CAM LOCKING DEVICE, HARNESS CONTAINING A CAM LOCKING DEVICE, AND METHOD FOR ATTACHING / DEFOLDING SUCH A CAM LOCKING DEVICE FROM A SUPPORT

Abstract

MOVING CAM LOCKING DEVICE, HARNESS COMPRISING A LOCKING DEVICE, AND METHOD FOR ATTACHING / UNATTACHING SUCH A LOCKING DEVICE TO A SUPPORT. A cam locking device comprises a head (1) equipped with cams (3) that rotate between retracted and extended positions. A spring forces the cams (3) toward the extended position. A rod (6) connects the head (1) and an annular end (2). A trigger (7) slides along the rod (6) to force the cams (3) toward the retracted position. A hooking plate (8) is removablely mounted on the rod (6). The hooking plate (8) mounted on the rod (6) prevents the trigger (7) from moving between the first and second trigger positions. The hooking plate (8) comprises a body (8a) and an arm (8a). Locking means block the mounting plate (8) relative to the rod (6) along the first direction (XX) beyond a threshold position.The mounting plate (8) forms an end stop for the trigger (7). Figure in the abstract: 2.

Description

Title of the invention: CAM LOCKING DEVICE, HARNESS COMPRISING A CAM LOCKING DEVICE AND METHOD OF ATTACHING / DISSOLVING SUCH A CAM LOCKING DEVICE WITH A SUPPORT technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a cam locking device, to a harness comprising such a cam locking device and to a method of fixing / unfixing a cam locking device with a support. Previous technique

[0002] During climbing, a climber places protection points on a rock face. The climber successively installs several protection points designed to support them in case of a fall. Some rock faces are equipped with pre-installed protection points, for example, in the form of bolts that are anchored into the rock. Other rock faces are not equipped with such points, so the climber must find the most suitable crevice for installing their protection point.

[0003] When a climber needs to place protection, it is common practice to install passive and active cams. Cams are designed to fit into crevices, which are generally holes, cracks, gullies, or any other hollow deep enough to allow the insertion of a cam. Each particular shape of crevice is suited to a specific cam configuration. Passive cams are often made of metal pieces with a specific shape. In one position, the cam can fit into a crack in a rock face, and in a second position, it wedges between two opposing faces. It is then possible to easily install and remove the cam, provided it is placed in the correct spatial configuration within the hole.Conversely, in the event of a fall, the spatial configuration of the camming device will be such that it will be wedged between the two opposite faces of the hole.

[0004] In addition to passive cam cleats, active cam cleats, also called cam cleats or cam locking devices, are known. A cam cleat has a head with a plurality of cams. The cams are mounted to move about one or more pivot shafts.

[0005] The cams move between a retracted position and an extended position. In the In its retracted position, the head is less bulky than in its extended position. The cam head is inserted into a crack in its retracted position, and then the cams move towards the extended position, which presses them against the two opposite walls of the crack. The shape of the cams increases the force applied to the crack faces when the cam is pulled.

[0006] Typically, a camming device has, at one end, a head equipped with several rotating cams. The second end of the camming device is a ring end which is configured to receive a carabiner and serve as an anchor point for the climber.

[0007] The head is mechanically connected to the annular end by means of a cable, which is generally a steel cable. The two ends of the cable are crimped into the head of the camming device. The cable extends continuously between the two ends along a shank and along the annular end to ensure mechanical continuity between the head fixed to the wall and the end intended to support the climber.

[0008] Since the cable does not have the necessary transverse rigidity to provide good control in the placement of the camming device, it is common practice to provide a rod extending from the head towards the annular end. The cable passes through the rod.

[0009] Finally, the cams are actuated by means of a trigger that is mounted to slide along the rod. When the user pulls the trigger towards the annular end, the cams move to the retracted position. When the user releases the trigger, a spring returns the cams to the extended position.

[0010] Multiple cam cleat configurations are known which describe different configurations of cams, cables, rods or annular ends.

[0011] Typically, a camming device is attached to a gear loop or sling via a carabiner or quickdraw that passes through the ring end. The climber first opens the carabiner to detach the carabiner and camming device from the gear loop or sling. Then, the device must be activated by bringing the trigger and the ring end together to retract the cams. Switching from gripping the carabiner to gripping the ring end and the trigger is a delicate operation, as the climber usually only has one hand available.

[0012] A support system for a cam-locking device is known from document ES 2890722. This system defines a through hole that receives the rod. The support system defines a groove and a door that is movable for opening and closing the groove. This configuration is unsatisfactory because the door must be operated manually to release the cam-locking device from its storage position.

[0013] A camming device configuration with hooks that engage in the ring end and catch the trigger to prevent the cams from being in the extended position is also known from document US20180001175. This reduces the bulk of the camming device when it is attached to the climber, but it does not resolve the difficulty of detaching the camming device from the harness by first gripping it and then modifying the grip to place the cams in the hole intended to receive them. Object of the invention

[0014] An object of the invention consists of providing a cam locking device which is easier to use than prior art configurations for hooking and unhooking the locking device and a support and in particular which improves gripping when the locking device is handled from its storage position to its position of use.

[0015] According to one aspect of the invention, the cam locking device comprises: - a head; - at least one cam mounted movable to pivot about at least one pivot shaft, the at least one cam being movable between a retracted position and an extended position, the at least one pivot shaft being fixed to the head; - a spring functionally coupled to at least one cam to urge at least one cam towards the extended position; - an annular end mechanically coupled to the head; - a stem extending from the head to the annular end; - an actuation system coupled to at least one cam, the actuation system being configured to selectively engage the retracted position, the actuation system having a trigger mounted to slide along the rod in a first direction connecting the head and the annular end, the trigger being movable between a first trigger position and a second trigger position, out of the first trigger position at least one cam being out of the extended position and activating the spring, the spring activating the trigger out of the extended position.

[0016] The cam locking device is remarkable in that it comprises: - a mounting plate that is removable relative to the rod; when the mounting plate is attached to the rod, the mounting plate is positioned between the first trigger position and the second trigger position; - a first blocker configured to prevent movement of the attachment plate beyond a threshold position in the first direction from the annular end towards the head when the attachment plate is attached to the rod, and wherein, when the attachment plate is in the threshold position, the at least one cam is out of the extended position.

[0017] Advantageously, the first blocker defines a groove and tongue system opposing a movement of the trigger from the second trigger position to the first trigger position, one of the groove and tongue being formed in the rod, the other of the groove and tongue being formed in the hook plate.

[0018] In a particular configuration, the tongue and groove system allows the rod to slide relative to the mounting plate in a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0019] In an advantageous development, the rod defines at least one protrusion perpendicular to the first direction, the at least one protrusion opposing the movement of the attachment plate beyond the threshold position.

[0020] Preferably, a second blocker is configured to prevent relative movement between the mounting plate and the rod beyond a second threshold position in a direction perpendicular to the first direction to prevent separation between the rod and the mounting plate.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the second blocker defines a groove and tongue system opposing a displacement of the hook plate relative to the rod, one of the groove and tongue being formed in the trigger, the other of the groove and tongue being formed in the hook plate.

[0022] In an advantageous development, the latching plate has at least one arm, the at least one arm extending in a direction perpendicular to the first direction to form the end stop for the trigger, the at least one arm being terminated by a protruding pin in the first direction to form the second blocker.

[0023] Preferably, the hanging plate has two arms defining a U-shaped slot, the bottom of which is formed by a body, the rod being fixed inside the slot, the two arms being spaced along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and the two arms extending along a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and perpendicular to the second direction.

[0024] In another advantageous development, the rod defines two recesses, the two arms fitting into the two recesses to allow the rod to be mounted with the mounting plate by sliding.

[0025] Preferably, the body defines a groove for receiving a strap. The groove extends in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction and parallel to the axis of rotation of at least one cam

[0026] The invention also relates to a rope harness which is easier to use, particularly in the installation and removal of a cam locking device.

[0027] The harness is remarkable in that it comprises a strap and a locking device according to any of the preceding configurations, the body of the attachment plate being mounted integrally with the strap to install the cam locking device in a removable manner relative to the harness.

[0028] The invention also relates to a method of fixing a cam locking device to a support which is easy to implement and which facilitates maintaining a good grip on the locking device during removal or installation operations in a wall.

[0029] This result is to be achieved by means of a process comprising the following steps: - provide a cam locking device according to any of the previous configurations; - move the trigger to the second trigger position; - fix the cam locking device rod with the mounting plate, the mounting plate being located between the second trigger position and the first trigger position; - move the trigger towards the head, the trigger coming against the locking plate, the trigger being out of the first trigger position.

[0030] The invention also relates to a method of separating a cam locking device from a support which is easy to implement and which facilitates maintaining a good grip on the locking device during removal or installation operations in a wall.

[0031] This result is to be achieved by means of a process comprising the following steps: - provide a cam locking device according to any of the preceding configurations, the hook plate being fixed to the rod of the cam locking device between the first trigger position and the second trigger position; - Move the trigger to the second trigger position to allow the locking plate to move relative to the rod in the first direction towards the head, thus separating the locking plate and the rod. (Summary description of the drawings)

[0032] Other advantages and features will become clearer from the following description of particular embodiments and implementations of the invention given by way of non-limiting examples and shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0033] [Fig-1]: [Fig.1] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a device cam locking according to a first embodiment in the engaged position;

[0034] [Fig.2]: [Fig.2] schematically illustrates another perspective view of the cam locking device according to the first embodiment in the hooked position;

[0035] [Fig.3] : [Fig.3] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a cam locking device according to the first embodiment in the detached position;

[0036] [Fig.4]: [Fig.4] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a device cam locking according to a second embodiment in the engaged position;

[0037] [Fig.5] : [Fig.5] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a cam locking device according to the second embodiment in the detached position;

[0038] [Fig.6] : [Fig.6] schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the rod's attachment to the attachment plate according to the first embodiment in the attached position;

[0039] [Fig.7]: [Fig.7] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a mode of construction of a mounting plate;

[0040] [Fig.8] : [Fig.8] schematically illustrates a harness. Description of the implementation methods

[0041] Figures 1 to 5 illustrate different embodiments of a cam locking device, also known as a "cam blocker". The cam locking device is an active locking device.

[0042] The cam locking device comprises a first end fitted with a head 1 and a second, opposite end which is an annular end 2. The head 1 is coupled to at least one cam 3 and preferably to several cams 3 which are mounted to pivotally move between an extended position and a retracted position. The overall dimensions in the extended position are greater than the overall dimensions in the retracted position. The cam(s) 3 are mounted to pivotally move around at least one pivot shaft 4. The cam(s) 3 are mechanically coupled to the head 1 so as to provide mechanical continuity between the cam(s) 3 and the annular end 2. The pivot shaft 4 is fixed to the head 1; more precisely, the pivot shaft 4 is fixed to a body la of the head 1. The body la may be formed by one or more parts.

[0043] Conventionally, the annular end 2 is in the form of a ring that defines a through hole configured to receive a carabiner. The annular end 2 is capable of supporting the weight of a user. The ring defines a through hole configured to receive part of the hand during the actuation phases of the cams 3.

[0044] The cam locking device has a wire element 5 which mechanically connects the head 1 to the annular end 2. The wire element 5 mechanically couples the cam(s) 3 to the annular end 2 so that a user attached to the annular end 2 is held in place by means of cams 3, which are wedged, for example, in a crack. The wire element 5 is the element that ensures mechanical continuity between the head 1 and the annular end 2. The wire element 5 is fixed to the head to mechanically couple the wire element 5 and the head 1. The wire element 5 extends along a first direction XX so as to achieve mechanical holding along this first direction XX. The pivot shaft 4 extends primarily along a second direction YY, which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the first direction XX.

[0045] The wire element 5 is fixed to the head 1 and extends continuously from the head 1 to the annular end 2 to achieve mechanical continuity along the locking device. Preferably, the wire element 5 goes around an anchor fixed to the head 1 in order to transfer the load to the annular end 2. In other words, the wire element 5 defines at least one loop, and the anchor shaft passes through the loop to transfer the load.

[0046] The wire element 5 may be in the form of a ring, preferably a ring made of textile material. The wire element 5 may be a strap or a rope. The ring made of textile material may be a ring made of polyethylene with a very high molar mass, for example, a material marketed under the names Dyneema or Spectra. A metallic wire element, for example, a cable, may also be used.

[0047] As illustrated in [Fig. 1], it is advantageous for the ring to be obtained by sewing the two ends of the wire element 5 together. Sewing is a well-established process, which facilitates obtaining a ring with controlled mechanical strength. Using a sewing step makes it possible to form a ring that is less expensive and whose dimensions are more precisely controlled than its equivalent obtained by splicing. It is advantageous for the ring to be free of crimping and splicing.

[0048] The locking device includes a rod 6 which extends from the head 1 to the annular end 2. Preferably, the rod 6 is more rigid than the wire element 5 perpendicular to the direction XX, which makes it possible to hold the cam locking device by means of the rod 6 and to place the locking device precisely in a crack compared to an equivalent device without the rod 6.

[0049] It is advantageous to protect the wire element 5 by passing the wire element 5 through the rod 6. It is also advantageous to cover the entire wire element 5 from the annular end 2 to the head by the rod 6.

[0050] The locking device includes an actuation system functionally coupled to at least one cam 3. The actuation system is configured to selectively engage the retracted position of at least one cam 3. The system The actuation mechanism has a trigger 7 mounted to slide along a first direction XX connecting the head 1 and the annular end 2. The trigger 7 is mounted to slide along the rod 6. The trigger 7 moves relative to the head 1 and the annular end 2.

[0051] In other words, the trigger 7 is mounted movable relative to the head 1 and is functionally coupled to at least one cam 3. The trigger 7 is functionally coupled to at least one cam 3 such that the movement of the trigger 7 away from the head 1 causes the at least one cam 3 to move towards the retracted position. Preferably, the trigger 7 is coupled to all the cams 3 such that the movement of the trigger 7 away from the head 1 causes the cams 3 to move towards their retracted position.

[0052] The trigger 7 is movable between a first trigger position and a second trigger position. In the first trigger position, the cam(s) 3 are free to move and can be in the extended position. In the second trigger position, the cam(s) 3 are in the retracted position. Outside the first trigger position, the cam(s) 3 are outside the extended position.

[0053] It is advantageous that a movement of the trigger 7 towards the head 1 does not impose any movement of the cam 3 and in particular does not translate into a movement of the cam 3 towards the extended position.

[0054] Preferably, the rod 6 extends continuously from the head 1 to the annular end 2 so as to provide good mechanical hold when the locking device is held by the annular end 2 and the trigger 7. It is advantageous for the trigger 7 to be mounted to slide along the rod 6 and for the rod 6 to separate the wire element 5 and the trigger 7. The trigger 7 slides along the first direction XX.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the trigger 7 is slidably mounted along the wire element 5 between the head 1 and the annular end 2. The trigger 7 can be coupled to the cam 3 or to each cam 3 by an additional wire element 10. The additional wire element 10 can be a metal cable, a textile element, or a wire element made of a synthetic material, for example, plastic. The additional wire element 10 couples the cam 3 to the trigger 7 and allows a movement of the trigger 7 towards the annular end 2 to be translated into a movement of the cam 3 towards the retracted position.

[0056] The additional wire element 10 forms a flexible link between the cam 3 and the trigger 7. The flexible link allows the cam 3 to be moved towards the retracted position when the trigger 7 is moved towards the annular end 2. The flexible link does not allow the cam 3 to be moved towards the extended position when the trigger 7 is moved towards the head 1.

[0057] The trigger 7 advantageously has anchor holes which are intended for the passage of the additional wire element 10. The additional wire element 10 extends from the trigger 7 to fixing holes present in the cams 3.

[0058] The cam locking device has a spring 11 configured to actuate at least one cam 3 towards the extended position. The spring 11 can be made using any technology; it can be a helical spring operating in tension, compression, torsion, or bending. It can also be a metal leaf or wire that is elastically deformed. In the absence of any obstruction or obstruction, the spring 11 places the cam(s) 3 in the extended position. The force applied to the trigger 7 to move away from the head 1 corresponds to a force applied to the cam 3 that is opposite to the force applied by the spring 11 to move the cam(s) 3 towards the retracted position. In one embodiment, the spring 11 is attached on one side to the cam 3 and on the other side to the head 1.In another embodiment, the spring is fixed on one side to a first cam 3 and on the other side to a second cam 3 which is for example mounted on a different pivot shaft 4 than the first cam 3. The locking device may include as many springs 11 as there are cams 3 or as many springs 11 as there are pairs of cams 3.

[0059] By means of the additional wire element 10, moving the trigger 7 from the first trigger position to the second trigger position causes at least one cam 3 to move from the extended position to the retracted position. Conversely, activating the spring 11 to move the cam(s) 3 from the extended position to the retracted position causes the trigger 7 to move to the first trigger position. The spring 11 is configured so that the extended position and the first trigger position are rest positions of the cam locking device.

[0060] The cam locking device comprises at least one rod 6 extending from the head 1 towards the annular end 2, i.e., along the first direction XX. In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 5, the cam locking device comprises a single rod 6 extending longitudinally along the first direction XX, abutting the head 1 and the annular end 2. However, an embodiment with several rods is possible.

[0061] To facilitate the attachment of the locking device to a support, preferably to a wire support element which may be a rope or a strap, it is advantageous for the locking device to be provided with an attachment plate 8 which is mounted removably relative to the rod 6. The attachment plate 8 is intended to be attached to the wire support element so as to form an attachment interface which cooperates more easily with the rod 6. The attachment plate 8 allows the cam locking device to be attached to a support, preferably a harness.

[0062] In order to facilitate the use of the locking device, it is advantageous that the rod 6 remains firmly in place against the hook plate 8 when the locking device is not in use and it must be possible to easily separate the rod 6 and the hook plate 8 when the cam locking device is to be used, in particular to fix it in a hole.

[0063] It is particularly advantageous to have a locking plate 8 that attaches to the rod 6 between the first trigger position and the second trigger position. The locking plate 8 prevents the trigger 7 from moving along the rod between the first and second trigger positions. Outside the first trigger position, the trigger 7 is out of its rest position; that is, the spring 11 forces the trigger 7 into the first trigger position. The locking plate 8 forms an obstacle in the path of movement of the trigger 7. The spring 11 forces the trigger 7 so that the trigger 7 comes to rest against the locking plate 8. The spring 11 causes the trigger 7 to apply a force against the locking plate 8 in the first direction XX towards the cams 3.

[0064] In order to effectively hook the rod 6 with the hooking plate 8, it is advantageous that the trigger 7 applies a significant force on the hooking plate 8. It is therefore advantageous that the hooking plate 8 has its movement blocked beyond a threshold position in the first direction XX.

[0065] The cam locking device has a first blocker which is configured to prevent movement of the hook plate 8 beyond a threshold position in the first direction XX from the annular end 2 towards the head 1 when the hook plate 8 is hooked to the rod 6. When the hook plate 8 is not hooked to the rod 6, the first blocker does not prevent movement of the trigger 7 between the first trigger position and the second trigger position.

[0066] In a particular embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, the first stop defines a groove and tongue system that prevents the trigger from moving from the second position to the first position. One of the groove and tongue is formed in the rod 6, the other being formed in the latching plate 8.

[0067] According to embodiments, the first blocker can be configured to allow relative movement between the mounting plate 8 and the rod 6 or to prohibit any relative movement along the first direction XX.

[0068] In one scenario, the first locking device allows the mounting plate 8 to move along the rod 6 in the first direction XX at least as far as the first threshold position. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, the mounting plate 8 is fixedly mounted in the first direction XX. The first The threshold position ensures that the trigger 7 is out of its first trigger position. The spring 11 is out of its rest position and applies force to the trigger 7. The force applied by the spring 11 clamps the locking plate 8 between the rod 6 and the trigger 7, thus locking the rod 6 and the locking plate 8 together.

[0069] Preferably, the tongue and groove system allows the rod 6 to slide along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction XX. The mounting plate 8 is fixed to the rod 6 by means of sliding along a direction perpendicular to the first direction XX, preferably a third direction ZZ which is perpendicular to the first direction XX and to the second direction YY.

[0070] In another embodiment illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the rod 6 defines at least one projection perpendicular to the first direction XX, this projection opposing the movement of the mounting plate 8 beyond the threshold position. The projection forms the end stop, which defines the maximum permissible position for the mounting plate 8. Preferably, the projection does not prevent the movement of the trigger 7. In a particular embodiment, in the first trigger position 7, the trigger 7 is opposite the projection 6b in a direction perpendicular to the first direction XX. In another embodiment, in the first trigger position, the trigger 7 rests against the projection 6b.

[0071] The thickness of the latching plate 8 along the XX direction ensures that the trigger 7 will be out of the first trigger position.

[0072] In one embodiment, the mounting plate 8 has one or more arms 8a. The arm(s) 8a form the end stop. The force applied by the spring 11 causes the trigger 7 to press against at least one arm 8a of the mounting plate 8 to lock the rod 6 with the mounting plate 8.

[0073] To further ensure the secure connection between the rod 6 and the mounting plate 8, it is advantageous to provide a second locking device configured to prevent relative movement between the mounting plate 8 and the rod 6 beyond a second threshold position along a third direction ZZ to prevent separation between the rod 6 and the mounting plate 8, the direction being perpendicular to the first direction XX. The locking of the mounting plate 8 is achieved along a direction that is perpendicular to the first direction XX, for example, the second direction or a third direction that is perpendicular to the second direction and perpendicular to the first direction XX.

[0074] Movements between the rod 6 and the mounting plate 8 are limited or even impossible in two perpendicular directions when the trigger 7 is in contact with the mounting plate 8, more preferably in three perpendicular directions cular. This helps to better prevent unintentional separation between the rod 6 and the mounting plate 8.

[0075] In a particular embodiment, the stop is a fixed stop defined by the rod 6. The position of the stop relative to the head 1 or the annular end 2 does not change when the trigger 7 moves. This embodiment is more advantageous because it is more robust than an embodiment where the stop moves when the trigger 7 moves. It is conceivable to have a stop whose movement is reversed relative to that of the trigger 7.

[0076] Preferably, the second blocker defines a groove and tongue system opposing a displacement of the hook plate relative to the rod 6, one of the groove and tongue being formed in the trigger 7, the other of the groove and tongue being formed in the hook plate 8.

[0077] Advantageously, the latching plate 8 has at least one arm 8a, the at least one arm 8a extending perpendicularly to the first direction XX to form the end stop for the trigger 7 along the first direction, the at least one arm 8a terminating in a projecting pin 8c along the first direction XX to form the second stop. The at least one arm extends predominantly in a direction perpendicular to the first direction XX, preferably along the third direction ZZ.

[0078] In a preferred configuration, the mounting plate 8 has two arms 8a defining a U-shaped slot, the bottom of which is formed by a body 8e, the rod 6 being fixed inside the slot

[0079] In the embodiment illustrated in figures 1 to 3, the rod 6 defines two recesses 6a, the two arms 8a insert into the two recesses 6a to mount the rod 6 with the mounting plate 8 by sliding.

[0080] Preferably illustrated in Figures 1 and 3, at least one arm 8a and the rod 6 define a tongue-and-groove system allowing the rod 6 to slide within the mounting plate 8 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction XX. The tongue-and-groove system forms the stop for the rod 6 in the first direction XX. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 and 6, the rod 6 defines at least one recess 6a, preferably two opposing recesses 6a in the second direction YY, or an annular recess. The two arms 8a fit into the two recesses 6a, which defines the insertion direction of the rod 6 in the groove defined by the two arms 8a. The two arms 8a define an insertion or extraction in a direction that is perpendicular to the first direction XX.The dimension of the groove along the first direction XX can be greater than the dimension of the tongue along the first direction XX in order to define a functional clearance along the first direction XX. The functional clearance. This facilitates the insertion of the rod 6 into the mounting plate 8. Figure 6 illustrates, in cross-section, a rod 6 with two recesses 6a and a wire element 5 that passes through the rod 6 in the first direction XX. The recesses 6a are wider than the arms 8a in the first direction XX, thus defining a functional clearance. The trigger 7 presses the arms 8a against stops defined by the rod 6.

[0081] It is preferable to use two recesses 6a instead of an annular recess because this allows to form an anti-rotation device which prevents rotation around the first direction XX passing through the rod 6. This also prevents too much reduction in the mechanical performance of the rod 6 perpendicular to the first direction XX.

[0082] While Figures 1 to 3 and 6 show grooves formed in the rod 6 and tabs formed in the mounting plate 8, it is possible to reverse the configuration. The rod 6 has one or more protrusions that form tabs designed to fit into grooves in the mounting plate 8.

[0083] Figure 5 shows a mounting plate 8 with two arms 8a defining a U-shaped slot 8b for receiving the rod 6. An embodiment is possible in which the mounting plate 8 has only one arm 8a. In this case, the rod 6 defines a through or blind hole that receives the arm 8a. This embodiment is less advantageous than the previous one because it requires greater precision to insert the arm 8a into the hole. The arm 8a may come into contact with the wire element 5.

[0084] Preferably illustrated in figures 1, 2, 4 and 7, at least one arm 8a is provided with a pin 8c which is mounted protruding along the first direction XX towards the annular end 2. The pin 8c prevents the movement of the trigger 7 and the rod 6 relative to the hook plate 8 beyond the second threshold position.

[0085] When the trigger 7 is pressed against the arm 8a, the pin 8c forms an obstacle that prevents the trigger 7 from moving beyond the second threshold position. To disengage the rod 6 and the locking device 8, the trigger 7 is moved to at least the second trigger position until it is no longer aligned with the pin 8c in the direction perpendicular to the first direction XX. Once this position is reached, the rod 6 can be moved in the direction perpendicular to the first direction XX. A pin 8c can also be used in the device illustrated in [Fig. 2]. The trigger 7, wedged against the mounting plate 8, prevents the rod 6 from separating from the mounting plate 8. Preferably, the trigger 7 defines a through hole and the rod 6 slides along the through hole in the first direction XX.

[0086] To prevent or make more difficult the movement of the rod 6 along the direction perpendicular to the first direction XX in the direction which leads to the disengagement For this purpose, it is possible to design the trigger 7 surface, intended to come into contact with the surface of the arm(s) 8a, to be roughened in order to reduce the coefficient of static or dynamic friction between the two parts. It is also possible to design the two parts to be textured with complementary shapes that prevent slippage in either direction, for example, teeth, triangles, or any other suitable shape. It is also possible to design the trigger 7 and / or the mounting plate 8 to be magnetized in such a way as to generate a force that pulls the trigger 7 towards the body.

[0087] It is also possible to provide one or more arms 8a equipped with a movable stopper actuated by an elastically deformable part (not shown). When the trigger 7 is pressed against at least one arm 8a, the trigger 7 actuates a movable stopper, causing it to move in a longitudinal groove of the rod 6, thus preventing the rod 6 from moving in the second direction. Once the trigger 7 is positioned away from at least one arm 8a, the movable stopper is in a rest position and leaves the longitudinal groove.

[0088] When the mounting plate 8 is provided with two arms 8a defining a U-shaped slot 8b, it is preferable that each of the arms 8a has a pin 8c mounted projecting towards the annular end 2.

[0089] It is particularly advantageous to provide that the latching plate 8 forms an end stop which prevents the trigger 7 from reaching the first trigger position.

[0090] It is advantageous for the attachment plate 8 to define a groove for receiving a wire support element, preferably a strap, i.e., a textile element whose length is greater than its width, which is itself greater than its thickness. The strap has a rectangular cross-section. The groove is oriented so that the longitudinal axis of the wire support element is perpendicular to the first direction XX, preferably along the third direction ZZ. The wire support element passes through the body 8a of the attachment plate 8 along a third direction ZZ, which is perpendicular to the first and second directions YY. Once the strap is under tension, the groove prevents the strap from rotating and thus prevents the attachment device from pivoting when it supports the assembly formed by the other elements of the cam locking device.

[0091] Preferably, the mounting plate 8 has a body 8e which defines the cavity intended to receive the wire support element, for example in the form of a groove 8d. The arm(s) 8a extend from the body 8e.

[0092] The embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 7 is particularly advantageous because when the user operates the trigger 7 to move the trigger 7 into the second trigger position, this allows the rod 6 and the mounting plate 8 to be separated. This allows the cam(s) 3 to be placed in the retracted position, that is, the position intended for inserting the cam locking device into a hole. It is not necessary to modify the grip, thus avoiding the risk of losing the cam locking device.

[0093] To hook the rod 6 onto the hooking plate 8, the trigger 7 is moved into the second trigger position and then the rod 6 is hooked onto the hooking plate 8.

[0094] When the locking plate 8 is removed, the user moves the trigger 7 to the second trigger position, which tilts the cam(s) 3 into the retracted position. The user can then engage the cam locking device without altering the grip, and in particular the position of the fingers on the trigger 7 and in the ring end. Once engaged, the trigger 7 is moved to the first trigger position. The locking plate 8 acts as an obstacle during the movement of the trigger 7. The trigger 7 is locked in a threshold position by the locking plate, which acts as an end stop.

[0095] Without releasing the pressure on the trigger 7, it is then possible to install the head 1 in a hole. Once the head 7 is installed, the trigger 7 can be moved to the first trigger position, which allows the cam(s) 3 to bear against the walls of the hole.

[0096] Figure 8 shows a partial view of the belt 12 of a harness 13. The belt 12 is equipped with a wire support element 14, here shown as a strap. It is advantageous for the wire support element to form a loop, i.e., an area that is slightly movable relative to the body of the belt to allow the attachment of the attachment plate. The loop is fixed to the body at its two opposite ends. Once the attachment plate is fixed to the belt, it becomes substantially immobile relative to the body, which allows the user to quickly locate the cam locking device along the belt 13. The wire support element can define several loops. The loops are different from the gear loops 15, which are designed to receive carabiners.

Claims

Demands

1. Cam locking device comprising: - a head (1); - at least one cam (3) mounted movable to pivot about at least one pivot shaft (4), the at least one cam (3) being movable between a retracted position and an extended position, the at least one pivot shaft (4) being fixed to the head (1); - a spring (11) functionally coupled to at least one cam (3) to urge at least one cam (3) towards the extended position; - an annular end (2) mechanically coupled to the head (1); - a stem (6) extending from the head (1) to the annular end (2); - an actuation system coupled to at least one cam (3), the actuation system being configured to selectively engage the retracted position, the actuation system having a trigger (7) mounted to slide along the rod (6) in a first direction (XX) connecting the head (1) and the annular end (2), the trigger (7) being movable between a first trigger position and a second trigger position, out of the first trigger position at least one cam (3) being out of the extended position and activating the spring (11), the spring (11) activating the trigger (7) out of the extended position; - a mounting plate (8) removable relative to the rod (6), when the mounting plate (8) is mounted on the rod (6), the mounting plate (8) is positioned between the first trigger position and the second trigger position; - a first blocker configured to prevent movement of the hook plate (8) beyond a threshold position along the first direction (XX) from the annular end (2) towards the head (1) when the hook plate (8) is hooked to the rod (6), and in which when the hook plate (8) is in the threshold position, at least one cam (3) is out of the extended position; cam locking device characterized in that the latching plate (8) has two arms (8a) extending from a body (8e) and defining a U-shaped slot, the bottom of which is formed by the body (8a), the rod (6) being fixed inside the slot, the two arms (8a) being spaced along a second direction (YY) perpendicular to dicular to the first direction (XX) and the two arms (8a) extending along a third direction (ZZ) perpendicular to the first direction (XX) and perpendicular to the second direction (YY), the rod (6) being fixed inside the slot.

2. Cam locking device according to claim 1 in which the first blocker defines a groove and tongue system opposing a movement of the trigger (7) from the second trigger position to the first trigger position, one of the groove and tongue being formed in the rod (6), the other of the groove and tongue being formed in the hook plate (8).

3. Cam locking device according to claim 2 wherein the groove and tongue system allows the rod (6) to slide relative to the hook plate (8) in a direction perpendicular (ZZ) to the first direction (XX).

4. Cam locking device according to claim 1 in which the rod (6) defines at least one protrusion (6b) perpendicular to the first direction (XX), the at least one protrusion (6b) opposing the movement of the hook plate (8) beyond the threshold position.

5. Cam locking device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 comprising a second blocker configured to prevent relative movement between the hook plate (8) and the rod (6) beyond a second threshold position in a direction perpendicular to the first direction (XX) to prevent separation between the rod (6) and the hook plate (8).

6. Cam locking device according to claim 5, wherein the second blocker defines a groove and tongue system opposing a displacement of the hook plate (8) relative to the rod (6), one of the groove and tongue being formed in the trigger (7), the other of the groove and tongue being formed in the hook plate (8).

7. Cam locking device according to claim 5 in which the hook plate (8) has at least one arm (8a), the at least one arm (8a) extending in a direction perpendicular to the first direction (XX) to form the end stop for the trigger (7), the at least one arm (8a) being terminated by a protruding pin (8c) in the first direction (XX) to form the second blocker.

8. Cam locking device according to claim 3 in which the rod (6) defines two recesses (6a), the two arms (8a) fitting into the two recesses (6a) to allow the rod (6) to be mounted with the mounting plate (8) by sliding.

9. Cam locking device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the body (8e) defines a groove (8d) for receiving a strap and wherein the groove (8d) extends along a second direction (YY) which is perpendicular to the first direction (XX) and parallel to the axis of rotation of at least one cam (3).

10. A rope harness comprising a strap and a cam locking device according to any one of the preceding claims, the attachment plate (8) being mounted integrally with the strap to install the cam locking device in a removable manner relative to the strap.

11. A method for fixing the rod (6) of a cam locking device to a mounting plate (8) comprising the following steps: - providing a cam locking device according to any one of claims 1 to 9; - moving the trigger (7) into the second trigger position; - fixing the rod (6) of the cam locking device with the mounting plate (8), the mounting plate (8) being located between the second trigger position and the first trigger position; - moving the trigger (7) towards the head (1), the trigger (7) coming against the mounting plate (8), the trigger (7) being out of the first trigger position (7).

12. A method for disengaging a cam locking device and a hook plate (8) comprising the following steps: - providing a cam locking device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the hook plate (8) being fixed to the rod (6) of the cam locking device between the first trigger position and the second trigger position; - moving the trigger (7) into the second trigger position so as to permit a movement of the hook plate (8) relative to the rod (6) in the first direction (XX) towards the head (1) and disengaging the hook plate (8) and the rod (6).

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