Webbing strap cam buckle connector with two-stage tightener

Abstract

A webbing strap cam buckle connector is configured as a two-stage webbing strap tightener having a webbing strap engageable with a cam buckle mechanism base wherein the two-stage webbing strap tightener includes a first tensioning mechanism configured to tighten the strap in a first of two stages. The first stage tightening is performed by said first tensioning mechanism to shorten a length of the webbing strap about an object, wherein the first stage tightening provides a first level of strapping force or pressure on the secured object. The two-stage webbing strap tightener also comprises a second tensioning mechanism configured to perform a second stage tightening, which shortens the webbing strap further about the object to increase the strapping force or pressure and provide a secure confinement of the object.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 722,827, having a filing date of Nov. 20, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] There are many types of connectors for webbing straps. Two of the most commonly used versions are described as follows:1. Cam Buckle Strap

[0003] A conventional Cam Buckle Strap is often used to restrain loads of less than 1000 pounds. The Cam Buckle Strap's maximum tightness is usually limited by the user force applied when pulling (by hand) the loose end of the strap. With these limitations, the Cam Buckle Strap is still very popular due to the ease, speed and comfort in its application.2. Ratchet Strap

[0004] A conventional Rachet Strap is more versatile as it can be used to restrain both light and very heavy loads. With this increased versatility, the user accepts more difficulty and discomfort in operation. The lever locks must be released to expose the spool slot. The spool slot must be oriented for easiest insertion of the loose end of the webbing. Excess webbing must be pulled through the slot to an estimated length from the spool to avoid over filling the spool when tightening the strap. Most common rachet mechanisms have very unfriendly frame and handle edges and slide locks that require careful positioning to ensure proper locking as the strap is tightened. The advantage of a Rachet Strap mechanism is the long lever arm that provides torquing leverage to obtain significantly greater tightness for restraining a wide range of loads.

[0005] It is an object of the invention to provide an improved webbing strap connector assembly that is configured as a webbing strap cam buckle connector that overcomes disadvantages associated with the conventional cam buckle strap and ratchet strap described above.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The invention relates to a webbing strap cam buckle connector configured as a two-stage webbing strap tightener having a webbing strap engageable with a cam buckle mechanism base wherein the two-stage webbing strap tightener includes a first tensioning mechanism configured to tighten the strap in a first of two stages. The first stage tightening is performed by said first tensioning mechanism to shorten a length of the webbing strap about an object, wherein the first stage tightening provides a first level of strapping force or pressure on the secured object. The two-stage webbing strap tightener also comprises a second tensioning mechanism configured to perform a second stage tightening, which shortens the webbing strap further about the object to increase the strapping force or pressure and provide a secure confinement of the object.

[0007] In more detail, the invention relates to a webbing strap cam buckle connector configured as a two-stage webbing strap tightener, wherein this invention provides significant advantages as an improved webbing strap tightener that is usable in the same common applications as the cam buckle strap, described above, to provided improved performance. However, in this invention, the two-stage webbing strap tightener is configured as a connector strap assembly having a webbing strap, formed in one or two pieces, which is engageable with a cam buckle mechanism base or connector body by two different tensioning mechanisms. The webbing strap tightener tightens the strap in two stages wherein a first stage tightening is performed by a first stage tensioning mechanism to shorten the webbing strap about an object of any type that is being secured thereby. The first stage tightening provides a first level of strapping force or pressure on the secured object. Thereafter, a second stage tightening is performed using a second stage tensioning mechanism to further shorten the webbing strap about the object to increase the strapping force or pressure and provide a secure confinement of the object. The object may be any type of load being secured in any manner such as articles and loads being carried by vehicles and the like.

[0008] Other objects and purposes of the invention, and variations thereof, will be apparent upon reading the following specification and inspecting the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1 is a left side perspective view of a webbing strap cam buckle connector with a two-stage tightener, which may be otherwise referenced as a two-stage webbing strap tightener according to the present invention.

[0010] FIG. 2 is top side perspective view of the two-stage webbing strap tightener with a first stage tightening lever engage with a webbing strap and with a second stage tightening lever in a tensioned closed condition.

[0011] FIG. 3 is top side perspective view of the two-stage webbing strap tightener with the second stage tightening lever in a partially open condition.

[0012] FIG. 4 is top side perspective view of the two-stage webbing strap tightener with the second stage tightening lever in a pre-tensioning open condition.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a left side enlarged partial perspective view with a lock lever of the second stage tightening lever in an unlocked condition.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a left side cross sectional view with the lock lever in a locked condition.

[0015] FIG. 7 is partial bottom side perspective view showing the second stage tightening lever and the lock lever thereof.

[0016] Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience and reference only and will not be limiting. For example, the words “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “rightwardly” and “leftwardly” will refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” will refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the arrangement and designated parts thereof. Said terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Referring to FIGS. 1-7, the invention relates to a webbing strap cam buckle connector 1 configured as a two-stage webbing strap tightener, wherein this invention provides significant advantages as an improved webbing strap tightener 1 that is usable in the same common applications as the cam buckle strap, described above, to provided improved performance. However, in this invention, the two-stage webbing strap tightener 1 is configured as a connector strap assembly having a webbing strap 2 engageable with a cam buckle mechanism base or connector body 3. The webbing strap tightener 1 tightens the strap in two stages wherein a first stage tightening is performed to shorten the webbing strap 2 about an object of any type that is being secured thereby. The first stage tightening provides a first level of strapping force or pressure on the secured object. Thereafter, a second stage tightening force is performed to further shorten the webbing strap 2 about the object to increase the strapping force or pressure and provide a secure confinement of the object. The object may be any type of load being secured in any manner such as articles and loads being carried by vehicles and the like.

[0018] In more detail as to FIGS. 3, 4 and 7, the connected end section 2A of the strap 2 defines the fixed strap end 2B that is pivotally attached to the toggling lever arm assembly 5 that performs the second stage tightening, wherein the toggling lever arm assembly 5 has a second stage tightening lever 5A, which in turn is pivotally attached to the cam buckle mechanism base or connector body 3 for rotation about a pivoting axis PA1. The second stage tightening lever 5A of the lever arm assembly 5 includes a pivotally mounted spring-urged lock lever 6 that pivots about pivot axis PA2 and is releasable by a lever button6A shown in FIG. 1.

[0019] Further, the base 3 also includes a spring urged pivotal cam strap-lock or pressure pad 4 that serves as a first stage tightening lever that provides a means to attach a terminal loose or free end 2C of the strap 2 when it is captured under the grip of the one-way cam strap-lock mechanism 7. The one-way cam strap-lock mechanism 7 allows further tightening of the strap 2 by pulling the loose free end 2C thereof in a passage direction 8 (FIG. 5) but captures and prevents loosening of the strap 2 (except when the strap-lock cam mechanism 7 is released), particularly when the main section of the strap 2 is tensioned in a binding direction 9. In other words, the strap 2 can be freely pulled through the strap-lock mechanism 7 and the strap lock 4 thereof in the passage direction for tensioning or shortening of the strap 2 but is bound in place by the strap-lock mechanism 7 which prevents pulling movement of the strap 2 in the opposite-acting binding direction 9 under the binding or clamping action of the spring-urged lock lever 4. To release the strap 2, the lock lever 4 is manually releasable by pressing free end 4A of the lock lever 4 to allow free sliding of the strap 2 in both the passage and binding directions 8 and 9. Since the free strap end 2C is looped in the lock mechanism 7 as seen in FIG. 6, the passage direction 8 and binding direction 9 may extend away from the main body 3.

[0020] As seen in FIG. 6, the lock mechanism 7 includes a stop member 12 mounted in the main body 3 that is generally smooth and arcuate about the majority of its outer surface 12\A, wherein the strap 8 can loop over and slide over this outer surface in the passage direction 8. The strap 8 may also slide or travel in the opposite binding direction 9 to a small degree until the lock lever 4 engages and prevents such sliding movement in the binding direction 8. If the lock lever 4 is manually held open, the strap 2 can be slid freely in both directions such as for threading of the strap 2 through the main body 3.

[0021] The remaining segment of the outer surface of the stop member 12 is formed with a flat faced and serrated locking surface 13 that engages with the lock lever 4. Essentially, the stop member 12 has a non-circular cross-sectional. The lock lever 4 includes a serrated locking surface 4B that is biased into pressing and clamping engagement with opposing lock surface 13 of the stop member 12 to clamp onto the webbing strap 2 and prevent movement of the strap 2 therebetween. The lock lever 4 pivots about pivot axis PA3 and is normally biased clockwise (see FIG. 6) to normally clamp the strap 2 when the lock lever 4 is manually released by an operator. Effectively, the lock lever 4 functions as a spring biased cam. However, the lock lever 4 releases the clamping of the strap 2 when the free strap end 2C is pulled by an operator to shorten the effective strap length and pre-tighten the strap 2 in the first stage tightening.

[0022] In a further aspect of the invention seen in FIGS. 3, 4 and 7, the lever arm 5A has the one end portion 2B of the flexible, elongated strap 2 pivotally and securely connected to the lever arm 5A at a pivot axis PA4 near to, but spaced away from the pivoting axis PA1 of said lever arm 5A. The strap portion 2C of the other (free) end of said elongated fabric strap 2 is optionally clamped or captured between the lock lever or pressure pad 4 and the connector body or base 3 as described above by adequate binding pressure to hold the flexible strap 2 in a desired position, particularly when the flexible strap 2 is tensioned by pulling of the free strap end 2C in the passaged direction 8 of the lock lever 4. As such, the effective binding length of the strap 2 can be effectively shortened or lengthened to secure an object as described herein.

[0023] The lever arm 5A is allowed to subsequently rotate nearly 180 degrees to a position substantially overlapping said elongated connector body 3 (FIG. 1), wherein said rotation of said lever arm 5A shortens the overall assembled length or effective length captured by the clamped strap 2 and connector assembly 1, which thereby provides a secondary increase in tension imposed on the strap 2 and an object secured thereby.

[0024] In the first tightening stage 18: the toggling lever arm or lever 5A of the lever arm assembly 5 is in the pre-tensioned fully open position seen in FIG. 4 wherein the strap 2 may be pre-tensioned by the first stage tightening, and then is pivotable as the lever 5A rotates through the partially open position of FIG. 4 which serves to shorten the strap 2 and increase the tension of strapping pressure generated thereby. In the first stage tightening, the previously loose end 2C of the strap 2 is held by the cam strap-lock mechanism 7 in a pre-tensioned state after it has been inserted through an opening between the spring urged pivotally mounted strap-gripping cam strap-lock 4 and stop member 12 of the base 3, which captures the strap 2 when the cam strap-lock mechanism 7 is released. The pre-tensioning action is achieved when the user pulls the strap's loose end 2C, tightening the strap 2 (captured under the one-way cam 7 strap-locking action) and thereby achieves the first stage tensioning of the strap 2. The cam strap-lock 4 preferably includes the serrated teeth or other gripping means 4B to bind the strap 2 between the teeth 4B and the opposing teeth 13 of the drum, pin or other binding structure 12 on the base 3.

[0025] In the second tightening stage: the user rotates the toggling lever 5A to a latched docking position over the base 3 as seen in FIGS. 1, 2 and 6. In this position, the lock lever 6 hooks onto or otherwise engages with one or more lock lever engagement ledges 6B shown in FIGS. 1 and 5. The lock lever 6 is spring biased to the locking position by spring 6C or other biasing member as seen in FIG. 7. The torquing action of the lock lever 5A provides the increased secondary strap tensioning force that is aided by the torque-arm length of the toggling lever 5A that functions as the second stage tightening lever. The lock lever 5A travels arcingly to an angle slightly beyond the tightest arcing position (FIG. 43) to an over-center home position (FIG. 4). This lever torquing action adds a significant amount of tension to the strap 2 in the second stage tensioning when the strap 2 has been pretensioned by the user or operator in the first stage tensioning.

[0026] While the strap end sections 2A and 2C are described as the ends of a single strap 2, it will be understood the strap ends 2A and 2C may be two separate straps which have their own connector means such as hooks on terminal ends thereof and which are tensioned together by the two-stage tightener 1, although these strap end sections 2A and 2C may be formed as different sections of a single continuous strap configured in a loop as mentioned previously. As such, the term strap 2 may be configured as a single continuous piece or may be configured as two separate strap sections. Further, the strap sections 2A and 2C may be a flexible strap material that may be fabric, webbing or the like.

[0027] In accord with the foregoing, the invention may be characterized with several aspects as follows. However, the scope of the present invention is not so limited by the following characterization thereof.

[0028] 1. A connector-strap assembly comprising:

[0029] an elongated connector body including a lever arm pivotally attached near one end of said connector body for rotation about a pivoting axis and a movable pressure pad mounted near another end of said connector body, said lever arm having a secured end portion of an elongated flexible strap pivotally and securely connected to said lever arm near to but spaced away from said pivoting axis of said lever arm, said flexible strap including a free end portion of a free end of said elongated flexible strap opposite the secured end portion, wherein said free end portion being optionally clamped between said pressure pad and said connector body by a releasable pressure that is of adequate pressure to hold said flexible strap in a desired position, said lever arm being pivotable through a range of rotation so as to be allowed to subsequently rotate nearly 180 degrees to an overlapped position substantially overlapping said elongated connector body, wherein said rotation of said lever arm shortens the overall assembled length captured by the clamped strap and connector assembly.

[0030] 2. A connector-strap assembly according to claim 1, wherein said lever arm is releasably latched in said overlapped position overlapping said connector body.

[0031] 3. A connector-strap assembly according to claim 2, wherein said lever arm is latched by a spring urged lever.

[0032] 4. A connector-strap assembly according to claim 1, wherein said movable pressure pad is a spring-urged, pivotally mounted cam having gripping teeth and an integral releasable lever arm.

[0033] 5. A connector-strap assembly according to claim 4, wherein said gripping teeth engages with said flexible strap for clamping thereof with said releasable pressure.

[0034] 6. A two-stage tensioning connector-strap assembly comprising:

[0035] an elongated connector body including a lever arm pivotally attached near one end of said connector body for rotation about a pivoting axis and a movable pressure pad mounted near another end of said connector body, said lever arm having a secured end portion of an elongated flexible strap pivotally and securely connected to said lever arm near to but spaced away from said pivoting axis of said lever arm, said flexible strap including a free end portion of a free end of said elongated flexible strap opposite the secured end portion, wherein said free end portion being optionally clamped between said pressure pad and said connector body by a releasable pressure that is of adequate pressure to hold said flexible strap in a desired position, said free end portion of said flexible strap slidably passing through past said pressure pad in a passage direction that shortens a length of said strap to define a first stage tensioning thereof, said lever arm being pivotable through a range of rotation so as to be allowed to subsequently rotate nearly 180 degrees to an overlapped position substantially overlapping said elongated connector body, wherein said rotation of said lever arm shortens the overall assembled strap length captured by the clamped strap and connector assembly to increase strap tensioning and define a second stage tensioning thereof.

[0036] 7. A webbing strap cam buckle connector configured as a two-stage webbing strap tightener, said two-stage webbing strap tightener being configured as a connector strap assembly having a webbing strap engageable with a cam buckle mechanism base wherein said two-stage webbing strap tightener includes a first tensioning mechanism configured to tighten the strap in a first of two stages wherein a first stage tightening is performed by said first tensioning mechanism to shorten a length of the webbing strap about an object, said first stage tightening providing a first level of strapping force or pressure on the secured object, said two-stage webbing strap tightener comprises a second tensioning mechanism configured to perform a second stage tightening, which shortens the webbing strap further about the object to increase the strapping force or pressure and provide a secure confinement of the object.

[0037] Although a particular preferred embodiment of the invention has been disclosed in detail for illustrative purposes, it will be recognized that variations or modifications of the disclosed apparatus, including the rearrangement of parts, lie within the scope of the present invention.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0017]Referring to FIGS. 1-7, the invention relates to a webbing strap cam buckle connector 1 configured as a two-stage webbing strap tightener, wherein this invention provides significant advantages as an improved webbing strap tightener 1 that is usable in the same common applications as the cam buckle strap, described above, to provided improved performance. However, in this invention, the two-stage webbing strap tightener 1 is configured as a connector strap assembly having a webbing strap 2 engageable with a cam buckle mechanism base or connector body 3. The webbing strap tightener 1 tightens the strap in two stages wherein a first stage tightening is performed to shorten the webbing strap 2 about an object of any type that is being secured thereby. The first stage tightening provides a first level of strapping force or pressure on the secured object. Thereafter, a second stage tightening force is performed to further shorten the webbing strap 2 about the object to increase the...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 722,827, having a filing date of Nov. 20, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] There are many types of connectors for webbing straps. Two of the most commonly used versions are described as follows:1. Cam Buckle Strap

[0003] A conventional Cam Buckle Strap is often used to restrain loads of less than 1000 pounds. The Cam Buckle Strap's maximum tightness is usually limited by the user force applied when pulling (by hand) the loose end of the strap. With these limitations, the Cam Buckle Strap is still very popular due to the ease, speed and comfort in its application.2. Ratchet Strap

[0004] A conventional Rachet Strap is more versatile as it can be used to restrain both light and very heavy loads. With this increased versatility, the user accepts more difficulty and discomfort in operation. The lever locks must be released to expose the spool slot. The spool slot must be oriented for easiest insertion of the loose end of the webbing. Excess webbing must be pulled through the slot to an estimated length from the spool to avoid over filling the spool when tightening the strap. Most common rachet mechanisms have very unfriendly frame and handle edges and slide locks that require careful positioning to ensure proper locking as the strap is tightened. The advantage of a Rachet Strap mechanism is the long lever arm that provides torquing leverage to obtain significantly greater tightness for restraining a wide range of loads.

[0005] It is an object of the invention to provide an improved webbing strap connector assembly that is configured as a webbing strap cam buckle connector that overcomes disadvantages associated with the conventional cam buckle strap and ratchet strap described above.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The invention relates to a webbing strap cam buckle connector configured as a two-stage webbing strap tightener having a webbing strap engageable with a cam buckle mechanism base wherein the two-stage webbing strap tightener includes a first tensioning mechanism configured to tighten the strap in a first of two stages. The first stage tightening is performed by said first tensioning mechanism to shorten a length of the webbing strap about an object, wherein the first stage tightening provides a first level of strapping force or pressure on the secured object. The two-stage webbing strap tightener also comprises a second tensioning mechanism configured to perform a second stage tightening, which shortens the webbing strap further about the object to increase the strapping force or pressure and provide a secure confinement of the object.

[0007] In more detail, the invention relates to a webbing strap cam buckle connector configured as a two-stage webbing strap tightener, wherein this invention provides significant advantages as an improved webbing strap tightener that is usable in the same common applications as the cam buckle strap, described above, to provided improved performance. However, in this invention, the two-stage webbing strap tightener is configured as a connector strap assembly having a webbing strap, formed in one or two pieces, which is engageable with a cam buckle mechanism base or connector body by two different tensioning mechanisms. The webbing strap tightener tightens the strap in two stages wherein a first stage tightening is performed by a first stage tensioning mechanism to shorten the webbing strap about an object of any type that is being secured thereby. The first stage tightening provides a first level of strapping force or pressure on the secured object. Thereafter, a second stage tightening is performed using a second stage tensioning mechanism to further shorten the webbing strap about the object to increase the strapping force or pressure and provide a secure confinement of the object. The object may be any type of load being secured in any manner such as articles and loads being carried by vehicles and the like.

[0008] Other objects and purposes of the invention, and variations thereof, will be apparent upon reading the following specification and inspecting the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1 is a left side perspective view of a webbing strap cam buckle connector with a two-stage tightener, which may be otherwise referenced as a two-stage webbing strap tightener according to the present invention.

[0010] FIG. 2 is top side perspective view of the two-stage webbing strap tightener with a first stage tightening lever engage with a webbing strap and with a second stage tightening lever in a tensioned closed condition.

[0011] FIG. 3 is top side perspective view of the two-stage webbing strap tightener with the second stage tightening lever in a partially open condition.

[0012] FIG. 4 is top side perspective view of the two-stage webbing strap tightener with the second stage tightening lever in a pre-tensioning open condition.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a left side enlarged partial perspective view with a lock lever of the second stage tightening lever in an unlocked condition.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a left side cross sectional view with the lock lever in a locked condition.

[0015] FIG. 7 is partial bottom side perspective view showing the second stage tightening lever and the lock lever thereof.

[0016] Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience and reference only and will not be limiting. For example, the words “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “rightwardly” and “leftwardly” will refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” will refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the arrangement and designated parts thereof. Said terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Referring to FIGS. 1-7, the invention relates to a webbing strap cam buckle connector 1 configured as a two-stage webbing strap tightener, wherein this invention provides significant advantages as an improved webbing strap tightener 1 that is usable in the same common applications as the cam buckle strap, described above, to provided improved performance. However, in this invention, the two-stage webbing strap tightener 1 is configured as a connector strap assembly having a webbing strap 2 engageable with a cam buckle mechanism base or connector body 3. The webbing strap tightener 1 tightens the strap in two stages wherein a first stage tightening is performed to shorten the webbing strap 2 about an object of any type that is being secured thereby. The first stage tightening provides a first level of strapping force or pressure on the secured object. Thereafter, a second stage tightening force is performed to further shorten the webbing strap 2 about the object to increase the strapping force or pressure and provide a secure confinement of the object. The object may be any type of load being secured in any manner such as articles and loads being carried by vehicles and the like.

[0018] In more detail as to FIGS. 3, 4 and 7, the connected end section 2A of the strap 2 defines the fixed strap end 2B that is pivotally attached to the toggling lever arm assembly 5 that performs the second stage tightening, wherein the toggling lever arm assembly 5 has a second stage tightening lever 5A, which in turn is pivotally attached to the cam buckle mechanism base or connector body 3 for rotation about a pivoting axis PA1. The second stage tightening lever 5A of the lever arm assembly 5 includes a pivotally mounted spring-urged lock lever 6 that pivots about pivot axis PA2 and is releasable by a lever button6A shown in FIG. 1.

[0019] Further, the base 3 also includes a spring urged pivotal cam strap-lock or pressure pad 4 that serves as a first stage tightening lever that provides a means to attach a terminal loose or free end 2C of the strap 2 when it is captured under the grip of the one-way cam strap-lock mechanism 7. The one-way cam strap-lock mechanism 7 allows further tightening of the strap 2 by pulling the loose free end 2C thereof in a passage direction 8 (FIG. 5) but captures and prevents loosening of the strap 2 (except when the strap-lock cam mechanism 7 is released), particularly when the main section of the strap 2 is tensioned in a binding direction 9. In other words, the strap 2 can be freely pulled through the strap-lock mechanism 7 and the strap lock 4 thereof in the passage direction for tensioning or shortening of the strap 2 but is bound in place by the strap-lock mechanism 7 which prevents pulling movement of the strap 2 in the opposite-acting binding direction 9 under the binding or clamping action of the spring-urged lock lever 4. To release the strap 2, the lock lever 4 is manually releasable by pressing free end 4A of the lock lever 4 to allow free sliding of the strap 2 in both the passage and binding directions 8 and 9. Since the free strap end 2C is looped in the lock mechanism 7 as seen in FIG. 6, the passage direction 8 and binding direction 9 may extend away from the main body 3.

[0020] As seen in FIG. 6, the lock mechanism 7 includes a stop member 12 mounted in the main body 3 that is generally smooth and arcuate about the majority of its outer surface 12\A, wherein the strap 8 can loop over and slide over this outer surface in the passage direction 8. The strap 8 may also slide or travel in the opposite binding direction 9 to a small degree until the lock lever 4 engages and prevents such sliding movement in the binding direction 8. If the lock lever 4 is manually held open, the strap 2 can be slid freely in both directions such as for threading of the strap 2 through the main body 3.

[0021] The remaining segment of the outer surface of the stop member 12 is formed with a flat faced and serrated locking surface 13 that engages with the lock lever 4. Essentially, the stop member 12 has a non-circular cross-sectional. The lock lever 4 includes a serrated locking surface 4B that is biased into pressing and clamping engagement with opposing lock surface 13 of the stop member 12 to clamp onto the webbing strap 2 and prevent movement of the strap 2 therebetween. The lock lever 4 pivots about pivot axis PA3 and is normally biased clockwise (see FIG. 6) to normally clamp the strap 2 when the lock lever 4 is manually released by an operator. Effectively, the lock lever 4 functions as a spring biased cam. However, the lock lever 4 releases the clamping of the strap 2 when the free strap end 2C is pulled by an operator to shorten the effective strap length and pre-tighten the strap 2 in the first stage tightening.

[0022] In a further aspect of the invention seen in FIGS. 3, 4 and 7, the lever arm 5A has the one end portion 2B of the flexible, elongated strap 2 pivotally and securely connected to the lever arm 5A at a pivot axis PA4 near to, but spaced away from the pivoting axis PA1 of said lever arm 5A. The strap portion 2C of the other (free) end of said elongated fabric strap 2 is optionally clamped or captured between the lock lever or pressure pad 4 and the connector body or base 3 as described above by adequate binding pressure to hold the flexible strap 2 in a desired position, particularly when the flexible strap 2 is tensioned by pulling of the free strap end 2C in the passaged direction 8 of the lock lever 4. As such, the effective binding length of the strap 2 can be effectively shortened or lengthened to secure an object as described herein.

[0023] The lever arm 5A is allowed to subsequently rotate nearly 180 degrees to a position substantially overlapping said elongated connector body 3 (FIG. 1), wherein said rotation of said lever arm 5A shortens the overall assembled length or effective length captured by the clamped strap 2 and connector assembly 1, which thereby provides a secondary increase in tension imposed on the strap 2 and an object secured thereby.

[0024] In the first tightening stage 18: the toggling lever arm or lever 5A of the lever arm assembly 5 is in the pre-tensioned fully open position seen in FIG. 4 wherein the strap 2 may be pre-tensioned by the first stage tightening, and then is pivotable as the lever 5A rotates through the partially open position of FIG. 4 which serves to shorten the strap 2 and increase the tension of strapping pressure generated thereby. In the first stage tightening, the previously loose end 2C of the strap 2 is held by the cam strap-lock mechanism 7 in a pre-tensioned state after it has been inserted through an opening between the spring urged pivotally mounted strap-gripping cam strap-lock 4 and stop member 12 of the base 3, which captures the strap 2 when the cam strap-lock mechanism 7 is released. The pre-tensioning action is achieved when the user pulls the strap's loose end 2C, tightening the strap 2 (captured under the one-way cam 7 strap-locking action) and thereby achieves the first stage tensioning of the strap 2. The cam strap-lock 4 preferably includes the serrated teeth or other gripping means 4B to bind the strap 2 between the teeth 4B and the opposing teeth 13 of the drum, pin or other binding structure 12 on the base 3.

[0025] In the second tightening stage: the user rotates the toggling lever 5A to a latched docking position over the base 3 as seen in FIGS. 1, 2 and 6. In this position, the lock lever 6 hooks onto or otherwise engages with one or more lock lever engagement ledges 6B shown in FIGS. 1 and 5. The lock lever 6 is spring biased to the locking position by spring 6C or other biasing member as seen in FIG. 7. The torquing action of the lock lever 5A provides the increased secondary strap tensioning force that is aided by the torque-arm length of the toggling lever 5A that functions as the second stage tightening lever. The lock lever 5A travels arcingly to an angle slightly beyond the tightest arcing position (FIG. 43) to an over-center home position (FIG. 4). This lever torquing action adds a significant amount of tension to the strap 2 in the second stage tensioning when the strap 2 has been pretensioned by the user or operator in the first stage tensioning.

[0026] While the strap end sections 2A and 2C are described as the ends of a single strap 2, it will be understood the strap ends 2A and 2C may be two separate straps which have their own connector means such as hooks on terminal ends thereof and which are tensioned together by the two-stage tightener 1, although these strap end sections 2A and 2C may be formed as different sections of a single continuous strap configured in a loop as mentioned previously. As such, the term strap 2 may be configured as a single continuous piece or may be configured as two separate strap sections. Further, the strap sections 2A and 2C may be a flexible strap material that may be fabric, webbing or the like.

[0027] In accord with the foregoing, the invention may be characterized with several aspects as follows. However, the scope of the present invention is not so limited by the following characterization thereof.

[0028] 1. A connector-strap assembly comprising:

[0029] an elongated connector body including a lever arm pivotally attached near one end of said connector body for rotation about a pivoting axis and a movable pressure pad mounted near another end of said connector body, said lever arm having a secured end portion of an elongated flexible strap pivotally and securely connected to said lever arm near to but spaced away from said pivoting axis of said lever arm, said flexible strap including a free end portion of a free end of said elongated flexible strap opposite the secured end portion, wherein said free end portion being optionally clamped between said pressure pad and said connector body by a releasable pressure that is of adequate pressure to hold said flexible strap in a desired position, said lever arm being pivotable through a range of rotation so as to be allowed to subsequently rotate nearly 180 degrees to an overlapped position substantially overlapping said elongated connector body, wherein said rotation of said lever arm shortens the overall assembled length captured by the clamped strap and connector assembly.

[0030] 2. A connector-strap assembly according to claim 1, wherein said lever arm is releasably latched in said overlapped position overlapping said connector body.

[0031] 3. A connector-strap assembly according to claim 2, wherein said lever arm is latched by a spring urged lever.

[0032] 4. A connector-strap assembly according to claim 1, wherein said movable pressure pad is a spring-urged, pivotally mounted cam having gripping teeth and an integral releasable lever arm.

[0033] 5. A connector-strap assembly according to claim 4, wherein said gripping teeth engages with said flexible strap for clamping thereof with said releasable pressure.

[0034] 6. A two-stage tensioning connector-strap assembly comprising:

[0035] an elongated connector body including a lever arm pivotally attached near one end of said connector body for rotation about a pivoting axis and a movable pressure pad mounted near another end of said connector body, said lever arm having a secured end portion of an elongated flexible strap pivotally and securely connected to said lever arm near to but spaced away from said pivoting axis of said lever arm, said flexible strap including a free end portion of a free end of said elongated flexible strap opposite the secured end portion, wherein said free end portion being optionally clamped between said pressure pad and said connector body by a releasable pressure that is of adequate pressure to hold said flexible strap in a desired position, said free end portion of said flexible strap slidably passing through past said pressure pad in a passage direction that shortens a length of said strap to define a first stage tensioning thereof, said lever arm being pivotable through a range of rotation so as to be allowed to subsequently rotate nearly 180 degrees to an overlapped position substantially overlapping said elongated connector body, wherein said rotation of said lever arm shortens the overall assembled strap length captured by the clamped strap and connector assembly to increase strap tensioning and define a second stage tensioning thereof.

[0036] 7. A webbing strap cam buckle connector configured as a two-stage webbing strap tightener, said two-stage webbing strap tightener being configured as a connector strap assembly having a webbing strap engageable with a cam buckle mechanism base wherein said two-stage webbing strap tightener includes a first tensioning mechanism configured to tighten the strap in a first of two stages wherein a first stage tightening is performed by said first tensioning mechanism to shorten a length of the webbing strap about an object, said first stage tightening providing a first level of strapping force or pressure on the secured object, said two-stage webbing strap tightener comprises a second tensioning mechanism configured to perform a second stage tightening, which shortens the webbing strap further about the object to increase the strapping force or pressure and provide a secure confinement of the object.

[0037] Although a particular preferred embodiment of the invention has been disclosed in detail for illustrative purposes, it will be recognized that variations or modifications of the disclosed apparatus, including the rearrangement of parts, lie within the scope of the present invention.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0017]Referring to FIGS. 1-7, the invention relates to a webbing strap cam buckle connector 1 configured as a two-stage webbing strap tightener, wherein this invention provides significant advantages as an improved webbing strap tightener 1 that is usable in the same common applications as the cam buckle strap, described above, to provided improved performance. However, in this invention, the two-stage webbing strap tightener 1 is configured as a connector strap assembly having a webbing strap 2 engageable with a cam buckle mechanism base or connector body 3. The webbing strap tightener 1 tightens the strap in two stages wherein a first stage tightening is performed to shorten the webbing strap 2 about an object of any type that is being secured thereby. The first stage tightening provides a first level of strapping force or pressure on the secured object. Thereafter, a second stage tightening force is performed to further shorten the webbing strap 2 about the object to increase the...

Claims

1. A connector-strap assembly comprising:an elongated connector body including a lever arm pivotally attached near one end of said connector body for rotation about a pivoting axis and a movable pressure pad mounted near another end of said connector body, said lever arm having a secured end portion of an elongated flexible strap pivotally and securely connected to said lever arm near to but spaced away from said pivoting axis of said lever arm, said flexible strap including a free end portion of a free end of said elongated flexible strap opposite the secured end portion, wherein said free end portion being optionally clamped between said pressure pad and said connector body by a releasable pressure that is of adequate pressure to hold said flexible strap in a desired position, said lever arm being pivotable through a range of rotation so as to be allowed to subsequently rotate nearly 180 degrees to an overlapped position substantially overlapping said elongated connector body, wherein said rotation of said lever arm shortens the overall assembled length captured by the clamped strap and connector assembly.

2. A connector-strap assembly according to claim 1, wherein said lever arm is releasably latched in said overlapped position overlapping said connector body.

3. A connector-strap assembly according to claim 2, wherein said lever arm is latched by a spring urged lever.

4. A connector-strap assembly according to claim 1, wherein said movable pressure pad is a spring-urged, pivotally mounted cam having gripping teeth and an integral releasable lever arm.

5. A connector-strap assembly according to claim 4, wherein said gripping teeth engages with said flexible strap for clamping thereof with said releasable pressure.

6. A two-stage tensioning connector-strap assembly comprising:an elongated connector body including a lever arm pivotally attached near one end of said connector body for rotation about a pivoting axis and a movable pressure pad mounted near another end of said connector body, said lever arm having a secured end portion of an elongated flexible strap pivotally and securely connected to said lever arm near to but spaced away from said pivoting axis of said lever arm, said flexible strap including a free end portion of a free end of said elongated flexible strap opposite the secured end portion, wherein said free end portion being optionally clamped between said pressure pad and said connector body by a releasable pressure that is of adequate pressure to hold said flexible strap in a desired position, said free end portion of said flexible strap slidably passing through past said pressure pad in a passage direction that shortens a length of said strap to define a first stage tensioning thereof, said lever arm being pivotable through a range of rotation so as to be allowed to subsequently rotate nearly180. degrees to an overlapped position substantially overlapping said elongated connector body, wherein said rotation of said lever arm shortens the overall assembled strap length captured by the clamped strap and connector assembly to increase strap tensioning and define a second stage tensioning thereof.

7. A webbing strap cam buckle connector configured as a two-stage webbing strap tightener, said two-stage webbing strap tightener being configured as a connector strap assembly having a webbing strap engageable with a cam buckle mechanism base wherein said two-stage webbing strap tightener includes a first tensioning mechanism configured to tighten the strap in a first of two stages wherein a first stage tightening is performed by said first tensioning mechanism to shorten a length of the webbing strap about an object, said first stage tightening providing a first level of strapping force or pressure on the secured object, said two-stage webbing strap tightener comprises a second tensioning mechanism configured to perform a second stage tightening, which shortens the webbing strap further about the object to increase the strapping force or pressure and provide a secure confinement of the object.

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