrained in a fixed position.

[0063] Figure 11d The rope is shown by Figure 4 A side view of the device constraint is shown in FIG.

[0064] Figure 11e yes Figure 11b Top view of the floor plan.

[0065] Figure 12 Shows the rope being secured to the anchor position and restrained Figure 4 device.

[0066] Figure 13 Shown Figure 4 An arrangement in which the tool is positioned in a recess located on the underside of the cam lever.

[0067] Figure 14 Shows the elastic cord or rope being restrained in a fixed position Figure 4 device.

[0068] Figure 15 Two devices are shown removably secured along a line.

[0069] Figure 16a is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present application configured to be interconnected to a carabiner.

[0070] Figure 16b yes Figure 16a An exploded view of the device is shown in FIG.

[0071] Figure 17a Shows the hook and loop receiving Figure 16a device.

[0072] Figure 17b Shown Figure 17a A device wherein the shackle is engaged to the anchor.

[0073] Figure 18 Shown attached to a fixed anchor Figure 16a device.

[0074] Figure 19 Shown is an anchor attached to another design Figure 16a device.

[0075] Figure 20a Shown attached to a sewn webbing fabric loop Figure 16a device.

[0076] Figure 20b Shown is interconnected to a large diameter anchor Figure 20a configuration.

[0077] The following list of components and their corresponding numbers appearing in the accompanying drawings is provided to help understand one embodiment of the present application:

[0078] #part

[0079] 8 rope ratchets

[0080] 12

[0081] 14 Cam

[0082] 15 hook and loop

[0083] 16 Rope Ascender

[0084] 100 Restraint and release devices for ropes

[0085] 104 hook

[0086] 108 Rope Bracket

[0087] 112 Cam lever

[0088] 116 Torsion Spring

[0089] 117 Legs

[0090] 118 Torsion Spring Hard Stop

[0091] 119 thumb press

[0092] 120 pivot pin

[0093] 124 Opening

[0094] 128 Opening

[0095] 132 Opening

[0096] 136 Opening

[0097] 140 cavity

[0098] 144 Opening

[0099] 150 Base 154 Rope Cam Hard Stop 164 Rope Bracket Hard Stop 174 Hook Hard Stop

[0100] 176 Stable Surface

[0101] 177 Notch

[0102] 178 Spring Door

[0103] 180 end 184 mounting hole

[0104] 186 Legs

[0105] 188 Legs

[0106] 190 Slide Lock

[0107] 194 Sliding seat

[0108] 200 Rope

[0109] 204 Opening

[0110] 210 sidewall

[0111] 214 sidewall

[0112] 215 Applied tension

[0113] 216 Rope Tension

[0114] 218 Concave profile 222 Gripping geometry 230 Bottom surface

[0115] 234 Cam Profile

[0116] 300 Anchor

[0117] 304 cut 308 screwdriver

[0118] 312 recess

[0119] 320 distal end

[0120] 324 proximal end

[0121] 328 lower inner wall

[0122] 332 lower inner wall

[0123] 350 Linear Alignment

[0124] 354 centroid

[0125] 358 Gap

[0126] 400 elastic rope

[0127] 404 Slide

[0128] 408 end cap

[0129] 500 lines

[0130] 504 Anchor

[0131] 508 Logo Department

[0132] 600 Restraint and release devices for ropes

[0133] 602 Ring

[0134] 700 hook and loop

[0135] 704 Closed Ring

[0136] 708 Open Ring

[0137] It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. In some cases, details that are not necessary for understanding the present application or that make other details difficult to understand may have been omitted. Of course, it should be understood that the present application is not necessarily limited to the specific embodiments shown herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0138] Figures 4 to 7cA device 100 for restraining and selectively releasing a rope according to one embodiment of the present application is shown. The device 100 generally includes a hook 104, a rope carrier 108, and a cam lever 112 configured to move relative to the rope carrier 108 to selectively secure / release a captured rope. The hook 104 of one embodiment is constructed of an aluminum die-cast hook 104 that is operably interconnected to the aluminum die-cast cam lever 112, the aluminum die-cast rope carrier 108, and a stainless steel torsion spring 116 by means of a forged metal pivot pin 120. The pivot pin 120 extends through openings 124, 128 in the rope carrier 108, through openings 132, 136 in the cam lever 112, through the coiled torsion spring 116 located in a hook spring cavity 140, and finally through a hook opening 144. Once assembled, the pivot pin 120 is end-swaged, thereby permanently securing the pivot pin 120, the torsion spring 116, the cam lever 112, and the rope bracket 108 to the hook 104. One leg 117a of the torsion spring 116 presses against a recessed surface 118a in the hook 104, and the other leg 117b of the torsion spring presses against a corresponding surface 118b located near the base of a thumb-shaped protrusion 119 in the cam lever 112, thereby biasing the cam lever 112 toward the closed position.

[0139] The cam lever 112 is located within the inner side wall of the rope bracket 108, and the base portion 150 of the hook is located within the inner side wall of the cam lever 112. The cam lever 112 and the rope bracket 108 are free to rotate about the pivot pin 120 along the arrow A. The range of rotation of the cam lever is limited by the following components: cam lever rotation stops 154a to 154d in the cam lever (see, for example, Figure 9b ), corresponding rotation stops 164a-164b in the rope bracket (see, for example, Figure 10c ), and rotation stops 174a to 174f incorporated into the hook member 104 (see, for example, Figure 8c ).

[0140] Some embodiments of the present application utilize a spring door 178 in the form of a stainless steel wire frame that is operatively interconnected to the hook member 104 by means of mounting holes 182, 184 that capture the ends 186, 188 of the spring door. A sliding lock 190 may be provided that slides over the formed spring door 178. The sliding lock 190 may be moved along arrow B toward the base portion of the spring door until the sliding lock 190 engages surfaces 194a, 194b that define a seating portion located adjacent the spring door mounting holes 182, 184. In this configuration, the movement of the spring door is restricted, for example, as Figure 7aAs the sliding lock 190 moves from the bottom of the spring door 178 toward the free end of the spring door 180, the spring door is unlocked and is now free to rotate toward the hook 104 along arrow C. That is, when the sliding lock 190 is located near the bottom of the spring door 178 and contacts the seat in the hook, the spring door is prevented from rotating toward the open position.

[0141] Figures 11a to 11e The cord is shown incorporated into the device 100. Again, arrow A indicates that the cam lever 112 is rotated to allow the cord 200 to be inserted into the opening 204 (see FIG. Figure 5b ) in the direction of the cam rod 112 and the cord bracket 108. The opening 204 in one embodiment is defined by the cord bracket sidewalls 210, 214 and a concave profile 218 defined by an array of gripping geometries 222 protruding from the cam rod 112. After initial insertion, the cord 200 is pulled through the opening 204. The tensioning arrows 215, 216 indicate the opposite direction of tension, which acts to pull the cord further into the device or to withdraw the cord 200. Figure 11c The cord 200 is shown constrained, with the cord 200 aligned with the pivot pin 120 and the center portion 354 of the hook. Figure 11d It shows how the rope is released when the cam lever 112 is rotated in the direction of arrow A.

[0142] In such Figure 11a In the closed position shown with the device empty, torsion spring 116 biases cam lever 112 toward spring gate 178, thereby minimizing opening 204. Hook stops 174d, 174a, 174e, and 174f prevent rotation beyond a predetermined point. When the device is configured as a rope ascender, hook rotation stop 174 also prevents excessive rotation of rope carriage 108 when the rope is subjected to excessive tension. Stabilizing surface 176 on the hook limits rocking motion between rope carriage 108 and cam lever 112 by acting as a physical contact guide toward notch 177 in the rope carriage.

[0143] Pressing the thumb-shaped tab 119 on the cam lever 112 toward the hook 104 in the direction of arrow A rotates the cam lever 112 about the pivot pin 120. Rotating the cam lever 112 will eventually engage the cam lever rotation hard stops 154a, 154b against the corresponding hook hard stops 174c, 174b and fully open the cam lever relative to the rope bracket 108 and maximize the size of the opening 204, as shown. Figure 5b and Figure 11bWith the cam lever 112 rotated to the open position, the rope 200 can be inserted into the hook member gap 358 opening 204. An arrow-shaped protrusion can be provided on the bottom outer surface of the rope bracket 108 to indicate the correct direction for rope insertion.

[0144] Removing a finger or thumb from the thumb-shaped projection 119 on the cam lever 112 allows the torsion spring 105 to relax, thereby rotating the cam lever to a closed position relative to the rope bracket 108, as shown. Figure 7c and Figure 11c At this point, the rope 200 is removably secured because the protruding gripping geometry 222 presses the rope 200 against the inner saddle surface 230 at the base of the rope bracket 108 .

[0145] Tension 215 applied to the end of the restrained cord will tend to pull the cord through the device in the direction of the applied tension. However, cord tension 212 in the opposite direction will interact with the gripping geometry, further rotating the cord cam to a deeper locked position and increasing lateral cord compression, which strengthens the device / cord engagement. In other words, the cam profile 234 of the cam lever 112, in combination with the gripping geometry 222 of the cam lever, will produce increasing pressure on the cord 200 as the cam lever continues to be pulled toward the closed position, which in turn increases the retention force holding the cord 200 within the device 100.

[0146] Figure 9c and Figure 10b The device illustrates how the interaction between the rope cam and the rope carrier is enhanced. More specifically, the cam lever 112 features a tapered portion, with the distal end 320 of the gripping geometry being shorter than the proximal end 324 of the gripping geometry. As the cam lever rotates further into the space defined by the rope carrier sidewalls 210, 214, 328, and 332, the cam lever's coordinated taper mates with the narrowing V-shaped structure of the rope carrier. This coordinated taper allows the device to accept a variety of rope sizes and types. Furthermore, regardless of the rope diameter and type being restrained in the device, full circumferential holding pressure is applied to the rope, distributing the rope-retaining contact force over a larger area of ​​the rope, a characteristic not possible with prior art rope retention devices. This contact force is generated by the cam lever's gripping geometry 133 pressing the rope 200 into the inner saddle surface 230 of the rope carrier 108. The larger area over which the rope holding force (contact force) is distributed minimizes local rope stress and tends to increase the maximum load level that the rope can withstand before failure.

[0147] Although some embodiments of the present application employ a rope retention scheme that produces a similar effect to the jumar-type rope retention device 16 (see Figure 3 ) provides similar retention dynamics, but the rope snare is not designed to accommodate a wide range of rope diameters within a single device, nor is it suitable for use as a static pulley. More specifically, the embodiments described herein can accommodate a wide range of rope diameters and are suitable for use as a static pulley. Furthermore, unlike rope snare-type devices, the specific shape of the protruding gripping geometry 222 arranged on the cam lever 112 minimizes damaging contact interactions with the rope, which enables the rope 200 to be selectively released from the device 100 while the rope is constrained and maintained taut within the device.

[0148] Because the rope carriage 108 can rotate about the pivot pin 120 while being restrained in the hook 104, the tension 216 generated in the rope 200 will create a linear alignment 225 between the tension 216, the pivot pin 120, and the center 354 of the gap 358 defined by the hook, as shown in FIG. Figure 11c The alignment action 350 of the rope tension 216 by rotating the rope bracket 108 enables the device 100 to accommodate a wide range of rope diameters without generating off-axis forces in the rope or the device that could cause premature failure of the hook or rope. Figure 7b ) The ability to rotate through a limited rotational range minimizes the off-axis strains induced on the cord 200 and hook 104 when the cord is subjected to tension 216.

[0149] The cam bar 112 and the rope carriage 108 are also free to rotate around the pivot pin through a specific range of rotation. The range of rotation of the cam bar and the range of rotation of the rope carriage are both controlled by the same hook-shaped member hard stop 174a to 174d. However, the complementary rope cam hard stops 154a to 154d and the rope carriage hard stops 164a to 164d in the cam bar 112 result in different ranges of rotation, which are different for the two components. The presence of the rotation hard stop prevents the rope carriage 108 from rotating with the cam bar 112 through the entire range of rotation available to the cam bar. This difference in range of rotation creates an opening 204 into which the rope 200 is initially inserted when the rope is constructed in the device.

[0150] The primary advantage of this cord insertion method is that a simple single thumb or index finger pressing on thumb-shaped tab 119 causes the cam lever to rotate, which is all that is required to prepare the device 100 for insertion of the cord 200. Furthermore, once the cord is inserted into the device, simply removing the thumb or index finger from the cam lever thumb-shaped tab removably retains the cord within the device. Compared to various prior art cord retention devices, this cord insertion and retention method is arguably one of the simplest.

[0151] Conversely, applying sufficient force to the thumb tab 119 on the cam lever 112 in a direction that rotates the cam lever away from the cord 200, which is held under tension in the device 100, will release the cord. Note that the single thumb or index finger action described above and the tension release action described herein are the same action, thus making user operation of the device very simple.

[0152] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the spring door 178 can be rotated to an open position to allow the device 100 to be secured to various types of anchors 300, such as pipes, ropes, wire loops, straps, and the like. Once the device 100 is positioned on an anchor 300 of compatible size, the spring door 178 is rotated back to a closed position, in which the shaped end 180 of the spring door 178 contacts the cutout 304 in the end of the hook, thereby securing the hook 104 to the anchor 300. When the optional sliding lock 190 is moved back to the locked position, accidental release of the device from the anchor is prevented. Moving the sliding lock 190 away from the locked position allows the spring door 178 to be rotated to an open position, thereby allowing the device to be removed from the anchor to which it is secured. Excessive rope tension that may result from unintentional load shifting may be released from the device using an auxiliary tool 308 that is positioned into a recess 312 on the underside of the thumb tab 119 of the cam lever 112 to impart a knocking action to the rope cam.

[0153] Figure 14 Shown Figure 4 100 in an adjustable, fixed-length configuration. Note that the elastic cord or string 400 can be permanently confined within the device 100, yet still freely move through the device in an adjustable manner. Slide 404 and end cap 408 are used to arrange and organize the elastic cord or string. End cap 408 also serves to secure the elastic cord or string 400 within the loop that permanently bonds the device 100 to the elastic cord or string 400.

[0154] Figure 15Two devices 100 are shown attached along a portion of a line 500, which is securely held at a fixed anchoring location 504. Each device 100 is held adjustable in position along the line 500. The locking feature of the device 100 prevents movement in one direction along the line while allowing movement in another direction. Various combinations utilizing multiple units of the device 100 can be formed. For example, Figure 15 As shown, two embodiments are placed opposite each other, with the flexible marker portion 508 suspended from a fixed line while being held taut. Another example is to add multiple units of the device 100 along a single line to use as a fish stringer, where the hook-shaped portion of the small device will hook the gills of a fish. When a subsequent fish is caught, additional copies of the device can be removably added to the line that is now securing the previously caught fish.

[0155] Figure 16a and Figure 16b A device 600 is shown that incorporates a hookless eye loop 602 into the device, rather than using a gate hook. Several different uses of this embodiment are envisioned, such as standalone use or paired with other components.

[0156] Figure 17a and Figure 17b The device 600 is shown paired with a common style carabiner 700. Functionally, the combination of the device 600 and the carabiner 700 is equivalent to Figure 4 In addition, the device 600 can be easily removed from the shackle, thereby returning the shackle to its original state. A significant advantage of this embodiment is that a variety of commercially available shackles are compatible with the device and these shackles can be used alternately in their original state or quickly converted into a rope tightening device.

[0157] Figure 18 The device is shown permanently attached to the anchoring location by means of a closed loop 704 fastened to the anchor 300, while Figure 19 The device is shown removably secured to the anchor 300 location by means of an open ring 708 secured to the anchor.

[0158] Figure 20a and Figure 20b The following device is shown: this device combines a permanently attached, sewn webbing fabric loop 712 with the above-described device 600. One advantage of this embodiment is that it can easily accommodate large diameter or irregularly shaped anchoring locations. In addition, this embodiment highlights the advantages of aligning the tension load 216 in the rope 200, the rope bracket, the cam rod, and the hookless eye 602 to a fixed anchoring location to minimize off-axis stress in the system.

[0159] While some of the components described herein are constructed from die-cast aluminum, various other materials and manufacturing methods may be used to produce these components without departing from the scope of the present invention. One example is the use of glass-filled thermoplastics molded to produce the hook, cam lever, and / or cord bracket, where such materials are economically and structurally compatible with the use of elastic cords.

[0160] The exemplary features of the embodiments of the present application have been described. However, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the embodiments of the present application, the foregoing description may omit various known devices, methods, systems, structures and / or apparatuses that are generally understood by those skilled in the art to be included in the embodiments of the present application. Such omissions should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claimed utility model. Specific details are set forth to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present application. However, it should be understood that the embodiments of the present application can be implemented in a variety of ways beyond the specific details set forth herein.

[0161] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that modifications and variations of the various embodiments of the present application described herein are within the scope and spirit of the present invention, as described in the appended claims. Furthermore, it should be understood that the present invention described herein is not limited in its application to the construction details and arrangement of parts described in the foregoing description or shown in the accompanying drawings. That is, the embodiments of the present application described herein can be practiced or implemented in various ways. The scope of the various embodiments described herein is indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Furthermore, all variations that fall within the meaning and scope of the equivalents of the claims should be included within the scope of the claims. It is intended to obtain the right to include alternative embodiments within the permitted scope, including structures, functions, scopes or steps that are alternative, interchangeable and / or equivalent to the claimed structures, functions, scopes or steps, regardless of whether such alternative, interchangeable and / or equivalent structures, functions, scopes or steps are disclosed herein or not, and it is not intended to publicly dedicate any patentable subject matter.

[0162] The foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit the present invention to one or more forms disclosed herein. For example, in the foregoing detailed description, various features of the present invention are combined in one or more embodiments for the purpose of simplifying the disclosure. This disclosed method should not be interpreted as reflecting the intention that the claimed utility model requires more features than explicitly stated. On the contrary, as reflected in the appended claims, creative aspects exist in all features of the single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the appended claims are again incorporated into this detailed description, each claim independently as a separate preferred embodiment of the present application. In addition, the embodiments of the present application described herein include components, methods, processes, systems and / or devices substantially as depicted and described herein, including various subcombinations and subsets thereof. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that some features of the embodiments of the present application may be provided without providing other features. In other words, one or more aspects, features, elements, devices or embodiments disclosed herein may be combined with one or more other aspects, features, elements, devices or embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A rope restraint device, characterized in that: The rope restraint device comprises: a hook member adapted to be interconnected to an anchor member; a bracket rotatably interconnected to the hook, the bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall being interconnected by a bottom wall, the first side wall and the second side wall comprising a tapered portion located near the bottom wall, wherein: The bottom wall has a cylindrical profile portion defined by a linear cross section in a transverse direction between the first side wall and the second side wall, and the bottom wall having an arcuate profile extending from a bottom surface of the bracket in an axial direction extending from a proximal end portion of the bracket toward a distal end portion of the bracket, wherein the arcuate profile is associated with the bottom surface, and wherein a portion of the first side wall and a portion of the second side wall bound the arcuate profile; a cam lever positioned within the bracket and configured to rotate relative to the bracket, the cam lever having a gripping geometry including a plurality of teeth facing the arcuate profile, the gripping geometry having a first lateral width at a proximal end and a second lateral width at a distal end, the second lateral width being smaller than the first lateral width; wherein the distal end portion of the cam lever is biased toward the distal end portion of the bracket; and wherein rotation of the cam lever to separate the distal end of the cam lever from the distal end of the bracket forms an opening between the gripping geometry and the bottom wall of the bracket, the opening being adapted to receive more than one diameter of cord; and wherein rotation of the cam lever during operation of the distal end of the cam lever toward the distal end of the bracket reduces the size of the opening and prevents the rope from exiting the bracket in a direction corresponding to the proximal end of the bracket.

2. The rope restraint device according to claim 1, characterized in that The cam rod has a proximal hard stop and a distal hard stop, and the proximal hard stop and the distal hard stop of the cam rod cooperate with the corresponding proximal hard stop and the distal hard stop located on the hook member to limit the rotation of the cam rod, and wherein the first side wall and the second side wall of the bracket have a recess, which receives the part of the hook member that limits the rotation of the bracket.

3. The rope restraint device according to claim 2, characterized in that The cam lever and the bracket have different rotation limits.

4. The rope restraint device according to claim 1, wherein: The cam lever and the bracket are rotatably interconnected to the hook member via a pivot pin, wherein rope tension will cause the bracket and / or the cam lever to rotate relative to the hook member, and the relative rotation of the bracket and the relative rotation of the cam lever aligns the force vector associated with the rope tension with the pivot pin and the center of mass of the hook member to reduce off-axis loading of the rope restraint device.

5. The rope restraint device according to claim 1, characterized in that The gripping geometry has a groove extending from a proximal end of the gripping geometry toward a distal end of the gripping geometry.

6. The rope restraint device according to claim 1, characterized in that The plurality of teeth are defined by a structure having short lateral edge portions, long lateral edge portions, and grooves between the short lateral edge portions and the long lateral edge portions, and wherein the short lateral edge portions and the long lateral edge portions are alternately arranged from one tooth portion toward an immediately adjacent tooth portion.

7. A rope tensioning device, characterized in that: The rope tensioning device comprises: a bracket including a first sidewall and a second sidewall with a support structure extending between the first sidewall and the second sidewall, the bracket defining a cylindrical surface having a cross-section including a linear portion extending from the first sidewall toward the second sidewall; and a brake member pivotally coupled to the bracket, the brake member having a brake surface biased toward the cylindrical surface, the brake surface defining a plurality of teeth facing the cylindrical surface of the bracket; and A gap is provided between the cylindrical surface and the plurality of teeth, the gap varying in height along a transverse width of the bracket extending between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

8. The rope tensioning device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The brake member has proximal and distal hard stops that limit rotation of the cam lever, and wherein the first and second side walls of the bracket have notches that limit rotation of the bracket.

9. The rope tensioning device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The cam lever and the bracket have different rotation limits.

10. The rope tensioning device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The brake member and the bracket are rotatably interconnected to a hook or ring by a pivot pin, wherein rope tension will cause the bracket and / or the brake member to rotate relative to the hook or ring, and wherein relative rotation of the bracket and relative rotation of the brake member aligns a force vector associated with the rope tension with the pivot pin and the center of mass of the hook or ring to reduce off-axis loading of the rope tensioning device.

11. The rope tensioning device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The braking surface has grooves.

12. The rope tensioning device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The plurality of teeth are defined by a structure having short and long lateral edge portions and grooves therebetween, and wherein the short and long lateral edge portions are alternately arranged from one tooth toward an immediately adjacent tooth.

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