Strap fastening apparatus

Abstract

An apparatus comprising a set of teeth located on a strap and a head located on a head portion of the strap. The head includes a pawl having at least one tip configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap when engaged with the set of teeth on the strap and a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head.

Description

SUMMARY

[0001] In some examples, an apparatus may include a set of teeth located on a strap and a head located on a head portion of the strap. The head may include a pawl having at least one tip configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap when engaged with the set of teeth on the strap. The head may also include a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head. In some examples, the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth on the strap when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap. In some examples, the protrusion includes one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

[0002] In some examples, the head portion of the strap includes at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap provides more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap. In some examples, the head portion of the strap comprises a crossbar positioned on a bottom side of an opening in the head. In some examples, the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive the tail portion of the strap, and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at a back side of the crossbar opposite the opening. In such examples, the crossbar may be set back from a front portion of the head such that the opening extends from the front portion of the head into a bottom side of the head. Additionally or alternatively, the protrusion can be integrated with the pawl.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] The accompanying drawings illustrate a number of exemplary aspects and are a part of the specification. Together with the following description, these drawings demonstrate and explain various principles of the present disclosure.

[0004] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary strap with a head configured according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0005] FIG. 2 is a side view of a head portion of the strap show in FIG. 1 according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0006] FIG. 3 is a top isometric view of the head portion strap shown in FIG. 1 according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the head portion of a strap according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 5 is a side view of the head portion of the strap shown in FIG. 4 according to some aspects.

[0009] FIG. 6 is a front view of head portion of the strap shown in FIG. 4 according to some aspects.

[0010] FIG. 7 is a top view of the strap shown in FIG. 4 according to some aspects.

[0011] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative configuration of a head portion of a strap.

[0012] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative configuration of a head portion of a strap.

[0013] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative configuration of a head portion of a strap.

[0014] Throughout the drawings, identical reference characters and descriptions indicate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. While the exemplary aspects described herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific aspects have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, the exemplary aspects described herein are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the present disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Cable ties, also known as zip ties or wire ties, are widely used to secure cables, wires, and other objects in various applications. However, despite their popularity, traditional cable ties may have several drawbacks. One common issue is that some cable ties may come loose over time due to factors such as vibration, thermal expansion, and UV degradation. Inadequate tension in the connection between a cable tie strap and pawl can exacerbate this problem, leading to safety hazards, equipment damage, and increased maintenance.

[0016] Another potential problem with traditional cable ties is their lack of a low-profile design. Cable ties with a bulky head and strap connection can be prone to snagging or catching on other objects. Furthermore, traditional cable ties may leave a consequential gap between the object being secured and the strap at the connection between the strap and the head. This gap can be problematic in applications where space is limited or where making as flush a connection as possible is important. For example, this gap may be an issue in applications such as aerospace, automotive, and industrial environments, where reliability, safety, and aesthetics are highly valued.

[0017] Aspects of the present disclosure may address one or more of these challenges, providing cable ties that have low-profile heads and that have a smaller gap between the object being secured and the strap-head connection than traditional cable ties. Additionally, some examples discussed herein improve the security of connection between a cable tie strap and the head, which can help mitigate the risk of the tie coming loose. In this manner, aspects disclosed herein may enable more reliable, secure, and clean installations of cable ties.

[0018] In general, aspects of this disclosure involve the configuration of two components of a tie: the head and the strap. In some examples, the head is a small plastic or metal piece that contains a ratchet mechanism, which has a pawl that engages with the strap to prevent it from loosening. The strap, on the other hand, may be a flexible plastic or nylon strip that is attached to the head and that wraps around the object being secured. When the strap is threaded through the head and pulled tight, the pawl engages, locking the strap in place and holding the object firmly.

[0019] As noted, the head of a tie is the component that contains the ratchet mechanism (e.g., a one-way locking mechanism, a self-locking gear system, a toothed pawl mechanism, an incremental locking mechanism, etc.), that secures the strap in place. In some examples, the head is a small, rectangular, square, oval, or circular-shaped plastic or metal piece attached to or formed as an integral part of one end of the strap.

[0020] The strap of a tie is generally a flexible, elongated portion that wraps around the object being secured, such as cables, wires, or pipes. As discussed in greater detail below, the strap may be made of a durable, flexible material like nylon or polypropylene, which allows it to be bent and shaped around various objects. In some aspects, the strap may include a textured or ribbed strap surface to improve grip and prevent slippage.

[0021] The pawl of a cable tie is generally a small projection shaped to catch teeth of a cable (e.g., with a tip, tooth, or set of teeth). The primary function of the pawl may be for the tip or teeth on the pawl to engage with the teeth on the strap, thereby securing the tie in place and preventing it from loosening over time. As the strap is pulled through the head, the tip or teeth of the pawl catches onto the teeth of the strap, creating a ratcheting effect that allows the tie to be tightened but not loosened. The pawl is typically spring-loaded and / or flexible in a manner that enables it to provide a secure and reliable grip on the strap, ensuring that the cable tie remains tightly fastened.

[0022] The strap teeth of a cable tie generally refer to the spaced notches or serrations molded into or otherwise formed on the strap. These teeth are designed to engage with the tip or teeth of the pawl in the head of the cable tie, providing a secure and adjustable fastening mechanism. The configuration and dimensions of the strap teeth can vary depending on the type of cable tie and its intended application.

[0023] Turning to the figures, FIGS. 1-3 show a fastening device with an exemplary shape and configuration for the head, and FIGS. 3-7 show an alternative shape for the head of a fastening device. FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary fastening device 100 with a strap 110 and a head 120. Strap 110 may include teeth 112 along almost the entirety of strap 110, as shown in FIG. 1. In other aspects, teeth 112 may be formed along only a portion of strap 110. Strap 110 also includes kinks 114 that are dimensioned to provide additional flexibility to strap 110 when strap 110 is wrapped around an object.

[0024] Strap 110 may include multiple kinks 114 to form a design resembling a wave, as shown in FIG. 1. Alternatively, strap 110 may include a single kink to provide additional flexibility of strap 110 near head 120. Furthermore, while shown as a wave pattern in FIG. 1, kinks 114 may be formed as hinges or joints that provide additional flexibility to strap 110 near head 120. Kinks 114 may provide strain relief to the head portion of the strap (i.e., the portion of the strap that is closest to the head and / or connects to the head). Strain relief for the portion of strap 110 with kinks 114 generally refers to the ability of kinks 114 to distribute and reduce stress concentrations when strap 110 is subjected to pulling, bending, or twisting forces. By incorporating kinks 114 into the head portion of strap 110, kinks 114 may provide the head portion of strap 110 with more strain relief than non-kinked portions of strap 110 (e.g., a middle portion of strap 110).

[0025] FIG. 1 shows that head 120 also includes a pawl 122, and FIG. 2 illustrates additional details of both head 120 and pawl 122. As shown in closer views of head 120 in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, pawl 122 may include teeth 124 (also referred to as tips) and a rounded protrusion 126. FIG. 2 shows three teeth 124 on pawl 122, and in alternative aspects pawl 122 may be configured with fewer teeth (e.g., one or two teeth) or more than three teeth.

[0026] Protrusion 126 of pawl 122 may extend below a bottom side 121 of head 120. While FIG. 2 shows that protrusion 126 is rounded, protrusion 126 may be any other suitable shape (e.g., squared, triangular, sloped, trapezoidal, etc.). Protrusion 126 may be movably coupled to the head in a variety of ways. In some examples, protrusion 126 is movably coupled to the head by being part of a pawl that is movably coupled to the head. On other examples, protrusion 126 is independently coupled to the head by a mechanism that allows movement relative to the head.

[0027] Any suitable coupling may movably couple a protrusion, either directly or indirectly, to a head. In the example shown in FIG. 2, pawl 122 includes a first hinge 128 and a second hinge 130, thereby indirectly coupling pawl 122 to head 120 via hinge 128 and hinge 130. In other examples, pawl 122 may only include a single hinge. In some aspects, pawl 122 may include three or more hinges. With a single joint or hinge, if there are pressures being applied at different angles (e.g., if the head snags in an awkward manner on a cable) on the pawl or protrusion, these pressures could put excessive stress on the joint, causing the single joint to break or otherwise fail. In contrast, with a double-joint, when off-axis forces push against the pawl (e.g., forces that push the pawl at any other angle than directly up into the strap), the joint will be more compliant and more likely to still push the pawl up as designed. In other words, the dual-hinge design shown in FIG. 2, with both hinges 128 and 130 enabling spring-loaded flexibility of pawl 122, may provide additional flexibility that allows more of the force applied to protrusion 126 to be translated to the enhanced engagement of teeth 124 of pawl 122 and teeth 112 of strap 110.

[0028] Hinges 128 and 130 may cause pawl 122 to be spring-loaded in a manner that enable pawl 122 to move downward to allow teeth 112 of strap 110 to pass by pawl 122 in one direction. For example, as strap 110 strap is pulled through head 120, a first of teeth 112 begins to engage with pawl 122. Initially, pawl 122 is pushed out of the way by the advancing serrated edge due to the flexible and spring-loaded design of pawl 122. As the serrated edge continues to move forward, it eventually catches onto one of teeth 124 on pawl 122. When this happens, pawl 122 snaps back into place, locking the serrated edge in position. This locking action prevents strap 110 from being pulled back out of the head, effectively securing the cable tie in place.

[0029] Unfortunately, this flexibility of pawl 122 can also contribute to pawl 122 inadvertently disengaging from teeth 112. Some aspects disclosed herein may address this potential failure point, leveraging the flexibility of pawl 122 as an advantage instead of a weakness. For example, when protrusion 126 contacts an object being held by strap 110, protrusion 126 may be pushed toward a top portion 123 of head 120 in a manner that reinforces engagement of pawl 122 with teeth 112 on strap 110. In other words, as protrusion 126 is pressed toward the top portion 123 of head 120 due to force applied to protrusion 126 by an object held by strap 110, this force may enhance the engagement between (e.g., by reinforcing the grip between) pawl 122 and teeth 112 on strap 110. This strengthened interaction between pawl 122 and teeth 112 on strap 110 may provide added security against inadvertent disengagement of pawl 122 from strap 110.

[0030] In some examples, the force of pawl 122 against strap 110 may cause strap 110 to be pressed against a crossbar 138 formed in top portion 123 of head 120. In this configuration, strap 110 may be securely sandwiched in between crossbar 138 and pawl 122, and this secure connection may be enhanced by pressure against protrusion 126.

[0031] Protrusion 126 may be integrated with pawl 122 in a variety of ways. In some examples, protrusion 126 may be integrated with pawl 122 by being formed as an integral part of pawl 122. Alternatively, protrusion 126 may be integrated with pawl 122 by being attached or coupled to pawl 122. Alternatively, protrusion 126 may not be integrated with pawl 122. For example, protrusion may be coupled directly to bottom side 121 of head 120 but separate from pawl 122. In this example, when the protrusion presses against an object being held, the protrusion may apply an upward force against pawl 122, thereby enhancing the engagement between pawl 122 and teeth 124 of strap 110.

[0032] In addition to providing additional security and longevity via the configuration of a protrusion and / or joints, head 120 may also be configured with one or more features that enable it to be low profile. For example, head 120 may include a crossbar 134 positioned at a bottom side 121 of head 120. Crossbar 134 may be positioned at bottom side 121 by being formed close to or flush with bottom side 121. Furthermore, as shown, crossbar 134 may be curved downward toward an opening 132 such that a height of crossbar 134 is smaller toward opening 132 than it is at a side opposite opening 132. In other words crossbar 134 may be slanted toward the strap lead-in opening 132 such that, when strap 110 is inserted into opening 132, strap 110 may leave a smaller gap between head 120 an object being held by strap 110 than in previous designs. In some aspects, crossbar 134 may be configured such that when strap 110 is inserted into head 120 around an object, strap 110 may be substantially flush with the object at the insertion point in front of crossbar 134.

[0033] In some examples, crossbar 134 may be positioned on an interior side of opening 132. In some examples, crossbar 134 may be positioned on the interior side of opening 132 by being positioned such that the sides of head 120 extend beyond crossbar 134 toward a front of head 120. In other words, crossbar 134 may be set back from a front portion 131 of head 120 such that opening 132 extends from front portion 131 into bottom side 133. This configuration, in addition to creating a low profile, may assist in guiding strap 110 into head 120 in a manner that provides a tighter connection than previous designs.

[0034] In general, opening 132 may be dimensioned to receive a tail portion of strap 110 and to guide the tail portion of strap 110 into engagement with pawl 122. An opening dimensioned to receive a tail portion of a strap may be slightly wider than the strap and / or slightly taller than the strap.

[0035] FIG. 4 shows another example of a head 220 that may be coupled to or formed as an integral part of a strap (not shown). As shown in FIG. 4, a crossbar 234 may be set back from a front portion 231 of head 220 such that opening 232 extends into a bottom region of head 120. Segment 250 extends between a front portion 231 and crossbar 234 and may be any suitable length.

[0036] Opening 232, as with opening 132, is dimensioned to receive a tail portion of a strap. A tail portion of a strap is generally the portion at the end opposite the head, and in some embodiments the teeth on the strap may be located only on the tail portion of the strap. In other embodiments, the teeth on the strap may be located on the tail portion of the strap and the middle portion of the strap. Alternatively, as noted above, the teeth on the strap may be located along the entire length (e.g., head, middle, and tail portions) of a strap or substantially the entire length of the strap.

[0037] FIG. 4 also shows teeth 224 of a pawl 222, and FIG. 5 shows that pawl 222 may include a protrusion that extends below a bottom surface 221 of head 220. The protrusion may include a rounded surface on a bottom side (e.g., a side that contacts an object held by a strap) such that it does not snag on or nick surfaces of the object. In general, a rounded protrusion may be any protrusion with a rounded bottom surface without sharp edges, which may include a surface rounded with smooth beveled edges, a surface rounded with a semi-circular shape, etc.

[0038] FIG. 6 shows a front view of head 220, illustrating how pawl 222 may extend both below and above crossbar 234. FIG. 6 also shows how crossbar 234, crossbar 238, and pawl 222 form an opening dimensioned to receive a strap. As with pawl 122, pawl 222 may be spring loaded with one or more joints or hinges to provide flexibility. This flexibility may allow protrusion 226 to exert an upward force that reinforcers a connection between a strap and pawl 222. In some examples, pawl 222 may be spring-loaded with a single joint. In other examples, pawl 222 may be spring loaded with two joints. In further examples, pawl 222 may be spring loaded with more than two joints.

[0039] As with crossbar 134, the crossbar 234 may be dimensioned such that a height of crossbar 234 at (e.g., on the side closest to) opening 232 may be smaller than at a back side of crossbar 234 (e.g., a side of crossbar 234 opposite of or further from opening 232 than a front side of crossbar 234). In some examples, crossbar 234 may slope downward from a back side (e.g., with a larger height relative to a height of the front side) to a front side (e.g., with a smaller height relative to a height of the back side) manner that enables a strap that is received at opening 232 to be closer to a bottom of head 120 at the front of crossbar 234 than at the back of crossbar 234 closer to where the strap engages pawl 222.

[0040] Crossbar 234 may also be positioned on an interior side of opening 232 such that there is a gap between a front of head 220 and crossbar 234. In some examples, crossbar 224 may be positioned on the interior side of opening 232 by being slightly set back from a front of head 220 (e.g., crossbar 234 may be set back a distance that is less than a width of crossbar 234). In other examples, crossbar 234 may be positioned on the interior side of opening 232 by being set back further from a front of head 220 (e.g., a distance that is greater than a width of crossbar 234).

[0041] Head 220, in addition to having crossbar 234 curved toward front portion 231 of head 220, may be dimensioned with a curved bottom surface 221. The dimensions and setback of crossbar 234, as well as the curvature of bottom surface 221, may enable head 220 and a strap connected to head 220 to sit flush (or substantially flush) against an object held by the strap. Also, while not shown in FIGS. 4-7, the strap extends from a back portion 260 of head 220 at the broken lines shown in FIG. 7.

[0042] In some examples, instead on being on a movable pawl, the teeth can be located on (e.g., formed in) a top portion of a head of a strap, as shown in FIGS. 8-10. In these examples, the teeth are static and the protrusion is still flexible so that when it presses against an object held by a strap, the protrusion will push the strap into the teeth to further secure the connection between the strap and the head. For example, FIG. 8 shows teeth 326 located on a top right portion of head 320, opposite protrusion 326. As another example, FIG. 9 shows teeth 422 located on a top left portion of head 422 and partially overlapping with protrusion 426 (in an alternative configuration, protrusion 426 may extend from the left side of head 420 instead of the right side). As a third example, FIG. 10 shows two sets of teeth 522 located on a top portion of head 520 above a protrusion 526. In these configurations, with the teeth in the head facing downward instead of upward toward an opening, may reduce the potential that the teeth could be exposed and nick a cable orDo Other Damage.

[0043] The strap and head configurations discussed herein can be made from a diverse range of materials, each offering varying properties and benefits. In some aspects, the strap and head may be formed from a plastic, such as nylon, which may provide high strength, flexibility, and resistance to abrasion. In other aspects the strap and / or head may be formed from polypropylene or polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, or polycarbonate. In other examples, the strap and head may be formed from a metal such as stainless steel, aluminum, or copper. Other specialized materials may also be used to form the strap and head, such as Teflon, Kevlar, fiberglass, or bioplastics.

[0044] Example 1. An apparatus comprising: a set of teeth located on a strap; and a head located on a head portion of the strap, the head comprising: a pawl comprising at least one tip configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap when engaged with the set of teeth on the strap; and a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head.

[0045] Example 2. The apparatus of example 1, wherein the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth on the strap when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap.

[0046] Example 3. The apparatus of examples 1-2, wherein the protrusion comprises one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

[0047] Example 4. The apparatus of examples 1-3, wherein the head portion of the strap comprises at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap provides more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap.

[0048] Example 5. The apparatus of examples 1-4, wherein: the head portion of the strap comprises a crossbar positioned on a bottom side of an opening in the head; the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive the tail portion of the strap; and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at a back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

[0049] Example 6. The apparatus of examples 1-5, wherein the crossbar is set back from a front portion of the head such that the opening extends from the front portion of the head into a bottom side of the head.

[0050] Example 7. The apparatus of examples 1-6, wherein the protrusion is integrated with the pawl.

[0051] Example 8. An apparatus comprising: a set of teeth located on a strap; and a head located at a head portion of the strap, the head comprising: a pawl comprising at least one tip that, when engaged, is configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap by engaging the set of teeth on the strap; and a crossbar positioned on an interior side of an opening in the head, wherein the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive the tail portion of the strap and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

[0052] Example 9. The apparatus of example 8, wherein the head comprises a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head.

[0053] Example 10. The apparatus of examples 8-9, wherein the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap.

[0054] Example 11. The apparatus of examples 8-10, wherein the protrusion comprises one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

[0055] Example 12. The apparatus of examples 8-11, wherein the head portion of the strap comprises at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap comprises more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap located between the head and tail portions of the strap.

[0056] Example 13. The apparatus of examples 8-12, wherein the protrusion comprises at least two joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

[0057] Example 14. An apparatus comprising: a set of teeth located on a strap; and a head located on a head portion of the strap, the head comprising: a pawl comprising at least one tip configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap when engaged with the set of teeth on the strap; a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head; and a crossbar positioned on an interior side of an opening in the head, wherein the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive the tail portion of the strap and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

[0058] Example 15. The apparatus of example 14, wherein the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth on the strap when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap.

[0059] Example 16. The apparatus of examples 14-15, wherein the protrusion comprises one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

[0060] Example 17. The apparatus of examples 14-16, wherein the protrusion comprises two or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

[0061] Example 18. The apparatus of examples 14-17, wherein the head portion of the strap comprises at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap provides more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap.

[0062] Example 19. The apparatus of examples 14-18, wherein the protrusion is coupled to the pawl.

[0063] Example 20. The apparatus of examples 14-19, wherein a surface of the protrusion opposite the pawl comprises a rounded surface.

[0064] While the foregoing disclosure sets forth various aspects using specific block diagrams, flowcharts, and examples, each block diagram component, flowchart step, operation, and / or component described and / or illustrated herein may be implemented, individually and / or collectively, using a wide range of hardware, software, or firmware (or any combination thereof) configurations. In addition, any disclosure of components contained within other components should be considered exemplary in nature since many other architectures can be implemented to achieve the same functionality.

[0065] The process parameters and sequence of the steps described and / or illustrated herein are given by way of example only and can be varied as desired. For example, while the steps illustrated and / or described herein may be shown or discussed in a particular order, these steps do not necessarily need to be performed in the order illustrated or discussed. The various exemplary methods described and / or illustrated herein may also omit one or more of the steps described or illustrated herein or include additional steps in addition to those disclosed.

[0066] The preceding description has been provided to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize various aspects of the exemplary aspects disclosed herein. This exemplary description is not intended to be exhaustive or to be limited to any precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The aspects disclosed herein should be considered in all respects illustrative and not restrictive. Reference should be made to the appended claims and their equivalents in determining the scope of the present disclosure.

[0067] Unless otherwise noted, the terms “connected to” and “coupled to” (and their derivatives), as used in the specification and claims, are to be construed as permitting both direct and indirect (i.e., via other elements or components) connection. In addition, the terms “a” or “an,” as used in the specification and claims, are to be construed as meaning “at least one of.” Finally, for ease of use, the terms “including” and “having” (and their derivatives), as used in the specification and claims, are interchangeable with and have the same meaning as the word “comprising.”

Examples

example 1

[0044] An apparatus comprising: a set of teeth located on a strap; and a head located on a head portion of the strap, the head comprising: a pawl comprising at least one tip configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap when engaged with the set of teeth on the strap; and a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head.

[0045]Example 2. The apparatus of example 1, wherein the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth on the strap when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap.

[0046]Example 3. The apparatus of examples 1-2, wherein the protrusion comprises one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

example 4

[0047] The apparatus of examples 1-3, wherein the head portion of the strap comprises at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap provides more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap.

[0048]Example 5. The apparatus of examples 1-4, wherein: the head portion of the strap comprises a crossbar positioned on a bottom side of an opening in the head; the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive the tail portion of the strap; and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at a back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

example 6

[0049] The apparatus of examples 1-5, wherein the crossbar is set back from a front portion of the head such that the opening extends from the front portion of the head into a bottom side of the head.

[0050]Example 7. The apparatus of examples 1-6, wherein the protrusion is integrated with the pawl.

[0051]Example 8. An apparatus comprising: a set of teeth located on a strap; and a head located at a head portion of the strap, the head comprising: a pawl comprising at least one tip that, when engaged, is configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap by engaging the set of teeth on the strap; and a crossbar positioned on an interior side of an opening in the head, wherein the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive the tail portion of the strap and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

[0052]Example 9. The apparatus of example 8, wherein the head...

SUMMARY

[0001] In some examples, an apparatus may include a set of teeth located on a strap and a head located on a head portion of the strap. The head may include a pawl having at least one tip configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap when engaged with the set of teeth on the strap. The head may also include a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head. In some examples, the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth on the strap when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap. In some examples, the protrusion includes one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

[0002] In some examples, the head portion of the strap includes at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap provides more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap. In some examples, the head portion of the strap comprises a crossbar positioned on a bottom side of an opening in the head. In some examples, the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive the tail portion of the strap, and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at a back side of the crossbar opposite the opening. In such examples, the crossbar may be set back from a front portion of the head such that the opening extends from the front portion of the head into a bottom side of the head. Additionally or alternatively, the protrusion can be integrated with the pawl.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] The accompanying drawings illustrate a number of exemplary aspects and are a part of the specification. Together with the following description, these drawings demonstrate and explain various principles of the present disclosure.

[0004] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary strap with a head configured according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0005] FIG. 2 is a side view of a head portion of the strap show in FIG. 1 according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0006] FIG. 3 is a top isometric view of the head portion strap shown in FIG. 1 according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the head portion of a strap according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 5 is a side view of the head portion of the strap shown in FIG. 4 according to some aspects.

[0009] FIG. 6 is a front view of head portion of the strap shown in FIG. 4 according to some aspects.

[0010] FIG. 7 is a top view of the strap shown in FIG. 4 according to some aspects.

[0011] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative configuration of a head portion of a strap.

[0012] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative configuration of a head portion of a strap.

[0013] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative configuration of a head portion of a strap.

[0014] Throughout the drawings, identical reference characters and descriptions indicate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. While the exemplary aspects described herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific aspects have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, the exemplary aspects described herein are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the present disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Cable ties, also known as zip ties or wire ties, are widely used to secure cables, wires, and other objects in various applications. However, despite their popularity, traditional cable ties may have several drawbacks. One common issue is that some cable ties may come loose over time due to factors such as vibration, thermal expansion, and UV degradation. Inadequate tension in the connection between a cable tie strap and pawl can exacerbate this problem, leading to safety hazards, equipment damage, and increased maintenance.

[0016] Another potential problem with traditional cable ties is their lack of a low-profile design. Cable ties with a bulky head and strap connection can be prone to snagging or catching on other objects. Furthermore, traditional cable ties may leave a consequential gap between the object being secured and the strap at the connection between the strap and the head. This gap can be problematic in applications where space is limited or where making as flush a connection as possible is important. For example, this gap may be an issue in applications such as aerospace, automotive, and industrial environments, where reliability, safety, and aesthetics are highly valued.

[0017] Aspects of the present disclosure may address one or more of these challenges, providing cable ties that have low-profile heads and that have a smaller gap between the object being secured and the strap-head connection than traditional cable ties. Additionally, some examples discussed herein improve the security of connection between a cable tie strap and the head, which can help mitigate the risk of the tie coming loose. In this manner, aspects disclosed herein may enable more reliable, secure, and clean installations of cable ties.

[0018] In general, aspects of this disclosure involve the configuration of two components of a tie: the head and the strap. In some examples, the head is a small plastic or metal piece that contains a ratchet mechanism, which has a pawl that engages with the strap to prevent it from loosening. The strap, on the other hand, may be a flexible plastic or nylon strip that is attached to the head and that wraps around the object being secured. When the strap is threaded through the head and pulled tight, the pawl engages, locking the strap in place and holding the object firmly.

[0019] As noted, the head of a tie is the component that contains the ratchet mechanism (e.g., a one-way locking mechanism, a self-locking gear system, a toothed pawl mechanism, an incremental locking mechanism, etc.), that secures the strap in place. In some examples, the head is a small, rectangular, square, oval, or circular-shaped plastic or metal piece attached to or formed as an integral part of one end of the strap.

[0020] The strap of a tie is generally a flexible, elongated portion that wraps around the object being secured, such as cables, wires, or pipes. As discussed in greater detail below, the strap may be made of a durable, flexible material like nylon or polypropylene, which allows it to be bent and shaped around various objects. In some aspects, the strap may include a textured or ribbed strap surface to improve grip and prevent slippage.

[0021] The pawl of a cable tie is generally a small projection shaped to catch teeth of a cable (e.g., with a tip, tooth, or set of teeth). The primary function of the pawl may be for the tip or teeth on the pawl to engage with the teeth on the strap, thereby securing the tie in place and preventing it from loosening over time. As the strap is pulled through the head, the tip or teeth of the pawl catches onto the teeth of the strap, creating a ratcheting effect that allows the tie to be tightened but not loosened. The pawl is typically spring-loaded and / or flexible in a manner that enables it to provide a secure and reliable grip on the strap, ensuring that the cable tie remains tightly fastened.

[0022] The strap teeth of a cable tie generally refer to the spaced notches or serrations molded into or otherwise formed on the strap. These teeth are designed to engage with the tip or teeth of the pawl in the head of the cable tie, providing a secure and adjustable fastening mechanism. The configuration and dimensions of the strap teeth can vary depending on the type of cable tie and its intended application.

[0023] Turning to the figures, FIGS. 1-3 show a fastening device with an exemplary shape and configuration for the head, and FIGS. 3-7 show an alternative shape for the head of a fastening device. FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary fastening device 100 with a strap 110 and a head 120. Strap 110 may include teeth 112 along almost the entirety of strap 110, as shown in FIG. 1. In other aspects, teeth 112 may be formed along only a portion of strap 110. Strap 110 also includes kinks 114 that are dimensioned to provide additional flexibility to strap 110 when strap 110 is wrapped around an object.

[0024] Strap 110 may include multiple kinks 114 to form a design resembling a wave, as shown in FIG. 1. Alternatively, strap 110 may include a single kink to provide additional flexibility of strap 110 near head 120. Furthermore, while shown as a wave pattern in FIG. 1, kinks 114 may be formed as hinges or joints that provide additional flexibility to strap 110 near head 120. Kinks 114 may provide strain relief to the head portion of the strap (i.e., the portion of the strap that is closest to the head and / or connects to the head). Strain relief for the portion of strap 110 with kinks 114 generally refers to the ability of kinks 114 to distribute and reduce stress concentrations when strap 110 is subjected to pulling, bending, or twisting forces. By incorporating kinks 114 into the head portion of strap 110, kinks 114 may provide the head portion of strap 110 with more strain relief than non-kinked portions of strap 110 (e.g., a middle portion of strap 110).

[0025] FIG. 1 shows that head 120 also includes a pawl 122, and FIG. 2 illustrates additional details of both head 120 and pawl 122. As shown in closer views of head 120 in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, pawl 122 may include teeth 124 (also referred to as tips) and a rounded protrusion 126. FIG. 2 shows three teeth 124 on pawl 122, and in alternative aspects pawl 122 may be configured with fewer teeth (e.g., one or two teeth) or more than three teeth.

[0026] Protrusion 126 of pawl 122 may extend below a bottom side 121 of head 120. While FIG. 2 shows that protrusion 126 is rounded, protrusion 126 may be any other suitable shape (e.g., squared, triangular, sloped, trapezoidal, etc.). Protrusion 126 may be movably coupled to the head in a variety of ways. In some examples, protrusion 126 is movably coupled to the head by being part of a pawl that is movably coupled to the head. On other examples, protrusion 126 is independently coupled to the head by a mechanism that allows movement relative to the head.

[0027] Any suitable coupling may movably couple a protrusion, either directly or indirectly, to a head. In the example shown in FIG. 2, pawl 122 includes a first hinge 128 and a second hinge 130, thereby indirectly coupling pawl 122 to head 120 via hinge 128 and hinge 130. In other examples, pawl 122 may only include a single hinge. In some aspects, pawl 122 may include three or more hinges. With a single joint or hinge, if there are pressures being applied at different angles (e.g., if the head snags in an awkward manner on a cable) on the pawl or protrusion, these pressures could put excessive stress on the joint, causing the single joint to break or otherwise fail. In contrast, with a double-joint, when off-axis forces push against the pawl (e.g., forces that push the pawl at any other angle than directly up into the strap), the joint will be more compliant and more likely to still push the pawl up as designed. In other words, the dual-hinge design shown in FIG. 2, with both hinges 128 and 130 enabling spring-loaded flexibility of pawl 122, may provide additional flexibility that allows more of the force applied to protrusion 126 to be translated to the enhanced engagement of teeth 124 of pawl 122 and teeth 112 of strap 110.

[0028] Hinges 128 and 130 may cause pawl 122 to be spring-loaded in a manner that enable pawl 122 to move downward to allow teeth 112 of strap 110 to pass by pawl 122 in one direction. For example, as strap 110 strap is pulled through head 120, a first of teeth 112 begins to engage with pawl 122. Initially, pawl 122 is pushed out of the way by the advancing serrated edge due to the flexible and spring-loaded design of pawl 122. As the serrated edge continues to move forward, it eventually catches onto one of teeth 124 on pawl 122. When this happens, pawl 122 snaps back into place, locking the serrated edge in position. This locking action prevents strap 110 from being pulled back out of the head, effectively securing the cable tie in place.

[0029] Unfortunately, this flexibility of pawl 122 can also contribute to pawl 122 inadvertently disengaging from teeth 112. Some aspects disclosed herein may address this potential failure point, leveraging the flexibility of pawl 122 as an advantage instead of a weakness. For example, when protrusion 126 contacts an object being held by strap 110, protrusion 126 may be pushed toward a top portion 123 of head 120 in a manner that reinforces engagement of pawl 122 with teeth 112 on strap 110. In other words, as protrusion 126 is pressed toward the top portion 123 of head 120 due to force applied to protrusion 126 by an object held by strap 110, this force may enhance the engagement between (e.g., by reinforcing the grip between) pawl 122 and teeth 112 on strap 110. This strengthened interaction between pawl 122 and teeth 112 on strap 110 may provide added security against inadvertent disengagement of pawl 122 from strap 110.

[0030] In some examples, the force of pawl 122 against strap 110 may cause strap 110 to be pressed against a crossbar 138 formed in top portion 123 of head 120. In this configuration, strap 110 may be securely sandwiched in between crossbar 138 and pawl 122, and this secure connection may be enhanced by pressure against protrusion 126.

[0031] Protrusion 126 may be integrated with pawl 122 in a variety of ways. In some examples, protrusion 126 may be integrated with pawl 122 by being formed as an integral part of pawl 122. Alternatively, protrusion 126 may be integrated with pawl 122 by being attached or coupled to pawl 122. Alternatively, protrusion 126 may not be integrated with pawl 122. For example, protrusion may be coupled directly to bottom side 121 of head 120 but separate from pawl 122. In this example, when the protrusion presses against an object being held, the protrusion may apply an upward force against pawl 122, thereby enhancing the engagement between pawl 122 and teeth 124 of strap 110.

[0032] In addition to providing additional security and longevity via the configuration of a protrusion and / or joints, head 120 may also be configured with one or more features that enable it to be low profile. For example, head 120 may include a crossbar 134 positioned at a bottom side 121 of head 120. Crossbar 134 may be positioned at bottom side 121 by being formed close to or flush with bottom side 121. Furthermore, as shown, crossbar 134 may be curved downward toward an opening 132 such that a height of crossbar 134 is smaller toward opening 132 than it is at a side opposite opening 132. In other words crossbar 134 may be slanted toward the strap lead-in opening 132 such that, when strap 110 is inserted into opening 132, strap 110 may leave a smaller gap between head 120 an object being held by strap 110 than in previous designs. In some aspects, crossbar 134 may be configured such that when strap 110 is inserted into head 120 around an object, strap 110 may be substantially flush with the object at the insertion point in front of crossbar 134.

[0033] In some examples, crossbar 134 may be positioned on an interior side of opening 132. In some examples, crossbar 134 may be positioned on the interior side of opening 132 by being positioned such that the sides of head 120 extend beyond crossbar 134 toward a front of head 120. In other words, crossbar 134 may be set back from a front portion 131 of head 120 such that opening 132 extends from front portion 131 into bottom side 133. This configuration, in addition to creating a low profile, may assist in guiding strap 110 into head 120 in a manner that provides a tighter connection than previous designs.

[0034] In general, opening 132 may be dimensioned to receive a tail portion of strap 110 and to guide the tail portion of strap 110 into engagement with pawl 122. An opening dimensioned to receive a tail portion of a strap may be slightly wider than the strap and / or slightly taller than the strap.

[0035] FIG. 4 shows another example of a head 220 that may be coupled to or formed as an integral part of a strap (not shown). As shown in FIG. 4, a crossbar 234 may be set back from a front portion 231 of head 220 such that opening 232 extends into a bottom region of head 120. Segment 250 extends between a front portion 231 and crossbar 234 and may be any suitable length.

[0036] Opening 232, as with opening 132, is dimensioned to receive a tail portion of a strap. A tail portion of a strap is generally the portion at the end opposite the head, and in some embodiments the teeth on the strap may be located only on the tail portion of the strap. In other embodiments, the teeth on the strap may be located on the tail portion of the strap and the middle portion of the strap. Alternatively, as noted above, the teeth on the strap may be located along the entire length (e.g., head, middle, and tail portions) of a strap or substantially the entire length of the strap.

[0037] FIG. 4 also shows teeth 224 of a pawl 222, and FIG. 5 shows that pawl 222 may include a protrusion that extends below a bottom surface 221 of head 220. The protrusion may include a rounded surface on a bottom side (e.g., a side that contacts an object held by a strap) such that it does not snag on or nick surfaces of the object. In general, a rounded protrusion may be any protrusion with a rounded bottom surface without sharp edges, which may include a surface rounded with smooth beveled edges, a surface rounded with a semi-circular shape, etc.

[0038] FIG. 6 shows a front view of head 220, illustrating how pawl 222 may extend both below and above crossbar 234. FIG. 6 also shows how crossbar 234, crossbar 238, and pawl 222 form an opening dimensioned to receive a strap. As with pawl 122, pawl 222 may be spring loaded with one or more joints or hinges to provide flexibility. This flexibility may allow protrusion 226 to exert an upward force that reinforcers a connection between a strap and pawl 222. In some examples, pawl 222 may be spring-loaded with a single joint. In other examples, pawl 222 may be spring loaded with two joints. In further examples, pawl 222 may be spring loaded with more than two joints.

[0039] As with crossbar 134, the crossbar 234 may be dimensioned such that a height of crossbar 234 at (e.g., on the side closest to) opening 232 may be smaller than at a back side of crossbar 234 (e.g., a side of crossbar 234 opposite of or further from opening 232 than a front side of crossbar 234). In some examples, crossbar 234 may slope downward from a back side (e.g., with a larger height relative to a height of the front side) to a front side (e.g., with a smaller height relative to a height of the back side) manner that enables a strap that is received at opening 232 to be closer to a bottom of head 120 at the front of crossbar 234 than at the back of crossbar 234 closer to where the strap engages pawl 222.

[0040] Crossbar 234 may also be positioned on an interior side of opening 232 such that there is a gap between a front of head 220 and crossbar 234. In some examples, crossbar 224 may be positioned on the interior side of opening 232 by being slightly set back from a front of head 220 (e.g., crossbar 234 may be set back a distance that is less than a width of crossbar 234). In other examples, crossbar 234 may be positioned on the interior side of opening 232 by being set back further from a front of head 220 (e.g., a distance that is greater than a width of crossbar 234).

[0041] Head 220, in addition to having crossbar 234 curved toward front portion 231 of head 220, may be dimensioned with a curved bottom surface 221. The dimensions and setback of crossbar 234, as well as the curvature of bottom surface 221, may enable head 220 and a strap connected to head 220 to sit flush (or substantially flush) against an object held by the strap. Also, while not shown in FIGS. 4-7, the strap extends from a back portion 260 of head 220 at the broken lines shown in FIG. 7.

[0042] In some examples, instead on being on a movable pawl, the teeth can be located on (e.g., formed in) a top portion of a head of a strap, as shown in FIGS. 8-10. In these examples, the teeth are static and the protrusion is still flexible so that when it presses against an object held by a strap, the protrusion will push the strap into the teeth to further secure the connection between the strap and the head. For example, FIG. 8 shows teeth 326 located on a top right portion of head 320, opposite protrusion 326. As another example, FIG. 9 shows teeth 422 located on a top left portion of head 422 and partially overlapping with protrusion 426 (in an alternative configuration, protrusion 426 may extend from the left side of head 420 instead of the right side). As a third example, FIG. 10 shows two sets of teeth 522 located on a top portion of head 520 above a protrusion 526. In these configurations, with the teeth in the head facing downward instead of upward toward an opening, may reduce the potential that the teeth could be exposed and nick a cable orDo Other Damage.

[0043] The strap and head configurations discussed herein can be made from a diverse range of materials, each offering varying properties and benefits. In some aspects, the strap and head may be formed from a plastic, such as nylon, which may provide high strength, flexibility, and resistance to abrasion. In other aspects the strap and / or head may be formed from polypropylene or polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, or polycarbonate. In other examples, the strap and head may be formed from a metal such as stainless steel, aluminum, or copper. Other specialized materials may also be used to form the strap and head, such as Teflon, Kevlar, fiberglass, or bioplastics.

[0044] Example 1. An apparatus comprising: a set of teeth located on a strap; and a head located on a head portion of the strap, the head comprising: a pawl comprising at least one tip configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap when engaged with the set of teeth on the strap; and a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head.

[0045] Example 2. The apparatus of example 1, wherein the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth on the strap when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap.

[0046] Example 3. The apparatus of examples 1-2, wherein the protrusion comprises one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

[0047] Example 4. The apparatus of examples 1-3, wherein the head portion of the strap comprises at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap provides more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap.

[0048] Example 5. The apparatus of examples 1-4, wherein: the head portion of the strap comprises a crossbar positioned on a bottom side of an opening in the head; the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive the tail portion of the strap; and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at a back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

[0049] Example 6. The apparatus of examples 1-5, wherein the crossbar is set back from a front portion of the head such that the opening extends from the front portion of the head into a bottom side of the head.

[0050] Example 7. The apparatus of examples 1-6, wherein the protrusion is integrated with the pawl.

[0051] Example 8. An apparatus comprising: a set of teeth located on a strap; and a head located at a head portion of the strap, the head comprising: a pawl comprising at least one tip that, when engaged, is configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap by engaging the set of teeth on the strap; and a crossbar positioned on an interior side of an opening in the head, wherein the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive the tail portion of the strap and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

[0052] Example 9. The apparatus of example 8, wherein the head comprises a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head.

[0053] Example 10. The apparatus of examples 8-9, wherein the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap.

[0054] Example 11. The apparatus of examples 8-10, wherein the protrusion comprises one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

[0055] Example 12. The apparatus of examples 8-11, wherein the head portion of the strap comprises at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap comprises more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap located between the head and tail portions of the strap.

[0056] Example 13. The apparatus of examples 8-12, wherein the protrusion comprises at least two joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

[0057] Example 14. An apparatus comprising: a set of teeth located on a strap; and a head located on a head portion of the strap, the head comprising: a pawl comprising at least one tip configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap when engaged with the set of teeth on the strap; a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head; and a crossbar positioned on an interior side of an opening in the head, wherein the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive the tail portion of the strap and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

[0058] Example 15. The apparatus of example 14, wherein the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth on the strap when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap.

[0059] Example 16. The apparatus of examples 14-15, wherein the protrusion comprises one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

[0060] Example 17. The apparatus of examples 14-16, wherein the protrusion comprises two or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

[0061] Example 18. The apparatus of examples 14-17, wherein the head portion of the strap comprises at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap provides more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap.

[0062] Example 19. The apparatus of examples 14-18, wherein the protrusion is coupled to the pawl.

[0063] Example 20. The apparatus of examples 14-19, wherein a surface of the protrusion opposite the pawl comprises a rounded surface.

[0064] While the foregoing disclosure sets forth various aspects using specific block diagrams, flowcharts, and examples, each block diagram component, flowchart step, operation, and / or component described and / or illustrated herein may be implemented, individually and / or collectively, using a wide range of hardware, software, or firmware (or any combination thereof) configurations. In addition, any disclosure of components contained within other components should be considered exemplary in nature since many other architectures can be implemented to achieve the same functionality.

[0065] The process parameters and sequence of the steps described and / or illustrated herein are given by way of example only and can be varied as desired. For example, while the steps illustrated and / or described herein may be shown or discussed in a particular order, these steps do not necessarily need to be performed in the order illustrated or discussed. The various exemplary methods described and / or illustrated herein may also omit one or more of the steps described or illustrated herein or include additional steps in addition to those disclosed.

[0066] The preceding description has been provided to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize various aspects of the exemplary aspects disclosed herein. This exemplary description is not intended to be exhaustive or to be limited to any precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The aspects disclosed herein should be considered in all respects illustrative and not restrictive. Reference should be made to the appended claims and their equivalents in determining the scope of the present disclosure.

[0067] Unless otherwise noted, the terms “connected to” and “coupled to” (and their derivatives), as used in the specification and claims, are to be construed as permitting both direct and indirect (i.e., via other elements or components) connection. In addition, the terms “a” or “an,” as used in the specification and claims, are to be construed as meaning “at least one of.” Finally, for ease of use, the terms “including” and “having” (and their derivatives), as used in the specification and claims, are interchangeable with and have the same meaning as the word “comprising.”

Examples

example 1

[0044] An apparatus comprising: a set of teeth located on a strap; and a head located on a head portion of the strap, the head comprising: a pawl comprising at least one tip configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap when engaged with the set of teeth on the strap; and a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head.

[0045]Example 2. The apparatus of example 1, wherein the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth on the strap when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap.

[0046]Example 3. The apparatus of examples 1-2, wherein the protrusion comprises one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

example 4

[0047] The apparatus of examples 1-3, wherein the head portion of the strap comprises at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap provides more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap.

[0048]Example 5. The apparatus of examples 1-4, wherein: the head portion of the strap comprises a crossbar positioned on a bottom side of an opening in the head; the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive the tail portion of the strap; and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at a back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

example 6

[0049] The apparatus of examples 1-5, wherein the crossbar is set back from a front portion of the head such that the opening extends from the front portion of the head into a bottom side of the head.

[0050]Example 7. The apparatus of examples 1-6, wherein the protrusion is integrated with the pawl.

[0051]Example 8. An apparatus comprising: a set of teeth located on a strap; and a head located at a head portion of the strap, the head comprising: a pawl comprising at least one tip that, when engaged, is configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap by engaging the set of teeth on the strap; and a crossbar positioned on an interior side of an opening in the head, wherein the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive the tail portion of the strap and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

[0052]Example 9. The apparatus of example 8, wherein the head...

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising:a set of teeth located on a strap; anda head located on a head portion of the strap, the head comprising:a pawl comprising at least one tip configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap when engaged with the set of teeth on the strap; anda protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth on the strap when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the protrusion comprises one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the head portion of the strap comprises at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap provides more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein:the head portion of the strap comprises a crossbar positioned on a bottom side of an opening in the head;the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive a tail portion of the strap; andthe crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at a back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the crossbar is set back from a front portion of the head such that the opening extends from the front portion of the head into a bottom side of the head.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the protrusion is integrated with the pawl.

8. An apparatus comprising:a set of teeth located on a strap; anda head located at a head portion of the strap, the head comprising:a pawl comprising at least one tip that, when engaged, is configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap by engaging the set of teeth on the strap; anda crossbar positioned on an interior side of an opening in the head, wherein the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive a tail portion of the strap and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the head comprises a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the protrusion comprises one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the protrusion comprises at least two joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

13. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the head portion of the strap comprises at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap comprises more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap located between the head portion of the strap and the tail portion of the strap.

14. An apparatus comprising:a set of teeth located on a strap; anda head located on a head portion of the strap, the head comprising:a pawl comprising at least one tip configured to fasten the strap to the head portion of the strap when engaged with the set of teeth on the strap;a protrusion that is movably coupled to the head and that extends beyond a bottom surface of the head; anda crossbar positioned on an interior side of an opening in the head, wherein the opening in the head is dimensioned to receive a tail portion of the strap and the crossbar is curved toward the opening such that a height of the crossbar is smaller at the opening than at back side of the crossbar opposite the opening.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the protrusion is configured to move toward a top surface of the head in a manner that reinforces engagement of the pawl with the set of teeth on the strap when the protrusion is pressed against an object held by the strap.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the protrusion comprises one or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the protrusion comprises two or more joints configured to enable the protrusion to move toward a top surface of the head.

18. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the head portion of the strap comprises at least one kink dimensioned such that the head portion of the strap provides more strain relief than a middle portion of the strap.

19. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the protrusion is coupled to the pawl.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein a surface of the protrusion opposite the pawl comprises a rounded surface.

Images