Strap cover

Abstract

A cover 2 for stowing one or more free ends of a strap comprises a sleeve member 4 defining an interior for receiving one or more free ends of a strap. The sleeve member 4 has a first opening 7 at or

Description

The present invention relates to a cover for stowing one or more free ends of a strap. The cover finds particular use in stowing one or more free ends of a strap used to fasten objects in transit. The present invention also relates to methods of fastening an object. It should be noted that throughout this specification, reference is made to a ‘strap’ or to ‘straps’. However, it is to be understood that devices and methods embodying the present invention are equally applicable to any similar means for fastening an object. Therefore, in the interests of clarity and brevity, the term ‘strap’, as used herein, refers to any flexible or deformable elongate means for fastening or securing an object or connecting one object to another, including but not limited to rope, string, twine, towing strops, tethers, cords, bungees, belts, tapes or the like, or indeed any strip or length of flexible or deformable material, including but not limited to leather, cloth, polymers such as nylon, polyester, and polypropylene, woven or non-woven natural and / or synthetic fibres, and combinations thereof. Straps find use in a variety of situations where it is necessary to fasten an object. For example, a strap may be used to fasten one object or a plurality of objects to another, or to fasten an object to a stationary structure. Straps may similarly be used to lift or pull loads, for example when towing a vehicle. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that devices and methods embodying the present invention may find use in any situation where it is necessary to fasten an object using a strap. Straps find particular use as a means for securing objects during transit. For example, when transporting objects such as equipment, apparatus, materials, or other goods, one or more straps may be used to fasten and secure the objects on or within a vehicle, vessel, or aircraft, such as a car, van, truck, lorry, train, boat, ship, aeroplane or helicopter. An object may be fastened and secured during transit to prevent the object from moving or falling from the vehicle, vessel, or aircraft, which may result in damage to the object, the vehicle, vessel, or aircraft, or injury to persons on or within the vicinity of the vehicle, vessel, or aircraft. In order to fasten an object, a first end of the strap may be tied around all or a portion of the object using a suitable knot. A second end of the strap may similarly be tied to or around an anchor point, for example on a vehicle, vessel, aircraft, another object, or a stationary structure. More commonly however, a strap may be wrapped or looped around an anchor point before being passed over or through a portion or all of the object to be fastened and secured, under tension, to hold the object in place. The first and second ends of the strap may be tied under tension to one or more anchor points, after pulling the strap tight around the object to be fastened. More commonly, however, straps are provided with means for tensioning the strap, for example buckles, such as cam buckles, or ratchets. Generally, the means for tensioning the strap is provided at a first end of the strap. In use, a second end of the strap, having been passed over or through a portion or all of the object to be fastened, engages with the means for tensioning the strap to secure the strap under tension. When secured under tension, one or more portions of the strap, in particular one or more loose or free ends of the strap, may extend through and / or beyond the knot, buckle, cam buckle, ratchet or other means for tensioning the strap once the object is fastened. This portion remains untensioned and is therefore liable to become tangled or flap, whip, or catch on other objects or persons, for example under the action of air movement. This is of particular concern when straps are used to fasten objects to the exterior of a moving vehicle, vessel, or aircraft. Movement of the vehicle, vessel, or aircraft can cause air to flow over and around one or more free ends of the strap at significant speeds, causing the free ends to strike the object, the vehicle, vessel or aircraft, or other objects or persons in the vicinity with considerable force. This can cause damage or injury. It is therefore often necessary to secure the free ends of a strap in use. One solution is to tie off or trap the free ends. However, this can be cumbersome, time consuming, and there is a risk that the free ends will still come loose during transit. Another common problem is the storage and transport of straps when not in use. In particular, loose straps are prone to tangling, dragging, or catching when not in use, which makes them difficult to store and move. One solution is to coil or bundle straps when not in use in a compact arrangement that can be stored and moved more easily. However, loops formed when coiling or bundling a strap are still liable to catch, snag, or hook around objects. There therefore remains a need for an improved means for securing the free ends of straps when used to fasten objects, in particular during transit. There also remains a need for an improved means for storing straps when not in use. Accordingly, in a first aspect the present invention provides a cover for stowing one or more free ends of a strap, the cover comprising: a sleeve member defining an interior for receiving one or more free ends of a strap therein, the sleeve member having a first opening at or adjacent a first end of the sleeve member providing access to the interior of the sleeve member and a second opening at or adjacent a second end of the sleeve member providing access to the interior of the sleeve member; a first closure configured to close the first opening; and a second closure configured to close the second opening. The cover includes a sleeve member. The sleeve member defines an interior configured to receive therein one or more free ends of a strap, in use. In particular, the sleeve member may be arranged to receive one or more free ends of the strap that extend through and beyond a means for tensioning the strap, in use, for example a buckle, cam buckle, ratchet, or knot. The sleeve member has a first end and a second end. The sleeve member preferably includes one or more walls extending along a longitudinal axis between the first end and the second end of the sleeve member. The one or more walls are preferably configured to wrap around or enclose all or a portion of the one or more free ends of the strap. The sleeve member may have any configuration that is suitable for receiving therein the one or more free ends of the strap. For example, the sleeve member is preferably hollow, defining therein an interior in the form of an open space, passage, or lumen extending between the first end and the second end of the sleeve member. The sleeve member includes a first opening at or adjacent the first end of the sleeve member providing access to the interior of the sleeve member. Similarly, the sleeve member includes a second opening at or adjacent the second end of the sleeve member providing access to the interior of the sleeve member. In a first configuration, both the first and second openings of the sleeve member are open to provide access to the interior of the sleeve member. Preferably the first end of the sleeve member is opposite the second end of the sleeve member, such that the first opening of the sleeve member is substantially opposite the second opening of the sleeve member. In this manner, in the first configuration, the sleeve member is preferably substantially tubular. The sleeve member may have any suitable length to allow one or more free ends of a strap to be received therein. References herein to the ‘length’ of the sleeve member are to its length extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the sleeve member. The length of the sleeve member is preferably at least 5 cm, more preferably at least 10 cm, still more preferably at least 15 cm, more preferably still at least 20 cm, most preferably at least 25 cm. The length of the sleeve member is preferably up to 50 cm, more preferably up to 45 cm, still more preferably up to 35 cm, more preferably still up to 30 cm, most preferably up to 25 cm. In preferred embodiments, the length of the sleeve member is from 5 cm to 50 cm, preferably from 10 cm to 45 cm, more preferably from 15 cm to 40 cm, still more preferably from 20 cm to 35 cm, most preferably from 25 cm to 30 cm. If necessary, the length of the one or more free ends of the strap can be reduced by coiling, bundling, or folding the free ends before stowing them in the cover, in particular within the interior of the sleeve member, provided the sleeve member has a width and / or depth suitable to accommodate the coiled, bundled, or folded free ends of the strap. Accordingly, the sleeve member may have any suitable width. References herein to a ‘width’ of the sleeve member are to its width measured in the direction of a first transverse axis extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve member. The width of the sleeve member is preferably at least 1 cm, more preferably at least 4 cm, still more preferably at least 6 cm, more preferably still at least 8 cm, most preferably at least 10 cm. The width of the sleeve member is preferably up to 25 cm, more preferably up to 22 cm, still more preferably up to 20 cm, more preferably still up to 18 cm, most preferably up to 15 cm. In preferred embodiments, the width of the sleeve member is from 1 cm to 25 cm, preferably from 4 cm to 22 cm, more preferably from 6 cm to 20 cm, still more preferably from 8 cm to 18 cm, most preferably from 10 cm to 15 cm. Similarly, the sleeve member may have any suitable depth. References herein to the ‘depth’ of the sleeve member are to its depth measured in the direction of a second transverse axis extending perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis and the first transverse axis of the sleeve member. The depth of the sleeve member is preferably at least 1 cm, more preferably at least 4 cm, still more preferably at least 6 cm, more preferably still at least 8 cm, most preferably at least 10 cm. The depth of the sleeve member is preferably up to 25 cm, more preferably up to 22 cm, still more preferably up to 20 cm, more preferably still up to 18 cm, most preferably up to 15 cm. In preferred embodiments, the depth of the sleeve member is from 1 cm to 25 cm, preferably from 4 cm to 22 cm, more preferably from 6 cm to 20 cm, still more preferably from 8 cm to 18 cm, most preferably from 10 cm to 15 cm. The walls of the sleeve member may define any suitable cross section. Unless otherwise stated, references herein to the ‘cross section’ of the sleeve member refer to a cross section taken in a plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve member (i.e. a plane defined by the first and second transverse axes). The cross section may be any two-dimensional shape including but not limited to a circle, triangle, square, rectangle, or any other regular or irregular polygon. Most preferably, the sleeve member has a substantially oval cross section, with the lengths of the major and minor axes of the oval corresponding to the width and depth of the sleeve member. In preferred embodiments, in the first configuration, the cross section of the sleeve member is substantially the same along the entire length of the sleeve member. The sleeve member may be formed from any suitable material. Preferably the sleeve member is flexible. For example, the sleeve member is preferably formed from a flexible material. In particular, the sleeve member may be formed from a fabric material, for example woven or non-woven fabric, preferably a synthetic fabric. Suitable synthetic fabric materials include polymers, for example polypropylene, polyethylene, polyesters, acrylics, nylon, or polyvinyl chloride. In a preferred embodiment the sleeve member is formed from nylon coated with polyurethane, for example texturised nylon with a waterproof polyurethane coating, such as Cordura ®. The sleeve member may alternatively be formed from fabrics made from natural fibres, such as cotton and hemp, for example canvas, and non-woven materials, such as leather. In use, the strap may rub against the walls of the sleeve member. Accordingly, the sleeve member is preferably formed from fibres having a linear mass density of at least 500 denier, preferably at least 600 denier, more preferably at least 700 denier, still more preferably at least 800 denier, most preferably at least 900 denier, for example at least 1000 denier. This provides durability to increase the lifetime of the sleeve member and prevent the strap from abrading the sleeve member causing it to wear, fray, or tear in use. The sleeve member may be formed from a single piece of material. In one preferred embodiment the sleeve member is formed from a single sheet of material, having a pair of opposing edges either releasably, or more preferably, permanently connected to form the one or more walls of the sleeve member. In this manner, the sleeve member preferably comprises a single substantially tubular piece of material. Suitable means for connecting opposing edges of the sleeve member include hook and loop fasteners, buttons, zips, or more preferably permanent methods, such as adhesives or stitching. Alternatively, the sleeve member may be formed from a plurality of pieces of material. For example, the sleeve member may be formed from multiple sheets of material, having edges either releasably, or more preferably, permanently connected to form the one or more walls of the sleeve member. The one or more walls of the sleeve member may have any suitable thickness. The wall thickness will be determined at least in part by the material from which the sleeve member is formed. As will be appreciated, selecting a greater wall thickness will increase the durability and lifetime of the cover. The one or more walls of the sleeve member preferably have a thickness of at least 250 pm, more preferably at least 500 pm, still more preferably at least 750 pm, more preferably still at least 1000 pm, most preferably at least 1500 pm, for example at least 2000 pm. The one or more walls of the sleeve member preferably have a thickness of up to 5000 pm, more preferably up to 4500 pm, still more preferably up to 4000 pm, more preferably still up to 3500 pm, most preferably up to 3000 pm. In preferred embodiments, the one or more walls of the sleeve member preferably have a thickness of from 250 pm to 5000 pm, more preferably from 500 pm to 4500 pm, still more preferably from 750 pm to 4000 pm, more preferably still from 1000 pm to 3500 pm, most preferably from 1500 pm to 3000 pm, for example 2000 pm to 2750 pm. The one or more walls of the sleeve member may have a constant thickness along the length of the sleeve member. Alternatively, the thickness of the one or more walls of the sleeve member may vary along its length. The sleeve member is preferably configured to receive therein at least a portion of the strap under tension, in use. In this manner, the sleeve member can preferably be arranged to receive therein a tensioned portion of the strap in addition to the one or more free ends of the strap, in use, as described in more detail hereinbelow. In particularly preferred embodiments, the sleeve member is configured to receive therein the whole length of the strap, to stow the strap when the strap is not in use, as described in more detail hereinbelow. If necessary, the length of the strap can be reduced by coiling, bundling, or folding the strap before stowing the strap inside the cover, provided the sleeve member has a width and / or depth suitable to accommodate the coiled, bundle or folded strap. The cover further includes a first closure configured to close the first opening and a second closure configured to close the second opening. The first closure is preferably located at or adjacent the first end of the sleeve member and the second closure is preferably located at or adjacent the second end of the sleeve member. The first and second closures are configured to close the respective first and second openings of the sleeve member in a second configuration. Thus, in the second configuration, the sleeve member is substantially enclosed to stow one or more free ends of the strap therein. The first and second closures may be provided by any suitable means for closing the first and second openings of the sleeve member. Suitable closures include hook and loop fasteners, zips, buckles, belts, elastic cords, poppers, and buttons, or combinations thereof. The first and second closures may be different or, more preferably, the same. The first and second closures are preferably identical. In use, the first and second closures are configured to close around the strap to ensure the cover retains, within the interior of the sleeve member, all or a portion of the strap located therein, in particular one or more free ends of the strap. In particularly preferred embodiments one or both of the first and second closures comprise drawstring closures. Drawstring closures are generally used to gather or close openings in fabric articles such as the opening of a bag or the hood of an article of clothing. Advantageously, a drawstring closure may close tightly around an object inserted therethrough, in this case one or more portions of the strap, to close and preferably seal the respective first or second opening around the strap. The or each drawstring closure preferably includes a drawstring. The drawstring is arranged at or adjacent the opening to be closed, for example the first or second opening of the sleeve member. The drawstring may be formed from any suitable material, preferably a length of flexible material, such as string, rope, cord, or the like. For example, the drawstring may be formed from woven or non-woven fibres, for example natural or synthetic fibres, or non-woven materials such as leather. Suitable synthetic fibres include polymers, for example polypropylene, polyethylene, polyesters, acrylics, nylon, or polyvinyl chloride. The drawstring may alternatively be formed from natural fibres, such as cotton and / or hemp. Preferably, the or each drawstring closure includes means for retaining the drawstring at or adjacent the respective first or second opening of the sleeve member. Preferably, the means for retaining the drawstring nevertheless permits movement of the drawstring relative to the sleeve member, for example relative to the one or more walls of the sleeve member. For example, the means for retaining the drawstring preferably permits movement of the drawstring about the first and / or second opening of the sleeve member. In particularly preferred embodiments, the means for retaining the drawstring comprises one or more sleeves or loops, through which the drawstring is threaded. For example, the means for retaining the drawstring preferably comprises a drawstring sleeve extending around all or a portion of the perimeter of the opening to be closed, in this case the first or second opening of the sleeve member. The drawstring sleeve may be formed from a length of material affixed to the first or second end of the sleeve member, for example to one or more walls of the sleeve member adjacent the first or second opening of the sleeve member. Suitable methods for affixing the drawstring sleeve include hook and loop fasteners, buttons, zips, or more preferably permanent methods, such as adhesives or stitching. Alternatively, the drawstring sleeve may be formed by folding an edge of the sleeve member, for example an edge of one or more walls of the sleeve member defining the first and / or second opening, back on itself and affixing the edge to the sleeve member to form the drawstring sleeve. Suitable methods for affixing the drawstring sleeve include hook and loop fasteners, buttons, zips, or more preferably permanent methods, such as adhesives or stitching. Preferably, the drawstring sleeve is arranged to substantially encircle the perimeter of the respective first or second opening of the sleeve member. The drawstring is preferably threaded through the means for retaining the drawstring about all or a portion of the perimeter of the first or second opening of the sleeve member. The drawstring may be threaded through any suitable openings such as slits or holes formed in a wall of the drawstring sleeve. Alternatively, the drawstring may be threaded through open ends of the drawstring sleeve. Preferably, the drawstring substantially encircles the respective first or second opening. In particularly preferred embodiments, the drawstring has a first end and a second end. Preferably, the first and second ends of the drawstring extend from or beyond the means for retaining the drawstring. In this manner the first and second ends of the drawstring are free, allowing them to be manipulated by a user, for example to draw the drawstring through the means for retaining the drawstring. The drawstring may be drawn through the means for retaining the drawstring to form a loop, with the material of the sleeve member gathering about the loop. As the circumference of the loop formed by the drawstring is reduced, the material of the sleeve member gathers to reduce the size of the respective first or second opening, thereby closing the first or second opening. The or each drawstring may have any suitable length. Preferably the length of the drawstring is the same or greater than the perimeter of the respective first or second opening of the sleeve member which it closes. The or each drawstring closure preferably comprises means for releasably securing the drawstring in a closed configuration. For example, the or each drawstring closure preferably includes means for adjusting the size of the loop formed by the drawstring. For example, the means for releasably securing the drawstring in a closed configuration may include a clasp. The clasp is preferably operable to increase or reduce the circumference of the loop formed by the drawstring. Preferably, the clasp is configured to releasably secure the first and second ends of the drawstring. Preferably, the clasp can be releasably secured anywhere along the length of the drawstring, such that the clasp can be moved along the length of the drawstring to increase or reduce the circumference of the loop formed by the drawstring, to thereby tighten or loosen the respective first or second closure. The or each drawstring closure may include any suitable clasp, including but not limited to a buckle, toggle, or clamp. The clasp preferably comprises a body for containing a portion of the drawstring. For example, the clasp may include one or more through-holes for receiving a first and / or second end of the drawstring. The body may be formed from any suitable material, preferably a rigid material. Suitable materials include polymers, such as nylons, or acrylics. Alternatively, the clasp body may be formed from metals, such as steel, brass, copper, or alloys or combinations thereof. The clasp preferably includes a clasp mechanism for releasing and securing the drawstring. The clasp mechanism is preferably biased towards the secured position. For example, the clasp mechanism may be provided by a spring-loaded button. In use the drawstring may be pulled further through the clasp by operating the clasp mechanism to release the grip of the clasp on the drawstring, for example by depressing a spring-loaded button. A length of the drawstring, for example the first and / or second end of the drawstring may then be drawn through the clasp to increase or decrease the circumference of the loop formed by the drawstring. The clasp, once re-positioned, may be resecured on the drawstring by operating the clasp mechanism, for example releasing a spring-loaded button. In this manner a first or second opening of the sleeve member may be closed by drawing the drawstring through the means for retaining the drawstring, such that the material of the sleeve member is gathered about the drawstring and the respective first or second opening of the sleeve member closed and secured in the closed configuration using the clasp. One or both of the first and second openings of the sleeve member may be closed in this manner by the respective first and second closures, to secure the cover onto a portion of the strap and retain one or more free ends of the strap within the interior of the sleeve member. The first and second ends of the or each drawstring may also be advantageously provided with means for preventing the clasp from being pulled off the drawstring. Suitable means include knots, or aglets, such as aglets made from plastic or metals. Similarly, the or each drawstring may be provided with means to prevent fraying of the first and second ends of the drawstring. Suitable means include knots, or aglets, such as aglets made from plastic or metals. In preferred embodiments, both a knot and aglets are provided to prevent the clasp from being pulled off the drawstring and to prevent fraying of the ends of the drawstring, respectively. The cover according to the first aspect is used to stow one or more free ends of a strap, in use. Accordingly, in a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of stowing one or more free ends of a strap, in use, the method comprising: providing a cover according to the first aspect; receiving the one or more free ends of the strap within the interior of the sleeve member; and closing the first and second closures of the sleeve member. When in use, the strap may be passed around or connected to an object to be fastened, for example a piece of equipment to be secured to a vehicle. Accordingly, the method preferably includes fastening an object to a vehicle using the strap. When the strap is used to fasten an object, as hereinbefore described, the strap is preferably tensioned using a means for tensioning the strap, such as a buckle, cam buckle, ratchet or knot. Accordingly, the method further includes tensioning at least a portion of the strap, preferably using one or more means for tensioning the strap, for example a buckle, cam buckle, ratchet or knot. One or more free ends of the strap extend beyond the means for tensioning the strap. The one or more free ends are stowed inside the cover. For example, the one or more free ends of the strap are preferably gathered, folded or coiled and stowed within the interior of the sleeve member of the cover. The one or more free ends of the strap may be received within the interior of the sleeve member via either the first opening or second opening of the sleeve member. Preferably, the one or more free ends of the strap are received within the interior of the sleeve member via whichever of the first opening or second opening is closest to or adjacent the means for tensioning the strap, in use. Preferably, the means for tensioning the strap is received within the interior of the sleeve member. In this manner, the entire length of the free end of the strap extending beyond the means for tensioning the strap may be received within the interior of the sleeve member. The first and second closures are closed to stow the one or more free ends within the cover. The first and second closures may be closed sequentially or simultaneously. For example, one of the first or second closure may be closed to close the respective first or second opening before the one or more free ends of the strap are received within the interior of the sleeve member. Alternatively, one of the first or second closure may be closed to close the respective first or second opening after the one or more free ends of the strap are received within the interior of the sleeve member. Once the strap is received within the interior of the sleeve member, the other of the first or second closure may be closed to stow the free end(s) within the cover. Alternatively, the one or more free ends of the strap may be received within the interior of the sleeve member and the first and second closures closed simultaneously. As will be appreciated, at least one of the first or second closure may close around a portion of the free end of the strap, for example a portion extending from the means for tensioning the strap, through the respective first or second opening, with the remainder of the free end being received within the interior of the sleeve member. The first and second ends of the sleeve member are thereby closed, securing the one or more free ends of the strap within the interior of the sleeve member so as to stow the one or more free ends of the strap within the cover. A portion of the strap may additionally extend through the interior of the sleeve member via the first and second openings, such that the first and second closures close around the portion of the strap extending therethrough, thereby securing the cover to the strap, in use. Preferably the portion of the strap extending through the interior of sleeve member via the first and second openings is a tensioned portion of the strap. In some embodiments, the strap may be passed around an object several times to fasten the object and a portion of the strap may be extended through the interior of the sleeve member via the first and second openings on each pass, such that a plurality of portions of the strap may extend through the interior of the sleeve member via the first and second openings. Preferably the plurality of portions of the strap extending through the interior of sleeve member via the first and second openings are a plurality of tensioned portions of the strap. In some embodiments, when in use to stow one or more free ends of the strap, the cover may be positioned over the means for tensioning the strap, such as a buckle, cam buckle, ratchet or knot. The one or more free ends of the strap and the means for tensioning the strap may be stowed together within the sleeve member of the cover. The first and second closures may be closed, as hereinbefore described, to securely stow the one or more free ends of the strap and the means for tensioning the strap within the cover. Advantageously, the entire length of the free end(s) of the strap and the means for tensioning the strap are stowed within the interior of the sleeve member of the cover. Use of the strap cover to stow the means for tensioning the strap reduces the likelihood of weathering or degradation of the means for tensioning the strap, in particular corrosion caused by rainwater, mud, and road spray. Use of the strap cover to stow the means for tensioning the strap also prevents the means for tensioning the strap presenting a trip or snag hazard, and deters tampering (for example loosening of the strap). In some embodiments, a portion of the strap, preferably a tensioned potion of the strap, is extended through the cover, in use. The entire length of the free end(s) of the strap and the means for tensioning the strap may be stowed within the interior of the sleeve member of the cover and the first and second closures closed around the portion of the strap extending through the cover, thereby securing the cover to the strap. Further aspects of methods of stowing one or more free ends of a strap, in use, are as described hereinbefore with reference the first aspect. Additionally, or alternatively the strap may be stowed within the cover when not in use. For example, when not in use, the strap, and preferably any means for 18 tensioning the strap, may be stowed inside the cover by receiving the whole length of the strap, and optionally the means for tensioning the strap, within the interior of the sleeve member and closing the first and second closures, as described hereinbefore. The strap is thereby stored securely in a compact and portable manner when not in use, aiding in transportation and organisation of the strap and its components. Accordingly, in a further aspect the present invention provides a method of stowing a strap when not in use, the method comprising: providing a cover according to the first aspect; receiving the strap within the interior of the sleeve member; and closing the first and second closures of the sleeve member. Further aspects of the method of stowing a strap when not in use are as described hereinbefore with reference to the first aspect. In use, the cover may be provided with the strap. Accordingly, in a further aspect, the present invention provides a kit comprising a strap and a cover according to the first aspect. The kit may be provided for use to fasten an object as hereinbefore described, the kit offering a complete solution for the fastening of the object, the stowing of the free ends of the strap in use, and the stowing and transport of the strap when not in use. The cover may be connected to or formed as part of the strap. Accordingly, in a further aspect, the present invention provides a strap comprising a cover according to the first aspect. The cover may be releasably or permanently secured or connected to the strap. Alternatively, the cover may be formed as part of the strap. Suitable methods for connecting the cover to the strap include releasable methods, such as hook and loop fasteners, buttons, zips, or more preferably permanent methods, such as adhesives or stitching. The cover of the present invention offers a number of advantages. Firstly, when the free ends of a strap are stowed within the cover, they are prevented from catching on objects or flapping under the action of air flow over the free ends of the strap. This prevents the free ends of the strap from becoming tangled or striking objects, vehicles or persons in the vicinity of the strap, in turn preventing damage to an object fastened by the strap, a vehicle, vessel or aircraft to which it is fastened, or injury to a person or persons in the vicinity of the strap. Loosening of the strap may also be prevented, for example where movement of the free end of the strap might work loose the end of the strap. As such, the cover improves safety and effectiveness when fastening objects with a strap, in particular during transit. The cover finds particular utility in stowing one or more free ends of a strap used to fasten sporting equipment, particularly water sports equipment, such as surfboards, kayaks, and paddleboards, onto the roof racks of a vehicle for transport, which may otherwise be damaged by the free ends of the strap when the vehicle is moving. The cover may also be sized to stow therein the entire length of a strap when not in use. The cover holds the strap, when stowed therein, in a compact arrangement, and prevents the strap, and more particularly loops formed by bundling or coiling the strap, from catching on other objects during storage and transport. Advantageously, no other equipment is required to stow the strap, with the cover providing a compact and complete solution for stowing the free ends of a strap, in use, and stowing the whole length of the strap when not in use. The cover is simple to use and does not require numerous complex components or operations. A user is only required to perform a basic operation to stow the free ends of the strap, in use, or the entire length of a strap when not in use, within the cover. Thus, the cover provides a simple means for rapidly stowing and accessing the free ends of a strap in use, or the entire the entire length of a strap when not in use. This is particularly advantageous when using the strap to fasten an object to a vehicle, vessel, or aircraft during transit, as it allows the user to stow the free ends of the strap, quickly, reliably, and safely. In some situations, the time saved, as compared to tying off or otherwise pinning down or trapping the free ends of the strap permits the faster transport of objects, which can give rise to monetary savings, for example when used commercially. Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only, having reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a plan view of a cover according to a first embodiment; Figure 2 is a perspective view of the cover of Figure 1, in a first configuration; Figure 3 is a perspective view of the cover of Figure 1, in a second configuration; Figure 4 is a perspective view of the cover of Figure 1, in the first configuration, positioned over a portion of a strap; Figure 5 is a perspective view of the cover of Figure 1, in the first configuration, with a free end of the strap received therein; Figure 6 is a perspective view of the cover of Figure 1, in the second configuration, with a free end of the strap stowed therein; Figure 7 is a perspective view of the cover of Figure 1, in the second configuration, with a free end of the strap and a means for tensioning the strap stowed therein. Turning first to Figure 1, there is shown a plan view of a first embodiment of a cover, indicated generally as 2. The cover 2 comprises a sleeve member 4 having a first end 6 and a second end 8. The sleeve member 4 is substantially tubular, having a first opening 7 at the first end 6 and a second opening 9 at the second end 8 of the sleeve member 4. The sleeve member 4 defines therein an interior in the form of a continuous passage or lumen extending between the first end 6 and the second end 8 of the sleeve member, and more particularly between the first opening 7 and second opening 9 of the sleeve member 4. In this manner, the first opening 7 and second opening 9 provide access to the interior of the sleeve member 4. The cover 2 further comprises a first closure 10 in the form of a drawstring closure located at the first end 6 of the sleeve member 4 and a second closure 12 in the form of a drawstring closure located at the second end 8 of the sleeve member 4. The first closure 10 and second closure 12 each comprise a drawstring 20 and a means for retaining the drawstring 22 in the form of a drawstring sleeve at or adjacent the respective first or second opening 7, 9 of the sleeve member 4. The drawstring sleeves 22 are formed by folding an edge of the sleeve member 4 at the first and second ends 6, 8 back on itself and affixing the edge to the sleeve member 4 to form a substantially tubular drawstring sleeve 22 extending around the perimeter of the respective first opening 7 and second opening 9. The drawstrings 20 are each threaded through a corresponding drawstring sleeve 22 of the first closure 10 and second closure 12. The drawstrings 20 may be threaded through the drawstring sleeves 22 by any suitable means. The drawstring sleeves 22 may, for example, be provided with openings such as slits or holes to allow the drawstrings 20 to be inserted therethrough, such that opposing first and second ends of each drawstring 20 extend from the corresponding drawstring sleeve 22. Alternatively, the drawstrings 20 may be threaded through open ends of the drawstring sleeves 22. The first and second closures 10, 12 each further comprise a clasp 24 in the form of a toggle. Each clasp 24 may, for example, comprise a spring loaded push button to release and secure the clasp 24 on a respective drawstring 20. The opposing first and second ends of each drawstring 20 are threaded through a corresponding clasp 24 and secured by the clasp 24 to form a loop. The push button of each clasp 24 may be operated to release the clasp 24 to allow it to be moved along the length of the corresponding drawstring 20, for example by drawing a length of the drawstring 20 through the clasp 24, to increase or decrease the circumference of the loop formed by the drawstring 20. The push button may then be released to resecure the clasp 24 at a new position. Each of the drawstrings 20 further comprises a knot 26 to stop the clasps 24 from being moved along the length of the drawstring 20 beyond the knot 26, thereby preventing the clasps 24 from coming off the first or second ends of the drawstrings 20. The ends of the drawstrings 20 may optionally be provided with aglets 28 to prevent the drawstrings 20 from fraying with use. Turning now to Figure 2, there is shown a perspective view of the cover 2 of Figure 1 in a first configuration. In the first configuration the first opening 7 and second opening 9 of the sleeve member 4 are open to permit access to the interior of the sleeve member 4. The clasps 24 of the drawstrings 20 are positioned close or adjacent to the knots 26 such that the drawstrings 20 form a loop having a circumference that is the same or greater than the perimeter of the corresponding first and second openings 7, 9. In this manner, the first and second closures 10, 12 are loose and do not restrict access via the first and second openings 7, 9 to the interior of the sleeve member 4. In use, when in the first configuration, a strap can be extended through the interior of the sleeve member via the first opening 7 and second opening 9, around an object, and tensioned to fasten the object, for example to a vehicle, as described hereinbefore. One or more free and untensioned ends of the strap can be received and stowed within the interior of the sleeve member 4, as described in more detail hereinbelow with reference to Figures 4 to 6. Turning now to Figure 3, there is shown a perspective view of the cover 2 of Figure 1 in a second configuration. In the second configuration the first and second openings 7, 9 of the sleeve member 4 are closed. The openings may be closed by releasing the clasps 24 and drawing a length of each drawstring 20 through the corresponding clasp 24, for example to position the clasp further from a corresponding knot 26 such that the circumference of the loop formed by the drawstring 20 is reduced. The drawstrings 20 are pulled through the drawstring sleeves 22 causing the material at the first and second ends 6, 8 of the sleeve member 4 to gather about the drawstrings 20 and close the first and second openings 7, 9. The clasps 24 secure the drawstrings 20 in the closed configuration. When in use, the free ends of a strap may be stowed within the interior of the sleeve member 4. For example, in the second configuration the first and second closures 10,12 are operated to close the respective first and second openings 7, 9, thereby enclosing and retaining a free end of a strap received within the interior of the sleeve member 4, while optionally closing around a portion of the strap extended through the interior of the sleeve member via the first opening 7 and second opening 9, to retain the cover 2 over the strap, as described in more detail hereinbelow with reference to Figures 4 to 6. Turning now to Figure 4, there is shown a perspective view of the cover 2 of Figure 1, in the first configuration, in use in conjunction with a strap 50. When in use, the strap 50 may be passed around or connected to an object (not shown) to fasten the object. The strap 50 is extended through the interior of the sleeve member 4 via the first opening 7 and second opening 9, around the object, and tensioned to fasten the object, for example to a vehicle, as described hereinbefore. The strap 50 optionally includes means for tensioning the strap 60 in the form of a cam buckle. In this manner, a tensioned portion of the strap extends through the cover, via the first and second openings 7, 9, as shown in Figure 4. Once tensioned, a free end 52 of the strap extends through and beyond the cam buckle 60. The free end 52 is preferably gathered, folded or coiled as shown in Figure 4, to be received within the interior of the sleeve member 4. Turning now to Figure 5, there is shown a perspective view of the cover 2 of Figure 1, in the first configuration, with the gathered, folded, or coiled free end 52 of the strap 50 received within the interior of the sleeve member 4 through the first opening 7 at the first end 6 of the sleeve member 4. The first closure 10 and second closure 12 may then be operated, sequentially or simultaneously to secure the gathered, folded or coiled free end 52 of the strap 50 within the interior of the sleeve member 4. The free end 52 is thereby stowed within the cover 2, as shown in more detail in Figure 6. Turning now to Figure 6, there is shown a perspective view of the cover 2 of Figure 1, in the second configuration, in use to stow the free end 52 of the strap 50 and secure the cover 2 in position on the strap 50. As hereinbefore described, the first and second closures 10, 12 are closed by releasing the clasps 24 and sliding the clasps 24 along the drawstrings 20 away from the knots 26 while simultaneously pulling on the knots 26 to gather the material of the sleeve member 4 about the drawstrings 20 to close the respective first and second openings 7, 9 at the first and second ends 6, 8 of the sleeve member 4. The clasps 24 are then resecured in the new position to hold the first and second closures 10, 12 closed. In this manner the free end 52 of the strap 50 is securely stowed inside the cover 2 and is thereby prevented from catching or flapping. As shown in Figure 6, in the second configuration, the cover 2 is secured in position over a tensioned portion of the strap 50 extending therethrough via the first and second openings 7, 9, with the first and second closures 10, 12 closing the first and second openings 7, 9, around the tensioned portion of the strap. Turning now to Figure 7, there is shown a perspective view of the cover 2 of Figure 1, in the second configuration, in use to stow both the free end 52 (not visible in Figure 7) of the strap 50 and the cam buckle 60 (not visible in Figure 7) and secure the cover 2 in position on the strap 50. The entire length of the free end 52 of the strap 50 and the cam buckle 60 are both received and stowed inside the strap cover 2. As hereinbefore described, the first and second closures 10, 12 are closed by releasing the clasps 24 and sliding the clasps 24 along the drawstrings 20 away from the knots 26 while simultaneously pulling on the knots 26 to gather the material of the sleeve member 4 about the drawstrings 20 to close the respective first and second openings 7, 9 at the first and second ends 6, 8 of the sleeve member 4. The clasps 24 are then resecured in the new position to hold the first and second closures 10, 12 closed. In this manner the entire length of the free end 52 of the strap 50 and the cam buckle 60 are both securely stowed inside the cover 2 and are therefore prevented from catching or flapping. Furthermore, the cam buckle 60 is protected from weathering or degradation, in particular from rainwater, mud, and road spray. As shown in Figure 7, in the 5 second configuration, the cover 2 is secured in position over a tensioned portion of the strap 50 extending therethrough via the first and second openings 7, 9, with the first and second closures 10, 12 closing the first and second openings 7, 9 around the tensioned portion of the strap. When not in use, the strap 50 may be stowed within the cover 2, by receiving 10 the whole length of the strap 50, including the cam buckle 60, within the interior of the sleeve member 4 and performing the same operation as hereinbefore described to close the first and second closures 10, 12. In this manner the strap 50 can be readily stored and transported inside the cover 2 in the second configuration, when not in use. 15

Claims

1. A cover for stowing one or more free ends of a strap, the cover comprising:a sleeve member defining an interior for receiving one or more free ends of a strap therein, the sleeve member having a first opening at or adjacent a first end of the sleeve member providing access to the interior of the sleeve member and a second opening at or adjacent a second end of the sleeve member providing access to the interior of the sleeve member;a first closure configured to close the first opening; anda second closure configured to close the second opening.

2. The cover according to claim 1, wherein the sleeve member is substantially tubular.

3. The cover according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the sleeve member has a length of from 5 cm to 50 cm, preferably from 10 cm to 45 cm, more preferably from 15 cm to 40 cm, still more preferably from 20 cm to 35 cm, most preferably from 25 cm to 30 cm.

4. The cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve member has a width of from 1 cm to 25 cm, preferably from 4 cm to 22 cm, more preferably from 6 cm to 20 cm, still more preferably from 8 cm to 18 cm, most preferably from 10 cm to 15 cm.

5. The cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve member has a depth of from 1 cm to 25 cm, preferably from 4 cm to 22 cm, more preferably from 6cm to 20 cm, still more preferably from 8 cm to 18 cm, most preferably from 10 cm to15 cm.

6. The cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve member is flexible.

7. The cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve member is formed from a fabric material.

8. The cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve member is formed from nylon coated with polyurethane.

9. The cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve member is formed from fibres having a linear mass density of at least 500 denier, preferably at least 600 denier, more preferably at least 700 denier, still more preferably at least 800 denier, most preferably at least 900 denier, for example at least 1000 denier.

10. The cover according to any preceding claim, wherein one or more walls of the sleeve member have a thickness of from 250 pm to 5000 pm, preferably from 500 pm to 4500 pm, still more preferably from 750 pm to 4000 pm, more preferably still from 1000 pm to 3500 pm, most preferably from 1500 pm to 3000 pm.

11. The cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the first and second closures are identical.

12. The cover according to any preceding claim, wherein one or both of the first and second closures comprise drawstring closures.

13. The cover according to claim 12, wherein the or each drawstring closure comprises means for retaining the drawstring at or adjacent the respective first or second opening of the sleeve member.

14. The cover according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the or each drawstring closure comprises means for releasably securing the drawstring in a closed configuration.

15. The cover according to claim 14, wherein the means for releasably securing the drawstring in a closed configuration comprises a clasp.

16. A method of stowing one or more free ends of a strap, in use, the method comprising:providing a cover according to any of claims 1 to 15;receiving the one or more free ends of the strap within the interior of the sleeve member; andclosing the first and second closures of the sleeve member.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the strap comprises means for tensioning the strap, wherein the means for tensioning the strap is received within the interior of the sleeve member.

18. The method according to claim 16 or claim 17, wherein a portion of the strap extends through the interior of the sleeve member via the first and second openings, such that the first and second closures are closed around the portion of the strap extending therethrough.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the portion of the strap extending through the interior of sleeve member via the first and second openings is a tensioned portion of the strap.

20. The method according to any of the claims 16 to 19, further comprising fastening an object to a vehicle using the strap.

21. A kit comprising a strap and a cover according to any of claims 1 to 15.

22. A strap comprising a cover according to any of claims 1 to 15.

23. The strap according to claim 22, wherein the cover is releasably connected to the strap.

24. The strap according to claim 22, wherein the cover is permanently connected to the strap.33

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