DEVICE FOR ADJUSTING THE TIGHTNESS OF AT LEAST ONE STRAND OF STRAP FIXED BY MEANS OF A QUICK-OPENING ATTACHMENT BUCKLE

Abstract

Title: DEVICE FOR ADJUSTING THE TIGHTNESS OF AT LEAST ONE STRAND OF STRAP FIXED BY MEANS OF A QUICK-OPENING ATTACHMENT BUCKLE Device for adjusting the tightness (10) of two strands of strap (20) fixed together by means of a quick-opening attachment buckle (11), said tightening adjustment device (10) being intended to cooperate with said quick-opening attachment buckle (11), said tightening adjustment device (10) comprising: a first gripping portion (21) allowing said tightening adjustment device (10) to be pulled, a second holding portion (2) intended to be arranged in contact with said quick-opening attachment buckle (11) and;a third guide portion (6) intended to be in contact with said quick-opening attachment loop (11), said tightening adjustment device (10) comprising a cord (1), said holding portion (2) comprising two holes for the passage or fixing of two portions of the cord (1) in order to form at least one loop. Figure for abstract: [Fig.9];

Description

Title of the invention: DEVICE FOR ADJUSTING THE TIGHTNESS OF AT LEAST ONE STRAND OF STRAPS FIXED BY A QUICK-RELEASE BUCKLE Field of invention

[0001] The field of the invention relates to that of devices for adjusting the tightness of a strap. The field of the invention relates more generally to any element for adjusting the tightness of a strap, for example of a helmet, a bag or any other type of strap which can be tightened for example by means of a quick-release fastening buckle. More particularly, the field of the invention relates to those of protective helmet accessories, particularly for sports such as cycling, for loosening the chin strap provided with a quick-release fastening buckle.

[0002] Straps are known forming part of a tightening device for tightening an object, in particular on the human body, including the head. Such a tightening device also comprises a fastening element of two portions allowing the tightening device to be closed to secure the object to the human body or the head of an individual. The fastening element may be a quick-closing buckle, also called a "release buckle", "quick-attach buckle" or "quick buckle". In addition, the two strap portions allow the object to be released in the event of opening and allow a balance of tension to maintain the object in a balanced and therefore comfortable manner on the human body.

[0003] In general, tightening devices for tightening an object, particularly on the human body, including the head, may sometimes include adjustment elements for adjusting the size of the strap portions to the body or head. These elements are generally positioned laterally on each strap portion. The purpose of these strap size adjustment elements is to adjust the length of the straps to adapt to any size of human body or any individual's head.

[0004] A problem with the adjustment elements for adjusting the size of the strap portions is that they are not easy to adjust when the object is carried by an individual. Furthermore, these adjustment devices for adjusting the size of the strap portions do not allow adjustment of the tightness at the level of the attachment of the two straps.

[0005] Indeed, when tightening a strap fixed for example by means of a quick fastener, the individual closes the fastener and pulls on a free portion of a strap to tighten the two portions of straps. For example, if the object is a helmet, excessive tightening at the throat can cause discomfort or even a feeling choking hazard. It is then necessary to readjust the tightness of the fastener, which requires a quick movement of the buckle to correctly orient the strap and a loosening of the strap by pulling on another part of the strap. However, this movement is not easy, especially for a child.

[0006] Sliding the straps into the attachment loop can also be difficult. You should then pull the tightening strap strands firmly with one hand and grasp the quick-release buckle with the fingers of the other hand, which can be slippery, especially when wearing gloves.

[0007] Adjusting the strap tightness is a non-intuitive operation, sometimes exasperating and which can lead an individual to tighten their strap incorrectly and therefore put themselves in danger.

[0008] The intervention of a third party such as a parent to adjust the helmet worn by their child is also delicate.

[0009] There is a need for a solution to facilitate the tightening of a strap that allows for a real, tailored adjustment of the tightening for an individual.

[0010] Thus, the present invention aims to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks using a simple, reliable and easy to implement means. Summary of the invention

[0011] According to one aspect, the invention relates to a device for adjusting the tightening of at least one strand of strap inserted into a quick-release attachment buckle, said tightening adjustment device being intended to cooperate with said quick-release attachment buckle, said tightening adjustment device comprising: • a gripping portion allowing the pulling of said tightening adjustment device to initiate movement of at least one strand of strap, • a holding portion intended to be arranged in contact with a connector of the quick-release attachment loop and; • a guide portion intended to be in contact with said connector of the quick-release attachment loop,

[0012] said tightening adjustment device comprising a cord, said holding portion comprising two holes intended to receive the cord so as to form a first loop making it possible to hold said holding portion and said guide portion on either side of the connector of the quick-release attachment loop.

[0013] One advantage is having a device that allows you to adjust the tightening and loosening with a simple pulling movement. The advantage lies in the ease of loosening a strap that is too tight, for example, intuitively with a simple movement.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the at least two holes are two through openings of the holding portion for the passage of two portions of the cord in order to form a second loop, said second loop comprising the portion of grip allowing, through its traction, the movement of the strap strands inserted in the quick-release attachment buckle.

[0015] An advantage is to allow a better grip, for example by inserting a finger into the second loop to perform the pulling movement.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the first loop is formed from portions of the cord, the holding portion and the guiding portion and the second loop is formed from portions of the cord, the holding portion and the gripping portion.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the gripping portion comprises a hollow tube for the passage of the cord. An advantage is that the gripping means comprises a rigid or semi-rigid portion making it easier to grip the adjustment device.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the gripping portion comprises a portion of stiffened cord.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the gripping portion is inscribed in a plane secant to the mean plane in which the tightening adjustment device is inscribed.

[0020] An advantage is to naturally orient the tightening device in the natural direction of pulling, i.e. downwards when the quick-release buckle is in the horizontal plane for example.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the gripping portion is formed by the ends of the holding portion. One advantage is to obtain a gripping means directly integrated into the holding portion, which allows this element to perform two functions.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the gripping portion comprises a curved and / or grooved part. An advantage is that it allows recognition of the shape without looking at it, for example, just by touch.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the holding portion has a length greater than the width of the spacer of the base of a male connector of a quick-release attachment loop. An advantage is that it prevents it from obstructing the slot and this allows for better gripping.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the holding portion comprises a tube provided with two holes passing transversely through said tube so as to allow the passage of the cord. An advantage is to form a double loop whose dimensions can be adapted when pulling the cord to adjust the tightness of a strap.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the holding portion comprises a tube provided with two orifices forming blind holes for fixing the ends of the cord. An advantage is that it allows a loop to be formed and therefore the cords to be fixed discreetly to form a single-piece element.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the holding portion comprises a tube provided with two orifices opening into the interior of the hollow cylinder and communicating along an internal channel of the tube for the passage of the cord. An advantage is to use a single cord and to reduce the gluing operations.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the holding portion comprises two ends extending by a portion going beyond the width of a connector of a quick-release buckle. An advantage is to form projecting gripping elements facilitating the gripping of the tightening device.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the holding portion comprises two hollow lateral tubes each forming a guide for the passage of the cord inside said lateral tubes. One advantage is to facilitate the guiding of the cord from the gripping portion to the guiding portion.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the distance between the two orifices or the two hollow lateral tubes is greater than the width of a base of a male connector of a quick-release attachment loop. An advantage is to facilitate the passage of the cord on either side of the connector.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the holding portion comprises a hollow cylindrical component mounted on a shaft so that it can rotate around said shaft. One advantage is that it facilitates the sliding of the strap.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the guide portion has a length less than the width of a base of a male connector of a quick-release attachment buckle. An advantage is that it makes it easier to slide the strap over the guide portion.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the guide portion has a width less than the largest dimension of a hollow zone of the base located at the spacer of a base of a male connector of a quick-release attachment loop.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the guide portion is formed by a portion of the cord.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the guide portion is formed by a hollow tube adapted to be crossed in its internal cavity by a portion of cord.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the tightening adjustment device comprises a single cord forming the two loops.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the tightening adjustment device comprises a single cord forming the two loops and passing through the hollow tube of the guide portion and the hollow tube of the gripping portion as well as the orifices or the lateral tubes of the holding portion.

[0037] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a device for adjusting the fastening of two strands of strap comprising: • A quick-opening attachment mouth comprising a male connector with two slots suitable for the passage of a strand of strap; • A tightening adjustment device according to the invention.

[0038] According to another aspect, the invention relates to an object comprising two fasteners for fixing two strands of strap and a device for adjusting the fixing of two strands of strap according to the invention.

[0039] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a helmet comprising two fasteners for fixing two strap strands and a device for adjusting the fixing of two strap strands of the invention.

[0040] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a method of installing a tightening adjustment device of the invention comprising: • a step of positioning the first loop of the tightening adjustment device around the spacer of the base of a male connector of a quick-opening attachment mouth so that the holding portion and the guiding portion are positioned in a sandwich around the spacer on either side of the connector; • a second step of inserting a strap strand passing through the slots of the connector base so that the strap strand inserted into a first slot covers the holding portion before being reinserted into the second slot.

[0041] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a method for adjusting the tightness of two strands of straps attached to an object of the invention comprising: • A first step of fixing two connectors of a quick-release attachment loop; • Tightening of the two strands of straps by pulling one strand of strap; • A tightening adjustment including: • a manual pull of the lower loop of the tightening adjustment device, said pull being carried out by grasping the gripping portions of the holding portion, in a direction following an axis intersecting the mean plane in which the male connector of the quick-release attachment loop is located.

[0042] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a method for adjusting the tightness of two strands of straps fixed to an object of the invention, said method comprising: • A first step of fixing two connectors of a quick-release attachment loop; • Tightening of the two strands of straps by pulling one strand of strap so as to adjust the object to a part of the body or head of an individual; • A tightening adjustment including: • a manual pull of the upper loop of the tightening adjustment device, said pull being carried out by sliding a finger into the loop and pulling the gripping portion, in a direction following an axis intersecting the mean plane in which the male connector of the quick-release attachment loop is located. Brief description of the figures

[0043] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge on reading the detailed description which follows, with reference to the appended figures, which illustrate:

[0044] [Fig-1]: an example of the embodiment of a device for adjusting the tightening of a strap of the invention comprising a tubular gripping portion;

[0045] [Fig.2]: an exemplary embodiment of a device for adjusting the tightening of a strap of the invention comprising a gripping portion comprising a joining knot;

[0046] [Fig.3]: an exemplary embodiment of a device for adjusting the tightening of a strap of the invention comprising a holding portion provided with gripping portions at each of its ends, and a guide portion;

[0047] [Fig.4]: an exemplary embodiment of a device for adjusting the tightening of a strap of the invention comprising a gripping portion comprising a variation in the curvature;

[0048] [Fig.5]: a summary perspective view of an embodiment of an adjustment device of the invention comprising an element comprising tubes for the passage of a cord in order to form a double loop;

[0049] [Fig.6]: an example of representation of the male part of a quick-attach buckle intended to fix two portions of straps together to secure an object to the body of an individual or the head of an individual;

[0050] [Fig.7]: an example of representation of the female part of a quick-release buckle intended to fix two portions of straps together to secure an object to the body of an individual or the head of an individual;

[0051] [Fig.8]: an example representation of the tightening adjustment device comprising two buckles of the invention arranged within a quick-release buckle and a strap;

[0052] [Fig.9]: an example representation of the tightening adjustment device comprising a single buckle of the invention arranged within a quick-release buckle and a strap;

[0053] [Fig. 10]: an example of a movement allowing the tightness of a strap to be adjusted when the latter is inserted into a quick-release buckle;

[0054] [Fig. 11]: a perspective view of an embodiment of an adjustment device of the invention forming a double loop positioned on a quick-release attachment loop with the passage of the strap strands. Description of the invention

[0055] The invention relates to a clamping adjustment device 10 comprising a gripping portion 9, 21, called gripping portion 9, 21, a second holding portion 2 called holding portion 2 and a third guide portion 6, called guide portion 6.

[0056] Figures 1 to 5 show different embodiments of these portions and their connection to each other.

[0057] These embodiments of a tightening adjustment device 10 of the invention are particularly suitable for cooperating with a quick-release attachment buckle 19 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. The present invention is particularly advantageous for such quick-release buckles fitted to helmets.

[0058] More generally, the invention relates to any device for adjusting the tightening 10 of straps 20 intended to be inserted into such a quick-release fastening buckle, regardless of the male and / or female connector of said quick-release fastening buckle. More particularly, the invention is of particular interest when such a quick-release fastening buckle comprises two slots 15, 16 for the passage of a strap 20 and between which a portion of the device is held between said quick-release fastening buckle and the strap.

[0059] According to a first embodiment, the tightening adjustment device 10 forms at least one loop 4 and comprises at least one cord 1 and at least one cylindrical tube 2.

[0060] According to a second embodiment, the tightening adjustment device 10 forms at least two loops 4, 5 and comprises at least one cord 1 and at least one cylindrical tube 2

[0061] The loop(s) 4, 5 are intended to be positioned on the base of the male part 11 of the quick-release loop 19.

[0062] The cylindrical tube 2 advantageously comprises two orifices 7 positioned respectively at each of the ends of said cylindrical tube 2. These orifices 7 allow the passage of the cord 1 and / or its fixing.

[0063] By end of the cylinder 2 is meant a portion comprising a lateral part of the cylinder near the distal end of the cylinder. In other words, the orifices can be arranged on the body of the cylinder 2 perpendicular to the main axis of the cylinder or be positioned at the distal end parallel to the main axis of the cylinder 2. However, according to certain embodiments of the invention, the orifices formed laterally on the cylinder body are preferable to promote the sliding of the cord.

[0064] According to a first example, the orifices may pass through the width of the cylindrical tube 2 and therefore open on the opposite side of a first opening in the body of the cylinder. Such orifices make it possible to bring out the cord, either to reform a second loop 5 or to knot the cord to prevent it from coming out through the opening 7 once it has passed through.

[0065] According to a second example, the orifices 7 can open into the inner channel of the cylinder 2 and communicate with each other through this inner channel. One advantage is that the cord 1 can be introduced through one orifice, extend along the inner channel of the cylinder 2 and exit through the second orifice at the other end of the cylinder 2.

[0066] According to a third example, the orifices 7 form blind holes in the body of the cylinder which may be solid, moreover, on the other parts of the body of the cylinder. In this case, the ends of the cord or portions of cord 1 may be fixed inside the cylinder 2 for example by means of glue. Gripping portion

[0067] [Fig. 1] is a first embodiment of the invention, the portion of which gripping device 9 comprises a cylinder allowing gripping of the cord 1. The cylinder allows for example the passage of the cord 1 inside the latter while providing a certain shape constraining said cord. An advantage is to obtain a portion sufficiently wide for the passage of the finger in the loop 5 in order to facilitate gripping of the tightening adjustment device with the aim of pulling it in one direction to loosen a strap introduced into a quick-release attachment loop 19.

[0068] The cylinder extending over the portion 9 may have a circular, oval, elliptical, square or rectangular cross-section. A circular cross-section is suitable for a cord itself having a circular cross-section. Oval or rectangular cross-sections may also be suitable for the use of a substantially flat cord 1.

[0069] [Fig.2] represents an alternative with a gripping portion 9 comprising a knot. An advantage is that the presence of the knot can be easily detected by touch and can be grasped in order to pull the cord to loosen the strap. [Fig.4] combines this example with tubular guides for the cord portions extending laterally to the base of the connector 11 of a quick buckle 19.

[0070] Pulling the upper buckle 5 is effective in obtaining the sliding of the strands of the adjustment strap in the male part of the quick-release attachment buckle 19, if it generates sufficient tension in the chin strap adjustment strap. To ensure that this tension is obtained during pulling, the upper buckle 5 can be curved towards the front of the base as shown in [Fig.4] requiring the said loop to be hooked with the hand, incidentally slipping a finger into it.

[0071] [Fig. 4] represents another example of embodiment of a gripping part comprising a portion of cord having a curvature falling within a plane inclined relative to the general plane in which the tightening adjustment device 10 is located. One advantage is to mark an area easily recognizable by touch. Another advantage is to make it possible to form a guide thanks to the angle formed by the curved portion 9 which is not in the same plane as the main plane in which the device is located.

[0072] This curvature of the cord can be obtained: • either by designing a loop curved by approximately 30° to 60° on its upper part of said loop 5, sufficiently rigid, for example in rubber-type material so that it retains its curvature; • either by orienting the tubes forming the orifices at the ends of the cylindrical tube 2 by approximately 30° to 60° to cause the cord to give the desired curvature to the upper loop 5.

[0073] The curvature given to the loop 5 on its upper part creates resistance to the deformation of the upper loop 5 and also guides the direction of traction.

[0074] The cord on the portion 9 can be stiffened in different ways to maintain a gripping portion in a predefined shape. Different possibilities can be implemented to stiffen a cord on the portion 9, such as a resin, a wax or any other material allowing this portion to be solidified locally so that the cord does not deteriorate or relax.

[0075] [Fig.4] also shows such lateral tubes 3 allowing the passage of the cord portions 1 on either side of the base of a male connector 11 of a quick-release attachment loop 19. In this example, a hollow tube can also be installed to form the guide portion 6. The hollow tube in particular allows the passage of a cord portion.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the gripping portion 9 may comprise an attachment element such as micro-hooks cooperating with micro-loops to close the portion 9 along the base.

[0077] [Fig. 3] represents another embodiment of the invention whose gripping portions 21 correspond to the ends of the holding portion 2. The ends can be grasped between two fingers even if the strap covers the holding portion. For this purpose, the length of the holding portion 2 is preferably greater than the width of a strap. The holding portion preferably comprises a rigid or semi-rigid tube 2 so as to facilitate the gripping of its ends.

[0078] In this case, each gripping portion 21 is an integral part of the holding portion 2 insofar as it corresponds to a part of the holding portion 2, in particular the extreme parts of the holding portion 2.

[0079] According to one example, the ends of the holding portion 2 have a particular shape to improve the gripping of said part by the fingers of an individual's hand, for example by giving a curved and grooved shape to the ends of said holding portion 2.

[0080] One advantage of these gripping portions 21 is that they mark an area that can be easily recognized by touch.

[0081] Another advantage is that this makes it easier, during a conventional strap adjustment, to grip the holding portion 2 as close as possible to the quick-release buckle 19, at the point where the fingers are naturally positioned to grasp said quick-release buckle 19. The gripping portions 21 therefore prevent any sliding of the fingers on the quick-release buckle. This embodiment of the invention avoids having to use the buckle 5 to pull on the quick-release buckle 19.

[0082] In this configuration, the cord 1 of the lower loop 4 is preferably made of an elastic material or having an elasticity greater than a predefined threshold. The cord surrounds and tightly tightens with the cylindrical tube 2, with which it forms a loop, the base of the male part 11 of the quick-attach loop 19. The cord then extends along the width of the base of the male part 11 of the quick-attach loop 19 at the axis of the spacer 18.

[0083] The device for adjusting the tightening of a strap 10 comprises in this configuration only the buckle 4 and therefore has the advantage of being very intuitive insofar as it does not modify the conventional operation of strap adjustment. Grip loop.

[0084] The loop 5 is a free loop intended to support the passage of at least one strand of strap and a finger. The strand(s) of strap 20 is / are supported on the second portion 2.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the portions of cord 1 between the portion 9 and the portion 2 can be stiffened.

[0086] The loop 4 may be a gripping loop if the holding portion 2 is provided with gripping portions 21 at each of the ends of the holding portion 6. The strap strand(s) 20 bear on the holding portion 2 which allows the strap strand(s) 20 to slide over a portion of its surface. According to one embodiment, the cord 1 may be fixed to the holding portion 2 or inside the openings 7.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the cord 1 can pass through the holding portion 2 within a channel inside the cylinder 7 along its length, passing through its openings 7.

[0088] According to another embodiment, the cord 1 and the holding portion 2 can be made of the same material and can form a single-piece assembly. Holding portion

[0089] The device 10 for adjusting the tightening of a strap comprises a holding portion 2 adapted to hold the tightening adjustment device 10 on the base of a quick-release attachment buckle 19. Furthermore, the holding portion 2 promotes the sliding of the strap during its movement along the tightening adjustment device 10. An advantage of this holding portion 2 is to promote the holding of the tightening adjustment device 10 on the base while promoting the movement of the strap both during tightening and during loosening of the strap.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the ends of the holding portion 2 may take a shape, of the rounded and grooved or notched type, thus forming two gripping portions 21 which facilitate the gripping of the holding portion 2 using the fingers of one hand. This gripping is carried out as close as possible to the quick-attach buckle 19, which makes it easier to hold the quick-attach buckle 19 when tightening the strap strands 20.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the diameter is between 1.5 mm and 8 mm. According to one embodiment, the diameter is between 2 mm and 8 mm. According to one embodiment, the diameter is between 2.5 mm and 5.5 mm.

[0092] The holding portion 2 allows good positioning of the tightening adjustment device 10 on the quick-release attachment loop 19, in particular by allowing contact of the tube 2 with the base of a connector 11 quick-release attachment loop 19. This contact is made at the spacer of said connector 11, that is to say in the portion arranged between the two slots, which allows the tightening adjustment device to operate at the greatest curvature of the strap which passes between the two slots as shown in [Fig.8].

[0093] The holding portion 2 allows the strands of the strap to slide and allows the loops 5, 4 of the tightening adjustment device 10 to be adjusted around the base of a connector 11.

[0094] According to one example, the tube 2, and more generally the holding portion 2, is substantially longer than the length of the slots so as not to obstruct the opening formed by a slot by sliding of the tube. According to one example, the tube 2 is substantially longer than the width of the base of the connector 11 at the spacer 18 so as to facilitate the passage of the cord on either side of the base. In this last example, the openings 7 or the tubes 3 are themselves positioned on either side of the base. The tube 2 and the passage of the two cord portions make it possible to form a stable holding element well positioned on the base of a connector 11 at the spacer 18. This solution prevents the tube 2 from moving, for example, opposite a slot 15 or 16.

[0095] According to a first embodiment, the holding portion 2 comprises a tube 2 on which the strap 20 can slide in a first loosening direction or an opposite tightening direction.

[0096] According to a first variant, the tube 2 has through openings allowing the passage of the cord 1. The openings are marked 7 in [Fig.l], 2, 3 and 5. The openings offer the possibility either of moving each portion of cord 1 through the openings, or of fixing each portion of cord in the tube 2. In the latter case, the openings 7 are not through openings.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the two openings 7 open onto a channel within the tube and allow the passage of the cord within the channel.

[0098] When a pull of the gripping portion is carried out by an individual, the tightening adjustment device 10 is driven in the pulling direction and the angle between the strap and the slot of the connector 11 opens, thus allowing better sliding of the strap within a slot. The cord portions are moved slightly and the tube 2 causes a slight force on the strap so as to promote its sliding.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the orifices 7 located at the ends of the cylindrical tube 2 are intended to ensure the passage of the cord 1 to form a loop 5 as shown in Figures 1 and 2 for example. The cylindrical tube 2 therefore makes it possible to separate said loop into two loops 4, 5, an upper one 5 and a lower one 4.

[0100] According to one example, the orifices 7 are in the form of a hollow tube with a length of between 1 mm and 4 cm, and a diameter of between 1 mm and 6 mm.

[0101] According to a second variant, the tube 2 comprises two junctions with two other tubes 3 oriented along an axis perpendicular to the axis of the tube 2 while remaining in the main plane in which the tightening adjustment device 10 is located. The tubes 3 forming the orifices 7 have the function of ensuring the passage and sliding of the cord 1 inside the cylindrical tube 2.

[0102] The tubes 3 may be made of the same material and may form a single-piece assembly with the tube 2. The tubes 3 allow the cord 1 to be guided to convey each portion of said cord 1 from the gripping portion 9 to the guiding portion 6.

[0103] Finally, the tubes 3 contribute to keeping the tightening adjustment device 10 well oriented with respect to the connector 11 of a quick-release attachment loop 19.

[0104] According to one example, the cylindrical tube 2 is made of plastic or rubber type material, it can be solid or hollow. Its diameter will preferably be between 0.5 and 5 mm, and its length between 1 and 3.5 cm.

[0105] According to one example, the cylindrical tube 2 is a tube sliding along the cord 1 passing through the orifices 7 located at its ends. The strands of the adjustment strap 20 pass over this cylindrical tube as shown in [Fig.8] or 10 to pass through the two windows 15, 16 of the base. The lower loop 4 is positioned around the base of the male part of the quick-opening attachment loop 19.

[0106] Tightening the strands of the adjustment strap 20 makes it possible to press a surface of the cylindrical tube 2 on the base of the male part of the quick-release attachment buckle 19, at the level of the spacer 18.

[0107] Pulling the adjustment strap strands 20 with one hand to tighten the chin strap, combined with pulling the upper buckle 5 or the lower buckle 4, depending on the chosen embodiment of the invention, with the other hand, makes it possible to vary the sliding directions of the strap strands 20 in the slots of the base of the male part of the protective buckle and thus facilitates adjustment of the retention of the chin strap.

[0108] This cylindrical tube 2 can also be an integral part of the quick-opening attachment loop 19. In this case, the spacer 18 of the base can be curved on its upper face so as to reproduce the roundness of a tube. According to one example, the orifices 7 are also an integral part of the quick-opening attachment loop 19 by being located on either side of the sides of the base.

[0109] The cylindrical tube 2 may also not be sliding and be attached to two cords at its ends forming two separate loops 4 and 5. In this configuration, the cord of the lower loop 4 must therefore be elastic to surround and tightly tighten with the cylindrical tube 2, with which it forms a loop, the base of the male part of the quick-attach loop 19, in its width and at the level of the axis of the spacer 18.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the holding portion 2 may take a rotating cylindrical shape, over its entire length or over a portion between its ends, preferably the width of the strap. The rotating cylindrical shape may be obtained from a hollow cylindrical component mounted on a shaft so that its rotation is possible around said shaft. According to one embodiment, at least one bearing may be mounted between the cylindrical component and the shaft.

[0111] This portion can be grooved or notched, gripping the strap in contact with the tube and thereby facilitating the movement of the strap towards the slots in the base. The cylindrical component can then be notched. The advantage is to further facilitate the sliding of the straps. The grooved or notched shape given to the holding portion has the advantage of gripping the strap and thus facilitating its sliding into the attachment loop.

[0112] According to a variant, a part of the notched cylindrical component(s) is slightly thicker to ensure sliding of the holding portion on the base without damaging the base with the notches. This part may preferably be non-notched, i.e. smooth. Thus, the cylindrical component may comprise a notched and non-notched part. The part with a larger diameter is intended to be in contact with the base of a connector. This contact with the smooth part makes it possible not to damage the connector and to promote rotation of the cylindrical component on the base.

[0113] By "cylindrical component" is meant a generally cylindrical shape and any shape comprising variations of angles of less than 15° with the main axis of the cylindrical component. Thus, a slightly conical shape of a part of the cylindrical component can be formed. For example, two facing parts forming two slightly conical shapes joining at their end having the largest diameter can be formed to define the cylindrical component. Thus, in this case, the central part of such a cylindrical component can have a smooth surface and the right and left parts can be notched.

[0114] This smooth part is preferably located in the center of the holding portion, corresponding to the center of the strap passage.

[0115] According to one embodiment, several cylindrical components can be used around a shaft, said portions being arranged end to end. According to one embodiment, the shaft forms a semi-rigid tube, for example made of plastic. According to one embodiment, the ends are fixed integrally to the shaft, said ends forming a cap shape closing the ends of the shaft. In the latter case, the cylindrical component is movable in rotation around the shaft and the translation of said cylindrical component is limited by the presence of the ends. To allow rotation of the cylindrical component around the shaft, a clearance between the parts can be provided to allow free rotation of the cylindrical component around the shaft.

[0116] According to another embodiment, the shaft may be a single piece with the ends, thus forming a single part whose central part allows the rotation of a cylindrical component and the ends form stops to maintain the cylindrical component in translation. Advantageously, the ends comprise openings for the passage of the cord in the shaft or through openings when using a second loop or blind holes.

[0117] According to one embodiment, a single cord may be used. According to one embodiment, the cord is joined at its ends by means of a fastener allowing form a loop. The fastener may be an "8" shaped element open at the top and bottom and rigid enough to hold the two ends together in the fastener inside the two open loops of the "8".

[0118] According to one embodiment, the holding portion 2 can take a semi-cylindrical shape. An advantage is that a portion of tube allows the latter to be wedged against the base of the connector 11 at the spacer 18, thus reinforcing the holding of the tightening adjustment device 10.

[0119] According to another embodiment, the holding portion 2 may take a curved shape on its surface so as to form a convex shape locally at the center of the cylindrical profile. One advantage is to promote the sliding of the straps. The advantage of this embodiment is that this promotes the sliding of the strap 20 and also contributes to maintaining the tightening adjustment device 10. Guide portion

[0120] The tightening adjustment device 10 comprises a third portion called the guide portion 6. This portion may correspond to a portion of cord 1 intended to be positioned in contact with the connector 11 at the spacer 18 and arranged on the other face of the connector 11 than the tube 2. Thus, the spacer 18 is “sandwiched” between the holding portion 2 and the guide portion 6.

[0121] The guide portion 6 provides the strap guide function, in particular by separating the two strands of strap entering, on the one hand, a first slot 15 and exiting, on the other hand, through the second slot 16.

[0122] According to a first example, the guide portion 6 is a simple portion constituted by the cord.

[0123] According to a second example, the guide portion 6 comprises an element such as a tube 6 shown in [Fig. 3] or [Fig. 4]. In this example, the tube 6 is of a smaller dimension than the width of the base of the connector 11 so that it can possibly fit into a slightly hollow portion of the connector 11. Such positioning allows better stability of the tightening adjustment device 10 in contact with the base of the connector 11 and therefore facilitates loosening when an individual pulls on the gripping portion 9, 21.

[0124] Such a tube shown in [Fig.3] or 4 can also be used with the embodiments of Figures 1 and 2.

[0125] In this case, the guide portion comprises a tube 6 which can be placed around the cord 1 in the lower part of the lower loop 4. The function of this tube 6 is on the one hand to facilitate the sliding of the adjustment strap strands in contact with said tube 6 and to trap this part comprising the tube and the cord in the hollow part of the front face of the connector 11. The tube 6 thus contributes to maintaining the entire double loop 4, 5 around the base.

[0126] This guide tube 6 can be made of plastic or rubber type materials. It can also take a rectangular shape in the case where the cord 1 is made of flat rubber. Quick-release attachment buckle

[0127] [Fig. 6] represents an example of a male connector 11 of a quick-release attachment buckle 19. It is recalled that such a buckle is also called a “quick-release buckle”, “release buckle”, “quick-attach buckle” or even “quick buckle”. The invention is particularly suitable for such a quick buckle due to the presence of the two slots which allow adjustment of the tightening and make it more difficult to loosen after an initial tightening.

[0128] The shape of the elements 13, 14 intended to cooperate with a female connector 12 is independent of the invention which can be used with any type of connector comprising at least two slots.

[0129] [Fig.7] shows a female connector 12 having an opening intended to receive the male connector 11. This female connector 12 also includes a slot for the passage of another strand of strap which it is desired to fix to a strand of strap passing through the slots 15 and 16.

[0130] Figures 8 and 9 show examples of installation of the tightening adjustment device 10 of the invention arranged between a male connector 11 of a quick buckle 19 and a strap 20 entering through a first slot 15 and exiting through the second slot 16.

[0131] [Fig.8] shows the tightening adjustment device 10 arranged between a strap 20 and a male connector 11 so that it allows, after an operation of fixing the male and female connectors together, to adjust the tightening adjustment of the strap. In this representation, it is possible to see the portion 6 and the portion 2 which are arranged on either side of the connector 11. The tightening adjustment device 10 is thus held at the spacer separating the two slots.

[0132] [Fig. 9] represents an example case of the use of the tightening adjustment device 10 arranged on a connector 11 and a strap 20 when an individual pulls on the gripping portion 21 so as to adjust the tightness of the strap 20. [Fig. 9] represents a use case in which the tightening adjustment device 10 comprises only one loop 4. The references of [Fig. 9] are identical to those of [Fig. 8] except for the gripping portion 21.

[0133] [Fig. 10] shows an example case of the use of the tightening adjustment device 10 when an individual pulls on the gripping portion 9 so as to adjust the tightness of the strap 20.

[0134] The pulling direction 23 does not correspond to an actual pull since this strap end is generally attached to an object such as a helmet. The pulling direction 25 of the strap strand 20 corresponds to a pulling operation generally carried out after fixing two connectors together to close the quick-release buckle 19. The pull 25 makes it possible to tighten the two strands of straps fixed together by means of the quick-release buckle 19. The invention allows a second pull in a direction 24 so as to adjust the tightening. Indeed, the first tightening 25 most often leads to overtightening, for example, a helmet chin strap. Loosening requires an action directly on the quick-release buckle 19 so as to raise a strap to restore slack to the assembly of the two strands. However, the invention makes it possible to obtain the same effect without touching or handling the quick-release buckle 19 since only an action on the gripping portion 9 allows the strap to slide within the male connector 11.

[0135] The invention makes it possible to provide a second adjustment tab by the present invention of the gripping portion 9 in addition to a strap strand which forms a first tightening adjustment tab. An advantage is that an individual has a first simple tightening element with a first tab and a second simple loosening element. He can thus tighten or loosen the straps linked by means of the quick-release attachment buckle 19 with one or the other of the elements.

[0136] The tightening adjustment device 10 can be adapted to a male connector of a quick-attach buckle receiving only one strand of strap or receiving several strands of strap depending on the attachment method, the object fixed to the ends of said strap. Installation method

[0137] The invention relates to a method of mounting the tightening adjustment device 10 on a connector 11 and a strap 20.

[0138] The method comprises a step of positioning the device around the base. For this purpose, the lower loop 4 is positioned around the base of the male part of the quick-release attachment loop 19 over its width and at the spacer 18. The cylindrical tube 2 is positioned on the base, at the spacer 18.

[0139] The method comprises a second step of inserting the strands of the adjustment strap 20 passing through the windows or slots 15, 16 of the base so that the strap 20 inserted into the slot 15 covers the tube 2 before being reinserted into the slot 16. Inserting the strap remains identical to inserting without the device from the point of view of the sequence of insertion into the slots. The strap, at the moment of reforming a loop to be reinserted into the second slot, wraps the tube 2 held in contact with the base. This step makes it possible to secure the tube 2 with the base, the strap securely holding the tube 2 and the base.

[0140] The method comprises a third step of pulling the loop 5 or the tube 2 by hand. Depending on the embodiment chosen, this pulling can be carried out either by sliding a finger into the loop 5, or by grasping with the fingers the gripping portions 21 located at the ends of the tube 2. In the case of pulling the loop 5, the movement generated allows the first loop 4 to be adjusted around the quick-release attachment loop 19. The cord

[0141] The cord may be made of synthetic or natural fiber material such as hemp.

[0142] It can also be made of elastic synthetic or natural fibers or of rubber-type material. In the latter case, the orifices 7 may take the form of a slot in the case where the cord has a flat shape.

[0143] According to one example, the diameter or thickness of the cord, depending on the material and shape of the cord, is between 1 and 6 mm and its length is between 1 and 10 cm.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the length of the cord is between 1.5 and 6.5 cm. According to one embodiment, the length of the cord is between 2 and 5.5 cm.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the tightening adjustment device of the invention is a product forming a double loop, formed of a cord 1, and a cylindrical tube 2 having an orifice 3 at each of its ends for the passage of the cord.

[0146] According to this embodiment, the cord is made of synthetic fiber type material, with a thickness of between 2 and 4 mm and a length of between 5 and 15 cm. The cylindrical tube is made of plastic or rubber type material, with a diameter of between 2 and 4 mm, a length of between 1 and 2.5 cm and the diameter of the holes at its ends is between 1.5 and 5 mm.

[0147] [Fig. 11] represents an exemplary embodiment, in which the orifices 3 located at the ends of the cylindrical tube 2 each take the form of a tube with a length of between 2 mm and 5 cm.

[0148] According to one example, one or more knots are formed with the cord 1 in order to close and adjust the circumference of the double loop.

[0149] According to one embodiment, the double loop is positioned on the quick-closing loop according to the following methods: • The first loop 4 of the product surrounds the quick-release buckle across its width and at the level of the passage of the strands of the chin strap. • The second loop 5 of the product is crossed by the strands of the strap, so that this second loop pulled by hand, by incidentally sliding a finger into it, adjusts the first loop 4 around the closing loop.

[0150] Once the first buckle 4 is adjusted around the quick-release buckle, pulling the second buckle (5) by hand creates a sliding of the quick-release buckle along the strands of the strap, and thus facilitates the loosening of the chin strap.

[0151] According to the particular embodiments, the double loop can be closed and its circumference adjusted:

[0152] - by tying the two ends of the cord,

[0153] - by a cord locking system in the form of a loop or clip in plastic.

Claims

Claims

1. A device (10) for adjusting the tightening of at least one strand of strap (20) inserted into a quick-release attachment loop (19), said tightening adjustment device (10) being intended to cooperate with said quick-release attachment loop (19), said tightening adjustment device (10) comprising: • a gripping portion (9, 21) allowing said tightening adjustment device (10) to be pulled to initiate a movement of at least one strand of strap (20), • a holding portion (2) intended to be arranged in contact with a connector (11) of the quick-release attachment loop (19) and;• a guide portion (6) intended to be in contact with said connector (11) of the quick-release attachment loop (19), said tightening adjustment device (10) comprising a cord (1), said holding portion (2) comprising two holes (7) intended to receive the cord (1) so as to form a first loop (4) making it possible to hold said holding portion (2) and said guide portion (6) on either side of the connector (11) of the quick-release attachment loop (19).;

2. Tightening adjustment device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least two holes are two through openings (7) of the holding portion (2) for the passage of two portions of the cord (1) in order to form a second loop (5), said second loop (5) comprising the gripping portion (9) allowing, by its traction, the movement of the strap strands (20) inserted in the quick-opening attachment loop (19).

3. Tightening adjustment device (10) according to claim 2 characterized in that the gripping portion (9) comprises a hollow tube for the passage of the cord (1).

4. Tightening adjustment device (10) according to claim 1 characterized in that the gripping portion (21) is formed by the ends of the holding portion (2).

5. Tightening adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 characterized in that the holding portion (2) has a length greater than the width of a base of a male connector of a quick-release attachment loop (19).

6. Tightening adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 1 or 4, characterized in that the holding portion (2) comprises a tube provided with two orifices (7) forming blind holes for fixing the ends of the cord (1).

7. Tightening adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 1 or 4, characterized in that the holding portion (2) comprises a tube provided with two orifices (7) opening into the interior of the hollow cylinder (2) and communicating along an interior channel of the tube for the passage of the cord (1).

8. Tightening adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 characterized in that the guide portion (6) has a length less than the width of a base of a male connector (11) of a quick-release attachment loop (19).

9. Tightening adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 characterized in that the guide portion (6) is formed by a hollow tube adapted to be crossed in its internal cavity by a portion of cord (1).

10. Device for adjusting the fastening of two strap strands comprising: • A quick-opening attachment mouth (19) comprising a male connector (11) comprising two slots (15, 16) adapted for the passage of a strap strand (20); • A tightening adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. An object comprising two fasteners for fixing two strands of strap and a device for adjusting the fixing of two strands of strap according to claim 10.

12. A helmet comprising two fasteners for fixing two strap strands and a device for adjusting the fixing of two strap strands according to claim 10.

13. Method of installing a tightening adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises: • a step of positioning the first loop (4) of the tightening adjustment device (10) around the spacer (18) of the base of a male connector (11) of a quick-opening attachment mouth (19) so that the holding portion (2) and the guiding portion (6) are positioned in a sandwich around the spacer (18) on either side of the connector (11); • a second step of inserting a strap strand (20) passing through the slots (15, 16) of the connector base (11) so that the strap strand (20) inserted into a first slot (15) covers the holding portion (2) before being reinserted into the second slot (16).

14. Method for adjusting the tightness of two strands of straps fixed to an object according to claim 11 comprising a tightening adjustment device according to claim 1 characterized in that it comprises: • A first step of fixing two connectors (11, 12) of a quick-release attachment loop (19); • Tightening of the two strands of straps by pulling one strand of strap (20) so as to adjust the object to a part of the body or head of an individual; • A tightening adjustment including: • a manual pull of the lower loop (4) of the tightening adjustment device (10), said pull being carried out by grasping the gripping portions (21) of the holding portion (2), in a direction following an axis intersecting the mean plane in which the male connector (11) of the quick-release attachment loop (19) is inscribed.

15. Method for adjusting the tightness of two strands of straps fixed to an object according to claim 11 comprising a tightening adjustment device according to claim 2 characterized in that it comprises: • A first step of fixing two connectors (11, 12) of a quick-release attachment loop (19); • Tightening of the two strands of straps by pulling one strand of strap (20) so as to adjust the object to a part of the body or head of an individual; • A tightening adjustment including: • a manual pull of the upper loop (5) of the tightening adjustment device (10), said pull being carried out by sliding a finger into the loop 5 and pulling the gripping portion (9), in a direction following an axis secant to the mean plane in which the male connector (11) of the quick-opening attachment loop (19) is inscribed.

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