DEVICE FOR ADJUSTING THE TIGHTENING OF AT LEAST ONE STRAP STRAP FIXED VIA A QUICK-RELEASE BUCKLE

Abstract

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

Description

Title of the invention: DEVICE FOR ADJUSTING THE TIGHTENING OF AT LEAST ONE STRAND OF Straps secured via a quick-release buckle Scope of the invention

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

[0002] Straps forming part of a fastening device are known, allowing an object to be secured, particularly to the human body, including the head. Such a fastening device also includes a fastening element with two sections that allow the device to be closed, thus securing the object to the human body or head. The fastening element may be a quick-release buckle, also called a "release buckle," "quick-release buckle," or simply a "quick-release buckle." Furthermore, the two strap sections allow the object to be released if the buckle is opened and provide balanced tension to hold the object securely and therefore comfortably against the human body.

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

[0004] One problem with the adjustment mechanisms for the size of the strap sections is that they are not easy to adjust when the object is being worn by a person. Furthermore, these strap section size adjustment mechanisms do not allow for tightening at the point where the two straps are attached.

[0005] Indeed, when tightening a strap secured, for example, by means of a quick-release fastener, the individual closes the fastener and pulls on a free portion of a strap to tighten both strap sections. For example, if the object is a helmet, excessive tightening around the neck can cause discomfort or even a feeling of suffocation. It is then necessary to readjust the tightness of the fastening, which requires a quick movement of the buckle to properly orient the strap and loosening the strap by pulling on another part of the strap. However, this movement is not easy, especially for a child.

[0006] The sliding of the straps in the fastening loop may also prove difficult. It is then necessary to pull forcefully with one hand the tightening strap strands and to grasp with the fingers of the other hand the quick fastening buckle which can prove to be slippery, especially when wearing gloves.

[0007] Adjusting the tightness of the strap is a non-intuitive, sometimes exasperating operation 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 which allows a real, suitable adjustment of the tightness for an individual.

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

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

[0012] said tightening adjustment device comprising a cord, said retaining portion comprising two holes intended to receive the cord so as to form a first loop enabling to retain said retaining portion and said guide portion on either side of the connector of the quick-opening fastening loop.

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

[0014] According to one embodiment, the at least two holes are two through-openings in the retaining portion for the passage of two portions of the cord in order to form a second loop, said second loop comprising the portion of gripping mechanism which, by pulling, causes the movement of the webbing strands inserted into the quick-release fastening loop.

[0015] One advantage is to allow better gripping, 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 grasping portion.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the gripping portion includes a hollow tube for the passage of the cord. An advantage is that the gripping means includes a rigid or semi-rigid portion to facilitate handling 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 located in a plane intersecting the average plane in which the clamping adjustment device is located.

[0020] One advantage is to naturally orient the clamping device in the natural direction of the pull, 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. One advantage is that it allows the shape to be recognized without looking at it, for example, just by touch.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion is longer than the width of the spacer on the base of a male connector of a quick-release fastening loop. An advantage is that it prevents the portion from obstructing the slot and allows for a better grip.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion comprises a tube with two transversely passing openings through said tube to allow the cord to pass through. An advantage is that it forms a double loop whose dimensions can be adjusted when the cord is pulled to tighten a strap.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion comprises a tube with two orifices forming blind holes for securing the ends of the cord. An advantage is that it allows a loop to be formed, thus enabling the cords to be secured discreetly to create a single-piece element.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion comprises a tube with two openings located inside the hollow cylinder and communicating along an internal channel of the tube for the passage of the bead. One advantage is the use of a single bead and a reduction in bonding operations.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion has two ends extending from a portion that goes beyond the width of a connector of a quick-release buckle. An advantage is that it forms protruding gripping elements that facilitate handling the tightening adjustment device.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion comprises two hollow lateral tubes, each forming a guide for the passage of the cord inside said lateral tubes. One advantage is that it facilitates guiding 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 fastening loop. One advantage is that it facilitates the passage of the cord on either side of the connector.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the retaining 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 fastening loop. One advantage is that it facilitates the sliding of the strap on the guide portion.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the guide portion has a width less than the largest dimension of a hollow area of ​​the base located at the level of the spacer of a base of a male connector of a quick-opening fastening loop.

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

[0034] According to one embodiment, the guiding portion is formed by a hollow tube adapted to be traversed 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 clamping 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 lateral tubes of the holding portion.

[0037] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a device for adjusting the fastening of two strap strands comprising: • A quick-opening attachment point with a male connector having two slots adapted for the passage of a strap strand; • A clamping 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 webbing and a device for adjusting the fixing of two strands of webbing 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 for installing a clamping adjustment device of the invention comprising: • a positioning step of the first loop of the clamping adjustment device around the spacer of the base of a male connector of a quick-opening attachment mouth so that the retaining portion and the guiding portion are positioned sandwiched around the spacer on either side of the connector; • a second step of inserting a strand of webbing through the slots of the connector base so that the strand of webbing inserted in a first slot covers the retaining 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 attaching two connectors to a quick-release fastening loop; • Tightening the two strap strands by pulling on one strap strand; • 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 retaining portion, in a direction along an axis intersecting the average plane in which the male connector of the quick-release fastening loop is located.

[0042] 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, said method comprising: • A first step of attaching two connectors to a quick-release fastening loop; • Tightening the two strap strands by pulling one strap strand so as to adjust the object on a part of an individual's body or head; • 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 along an axis intersecting the average plane in which the male connector of the quick-release fastening loop is located. Brief description of the figures

[0043] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, with reference to the accompanying figures, which illustrate:

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

[0045] [Fig.2]: an example of the realization of a device for adjusting the tightness of a strap of the invention comprising a gripping portion having a joining knot;

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

[0047] [Fig.4]: an example of the realization of a device for adjusting the tightness of a strap of the invention comprising a gripping portion having a variation of the curvature;

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

[0049] [Fig.6]: an example of a representation of the male 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 to the head of an individual;

[0050] [Fig.7]: an example of a 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 to the head of an individual;

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

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

[0053] [Fig. 10]: an example of a movement allowing adjustment of the tightness of a strap 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-opening fastening 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, referred to as gripping portion 9, 21, a second holding portion 2 referred to as holding portion 2 and a third guiding portion 6, referred to as guiding portion 6.

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

[0057] These examples of embodiment of a tightening adjustment device 10 of the invention are particularly suitable for cooperating with a quick-release fastening buckle 19 shown in Figures 6 and 7. The present invention is particularly interesting for such quick-release buckles used on helmets.

[0058] More generally, the invention relates to any device for adjusting the tightness 10 of straps 20 intended to be inserted into such a quick-release buckle, regardless of the male and / or female connector of said quick-release buckle. More particularly, the invention is of particular interest when such a quick-release buckle has 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 buckle and the strap.

[0059] According to a first embodiment, the tightening adjustment device 10 forms at least one loop 4 and includes 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 end of said cylindrical tube 2. These orifices 7 allow the passage of the cord 1 and / or its attachment.

[0063] The end of cylinder 2 is defined as a portion comprising a lateral part of the cylinder near the distal end of the cylinder. In other words, the orifices may be arranged on the body of cylinder 2 perpendicular to the main axis of the cylinder or be positioned at the distal end parallel to the main axis of cylinder 2. However, according to certain embodiments of the invention, the orifices formed Lateral placement on the cylinder body is preferable to facilitate cord sliding.

[0064] According to a first example, the orifices can be through-holes in the width of the cylindrical tube 2 and thus open on the opposite side of a first opening in the body of the cylinder. Such orifices allow the cord to emerge, either to form a second loop 5 or to knot the cord to prevent it from emerging 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 otherwise be solid on the other parts of the cylinder body. In this case, the ends of the cord or portions of the cord 1 may be fixed inside the cylinder 2, for example, by means of an adhesive. Portion of grasp

[0067] Figure 1 is a first embodiment of the invention, the portion of which Grip 9 includes a cylinder for gripping the cord 1. The cylinder allows the cord 1 to pass through it while providing a specific shape that constrains the cord. An advantage is that it provides a portion wide enough for a finger to pass through the loop 5, facilitating the gripping of the tightening adjustment device for pulling it in a specific direction to loosen a strap inserted into a quick-release buckle 19.

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

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

[0070] Pulling on the upper loop 5 is effective in causing the strands of the adjustment strap to slide into the male part of the quick-release buckle 19, provided it generates sufficient tension on the chin strap adjustment strap. To ensure this tension is achieved when pulled, the upper loop 5 can be curved towards the front of the base as shown in [Fig.4] requiring the said loop to be hooked by hand, incidentally slipping a finger into it.

[0071] Figure 4 shows another example of an embodiment of a gripping part comprising a portion of cord having a curvature lying in a plane inclined relative to the general plane in which the clamping adjustment device 10 is located. One advantage is to mark an area easily recognizable by touch. Another advantage is to allow the formation of 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 curved loop of approximately 30° to 60° on its upper part of said loop 5, sufficiently rigid, for example in a 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 from approximately 30° to 60° to bring 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 deformation of the upper loop 5 and also guides the direction of traction.

[0074] The cord on portion 9 can be stiffened in various ways to maintain a gripping portion in a predefined shape. Different methods can be used to stiffen a cord on portion 9, such as a resin, a wax, or any other material that allows for localized solidification of this portion so that the cord does not degrade or loosen.

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

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

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

[0079] According to one example, the ends of the retaining 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 retaining portion 2.

[0080] One advantage of these gripping portions 21 is to mark an area easily recognizable by touch.

[0081] Another advantage is that, during a standard strap adjustment, this facilitates gripping the retaining portion 2 as close as possible to the quick-release buckle 19, at the point where the fingers naturally position themselves to grasp said buckle 19. The gripping portions 21 thus prevent any slippage 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 a material having 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-release buckle 19. The cord then extends along the width of the base of the male part 11 of the quick-release buckle 19 at the axis of the spacer 18.

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

[0084] The loop 5 is a free loop designed to support the passage of at least one webbing strand and a finger. The webbing strand(s) 20 rests on the second portion 2.

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

[0086] The loop 4 can be a gripping loop if the retaining portion 2 is provided with gripping portions 21 at each end of the retaining portion 6. The webbing strand(s) 20 rest on the retaining portion 2, which allows the webbing strand(s) 20 to slide over a portion of its surface. In one embodiment, the cord 1 can be attached to the retaining portion 2 or inside the openings 7.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the cord 1 can pass through the retaining portion 2 within an internal channel in the cylinder 7 along its length by passing through its openings 7.

[0088] According to another embodiment, the cord 1 and the retaining portion 2 can be made of the same material and can form a single unit. Retaining portion

[0089] The strap tightening adjustment device 10 includes a retaining portion 2 adapted to hold the tightening adjustment device 10 on the base of a quick-release fastening buckle 19. Furthermore, the retaining portion 2 facilitates the sliding of the strap during its movement along the tightening adjustment device 10. One advantage of this retaining portion 2 is to facilitate the retention of the tightening adjustment device 10 on the base while facilitating the movement of the strap both during tightening and loosening of the strap.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the ends of the retaining portion 2 may have a rounded and grooved or notched shape, thus forming two gripping portions 21 that facilitate grasping the retaining portion 2 with the fingers of one hand. This grasping is done as close as possible to the quick-release buckle 19, which makes it easier to hold the quick-release 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 another embodiment, the diameter is between 2 mm and 8 mm. According to another embodiment, the diameter is between 2.5 mm and 5.5 mm.

[0092] The retaining portion 2 allows for proper positioning of the tightening adjustment device 10 on the quick-release fastening loop 19, in particular by allowing contact of the tube 2 with the base of a quick-release fastening loop connector 11. This contact is made at the level of 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 level of the greatest curvature of the strap which passes between the two slots as shown in [Fig.8].

[0093] The retaining portion 2 allows the strap strands 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 retaining portion 2, is substantially longer than the length of the slots so as not to obstruct the opening formed by a slot due to tube slippage. According to another example, the tube 2 is substantially longer than the width of the connector base 11 at the spacer 18 so as to facilitate the passage of the cord on either side of the base. In this latter 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 sections allow to form a stable retaining element well positioned on the base of a connector 11 at the level of the spacer 18. This solution prevents the movement of the tube 2, for example opposite a slot 15 or 16.

[0095] According to a first embodiment, the retaining 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 on [Fig.1], 2, 3 and 5. The openings offer the possibility either of a movement of each portion of cord 1 through the openings, or of a fixing of each portion of cord in the tube 2. In the latter case, the openings 7 are not through.

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

[0098] When a person pulls on the gripping portion, the tightening adjustment device 10 is driven in the direction of the pull, and the angle between the strap and the slot in the connector 11 opens, thus allowing the strap to slide more easily within the slot. The cord sections are displaced slightly, and the tube 2 exerts a slight force on the strap to facilitate its sliding.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the orifices 7 located at the ends of the cylindrical tube 2 are intended to allow the passage of the cord 1 to form a loop 5 as shown in Figures 1 and 2, for example. The cylindrical tube 2 thus allows said loop to be separated 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 between 1 mm and 4 cm, and a diameter between 1 mm and 6 mm.

[0101] According to a second variant, the tube 2 has 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 clamping 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 can be made of the same material and can form a single unit with the tube 2. The tubes 3 provide guidance for the cord 1 to convey each portion of said cord 1 from the gripping portion 9 to the guiding portion 6.

[0103] Finally, the tubes 3 help to keep the tightening adjustment device 10 properly oriented with respect to the connector 11 of a quick-release fastening 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 sliding tube along the cord 1 passing through the openings 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-release fastening buckle 19.

[0106] Tightening the strands of the adjustment strap 20 allows a surface of the cylindrical tube 2 to press against the base of the male part of the quick-opening fastening 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, according to the chosen embodiment of the invention, with the other hand, allows the sliding directions of the strap strands 20 to be varied in the slots of the base of the male part of the protective buckle and thus facilitates the adjustment of the retention of the chin strap.

[0108] This cylindrical tube 2 can also be an integral part of the quick-release fastening loop 19. In this case, the spacer 18 of the base can be convex on its upper face so as to reproduce the curve of a tube. According to one example, the openings 7 are also an integral part of the quick-release fastening loop 19 by being located on either side 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 tighten firmly with the cylindrical tube 2, with which it forms a loop, the base of the male part of the quick-release buckle 19, in its width and at the level of the axis of the spacer 18.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion 2 can take a rotating cylindrical shape, either along its entire length or over a portion between its ends, preferably the width of the strap. The rotating cylindrical shape can be obtained from a hollow cylindrical component mounted on a shaft such that it can rotate about said shaft. According to one embodiment, at least one bearing can 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 Strap sliding. The grooved or notched shape given to the retaining portion has the advantage of gripping the strap and thus facilitating its sliding in the fastening loop.

[0112] According to one embodiment, a portion of the notched cylindrical component(s) is slightly thicker to ensure that the retaining portion slides on the base without damaging the base with the notches. This portion may preferably be smooth. Thus, the cylindrical component may comprise both a notched and a smooth portion. The larger diameter portion is intended to be in contact with the base of a connector. This contact with the smooth portion prevents damage to the connector and facilitates the rotation of the cylindrical component on the base.

[0113] By "cylindrical component" is meant a generally cylindrical shape and any shape having variations in angles of less than 15° with the principal axis of the cylindrical component. Thus, a slightly conical shape of a portion of the cylindrical component may be formed. For example, two opposing portions forming two slightly conical shapes joined at their ends with the larger diameter may be formed to define the cylindrical component. Thus, in this case, the central portion of such a cylindrical component may have a smooth surface and the right and left portions may be serrated.

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

[0115] In one embodiment, several cylindrical components can be used around a shaft, these portions being arranged end to end. In one embodiment, the shaft forms a semi-rigid tube, for example, made of plastic. In another embodiment, the ends are fixed rigidly to the shaft, these ends forming a cap-like shape that closes the ends of the shaft. In this latter case, the cylindrical component is free to rotate around the shaft, and the translation of said cylindrical component is limited by the presence of the ends. To allow the rotation of the cylindrical component around the shaft, a gap between the parts can be provided to allow free rotation of the cylindrical component around the shaft.

[0116] According to another embodiment, the shaft can be a single piece with its ends, thus forming a single unit whose central portion allows the rotation of a cylindrical component and whose ends act as stops to hold the cylindrical component in translation. Advantageously, the ends have openings for the passage of the cord through 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 fastening allowing form a loop. The fastener can be an element in the shape of an "8" 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 retaining portion 2 can take a semi-cylindrical shape. An advantage is that a portion of the tube allows the latter to be wedged against the base of the connector 11 at the level of the spacer 18, thus reinforcing the retention of the clamping adjustment device 10.

[0119] According to another embodiment, the retaining portion 2 can have a curved surface so as to form a convex shape locally at the center of the cylindrical profile. One advantage is to facilitate the sliding of the straps. The benefit of this embodiment is that it facilitates the sliding of the strap 20 and also contributes to maintaining the tightness adjustment device 10. Guided section

[0120] The clamping adjustment device 10 includes a third portion called the guide portion 6. This portion can correspond to a portion of cord 1 intended to be positioned in contact with the connector 11 at the level of the spacer 18 and arranged on the other side of the connector 11 than the tube 2. Thus, the spacer 18 is taken "sandwiched" between the retaining portion 2 and the guide portion 6.

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

[0122] According to a first example, the guiding 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 smaller than the width of the base of the connector 11 so that it can potentially fit into a slightly concave portion of the connector 11. Such positioning allows for better stability of the clamping adjustment device 10 in contact with the base of the connector 11 and thus facilitates loosening when a person pulls on the gripping portion 9, 21.

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

[0125] In this case, the guide portion includes 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 enclose 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 materials. It can also be rectangular in shape if the cord 1 is made of flat rubber. Quick-release fastening loop

[0127] Figure 6 shows an example of a male connector 11 of a quick-release fastener loop 19. It should be noted that such a loop is also called a "quick-release loop," "release loop," "quick-fastening loop," or simply a "quick loop." The invention is particularly well-suited to such a quick loop because of the presence of two slots which allow for adjustment of the tightening and make loosening more difficult after 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 having at least two slots.

[0129] Fig. 7 represents a female connector 12 having an opening for receiving the male connector 11. This female connector 12 also includes a slot for the passage of another strap strand which is to be attached to a strap strand passing through slots 15 and 16.

[0130] Figures 8 and 9 represent 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] Figure 8 shows the tightening adjustment device 10 arranged between a strap 20 and a male connector 11 such that, after the male and female connectors are joined together, the strap tightness can be adjusted. In this representation, portions 6 and 2, arranged on either side of the connector 11, can be seen. The tightening adjustment device 10 is thus held at the level of the spacer separating the two slots.

[0132] Figure 9 shows an example of the use of the tightening adjustment device 10 arranged on a connector 11 and a strap 20 when a person pulls on the gripping portion 21 to adjust the tightness of the strap 20. Figure 9 shows an application in which the tightening adjustment device 10 has only one loop 4. The reference numerals in Figure 9 are identical to those in Figure 8 except for the gripping portion 21.

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

[0134] The pull direction 23 does not correspond to an actual pull since this strap end is generally attached to an object such as a helmet. The pull direction 25 of the strap strand 20 corresponds to a pulling operation generally performed After attaching two connectors together to close the quick-release buckle 19, a pull 25 tightens the two strap strands secured by the quick-release buckle 19. The invention allows for a second pull in a direction 24 to adjust the tightness. Indeed, the initial tightening 25 often results in overtightening, for example, a helmet chin strap. Loosening it requires direct action on the quick-release buckle 19 to lift one strap and thus loosen both strands. However, the invention achieves the same effect without touching or manipulating the quick-release buckle 19, since only action on the gripping portion 9 allows the strap to slide within the male connector 11.

[0135] The invention provides a second adjustment tab by means of the gripping portion 9, in addition to a strap that forms a first tightening adjustment tab. One advantage is that an individual has a first simple tightening element with a first tab and a second simple loosening element. They can thus tighten or loosen the straps attached by the quick-release buckle 19 using either element.

[0136] The tightening adjustment device 10 can be adapted to a male connector of a quick-release buckle accommodating either a single webbing strand or multiple webbing strands, depending on the attachment method, with the object fixed to the ends of said webbing. 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 includes 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 fastening loop 19 across its width and at the level of the spacer 18. The cylindrical tube 2 is positioned on the base, at the level of the spacer 18.

[0139] The method includes a second step of inserting the strands of the adjustment strap 20 through the windows or slots 15, 16 of the base such that the strap 20 inserted into slot 15 covers the tube 2 before being reinserted into slot 16. Inserting the strap remains identical to inserting it without the device, with regard to the sequence of insertion into the slots. As the strap forms a loop to be reinserted into the second slot, it wraps around the tube 2, which is held in contact with the base. This step secures the tube 2 to the base, the strap holding the tube 2 and the base firmly together.

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

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

[0142] It may also be made of elastic synthetic or natural fibers or of a rubber-like material. In the latter case, the openings 7 may be in the form of a slit if the cord is flat.

[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 cord length is between 1.5 and 6.5 cm. According to another embodiment, the cord length 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 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 material, with a diameter of between 2 and 4 mm, a length of between 1 and 2.5 cm, and the diameter of the openings at its ends is between 1.5 and 5 mm.

[0147] Fig. 11 represents an example of an 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 between 2 mm and 5 cm.

[0148] According to one example, one or more knots are formed with 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-release buckle as follows: • The first loop 4 of the product surrounds the quick-release buckle across its width and at the point where the strands of the chin strap pass through. • The second loop 5 of the product is passed through by the strands of the strap, so that this second loop pulled by hand, incidentally slipping a finger into it, adjusts the first loop 4 around the closure loop.

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

[0151] According to 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 plastic.

Claims

Demands

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

2. Tightening adjustment device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least two holes are two through openings (7) in the retaining portion (2) for the passage of two portions of the cord (1) to form a second loop (5), said second loop (5) comprising the gripping portion (9) which, by pulling it, causes the movement of the webbing strands (20) inserted into the quick-release fastening loop (19).

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

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

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

8. Clamping 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 fastening loop (19).

9. Clamping 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 traversed in its inner cavity by a portion of cord (1).

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

11. Object comprising two fasteners for fixing two strands of webbing and a device for adjusting the fixing of two strands of webbing according to claim 10.

12. Helmet comprising two fasteners for attaching two strap strands and a device for adjusting the attachment of two strap strands according to claim 10.

13. A method for installing a clamping 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 clamping 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 retaining portion (2) and the guiding portion (6) are positioned sandwiched around the spacer (18) on either side of the connector (11); • a second step of inserting a strap strand (20) through the slots (15, 16) of the base of the connector (11) so that the strap strand (20) inserted into a first slot (15) covers the retaining portion (2) before being reinserted into the second slot (16).

14. A method for adjusting the tightness of two strands of webbing attached to an object according to claim 11, comprising a tightness adjustment device according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises: • A first step of fixing two connectors (11, 12) of a quick-release fastening loop (19); • Tightening the two strap strands by pulling one strap strand (20) so as to adjust the object on a part of an individual's body or head; • 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 retaining portion (2), in a direction along an axis intersecting the mean plane in which the male connector (11) of the quick-release fastening loop (19) is located.

15. A method for adjusting the tightness of two strands of straps attached to an object according to claim 11, comprising a tightness adjustment device according to claim 2, characterized in that it comprises: • A first step of fixing two connectors (11, 12) of a quick-release fastening loop (19); • Tightening the two strap strands by pulling one strap strand (20) so as to adjust the object on a part of an individual's body or head; • A tightening adjustment including: • a manual pull on 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 along an axis intersecting the mean plane in which the male connector (11) of the quick-release fastening loop (19) is inscribed.

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