Device for adjusting the tightening of at least one length of strap fastened by a quick-release buckle

Abstract

A device for adjusting the fastening of two lengths of strap, said strap having an inner face and an outer face, said device comprising a quick-release buckle comprising a connector comprising: - a base (110), and; - a spacer (18) arranged on said base, said spacer separating two slots (15, 16), the two said slots (15, 16) each being suitable for the passage of a length of strap, said spacer having a guide surface intended to come into contact with said inner face of said strap, and; - a retaining portion (2), separate from said spacer, and rotatably mounted on said base, said retaining portion having an accompanying surface intended to come into contact with said inner face of said strap.

Description

[0001] DEVICE FOR ADJUSTING THE TIGHTENING OF AT LEAST ONE STRAP FIXED VIA A QUICK-RELEASE BUCKLE

[0002] Scope of the invention

[0003] The field of the invention relates to devices for adjusting the tightness of a strap. More generally, the field of the invention relates to any element for adjusting the tightness of a strap, for example, a helmet, a bag, or any other type of strap that can be tightened, for example, by means of a quick-release buckle. More particularly, the field of the invention relates to accessories for protective helmets, especially sports helmets such as cycling helmets, for loosening the chin strap equipped with a quick-release buckle.

[0004] Straps are a common component of a fastening device used to secure an object, particularly to the human body, including the head. Such a fastening device also includes a two-part fastening element that allows the device to be closed, securing the object to the body or head. This fastening element can be a quick-release buckle, also known as a "release buckle," "quick-release buckle," or simply a "fastening buckle." Furthermore, the two strap sections allow the object to be released if the buckle is opened and provide balanced tension to keep the object securely and comfortably positioned on the body.

[0005] In general, fastening devices used to secure an object, particularly to the human body including the head, may include adjustment elements to customize the strap length for the body or head. These elements are usually positioned laterally on each strap section. The purpose of these strap adjustment elements is to adjust the strap length to fit any human body or head size.

[0006] One problem with the adjustable strap length mechanisms is that they are difficult to adjust when the item is being worn. Furthermore, these strap length adjustment mechanisms do not allow for tightening at the point where the two straps are attached.

[0007] Indeed, when tightening a strap secured, for example, with a quick-release buckle, the user closes the buckle and pulls on one loose section of the strap to tighten both strap sections. For instance, if the object is a helmet, excessive tightness around the neck can cause discomfort or even a feeling of suffocation. It is then necessary to readjust the tightness of the buckle, which requires moving the quick-release buckle to properly position the strap and loosening the strap by pulling on another section. However, this movement is not easy, especially for a child.

[0008] Over time, wear and tear on the straps can cause them to slip quickly in the quick-release buckle. A child could then loosen the chin strap too easily and put themselves in danger.

[0009] The straps can also be difficult to slide through the fastening loop. In this case, you should pull the tightening strap strands firmly with one hand and grip the quick-release buckle with the fingers of the other, as it can be slippery, especially when wearing gloves.

[0010] Adjusting the tightness of the strap is a non-intuitive, sometimes exasperating operation that can lead an individual to tighten their strap incorrectly and therefore put themselves in danger.

[0011] The intervention of a third party such as a parent to adjust the helmet worn by their child is also delicate.

[0012] There is a need for a solution that makes it easier to tighten a strap, allowing for a truly tailored adjustment of the tightness for an individual.

[0013] Thus, the present invention aims to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks by means of a simple, reliable, easy-to-implement method.

[0014] Summary of the invention

[0015] According to one aspect, the invention relates to a device for adjusting the tightness of at least one strand of webbing inserted in a quick-release buckle, said tightening adjustment device being intended to cooperate with said quick-release buckle, said tightening adjustment device comprising:

[0016] ■ a gripping portion allowing the pulling of said tightening adjustment device to initiate a movement of at least one strand of strap,

[0017] ■ a retaining portion intended to be arranged in contact with a connector of the quick-release fastening loop and;

[0018] ■ a guide portion intended to be in contact with said quick-release fastener connector, said tightening adjustment device comprising a cord, said retaining portion comprising two holes intended to receive the cord so as to form a first loop enabling said retaining portion and said guide portion on either side of the quick-release fastener connector.

[0019] One advantage is having a device that allows you to adjust the tightness and loosening with a simple pulling motion. The benefit lies in the ease of intuitively loosening a strap, for example, if it's too tight, with a simple gesture.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the at least two holes are two through openings in the retaining portion for the passage of two portions of the cord to form a second loop, said second loop including the gripping portion which, by pulling it, causes the movement of the webbing strands inserted in the quick-opening fastening loop.

[0021] One advantage is that it allows for a better grip, for example by inserting a finger into the second loop to perform the pulling movement.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the first loop is formed from portions of the cord, the holding portion and the guiding portion, and the second loop is formed from portions of the cord, the holding portion and the grasping portion.

[0023] In one embodiment, the gripping portion includes a hollow tube for the passage of the cord. An advantage is that the gripping means includes a rigid or semi-rigid portion to facilitate handling of the adjustment device.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the gripping portion includes a portion of stiffened cord.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the gripping portion is located in a plane intersecting the average plane in which the clamping adjustment device is located.

[0026] One advantage is to naturally orient the clamping device in the natural direction of the pull, i.e. downwards when the quick-release buckle is in the horizontal plane, for example.

[0027] In one embodiment, the gripping portion is formed by the ends of the holding portion. One advantage is obtaining a gripping means directly integrated into the holding portion, allowing this element to perform two functions.

[0028] In one embodiment, the gripping portion includes a curved and / or grooved section. An advantage is that it allows for shape recognition without looking at it, for example, simply by touch.

[0029] In one embodiment, the retaining portion is longer than the width of the spacer on the base of a male connector of a quick-release fastening loop. This prevents it from obstructing the slot and allows for a better grip.

[0030] In one embodiment, the retaining portion comprises a tube with two transverse openings through the tube to allow the cord to pass through. An advantage is that it forms a double loop whose dimensions can be adjusted when the cord is pulled to tighten the strap.

[0031] In one embodiment, the retaining portion comprises a tube with two blind holes for securing the cord ends. An advantage is that it allows a loop to be formed, thus enabling the cords to be discreetly attached to create a single unit.

[0032] In one embodiment, the retaining portion comprises a tube with two openings inside the hollow cylinder, communicating along an internal channel of the tube for the passage of the bead. An advantage is the use of a single bead and a reduction in gluing operations.

[0033] In one embodiment, the retaining portion has two ends extending beyond the width of a quick-release buckle connector. An advantage is the formation of protruding gripping elements that facilitate handling the tightening adjustment device.

[0034] In one embodiment, the holding portion comprises two hollow lateral tubes, each forming a guide for the passage of the cord inside said lateral tubes. An advantage is that it facilitates guiding the cord from the gripping portion to the guiding portion.

[0035] In one embodiment, the distance between the two openings or the two hollow lateral tubes is greater than the width of the base of a male connector on a quick-release fastening loop. One advantage is that it facilitates the passage of the cord on either side of the connector.

[0036] In one embodiment, the retaining portion comprises a hollow cylindrical component mounted on a shaft so that it can rotate around said shaft. One advantage is that it facilitates the sliding of the strap.

[0037] In one embodiment, the guide portion is shorter than the width of the base of a male connector on a quick-release buckle. This facilitates the sliding of the strap along the guide portion. In another embodiment, the guide portion is wider than the largest dimension of a recess in the base located at the spacer of the male connector base of a quick-release buckle.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the guiding portion is formed by a portion of the cord.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the guiding portion is formed by a hollow tube adapted to be traversed in its internal cavity by a portion of cord.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the tightening adjustment device comprises a single cord forming the two loops.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the clamping adjustment device comprises a single cord forming the two loops and passing through the hollow tube of the guide portion and the hollow tube of the gripping portion as well as the orifices or lateral tubes of the holding portion.

[0042] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a device for adjusting the fastening of two strap strands, integrated into the base of the fastening buckle, comprising:

[0043] - A quick-opening attachment point with a male connector having two slots adapted for the passage of a strap strand;

[0044] - A retaining element (2) and a gripping element

[0045] The retaining portion takes a cylindrical shape and can rotate along its entire length or a portion thereof. One advantage is the inclusion of a mechanism that allows for tightening and loosening with a simple pulling motion.

[0046] The gripping portion is integrated into the base. One advantage is that it allows for a better grip by grasping the base with the fingers.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the support portion is positioned above the spacer without contacting the latter.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the support portion is integrated into the spacer.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the support portion is positioned above and in contact with the spacer.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the support portion replaces the spacer.

[0051] In one embodiment, the positioning of the spacer within the base can vary in height. The upper part of the spacer can be flat or inclined. In the latter case, it will preferably be inclined towards the front of the base.

[0052] In one embodiment, the rotating tube or cylindrical shape of the retaining portion is positioned along the axis of the spacer. In another embodiment, the spacer has a quadrilateral cross-section or a shape with rounded sections. In yet another embodiment, the cross-section of the spacer forms a triangle, a trapezoid, a rectangle, or any other shape with multiple edges. For example, a polygonal cross-section may be defined.

[0053] The section is designed to facilitate the sliding of the strap within the base. To this end, two opposite edges can be collinear with intersecting lines to promote the sliding of the strap strands in chosen directions. For example, the spacer can be formed by an angle inclined towards the front of the base on its rear face and a vertical angle on its rear face.

[0054] In one embodiment, the gripping portions are integrated, in whole or in part, into the base. They may be grooved to prevent finger slippage. The grooves may be oriented obliquely to the horizontal axis of the base to position the fingers in the direction of traction, facilitating strap sliding. The base may be curved or convex on its sides to aid in finger positioning and retention.

[0055] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a device for adjusting the fastening of two strap strands comprising:

[0056] ■ A quick-release fastening loop with a male connector having two slots adapted for the passage of a strap strand;

[0057] ■ A clamping adjustment device according to the invention;

[0058] ■ A tab to prevent the strap from slipping.

[0059] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a device for adjusting the fastening of two strap strands comprising:

[0060] ■ A quick-opening attachment point with a male connector having two slots adapted for the passage of a strap strand;

[0061] ■ A clamping adjustment device according to the invention.

[0062] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a device for adjusting the fastening of two strap strands comprising a quick-release fastening buckle including:

[0063] ■ a male connector having two slots separated by a spacer, the two slots being adapted for the passage of a strap strand and;

[0064] ■ a retaining portion attached to the male connector and made mobile in rotation so as to facilitate the passage of a strap strand from one slot to the other.

[0065] In one embodiment, the retaining portion is arranged within the male connector parallel to the spacer. In another embodiment, the retaining portion forms the spacer.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the portion that moves freely in rotation is grooved.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the spacer includes a profile enabling the passage of the strap according to a first angle of pull of the strap inserted in the two slots and hindering the passage of the strap according to a second angle of pull of the strap inserted in the two slots, said spacer forming a guide portion.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the male connector includes a tab forming a second portion for guiding the strap, allowing one strand of strap to be directed towards the other strand of strap so as to create a friction zone between the two strands of strap, slowing their movement within the slots.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the rotating mobile holding device forms a device for adjusting the tightness of at least one strap strand inserted in a quick-release fastening buckle.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the tightening adjustment device includes at least the tab.

[0071] According to another aspect, the invention relates to an object comprising two fasteners for fixing two strands of webbing and a device for adjusting the fixing of two strands of webbing according to the invention.

[0072] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a helmet comprising two fasteners for fixing two strap strands and a device for adjusting the fixing of the two strap strands of the invention.

[0073] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a method for installing a tightening adjustment device of the invention comprising:

[0074] ■ a positioning step of the first loop of the clamping adjustment device around the spacer of the base of a male connector of a quick-opening attachment mouth so that the retaining portion and the guiding portion are positioned sandwiched around the spacer on either side of the connector;

[0075] ■ a second step of inserting a strap strand through the slots in the connector base such that the strap strand inserted in the first slot covers the retaining portion before being reinserted into the second slot. According to another aspect, the invention relates to a method for adjusting the tightness of two strap strands attached to an object of the invention comprising:

[0076] ■ A first step of attaching two connectors to a quick-release fastening loop;

[0077] ■ Tightening the two strap strands by pulling one strap strand;

[0078] ■ A tightening adjustment comprising: o a manual pull of the lower loop of the tightening adjustment device, said pull being carried out by grasping the gripping portions of the retaining portion, in a direction along an axis intersecting the average plane in which the male connector of the quick-release fastening loop is located.

[0079] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a method for adjusting the tightness of two strands of straps attached to an object of the invention, said method comprising:

[0080] ■ A first step of attaching two connectors to a quick-release fastening loop;

[0081] ■ Tightening the two strap strands by pulling one strap strand so as to adjust the object on a part of an individual's body or head;

[0082] ■ A tightening adjustment comprising: o a manual pull of the upper loop of the tightening adjustment device, said pull being carried out by sliding a finger into the loop and pulling the gripping portion, in a direction along an axis intersecting the average plane in which the male connector of the quick-release fastening loop is located.

[0083] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a device for adjusting the fastening of two strap strands comprising a quick-release fastening buckle including:

[0084] ■ a male connector having two slots separated by a spacer, the two slots being adapted for the passage of a strap strand and;

[0085] ■ a retaining portion attached to the male connector and having a solid of revolution shape so as to facilitate the passage of a strap strand from one slot to the other.

[0086] This aspect is compatible with all the characteristics of this description provided that they are not contradictory to this implementation.

[0087] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a device for adjusting the fastening of two strap strands comprising a quick-release fastening buckle including: ■ a male connector having two slots separated by a spacer, the two slots being adapted for the passage of a strap strand and;

[0088] ■ a retaining portion attached to the male connector and having a rounded shape on the part intended to be in contact with a strap strand so as to facilitate the passage of a strap strand from one slot to the other.

[0089] This aspect is compatible with all the features of this description provided they are not contradictory to this implementation. According to one embodiment, the male connector is curved on its rear anterior face at the opening of the slot furthest from the elements of the male connector, said curvature forming a second guide portion for the strap, allowing one strand of strap to be directed towards the other strand of strap so as to create a friction zone between the two strands of strap, thus slowing their movement within the slots.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the retaining device forms a device for adjusting the tightness of at least one strand of webbing inserted in a quick-release fastening buckle.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the clamping adjustment device includes at least one tab.

[0092] Another aspect of the invention relates to a device for adjusting the fastening of two strands of webbing, said webbing having an inner face and an outer face, said device comprising:

[0093] ■ A base, and;

[0094] ■ A spacer arranged on said base, said spacer separating two slots, each of the two slots being adapted for the passage of a strand of webbing, said spacer having a guide surface intended to come into contact with said inner face of said webbing, and;

[0095] ■ A support portion arranged on said base and separate from said spacer, said support portion having a support surface intended to come into contact with said inner face of said strap.

[0096] In one embodiment, the base is arranged on a connector of a quick-release fastening loop. In one embodiment, the connector is a male connector. In another embodiment, the connector is a female connector.

[0097] In one embodiment, the base is arranged on the body of a strap adjustment buckle. In another embodiment, the retaining portion has a rounded shape on the part intended to be in contact with a strap strand so as to facilitate the passage of one strap strand from one slot to the other.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the two slots comprise a tension slot and an adjustment slot, said tension slot being adapted to allow the passage of a tension strand of the strap and said adjustment slot being adapted to allow the passage of an adjustment strand of said strap.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the spacer is embedded on the base.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion is made rotationally mobile so as to facilitate the passage of a strap strand from one slot to the other.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the portion that moves in rotation is knurled.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the support portion is arranged on the base parallel to the spacer.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the spacer includes a profile enabling the passage of the strap according to a first angle of pull of the strap inserted in the two slots and hindering the passage of the strap according to a second angle of pull of the strap inserted in the two slots, said spacer forming a guide portion.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the device includes a tab forming a second portion for guiding the strap, allowing one strand of strap to be directed towards the other strand of strap so as to create a friction zone between the two strands of strap, slowing their movement within the slots.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the base of the male connector is curved on its face furthest from the elements of the male connector, said curvature forming a second portion of the strap guide allowing one strand of strap to be directed towards the other strand of strap so as to create a friction zone between the two strands of strap slowing their movement within the slots.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion forms a device for adjusting the tightness of at least one strap strand inserted into a quick-release fastening buckle.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the clamping adjustment device includes at least one tab.

[0108] The invention also relates to an object comprising two fasteners for securing two strap strands and a device for adjusting the fastening of the two strap strands according to the invention. The invention further relates to a helmet comprising two fasteners for securing two strap strands and a device for adjusting the fastening of the two strap strands according to the invention.

[0109] Brief description of the figures

[0110] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description that follows, with reference to the attached figures, which illustrate:

[0111] Fig.1: an example of the realization of a device for adjusting the tightness of a strap of the invention comprising a tubular gripping portion;

[0112] Fig.2: an example of the realization of a device for adjusting the tightness of a strap of the invention comprising a gripping portion including a joining knot;

[0113] Fig.3: an example of the realization of a device for adjusting the tightness of a strap of the invention comprising a holding portion provided with gripping portions at each of its ends, and a guiding portion;

[0114] Fig.4: an example of the realization of a device for adjusting the tightness of a strap of the invention comprising a gripping portion having a variation of the curvature;

[0115] Fig.5: a summary perspective view of an embodiment of an adjustment device of the invention comprising an element having tubes for the passage of a cord in order to form a double loop;

[0116] Fig.6: an example of the representation of the male part of a quick-release buckle intended to fix two sections of straps together to secure an object to the body of an individual or to the head of an individual;

[0117] Fig.7: an example of a representation of the female part of a quick-release buckle intended to fix two sections of straps together to secure an object to an individual's body or head;

[0118] Fig.8: an example of a representation of the tightening adjustment device comprising two loops of the invention arranged within a quick-release buckle and a strap;

[0119] Fig.9: an example of a representation of the tightening adjustment device comprising a single loop of the invention arranged within a quick-release buckle and a strap;

[0120] Fig.10: an example of a movement allowing adjustment of the tightness of a strap when the latter is inserted into a quick-release buckle; Fig.11: a perspective view of an embodiment of an adjustment device of the invention forming a double loop positioned on a quick-release buckle with the passage of the strap strands.

[0121] Fig.12: an example of a representation of the tightening adjustment device integrated into the quick-release buckle, comprising a tab, and whose retaining portion is positioned above and without contact with the spacer.

[0122] Fig.13: an example of a representation of the tightening adjustment device integrated into the quick-release buckle, comprising a tab, and whose retaining portion is integrated into the spacer.

[0123] Fig.14: an example of a representation of the tightening adjustment device integrated into the quick-release buckle, comprising a tab, and whose retaining portion is positioned above and in contact with the spacer.

[0124] Fig.15: a cross-sectional view of an example representation of the tightening adjustment device integrated into the quick-release buckle in a horizontal position, comprising a tab, and whose retaining portion is positioned above and in contact with the spacer.

[0125] Fig.16: an example of a representation of the tightening adjustment device integrated into the quick-release buckle, comprising a tab, and whose retaining portion replaces the spacer.

[0126] Fig.17: an example of a representation of the tightening adjustment device integrated into the quick-release buckle, the holding portion of which forms two truncated half-cones and the connector of which is curved.

[0127] Fig.18: an example of a representation of the tightening adjustment device integrated into a quick-release buckle, and comprising a movable retaining portion rotating on an upper part of the base, said retaining portion forming the spacer, the base comprising a housing having a curved front face and an S-shaped rear face.

[0128] Fig.19: a cross-sectional view of an example representation of the tightening adjustment device integrated into a quick-release buckle, comprising a rotating movable retaining portion, a fixed spacer, a housing with a curved front face and an S-shaped rear face.

[0129] Fig. 20: A cross-sectional view of the example representation of the tightening adjustment device in Figure 19, in which the strap is arranged, with the base in its nominal position. Fig. 21: A cross-sectional view of the example representation of the tightening adjustment device in Figure 19, in which the strap is arranged, with the base in its adjustment position.

[0130] Fig.22: a cross-sectional view of an example representation of the tightening adjustment device integrated into a quick-release buckle, and in which the strap is arranged, said tightening adjustment device having a flexible lower lip, and the base being in a nominal position.

[0131] Fig.23: a cross-sectional view of an example representation of the clamping adjustment device of figure 22, the base being in an adjustment position.

[0132] Fig.24: a cross-sectional view of an example representation of the tightening adjustment device integrated into a quick-release buckle, and featuring an opening on the rear part of the base.

[0133] Fig.25: a cross-sectional view of an example representation of the clamping adjustment device integrated into an adjustment loop.

[0134] Description of the invention

[0135] The invention relates to a clamping adjustment device 10 comprising a gripping portion 9, 21, referred to as gripping portion 9, 21, a second holding portion 2, referred to as holding portion 2 and a third guiding portion 6, referred to as guiding portion 6.

[0136] Figures 1 to 5 represent different ways of implementing these portions and their connection to each other.

[0137] These examples of the implementation of a tightening adjustment device 10 of the invention are particularly suitable for use with a quick-release fastening loop

[0138] 19 shown in figures 6 and 7. The present invention is particularly interesting for such quick-release buckles used on helmets.

[0139] More generally, the invention relates to any device for adjusting the tightness 10 of straps 20 intended to be inserted into such a quick-release buckle, regardless of the male and / or female connector of said quick-release buckle. More particularly, the invention is of particular interest when such a quick-release buckle has two slots 15, 16 for the passage of a strap

[0140] 20 and between which a portion of the device is held between said quick-release buckle and the strap. According to a first embodiment, the tightening adjustment device 10 forms at least one loop 4 and comprises at least one cord 1 and at least one cylindrical tube 2.

[0141] According to a second embodiment, the tightening adjustment device 10 forms at least two loops 4, 5 and comprises at least one cord 1 and at least one cylindrical tube 2

[0142] The loop(s) 4, 5 are intended to be positioned on the base of the male part 11 of the quick-release loop 19.

[0143] The cylindrical tube 2 advantageously includes two orifices 7 positioned respectively at each end of said cylindrical tube 2. These orifices 7 allow the passage of the cord 1 and / or its attachment.

[0144] The end of cylinder 2 is defined as a portion comprising a lateral part of the cylinder near the distal end of the cylinder. In other words, the openings can be arranged on the body of cylinder 2 perpendicular to the main axis of the cylinder or be positioned at the distal end parallel to the main axis of cylinder 2. However, according to certain embodiments of the invention, openings formed laterally on the body of the cylinder are preferable to facilitate the sliding of the cord.

[0145] In a first example, the openings can be through the width of the cylindrical tube 2 and thus open on the opposite side from a first opening in the body of the cylinder. Such openings allow the cord to emerge, either to form a second loop 5 or to knot the cord to prevent it from coming out of the opening 7 once it has passed through.

[0146] According to a second example, the orifices 7 can open into the inner channel of cylinder 2 and communicate with each other through this inner channel. One advantage is that the cord 1 can be introduced through one orifice, extend along the inner channel of cylinder 2, and exit through the second orifice at the other end of cylinder 2.

[0147] According to a third example, the orifices 7 form blind holes in the body of the cylinder, which may otherwise be solid in other parts of the cylinder body. In this case, the ends of the cord or portions of the cord 1 can be fixed inside the cylinder 2, for example, by means of glue.

[0148] Portion of grasp

[0149] Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of the invention in which the gripping portion 9 comprises a cylinder for gripping the cord 1. The cylinder allows, for example, the cord 1 to pass through it while providing a certain shape that constrains the cord. One advantage is obtaining a portion wide enough for the finger to pass through the loop 5 in order to facilitate gripping the tightening adjustment device for the purpose of pulling it in a direction to loosen a strap inserted into a quick-release buckle 19.

[0150] The cylinder extending over portion 9 can have a circular, oval, elliptical, square, or rectangular cross-section. A circular cross-section is suitable for a cord that itself has a circular cross-section. Oval or rectangular cross-sections can also be suitable for use with a substantially flat cord 1.

[0151] Figure 2 shows an alternative with a gripping portion 9 incorporating a knot. One advantage is that the knot can be easily detected by touch, allowing it to be grasped in order to pull the cord and loosen the strap. Figure 4 combines this example with tubular guides for the cord sections extending laterally from the base of the connector 11 of a quick-release buckle 19.

[0152] Pulling on the upper loop 5 is effective in sliding the strands of the adjustment strap into the male part of the quick-release buckle 19, provided it creates sufficient tension on the chinstrap adjustment strap. To ensure this tension is achieved, the upper loop 5 can be bent forward on the base as shown in Figure 4, requiring the loop to be hooked by hand, with a finger optionally inserted.

[0153] Figure 4 shows another example of a gripping element incorporating a portion of cord with a curve lying in a plane inclined relative to the general plane in which the clamping adjustment device 10 is located. One advantage is that it marks an area easily identifiable by touch. Another advantage is that it allows for the formation of a guide thanks to the angle formed by the curved portion 9, which is not in the same plane as the main plane in which the device is located.

[0154] This curvature of the cord can be achieved:

[0155] ■ either by designing a curved loop of approximately 30° to 60° on its upper part of said loop 5, sufficiently rigid, for example in a rubber-type material so that it retains its curvature;

[0156] ■ either by orienting the tubes forming the orifices at the ends of the cylindrical tube 2 from approximately 30° to 60° to bring the cord to give the desired curvature to the upper loop 5. The curvature given to the loop 5 on its upper part creates a resistance to the deformation of the upper loop 5 and also guides the direction of the pull.

[0157] The cord on portion 9 can be stiffened in various ways to maintain a gripping portion in a predefined shape. Different methods can be used to stiffen a cord on portion 9, such as resin, wax, or any other material that allows for localized solidification of this portion so that the cord does not degrade or loosen.

[0158] Figure 4 also shows such lateral tubes 3 allowing the passage of cord portions 1 on either side of the base of a male connector 11 of quick-release fastening loop 19. In this example, a hollow tube can also be installed to form the guide portion 6. The hollow tube allows in particular the passage of a cord portion.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the gripping portion 9 may include an attachment element such as micro-hooks cooperating with micro-loops to close the portion 9 along the base.

[0160] Figure 3 shows another embodiment of the invention in which the gripping portions 21 correspond to the ends of the support portion 2. The ends can be grasped between two fingers even when the strap covers the support portion. For this purpose, the length of the support portion 2 is preferably greater than the width of a strap. The support portion preferably comprises a rigid or semi-rigid tube 2 so as to facilitate grasping its ends.

[0161] In this scenario, each gripping portion 21 is an integral part of the holding portion 2 insofar as it corresponds to a part of the holding portion 2, in particular the extremities of the holding portion 2.

[0162] According to one example, the ends of the support portion 2 have a particular shape to improve the gripping of said part by the fingers of an individual's hand, for example by giving a curved and grooved shape to the ends of said support portion 2.

[0163] One advantage of these gripping portions 21 is to mark an area easily recognizable by touch.

[0164] Another advantage is that, during a standard strap adjustment, this facilitates gripping the retaining portion 2 as close as possible to the quick-release buckle 19, at the point where the fingers naturally position themselves to grasp said buckle 19. The gripping portions 21 thus prevent any slippage of the fingers on the quick-release buckle. This embodiment of the invention eliminates the need to use the buckle 5 to pull on the quick-release buckle 19.

[0165] In this configuration, the cord 1 of the lower loop 4 is preferably made of an elastic material or one with elasticity exceeding a predefined threshold. The cord tightly encircles and tightens with the cylindrical tube 2, with which it forms a loop, the base of the male part 11 of the quick-release buckle 19. The cord then extends along the width of the base of the male part 11 of the quick-release buckle 19 at the axis of the spacer 18.

[0166] The strap tightening adjustment device 10 in this configuration has only the buckle 4 and therefore has the advantage of being very intuitive insofar as it does not modify the classic strap adjustment operation.

[0167] Grip loop.

[0168] Loop 5 is a free loop designed to support the passage of at least one webbing strand and a finger. The webbing strand(s) 20 rests on the second portion 2.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the portions of cord 1 between portion 9 and portion 2 can be stiffened.

[0170] Loop 4 can be a gripping loop if the retaining portion 2 is provided with gripping portions 21 at each end of the retaining portion 6. The webbing strand(s) 20 rest on the retaining portion 2, which allows the webbing strand(s) 20 to slide over a portion of its surface. In one embodiment, the cord 1 can be attached to the retaining portion 2 or inside the openings 7.

[0171] According to one embodiment, the cord 1 can pass through the retaining portion 2 within an internal channel in the cylinder 7 along its length by passing through its openings 7.

[0172] According to another embodiment, the cord 1 and the retaining portion 2 can be made of the same material and can form a single unit.

[0173] Maintenance portion

[0174] The strap tightening adjustment device 10 includes a retaining portion 2 adapted to hold the tightening adjustment device 10 onto the base of a quick-release buckle 19. In one embodiment, the retaining portion 2 may be an integral part of the base. The retaining portion 2 may be fixed or rotatable. Furthermore, the retaining portion 2 facilitates the sliding of the strap as it moves along the tightening adjustment device 10. One advantage of this retaining portion 2 is that it helps to keep the tightening adjustment device 10 on the base while also facilitating the movement of the strap during both tightening and loosening.

[0175] According to one embodiment, the ends of the retaining portion 2 are an integral part of the base.

[0176] In one embodiment, the ends of the retaining portion 2 can be rounded and grooved or notched, thus forming two gripping portions 21 that facilitate grasping the retaining portion 2 with the fingers of one hand. This grasping is done as close as possible to the quick-release buckle 19, which makes it easier to hold the quick-release buckle 19 when tightening the webbing strands 20.

[0177] In one embodiment, the diameter is between 1.5 mm and 8 mm. In another embodiment, the diameter is between 2 mm and 8 mm. In another embodiment, the diameter is between 2.5 mm and 5.5 mm.

[0178] The retaining portion 2 allows for proper positioning of the tightening adjustment device 10 on the quick-release fastening loop 19, in particular by allowing contact of the tube 2 with the base of a connector 11 quick-release fastening loop 19. This contact is made at the level of the spacer of said connector 11, that is to say in the portion arranged between the two slots, which allows the tightening adjustment device to operate at the level of the greatest curvature of the strap which passes between the two slots as shown in figure 8.

[0179] The retaining portion 2 allows the strap strands to slide and allows the loops 5, 4 of the tightening adjustment device 10 to be adjusted around the base of a connector 11.

[0180] In one example, tube 2, and more generally the retaining portion 2, is significantly longer than the length of the slots so as not to obstruct the opening formed by a slot due to tube slippage. In another example, tube 2 is significantly longer than the width of the connector base 11 at the spacer 18 to facilitate the passage of the cord on either side of the base. In this latter example, the openings 7 or the tubes 3 are themselves positioned on either side of the base. Tube 2 and the passage of the two cord portions form a stable retaining element that is correctly positioned on the base of a connector 11 at the spacer 18. This solution prevents tube 2 from moving, for example, opposite a slot 15 or 16.According to a first embodiment, the retaining portion 2 comprises a tube 2 on which the strap 20 can slide in a first loosening direction or an opposite tightening direction.

[0181] According to a first variant, the tube 2 has through-holes allowing the passage of the cord 1. The openings are labeled 7 in Figure 1, 2, 3, and 5. The openings allow for the displacement of each portion of the cord.

[0182] 1 through the openings, or by fixing each portion of cord in the tube 2. In the latter case, the openings 7 are not through.

[0183] According to one embodiment, the two openings 7 lead to a channel within the tube and allow the passage of the cord within the channel.

[0184] When a person pulls on the gripping portion, the tightening adjustment device 10 is driven in the direction of the pull, and the angle between the strap and the slot in the connector 11 opens, thus allowing the strap to slide more easily within the slot. The cord sections are displaced slightly, and the tube

[0185] 2 causes a slight effort on the strap in order to facilitate its sliding.

[0186] In one embodiment, the orifices 7 located at the ends of the cylindrical tube 2 are intended to allow the passage of the cord 1 to form a loop 5 as shown in Figures 1 and 2, for example. The cylindrical tube 2 thus allows the said loop to be separated into two loops 4, 5, an upper one 5 and a lower one 4.

[0187] According to one example, the orifices 7 are in the form of a hollow tube with a length between 1 mm and 4 cm, and a diameter between 1 mm and 6 mm.

[0188] According to a second variant, the tube 2 has two junctions with two other tubes 3 oriented along an axis perpendicular to the axis of the tube 2 while remaining in the main plane in which the clamping adjustment device 10 is located. The tubes 3 forming the orifices 7 have the function of ensuring the passage and sliding of the cord 1 inside the cylindrical tube 2.

[0189] The tubes 3 can be made of the same material and can form a single unit with the tube 2. The tubes 3 provide guidance for the cord 1 to convey each portion of said cord 1 from the gripping portion 9 to the guiding portion 6.

[0190] Finally, the tubes 3 help to keep the tightening adjustment device 10 correctly oriented with respect to the connector 11 of a quick-release fastening loop 19. For example, the cylindrical tube 2 is made of plastic or rubber material and can be solid or hollow. Its diameter will preferably be between 0.5 and 5 mm, and its length between 1 and 3.5 cm.

[0191] In one example, the cylindrical tube 2 is a sliding tube along the cord 1 passing through the openings 7 located at its ends. The strands of the adjustment strap 20 pass over this cylindrical tube as shown in Figure 8 or 10 to pass through the two windows 15, 16 of the base. The lower loop 4 is positioned around the base of the male part of the quick-release fastening buckle 19.

[0192] Tightening the strands of the adjustment strap 20 allows a surface of the cylindrical tube 2 to press against the base of the male part of the quick-release fastening buckle 19, at the level of the spacer 18.

[0193] Pulling the adjustment strap strands 20 with one hand to tighten the chin strap, combined with pulling the upper buckle 5 or the lower buckle 4, according to the chosen embodiment of the invention, with the other hand, allows the sliding directions of the strap strands 20 to be varied in the slots of the base of the male part of the protective buckle and thus facilitates the adjustment of the chin strap retention.

[0194] This cylindrical tube 2 can also be an integral part of the quick-release fastening loop 19. In this case, the spacer 18 of the base can be convex on its upper face to replicate the curve of a tube. As an example, the openings 7 are also an integral part of the quick-release fastening loop 19, being located on either side of the base.

[0195] The cylindrical tube 2 may also not be sliding and be attached to two cords at its ends forming two separate loops 4 and 5. In this configuration, the cord of the lower loop 4 must therefore be elastic to surround and tighten firmly with the cylindrical tube 2, with which it forms a loop, the base of the male part of the quick-release buckle 19, in its width and at the level of the axis of the spacer 18.

[0196] In one embodiment, the retaining portion 2 can be cylindrical in shape, rotating along its entire length or over a portion between its ends, preferably the width of the strap. The rotating cylindrical shape can be obtained from a hollow cylindrical component mounted on a shaft so that it can rotate around said shaft. In one embodiment, at least one bearing can be mounted between the cylindrical component and the shaft. This portion can be grooved or notched, gripping the strap in contact with the tube and thereby facilitating the movement of the strap towards the slots in the base. The cylindrical component can then be notched. The advantage is to further facilitate the sliding of the straps. The grooved or notched shape given to the retaining portion has the advantage of gripping the strap and thus facilitating its sliding in the fastening loop.

[0197] In one variant, a portion of the serrated cylindrical component(s) is slightly thicker to ensure the retaining portion slides smoothly on the base without damaging it. This portion may preferably be smooth. Thus, the cylindrical component can include both serrated and smooth sections. The larger diameter section is designed to contact the connector base. This contact with the smooth section prevents damage to the connector and facilitates rotation of the cylindrical component on the base.

[0198] The spacer 18 may have a slot across its width to facilitate the sliding of the cylindrical component on the spacer and to maintain the rotation of the cylindrical component along its axis.

[0199] In one variant, the spacer 18 may have notches whose direction is reversed compared to the direction of the notches on the cylindrical components. The advantage here is to lock the bearing and thus reduce the sliding speed of the strap, for example, when loosening the strap.

[0200] The term "cylindrical component" refers to a generally cylindrical shape and any shape with angle variations of less than 15° with respect to the main axis of the cylindrical component. Thus, a slightly conical shape can be formed from a portion of the cylindrical component. For example, two opposing parts forming slightly conical shapes joined at their ends with the larger diameter can define the cylindrical component. In this case, the central portion of such a cylindrical component can have a smooth surface, while the right and left portions can be serrated.

[0201] This smooth part is preferably located in the center of the support portion, corresponding to the center of the strap passage.

[0202] In one embodiment, several cylindrical components can be used around a shaft, these portions being arranged end to end. In another embodiment, the shaft forms a semi-rigid tube, for example, made of plastic. In yet another embodiment, the ends are fixed rigidly to the shaft, these ends forming a cap-like shape that closes the shaft's ends. In this latter case, the cylindrical component is free to rotate around the shaft, and its translation is limited by the presence of the ends. To allow the cylindrical component to rotate around the shaft, a gap between the parts can be provided to permit free rotation of the cylindrical component around the shaft.

[0203] In another embodiment, the shaft can be a single piece with its ends, thus forming a single unit whose central portion allows the rotation of a cylindrical component, and whose ends act as stops to prevent the cylindrical component from translating. Advantageously, the ends have openings for the passage of the cord through the shaft, or through openings when using a second loop, or blind holes.

[0204] In one embodiment, a single cord may be used. In another embodiment, the cord is joined at its ends by means of a fastener that forms a loop. The fastener may be a figure-eight shaped element, open at the top and bottom, and sufficiently rigid to hold the two ends together within the fastener inside the two open loops of the figure-eight.

[0205] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion 2 can be semi-cylindrical in shape. An advantage is that a section of tubing allows the tube to be wedged against the base of the connector 11 at the level of the spacer 18, thus reinforcing the retention of the clamping adjustment device 10.

[0206] In another embodiment, the retaining portion 2 can have a curved surface so as to form a convex shape locally at the center of the cylindrical profile. One advantage is that it facilitates the sliding of the straps. The benefit of this embodiment is that it promotes the sliding of the strap 20 and also contributes to maintaining the tightness adjustment device 10.

[0207] Guided section

[0208] The clamping adjustment device 10 includes a third portion called the guide portion 6. This portion can correspond to a portion of cord 1 intended to be positioned in contact with the connector 11 at the level of the spacer 18 and arranged on the other side of the connector 11 than the tube 2. Thus, the spacer 18 is taken "sandwiched" between the retaining portion 2 and the guide portion 6.

[0209] The guide portion 6 ensures the function of a strap guide, in particular by separating the two strands of strap entering on one side into a first slot 15 and exiting on the other side through the second slot 16. According to a first example, the guide portion 6 is a simple portion consisting of the cord.

[0210] According to a second example, the guide portion 6 includes an element such as a tube 6 shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4. In this example, the tube 6 is smaller than the width of the base of the connector 11 so that it can potentially fit into a slightly concave portion of the connector 11. Such positioning allows for better stability of the clamping adjustment device 10 in contact with the base of the connector 11 and therefore facilitates loosening when a person pulls on the gripping portion 9, 21.

[0211] Such a tube, shown in Figure 3 or 4, can also be used with the embodiments of Figures 1 and 2.

[0212] In this case, the guide portion includes a tube 6 which can be placed around the cord 1 in the lower part of the lower loop 4. The function of this tube 6 is, on the one hand, to facilitate the sliding of the adjustment strap strands in contact with said tube 6 and to enclose this part including the tube and the cord in the hollow part of the front face of the connector 11. The tube 6 thus contributes to maintaining the entire double loop 4, 5 around the base.

[0213] This guide tube 6 can be made of plastic or rubber materials. It can also be rectangular in shape if the cord 1 is made of flat rubber.

[0214] Quick-release fastening loop

[0215] Figure 6 shows an example of a male connector 11 of a quick-release fastener loop 19. It should be noted that such a loop is also called a "quick-release loop," "release loop," "quick-fastening loop," or simply a "quick loop." The invention is particularly well-suited to such a quick loop due to the presence of two slots that allow for adjustment of the tightening and make loosening more difficult after initial tightening.

[0216] The shape of the elements 13 and 14 intended to cooperate with a female connector 12 is independent of the invention, which can be used with any type of connector having at least two slots. Other elements 13 and 14, or other arrangements of these elements than those shown in Figure 6, may be compatible with the invention. In other words, the present invention is not limited to a particular shape or design of the elements intended to cooperate with the female connector of a quick-release buckle. Figure 7 shows a female connector 12 having an opening for receiving the male connector 11. This female connector 12 also includes a slot for the passage of another strap strand that is to be attached to a strap strand passing through slots 15 and 16.

[0217] Figures 8 and 9 show examples of the installation of the tightening adjustment device 10 of the invention arranged between a male connector 11 of a quick buckle 19 and a strap 20 entering through a first slot 15 and exiting through the second slot 16. According to one embodiment, the quick buckle 19 has, on each of its sides, a stud adapted to fit into a bore provided on a lateral part of the tightening adjustment device 10. Thus, the tightening adjustment device 10 is held in position on the quick buckle 19 by clipping the studs into the bores.

[0218] Figure 8 shows the tightening adjustment device 10 arranged between a strap 20 and a male connector 11 so that, after the male and female connectors are joined together, the strap tightness can be adjusted. In this representation, portions 6 and 2, arranged on either side of the connector 11, can be seen. The tightening adjustment device 10 is thus held in place by the spacer separating the two slots.

[0219] Figure 9 shows an example of the use of the tightening adjustment device 10 arranged on a connector 11 and a strap 20 when an individual pulls on the grip portion 21 to adjust the tightness of the strap 20. Figure 9 shows an application in which the tightening adjustment device 10 has only one loop 4. The reference numerals in Figure 9 are identical to those in Figure 8 except for the grip portion 21.

[0220] Figure 10 represents an example of the use of the tightening adjustment device 10 when an individual pulls on the grip portion 9 to adjust the tightness of the strap 20.

[0221] The pull direction 23 does not correspond to an actual pull, since this end of the strap is generally attached to an object such as a helmet. The pull direction 25 of the strap strand 20 corresponds to a pulling operation generally performed after the two connectors have been joined together to close the quick-release buckle 19. The pull 25 tightens the two strap strands secured together by the quick-release buckle 19. The invention allows for a second pull in a direction 24 to adjust the tightness. Indeed, the first tightening 25 most often results in overtightening, for example, a helmet chin strap. Loosening it requires direct action on the quick-release buckle 19 to lift one strap and thus loosen both strands. However, the invention makes it possible to achieve the same effect without touching or manipulating the quick-release buckle.

[0222] 19 since only an action on the gripping portion 9 allows the strap to slide within the male connector 11.

[0223] The invention provides a second adjustment tab by incorporating the gripping portion 9, in addition to a strap that forms a first tightening adjustment tab. One advantage is that the user has a simple tightening element with a first tab and a simple loosening element. They can thus tighten or loosen the straps connected by the quick-release buckle 19 using either element.

[0224] The tightening adjustment device 10 can adapt to a male connector of a quick-release buckle accommodating only one strand of webbing or accommodating several strands of webbing depending on the method of attachment, the object fixed to the ends of said webbing.

[0225] Installation method

[0226] The invention relates to a method of mounting the tightening adjustment device 10 on a connector 11 and a strap 20.

[0227] The method includes a step of positioning the device around the base. For this purpose, the lower loop 4 is positioned around the base of the male part of the quick-release fastening loop 19 across its width and at the level of the spacer 18. The cylindrical tube 2 is positioned on the base, at the level of the spacer 18.

[0228] The process includes a second step of inserting the strands of the adjustment strap 20 through the windows or slots 15, 16 of the base so that the strap

[0229] The strap, inserted into slot 15, covers tube 2 before being reinserted into slot 16. Inserting the strap remains identical to inserting it without the device, from the point of view of the sequence of insertion into the slots. As the strap forms a loop to be reinserted into the second slot, it wraps around tube 2, which is held in contact with the base. This step secures tube 2 to the base, the strap holding tube 2 and the base firmly together.

[0230] The process includes a third step of manually pulling on loop 5 or tube 2. Depending on the embodiment chosen, this pulling can be achieved either by sliding a finger into loop 5 or by grasping the gripping portions with the fingers.

[0231] 21 located at the ends of tube 2. In the case of pulling loop 5, the generated movement allows the first loop 4 to be adjusted around the quick-release fastening loop 19. The cord

[0232] The cord can be made of synthetic or natural fiber material such as hemp.

[0233] It can also be made of elastic synthetic or natural fibers or of a rubber-like material. In the latter case, the 7 openings may take the form of a slit if the cord is flat.

[0234] For example, the diameter or thickness of the cord, depending on the material and shape of the cord, is between 1 and 6 mm and its length is between 1 and 10 cm.

[0235] In one embodiment, the cord length is between 1.5 and 6.5 cm. In another embodiment, the cord length is between 2 and 5.5 cm.

[0236] According to one embodiment, the tightening adjustment device of the invention is a product forming a double loop, formed of a cord 1, and a cylindrical tube 2 having an orifice 3 at each of its ends for the passage of the cord.

[0237] According to this embodiment, the cord is made of synthetic fiber material, with a thickness between 2 and 4 mm and a length between 5 and 15 cm. The cylindrical tube is made of plastic or rubber material, with a diameter between 2 and 4 mm, a length between 1 and 2.5 cm, and the diameter of the openings at its ends is between 1.5 and 5 mm.

[0238] Figure 11 represents an example of an embodiment, in which the orifices 3 located at the ends of the cylindrical tube 2 each take the form of a tube with a length between 2 mm and 5 cm.

[0239] According to one example, one or more knots are formed with cord 1 in order to close and adjust the circumference of the double loop.

[0240] According to one embodiment, the double loop is positioned on the quick-release buckle as follows:

[0241] ■ The first loop 4 of the product surrounds the quick-release buckle across its width and at the point where the strands of the chin strap pass through.

[0242] ■ The second loop 5 of the product is passed through by the strands of the strap, so that this second loop pulled by hand, incidentally slipping a finger into it, adjusts the first loop 4 around the closure loop.

[0243] Once the first loop 4 is adjusted around the quick-release buckle, pulling the second loop (5) by hand creates a slide of the quick-release buckle along the webbing strands, and thus facilitates loosening the chin strap.

[0244] Depending on the specific method of implementation, the double loop can be closed and its circumference adjusted: - by tying the two ends of the cord,

[0245] - by a cord locking system in the form of a loop or plastic clip.

[0246] Quick-release buckle with strap adjustment mechanism

[0247] Another aspect of the invention relates to a strap tightening adjustment device 10 integrated into a quick-release fastening buckle 19. The strap tightening adjustment device 10 is referred to interchangeably as "strap tightening adjustment device", "strap adjustment device", "tightening adjustment device", or "adjustment device".

[0248] In this case, the strap tightening adjustment device 10 includes the quick-release fastening buckle 19. The quick-release fastening buckle 19 is referred to interchangeably as "quick-release fastening buckle", "quick-release buckle", or "quick-release buckle" in the description.

[0249] The quick-release fastening loop 19 is intended for attaching to an object. In one embodiment, the object is a helmet. In another embodiment, the object is a bag. In yet another embodiment, the object is a belt.

[0250] The strap 20 is, for example, formed of a single band as shown in Figures 20 to 23, or of several independent bands superimposed as shown in Figure 15. In general, the strap 20 has a length between 200 mm and 1500 mm, a width between 10 mm and 50 mm and a thickness between 1 mm and 4 mm.

[0251] According to an embodiment in which the object is a helmet, the strap 20 has a length between 150 mm and 1000 mm, a width between 15 mm and 25 mm and a thickness between 1 mm and 2 mm.

[0252] According to an embodiment in which the object is a bag, the strap 20 has a length between 200 mm and 1000 mm, a width between 10 mm and 50 mm and a thickness between 1 mm and 4 mm.

[0253] The strap 20 has two faces, an inner face 31 and an outer face 32.

[0254] Examples of the implementation of the quick-release fastening loop 19 incorporating the strap tightening adjustment device 10 are shown in figures 12 to 24.

[0255] The quick-release fastening loop 19 includes a connector 11 or 12. The latter generally includes a connection part 26 and an adjustment part 27. According to one embodiment, the connector 11 or 12 is a male connector 11. The latter is intended to cooperate with a female connector 12. In practice, the connection portion 26 of the male connector 11 is intended to be inserted into a connection portion of the female connector 12 in a connection direction De. According to one embodiment, the connection portion 26 comprises one or more male connection elements 13, 14 intended to be inserted into one or more female connection slots 17 provided on the connection portion of the female connector 12. The number of male connection elements 13, 14, as well as their shapes, are not limited to the embodiments shown in Figures 12 to 24. In particular, the male connection element(s) 13, 14 may have any shape suitable to those skilled in the art.According to one embodiment, the connection part 26 comprises two lateral male connection elements 13 and a central male connection element 14.

[0256] In one embodiment, the connector 11 or 12 is a female connector 12. This connector is intended to cooperate with a male connector 11. In practice, the connection portion 26 of the female connector 12 is intended to receive a connection portion of the male connector 11 in a connection direction De. In one embodiment, the connection portion 26 comprises one or more female connection slots 17 intended to receive one or more male connection elements 13, 14 arranged on the connection portion of the male connector 11.

[0257] According to one embodiment, the adjustment part 27 of the connector 11 or 12 includes a base 110.

[0258] The base 110 generally extends longitudinally from a front portion 111 arranged near the connection portion 26 of the connector 11 or 12, to a rear portion 112 arranged opposite said connection portion. The base 110 extends longitudinally over a length, for example, between 10 mm and 25 mm.

[0259] The base 110 extends, generally, transversely between a right edge 113 and a left edge 114. The base 110 extends transversely over a width, for example, between 15 mm and 60 mm.

[0260] The base 110 generally extends in its thickness between a lower face 115 and an upper face 116. The base 110 extends in its thickness over a height "h". This height is, for example, between 4 mm and 13 mm. The lower face 115 and / or the upper face 116 are, for example, flat or curved. The lower face 115 of the base 110 defines, for example, a lower plane P1. When the lower face 115 is flat, it defines a lower plane P1. When the lower face 115 is curved, the plane P1 is a mid-plane of the lower face 115, said plane comprising at least one straight line parallel to the connection direction De.

[0261] The base 110 is, for example, made of plastic, in particular polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acetal, or made of metal, in particular steel, aluminum, copper, bronze, or any other material suitable to a person skilled in the art.

[0262] According to one embodiment, the base 110 has at least one opening 117 suitable for allowing the passage of the strap 20. According to one embodiment, the base 110 has a single opening 117 on its lower face 115. According to one embodiment, the base 110 has two openings 117 on its lower face 115. According to one embodiment, the base 110 has one opening 117 on its lower face 115 and one opening 117 on its rear part 112.

[0263] At least one opening 117 extends, for example, transversely to the base 110 over a length between 10 mm and 50 mm and longitudinally to said base over a width between 8 mm and 25 mm.

[0264] When the strap 20 interacts with the strap tensioning adjustment device 10, two strap strands 29 and 30 are generally identifiable. These strap strands represent two adjacent portions of the strap 20, the respective lengths of which depend on the positioning of the strap relative to the strap tensioning adjustment device 10. The first strap strand is designated "tension strand 29." The tension strand 29 extends from the base 110 to an anchor point on the object. The second strap strand is designated "adjustment strand 30." The adjustment strand 30 extends from the base 110 to a free end. The latter is intended to be grasped by a user's fingers and pulled to increase the tension of the tension strand 29. The inner face 31 and the outer face 32 of the strap 20 extend over each of the tension strand 29 and the adjustment strand 30.

[0265] According to one embodiment, the tension strand 29 of the strap 20 enters at least one opening 117 along an entry plane P20. The entry plane P20 forms, with the plane P1, an entry angle a e .

[0266] When the strap 20 is tensioned after adjusting the tightness, the base 110 is in its nominal position. In the nominal position of the base 110, the entry angle has e is generally between 0° and 90°. According to an embodiment in which the object is a helmet, in the nominal position of the base 110, the entry angle has eis generally between 20° and 90°. Indeed, on a helmet, the connection between the male connector 11 and the female connector 12 is made on the side of the face, at the jaw. Thus connected, the normally positioned strap extends transversely to the connector, as shown schematically in Figures 15, 20, or 22. According to an embodiment in which the object is a bag, in the nominal position of the base 110, the entry angle has e is, generally, between 0° and 45°.

[0267] During an adjustment operation, the base 110 in the adjustment position is inclined forward, relative to the base in the nominal position, so that the entry angle has e increases. Indeed, during an adjustment operation, the rear part 112 of the base 110 is generally lifted so that the base, and more generally the connector 11 or 12, tilts forward. The entry angle has eincreases, for example, from 1° to 45°. In practice, in the adjustment position of the 110 base, the entry angle has e is generally between 5° and 45°. According to an embodiment in which the object is a helmet, in the adjustment position of the base 110, the entry angle has e is generally between 20° and 45°. According to an embodiment in which the object is a bag, in the adjustment position of the base 110, the entry angle has e is, generally, between 5° and 30°.

[0268] In one embodiment, the base 110 has a housing 118. In another embodiment, the housing 118 communicates with the base 117 via at least one opening. The housing 118 is adapted to allow the passage of the strap 20. The housing 118 has, for example, a front face 119 arranged at the front part 111 of the base 110. The housing 118 has, for example, a rear face 120 arranged at the rear part 112 of the base 110. The housing 118 has, for example, a right face arranged at the right edge 113 of the base 110. The housing 118 has, for example, a left face arranged at the left edge 114 of the base 110.

[0269] In one embodiment, the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110 has a lower portion for contacting the outer face 32 of the adjustment strand 30 of the strap 20. In another embodiment, the lower portion of the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110 is able to constrain the adjustment strand 30 against the tension strand 29 when the base 110 is in its nominal position. This constraint is, for example, schematically represented in Figure 20. In another embodiment, the lower portion of the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110 is able to stop constraining the adjustment strand 30 against the tension strand 29 when the base 110 is in its adjustment position. The cessation of this constraint is, for example, schematically represented in Figure 21.According to one embodiment, for example shown in figures 19 to 24, the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110 is in the form of a ruled surface comprising parallel generatrices along a directrix curve in S.

[0270] In one embodiment, the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110 has a concave portion. The concave portion has a radius of curvature, for example, greater than 9 mm. In another embodiment, for example, shown in Figures 18 to 23, the concave portion is, for example, an upper part of the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110.

[0271] In one embodiment, the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110 has a convex portion. The convex portion has a radius of curvature, for example, greater than 9 mm. In one embodiment, for example shown in Figures 18 to 23, the convex portion is a lower part of the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110. In another embodiment, for example shown in Figure 24, the convex portion represents the entire rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110.

[0272] According to one embodiment, the front face 119 of the housing 118 of the base 110 is in the form of a ruled surface comprising parallel generatrices along a directrix curve in S.

[0273] In one embodiment, the front face 119 of the housing 118 of the base 110 has a concave portion. The concave portion has a radius of curvature, for example, greater than 9 mm. In one embodiment, the concave portion is a lower part of the front face 119 of the housing 118 of the base 110. In another embodiment, for example shown in Figures 18 to 24, the concave portion represents the entire front face 119 of the housing 118 of the base 110.

[0274] In one embodiment, the front face 119 of the housing 118 of the base 110 has a convex portion. The convex portion has a radius of curvature, for example, greater than 9 mm. In one embodiment, the convex portion is a lower part of the front face 119 of the housing 118 of the base 110.

[0275] According to one embodiment, the front face 119 and the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110 come together on a lower part of said base so as to form a constriction at the level of at least one opening 117.

[0276] In one embodiment, the adjustment portion 27 of the connector 11 or 12 includes a tab 34. The tab 34 extends under the rear portion 112 of the base 110. In another embodiment, the tab 34 is fixed to the base 110. For the purposes of this invention, "fixed" means that the junction area(s) of a first element fixed to a second element allow no degree of freedom. In other words, the first element is fixed relative to the second element, and vice versa. In one embodiment, the tab 34 and the base 110 are formed from a single, monolithic piece. The tab 34 and the base 110 are, for example, produced by injection molding, additive manufacturing, machining, or any other manufacturing process or combination of manufacturing processes suitable to those skilled in the art.A single-piece element provides optimal structural rigidity and eliminates potential mechanical play associated with mechanical assembly. In another embodiment, the tongue 34 is formed from an element distinct from the base 110, said tongue being fitted onto the base by press-fitting, clipping, screwing, or any other method of attachment suitable to those skilled in the art. For the purposes of this invention, "distinct" means that a first element, separate from a second element, is visually or mechanically separable from the second element. In one embodiment, the tongue 34 has, on its upper part, a longitudinal bead configured to fit into a longitudinal slide provided on the rear part 112 of the base 110. The slide has, for example, a C-shaped profile.

[0277] In one embodiment, the tab 34 has a front face intended to contact the outer face 32 of the adjustment strap 30 of the strap 20. In one embodiment, the front face is flat. In another embodiment, the front face of the tab 34 has a convex portion. The convex portion has a radius of curvature, for example, greater than 9 mm. In one embodiment, the front face of the tab 34 forms an extension of the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110.

[0278] The tongue 34 extends longitudinally over at least part of the length of the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110. In one embodiment, the tongue 34 extends longitudinally over at least 80% of the length of the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110. In another embodiment, the tongue 34 extends longitudinally over the entire length of the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110. In one embodiment, the tongue 34 has a cylindrical shape. In another embodiment, the profile of the cylindrical shape is rectangular. In another embodiment, the profile of the cylindrical shape of the tongue 34 is curved at the front so that said tongue has a convex front face. According to one embodiment, the tongue 34 has a width between 10 mm and 50 mm and a thickness between 1 mm and 3 mm. The tongue 34 has a lower end.

[0279] In one embodiment, the tab 34 is flexible. For the purposes of this invention, "flexible" means that the lower end of the tab 34 moves at least 1 mm when a 10 N front-to-back force is applied to said lower end. In one embodiment, the tab 34 has a Young's modulus of less than 0.1 GPa. In another embodiment, the tab 34 has a Young's modulus of less than 0.01 GPa. The tab 34 is, for example, made of an elastomer, in particular rubber, silicone, polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or any other material suitable to those skilled in the art.

[0280] In one embodiment, the tab 34 is rigid. For the purposes of this invention, "rigid" means that the lower end of the tab 34 moves less than 0.1 mm when a 10 N front-to-back force is applied to said lower end. In one embodiment, the tab 34 has a Young's modulus greater than 1 GPa. The tab 34 is, for example, made of plastic, in particular polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate, polyamide (PA), acetal, or made of metal, in particular steel, aluminum, titanium, or any other material suitable to those skilled in the art.

[0281] According to one embodiment, the connector 11 or 12 includes two slots 15, 16. Each slot 15, 16 is, for example, adapted for the passage of a strap strand.

[0282] A first slot is designated "tension slot 16". The tension slot 16 is designed to allow the passage of the tension cord 29. In one embodiment, the tension slot 16 is arranged in the housing 118 of the base. In practice, the tension slot 16 has a length greater than the width of the strap 20 and a width greater than the thickness of said strap. For example, the length of the tension slot 16 is at least 1% greater than the width of the strap 20. Similarly, the width of the tension slot 16 is at least 5% greater than the thickness of the strap 20. In some cases, the length and / or width of the tension slot 16 is limited. For example, the length of the tension slot 16 is greater than the width of the strap 20 by a maximum of 40%, and / or the width of the tension slot 16 is greater than the thickness of the strap 20 by a maximum of 25%.In practice, the tension slot 16 has a length between 11 mm and 52 mm and a width between 3 mm and 8 mm. A second slot is designated "adjustment slot 15". The adjustment slot 15 is designed to allow the passage of the adjustment cord 30. In one embodiment, the adjustment slot 15 is arranged in the housing 118 of the base. In practice, the adjustment slot 15 has a length greater than the width of the strap 20 and a width greater than the thickness of said strap. For example, the length of the adjustment slot 15 is at least 1% greater than the width of the strap 20. Similarly, the width of the adjustment slot 15 is at least 40% greater than the thickness of the strap 20. In some cases, the length and / or width of the adjustment slot 15 is limited.For example, the length of the adjustment slot 15 is greater than the width of the strap 20 by a maximum of 25%, and / or the width of the adjustment slot 15 is greater than the thickness of the strap 20 by a maximum of 25%. In practice, the adjustment slot 15 has a length between 11 mm and 52 mm and a width between 3 mm and 8 mm.

[0283] According to one embodiment, the tension slot 16 and the adjustment slot 15 are two of at least one opening 117.

[0284] According to one embodiment, for example shown in figures 12 to 24, the tension slot 16 and the adjustment slot 15 are provided in the housing 118 of the base 110. In this case, the tension slot 16 and the adjustment slot 15 are arranged so as to communicate with at least one opening 117.

[0285] According to one embodiment, the connector 11 or 12 includes a spacer 18. The spacer 18 is, in general, arranged at the adjustment part 27 of the connector 11 or 12. The spacer 18 separates the tension slot 16 and the adjustment slot 15.

[0286] According to one embodiment, the spacer 18 is arranged on the base 110. The spacer 18 extends, generally, transversely to the base 110 between the right edge 113 and the left edge 114.

[0287] In one embodiment, the spacer 18 has a body extending into the recess 118 of the base 110. For example, the body of the spacer 18 extends into the recess 118 of the base 110 from the right face to the left face of said recess. In practice, the body of the spacer 18 extends longitudinally along said spacer. In one embodiment, the body of the spacer 18 has at least one guide surface. According to one embodiment, at least one guide surface is intended to come into contact with the inner face 31 of the strap 20. According to one embodiment, at least one guide surface is intended to come into contact with the tension strand 29 and / or the adjustment strand 30. According to one embodiment, at least one guide surface is intended to come into contact with the inner face 31 of the tension strand 29 and / or with the inner face 31 of the adjustment strand 30.In one embodiment, a tension guide surface is intended to come into contact with the inner face 31 of the tension strand 29. The tension guide surface is, for example, arranged opposite the front face 119 of the housing 118 of the base 110. In one embodiment, an adjustment guide surface is intended to come into contact with the inner face 31 of the adjustment strand 30. The adjustment guide surface is, for example, arranged opposite the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110. In one embodiment, the adjustment guide surface and the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110 are arranged to form a baffle for the adjustment strand 30 of the strap 20.

[0288] According to one embodiment, at least one guiding surface has a smooth surface finish. For the purposes of this invention, "smooth" means that the arithmetic mean roughness deviation Ra of a surface is less than 3 pm.

[0289] According to one embodiment, the guiding surface has a rough surface finish. "Rough" for the purposes of this invention means that the arithmetic mean roughness deviation Ra of a surface is greater than 3 pm.

[0290] In one embodiment, the guide surface has knurling. In one embodiment, the knurling is straight. Straight knurling is sometimes referred to as grooves or serrations. In this description, the term "serrated" refers to a surface with straight knurling. In another embodiment, the knurling is cross-knurled.

[0291] The body of the spacer 18 has, for example, a length between 10 mm and 52 mm. The body of the spacer 18 has, for example, a length of at least 100% of the width of the strap 20. The body of the spacer 18 has, for example, a length of at most 105% of the width of the strap 20. The body of the spacer 18 is, for example, made of plastic, in particular polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate, polyamide (PA), acetal, or made of metal, in particular steel, aluminum, titanium, or any other material suitable to those skilled in the art.

[0292] In one embodiment, the spacer 18 is fixed to the base 110. In another embodiment, the spacer 18 and the base 110 are formed from a single, monolithic element. The spacer 18 and the base 110 are, for example, produced by injection molding, additive manufacturing, machining, or any other manufacturing process or combination of manufacturing processes suitable to those skilled in the art. A monolithic element provides optimal structural rigidity and avoids the potential mechanical play of a mechanically assembled fixed connection. In another embodiment, the spacer 18 is formed from a separate element from the base 110, said spacer being fixed to the base by press-fitting, clipping, screwing, or any other means of attachment suitable to those skilled in the art.

[0293] In one embodiment, the body of the spacer 18 is movably mounted on the base 110. "Movablely mounted" in the context of this invention means that the junction area(s) of a first element movably mounted on a second element allow at least one degree of freedom. In one embodiment, the body of the spacer 18 is movably mounted for rotation on the base 110. In another embodiment, the body of the spacer 18 is movably mounted for rotation on the base 110 about a longitudinal axis. In another embodiment, the body of the spacer 18 is movably mounted for rotation on the base 110 only about a longitudinal axis. In yet another embodiment, the body of the spacer 18 is fixed in translation on the base 110.

[0294] According to one embodiment, the spacer 18 comprises a shaft on which the body of said spacer is mounted for rotational movement. The shaft comprises an axis, generally coinciding with the longitudinal axis of the spacer 18. The shaft comprises, for example, a first end fitted into a first bore formed in the right edge of the base 110 and opening onto the right face of the housing 118 of said base, and a second end fitted into a second bore formed in the left edge of said base and opening onto the left face of said housing.

[0295] According to one embodiment, the spacer 18 has a stud on either side of the body of said spacer. For the purposes of this invention, a "stud" is defined as a cylindrical part with a circular cross-section projecting from the element to which said part relates, in this case, the spacer 18. Each stud has an axis, generally coinciding with the longitudinal axis of the spacer 18. In practice, a first stud is fitted into a first bore formed in the right edge of the base 110 and opening onto the right face of the housing 118 of said base, and a second stud is fitted into a second bore formed in the left edge of said base and opening onto the left face of said housing.

[0296] According to one embodiment, for example shown in Figures 16 and 18, the body of the spacer 18 has a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section. This shape is particularly suitable when the body of the spacer 18 is movably mounted on the base 110. The body of the spacer 18 has, for example, a diameter between 2 mm and 6 mm.

[0297] According to one embodiment, for example shown in Figures 12 to 15, 17, and 19 to 24, the body of the spacer 18 has a cylindrical shape with a square, rectangular, parallelepiped, triangular, trapezoidal, or any other polygonal cross-section suitable to those skilled in the art. This shape is particularly suitable when the body of the spacer 18 is embedded in the base 110. The body of the spacer 18 has, for example, a width of between 2 mm and 8 mm, and a height of between 2 mm and 15 mm.

[0298] According to one embodiment, for example shown in Figures 12 to 17 and 19 to 24, the body of the spacer 18 extends entirely into the recess 118 of the base 110. In other words, the lower and upper ends of the body of the spacer 18 are arranged between the lower face 115 and the upper face 116 of the base 110. According to one embodiment, the body of the spacer 18 extends into the recess 118 of the base 110 and beyond the lower face 115. According to one embodiment, for example shown in Figure 18, the body of the spacer 18 extends into the recess 118 of the base 110 and beyond the upper face 116. According to one embodiment, the body of The spacer 18 extends into the housing 118 of the base 110, beyond the lower face 115 and beyond the upper face 116. The body of the spacer 18 has a center of gravity.The latter is, for example, arranged at a distance from the upper surface 116 of between 0.3h and 0.8h, "h" corresponding to the height of the base previously defined.

[0299] According to one embodiment, the spacer 18 has a lower lip 33. The latter is, for example, mounted on a lower part of the body of the spacer 18. The lower lip 33 is, in general, recessed on the body of the spacer 18. For example, the lower lip 33 has on an upper part a longitudinal bead configured to fit into a longitudinal slide provided on the lower part of the spacer 18. The slide has, for example, a C-shaped profile.

[0300] The lower lip 33 extends longitudinally over at least part of the length of the spacer body 18. In one embodiment, the lower lip 33 extends longitudinally over at least 80% of the length of the spacer body 18. In another embodiment, the lower lip 33 extends longitudinally over the entire length of the spacer body 18. In one embodiment, the lower lip 33 has a cylindrical shape. In one embodiment, the profile of the cylindrical shape of the lower lip 33 has a convex front face and / or a convex rear face. The lower lip 33 has a lower end.

[0301] In one embodiment, the lower lip 33 is flexible. "Flexible" in the context of this invention means that the lower end of the lower lip 33 moves at least 1 mm when a 10 N force, directed from front to back, is applied to said lower end. In one embodiment, the lower lip 33 has a Young's modulus of less than 0.1 GPa. In another embodiment, the lower lip 33 has a Young's modulus of less than 0.01 GPa. The lower lip 33 is, for example, made of an elastomer, in particular rubber, silicone, polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or any other material suitable to those skilled in the art.

[0302] According to an embodiment in which the lower lip 33 is flexible, when the base 110 is in the nominal position, the inner face 31 of the tension strand 29 of the strap 20 exerts pressure against the front face of the lower lip 33 so that said lower lip deforms until the rear face of said lower lip exerts pressure on the inner face 31 of the adjustment strand 30, and constrains said adjustment strand against the rear face 120 of the housing 118 or the front face of the tab 34. Thus constrained between the rear face of the lower lip 33 and the rear face 120 of the housing 118 or the front face of the tab 34, the adjustment strand 30 of the strap 20 is immobilized relative to the base 110 and the setting of the strap tightening adjustment device 10 is maintained. Figure 22 represents an example of an embodiment comprising a flexible lower lip 33, with the base in the nominal position.Conversely, when the base 110 is in the adjustment position, the pressure exerted by the inner face 31 of the tension strand 29 of the strap 20 against the front face of the lower lip 33 is either zero or insufficient to constrain the adjustment strand 30 between the rear face of the lower lip 33 and the rear face 120 of the housing 118 or the front face of the tab 34. The adjustment strand 30 of the strap 20 is thus free to move within the housing 118 of the base 110, and an adjustment can be made. Figure 23 shows an example of an embodiment comprising a flexible lower lip 33, with the base in the adjustment position.

[0303] According to an alternative embodiment in which the lower lip 33 is flexible, when the base 110 is in its nominal position, the pressure exerted by the inner face 31 of the tension strand 29 of the strap 20 against the front face of the lower lip 33 is either zero or insufficient to constrain the adjustment strand 30 between the rear face of the lower lip 33 and the rear face 120 of the housing 118 or the front face of the tab 34. On the other hand, when a user attempts to exert a pulling force on the base 110 in a direction normal to the plane P1, the pulling force either causes a change in the inclination of said base, or exerts pressure on the outer face 32 of the tension strand 29, so that the inner face 31 of the tension strand 29 of the strap 20 exerts pressure against the front face of the lower lip 33.The lower lip 33 then deforms until its rear face exerts pressure on the inner face 31 of the adjustment strap 30, forcing the adjustment strap against the rear face 120 of the housing 118 or the front face of the tab 34. Thus constrained between the rear face of the lower lip 33 and the rear face 120 of the housing 118 or the front face of the tab 34, the adjustment strap 30 of the strap 20 is held in place relative to the base 110, and the adjustment of the strap 10 tightening mechanism is maintained. This occurs, in particular, if the user, for example a child, grasps the strap of their helmet by passing their hand between the strap 20 and their face and attempts to pull on the strap.This safety feature prevents loosening by a child without constricting the strap 20 when the base 110 is in its nominal position, thus avoiding unnecessarily slowing the strap during tightening. Also, when the base 110 is in the adjustment position, the pressure exerted by the inner face 31 of the tension strand 29 of the strap 20 against the front face of the lower lip 33 is either zero or insufficient to constrain the adjustment strand 30 between the rear face of the lower lip 33 and the rear face 120 of the housing 118 or the front face of the tab 34. The adjustment strand 30 of the strap 20 is therefore free to move within the housing 118 of the base 110, allowing for adjustment.

[0304] The lower lip, for example, has a width between 1 mm and 8 mm, and a height between 4 mm and 15 mm. In one embodiment, the lower lip 33 extends fully into the recess 118 of the base 110. In other words, the lower end of the lower lip 33 is arranged between the lower face 115 and the upper face 116 of the base 110. In another embodiment, the lower lip 33 extends into the recess 118 of the base 110 and beyond the lower face 115. In other words, the lower end of the lower lip 33 is arranged below the lower face 115 of the base 110 and outside the recess 118 of the base 110. To achieve this, the lower lip 33 passes, for example, through one or more of the at least one opening 117. In one embodiment, the connector 11 or 12 includes a retaining portion 2.The retaining portion 2 is, in general, arranged at the level of the adjustment part 27 of the connector 11 or 12.

[0305] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion 2 is arranged on the base 110. The retaining portion 2 generally extends transversely across the base 110 between the right edge 113 and the left edge 114.

[0306] In one embodiment, the retaining portion 2 comprises a body extending into the recess 118 of the base 110. For example, the body of the retaining portion 2 extends into the recess 118 of the base 110 from the right face to the left face of said recess. In practice, the body of the retaining portion 2 extends longitudinally within said retaining portion 2. In one embodiment, the body of the retaining portion 2 comprises a guide surface intended to contact the tension strand 29 and the adjustment strand 30. In practice, the tension strand 29 and the adjustment strand 30 meet at the guide surface. In one embodiment, the guide surface is intended to contact the inner face 31 of the strap 20.In one embodiment, the guide surface is designed to come into contact with the inner face 31 of the tension strand 29 and with the inner face 31 of the adjustment strand 30. The guide surface is, for example, arranged on an upper part of the retaining portion 2. The guide surface is generally suitable for facilitating the movement of the strap 20 from the tension slot 16 to the adjustment slot 15 and vice versa. In one embodiment, the guide surface is in the form of a portion of a cylinder with a circular cross-section. This portion has, for example, a diameter between 2 mm and 6 mm.

[0307] The body of the retaining portion 2 has, for example, a length between 10 mm and 52 mm. The body of the retaining portion 2 has, for example, a length of at least 50% of the width of the strap 20. The body of the retaining portion 2 has, for example, a length of up to 110% of the width of the strap 20. The body of the retaining portion 2 is, for example, made of plastic, in particular polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate, polyamide (PA), acetal, or made of metal, in particular steel, aluminum, titanium, or any other material suitable to those skilled in the art.

[0308] In one embodiment, the retaining portion 2 is embedded in the base 110. In another embodiment, the retaining portion 2 and the base 110 are formed from a single element. The retaining portion 2 and the base 110 are, for example, obtained by injection molding, additive manufacturing, machining, or any other manufacturing process or combination of manufacturing processes suitable to those skilled in the art. In another embodiment, the retaining portion 2 is formed from an element separate from the base 110, said retaining portion 2 being embedded in the base by press-fitting, clipping, screwing, or any other means of attachment suitable to those skilled in the art.

[0309] In one embodiment, the body of the retaining portion 2 is movably mounted on the base 110. In another embodiment, the body of the retaining portion 2 is movably mounted for rotation on the base 110. In another embodiment, the body of the retaining portion 2 is movably mounted for rotation on the base 110 about a longitudinal axis. In another embodiment, the body of the retaining portion 2 is movably mounted for rotation on the base 110 only about a longitudinal axis. In another embodiment, the body of the retaining portion 2 is fixed for translation on the base 110.

[0310] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion 2 comprises a shaft on which the body of said retaining portion is mounted for rotational movement. The shaft has an axis, generally coinciding with the longitudinal axis of the retaining portion 2. The shaft has, for example, a first end fitted into a third bore formed in the right edge of the base 110 and opening onto the right face of the housing 118 of said base, and a second end fitted into a third bore formed in the left edge of said base and opening onto the left face of said housing.

[0311] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion 2 has a stud on either side of the body of said retaining portion. Each stud has an axis, generally coinciding with the longitudinal axis of the retaining portion 2. In practice, a first stud is fitted into a third bore formed in the right edge of the base 110 and opening onto the right face of the housing 118 of said base, and a second stud is fitted into a third bore formed in the left edge of said base and opening onto the left face of said housing.

[0312] According to one embodiment, for example shown in Figures 12 to 16 and 18 to 24, the body of the retaining portion 2 has a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section. Generally, the surface accompanying the body of the retaining portion 2 is formed by at least a portion of the cylindrical surface of the cylindrical shape. This shape is particularly suitable when the body of the retaining portion 2 is movably mounted on the base 110. The body of the retaining portion 2 has, for example, a diameter between 2 mm and 6 mm.

[0313] In one embodiment, the body of the retaining portion 2 has a shape of revolution about the longitudinal axis, the diameter of which decreases from the midpoint of its length to each end. Generally, the surface accompanying the body of the retaining portion 2 is formed by at least a portion of the surface of revolution of the variable-diameter shape of revolution. In one embodiment, for example, as shown in Figure 17, the decrease in diameter is linear. In this case, the retaining portion 2 has the shape of two cones joined at their respective bases. In other words, the retaining portion 2 comprises two conical parts facing each other. In another embodiment, the decrease in diameter is non-linear. In this case, the retaining portion 2 has, for example, a convex shape in its midpoint.This form of revolution is particularly suitable when the body of the retaining portion 2 is mounted movably on the base 110. The body of the retaining portion 2 has, for example, a maximum diameter between 2 mm and 6 mm and a minimum diameter between 1 mm and 5 mm.

[0314] In one embodiment, the body of the retaining portion 2 has a cylindrical shape with a semicircular, two-thirds circular, or any other partially circular shape suitable to those skilled in the art. Generally, the surface accompanying the body of the retaining portion 2 is formed by at least a portion of the cylindrical surface of the cylindrical shape. This shape is particularly suitable when the body of the retaining portion 2 is embedded in the base 110. The cross-section of the body of the retaining portion 2, for example, has a diameter between 2 mm and 6 mm.

[0315] In one embodiment, the body of the retaining portion 2 has a partial shape of revolution about a longitudinal axis, the diameter of which decreases from the midpoint of its length to each end. The partial shape of revolution is, for example, the truncation of the full shape of revolution by a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis. In general, the accompanying surface of the body of the retaining portion 2 is formed by at least a portion of the surface of revolution of the partial shape of revolution. This partial shape of revolution is particularly suitable when the body of the retaining portion 2 is fixed to the base 110. Similar to the full shape of revolution with diameter variation described previously, the diameter decreases linearly or non-linearly. The body of the retaining portion 2 has, for example, a maximum diameter between 2 mm and 6 mm and a minimum diameter between 1 mm and 5 mm.

[0316] According to one embodiment, for example shown in Figure 16, the body of the retaining portion 2 extends entirely into the recess 118 of the base 110. In other words, the upper and lower ends of the body of the retaining portion 2 are arranged between the lower face 115 and the upper face 116 of the base 110. According to one embodiment, the body of the retaining portion 2 extends into the recess 118 of the base 110 and beyond the lower face 115. According to one embodiment, for example shown in Figures 15 and 18 to 24, the body of the retaining portion 2 extends into the recess 118 of the base 110 and beyond the upper face 116. According to one embodiment, the body of the retaining portion 2 extends into the recess 118 of the base 110, beyond the lower face 115 and beyond the upper face 116. The body of the retaining portion 2 has a center of gravity.The latter is, for example, arranged at a distance from the upper surface 116 of between 0.1h and 0.5h, "h" corresponding to the height of the base previously defined.

[0317] According to an embodiment in which the body of the retaining portion 2 is mounted for rotation on the base 110, the retaining portion 2 has a collar 201 in the middle of its length. For the purposes of this invention, a "collar" is defined as a protruding ring on a part of revolution. In other words, the collar 201 forms a circumferential protuberance, for example, a ring.

[0318] According to one embodiment, the accompanying surface of the body of the retaining portion 2 has a smooth surface state.

[0319] According to an embodiment in which the body of the retaining portion 2 is mounted movably in rotation on the base 110, the accompanying surface of the body of the retaining portion 2 has a rough surface condition.

[0320] In one embodiment in which the body of the retaining portion 2 is mounted for rotation on the base 110, the surface accompanying the body of the retaining portion 2 has knurling. In one embodiment, for example shown in Figures 12 to 14 and 16 to 18, the knurling is straight. In another embodiment, the knurling is cross-knurled.

[0321] In one embodiment, for example shown in Figures 12 to 24, the spacer 18 and the retaining portion 2 are arranged on the base 110 such that the strap 20, positioned in the recess 118 of said base 110, does not pass between said spacer and said retaining portion. In another embodiment, for example shown in Figures 12 to 24, the spacer 18 and the retaining portion 2 are arranged on the base 110 such that the strap 20, positioned in the recess 118 of said base 110, forms a loop surrounding said spacer and said retaining portion. Thus arranged, the inner face 31 of the strap 20 is generally arranged opposite the spacer 18 and the retaining portion 2. Similarly, the inner face 31 of the tension strand 29 of the strap 20 is generally arranged opposite the front face 119 of the housing 118 of the base 110.Also, the inner face 31 of the adjustment strand 30 of the strap 20 is, generally, arranged opposite the rear face 120 of the housing 118 of the base 110.

[0322] In one embodiment, the spacer 18 and the retaining portion 2 are two separate elements. In another embodiment with two separate elements, the retaining portion 2 is arranged above the spacer 18. "Above" in the context of this invention means that the retaining portion 2 has a center of gravity whose distance from the upper face 116 of the base 110 is less than the distance from the center of gravity of the spacer 18 to said upper face. Consider a plane P2 orthogonal to plane P1, passing through the center of gravity of the retaining portion 2 and oriented longitudinally to said retaining portion. Consider a plane P18 parallel to plane P2 and passing through the center of gravity of the spacer 18. In one embodiment, the distance between plane P2 and plane P18 is less than 4 mm. In another embodiment, plane P2 and plane P18 coincide.According to one embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the body of the spacer 18 is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the body of the retaining portion 2.

[0323] In one embodiment, the spacer 18 and the retaining portion 2 are two separate elements, the retaining portion being movably mounted on the base 110, and the spacer being fixed to the base. The spacer 18 and the retaining portion 2 are arranged such that at least a part of the retaining portion rubs against the spacer when the retaining portion is moving relative to the base 110. The friction of the retaining portion 2 on the spacer dampens the movement of the retaining portion relative to the base 110, thus limiting the speed at which the strap 20 loosens. In one embodiment, the friction factor between the spacer 18 and the retaining portion 2 is between 0.1 and 0.4. According to one embodiment, the contact pressure between the spacer 18 and the retaining portion 2 is between 200 Pa and 2000 Pa.According to an embodiment in which the retaining portion 2 has a collar 201, and for example represented in figure 17, said collar has, for example, a part rubbing on the spacer 18. As such, the spacer has, for example, a groove inside which the collar 201 rubs.

[0324] According to one embodiment, for example shown in figures 16 and 18, the spacer 18 and the retaining portion 2 are formed by a single element.

[0325] Figure 12 represents an example in which the quick-release buckle 19 includes, in an integrated manner, the strap adjustment device 10. In this embodiment, the tightening adjustment device 10 for at least one strap strand 20 is an integral part of the quick-release buckle 19.

[0326] The connector 11 or 12 of the quick-release buckle 19 comprises a spacer 18 separating the two slots 15 and 16 and a retaining portion 2 fixed to said connector 11 or 12 and rotatable so as to facilitate the movement of at least one strap strand from one slot to the other. For the purposes of this invention, "fixed" means that at least one degree of freedom of a first element relative to a second element fixed to said first element is eliminated.

[0327] The longitudinal axis of the spacer 18 is preferentially parallel to the axis of the retaining portion 2.

[0328] According to a first embodiment, this retaining portion 2 can be made mobile in rotation thanks to two holes configured at the base 110 to receive two ends of the retaining portion 2. In this case, the retaining portion 2 can be inserted on either side of the base 110 of the connector 11 or 12 inside the space formed by the two slots.

[0329] According to a second embodiment, part of the retaining portion 2 can also be an integral part of the connector 11 or 12, for example, a shaft held on both sides between two edges of the base 110. In which case, the rotating “notched” cylindrical portions rotate around a fixed through axis.

[0330] According to a third embodiment, the retaining portion 2 may comprise a shaft integral with the part forming the profile of revolution, whether a cylinder or half-cones. The retaining portion 2 may then comprise two extremity portions of the shaft extending from the shape of revolution so that these ends can be received within a notch in the base 110 in order to keep them free to rotate within an opening in the base 110.

[0331] Other embodiments can be considered that equip the base 110 with a rotating retaining element 2. According to one embodiment, the retaining portion 2 is fixed and is not free to rotate relative to the base 110.

[0332] According to one embodiment, the retaining portion 2 is not in contact with the spacer 18 so as to obtain free rotation of the retaining portion 2.

[0333] Figure 13 illustrates an embodiment in which the movable retaining portion 2 is cylindrical and partially occupies part of the volume of the spacer 18. In this latter case, the spacer 18 has been hollowed out or has a hollow volume so as to receive part of the retaining portion 2. This embodiment can also allow the retaining portion 2 to rotate while providing resistance to rotation to prevent unwanted loosening of the strap 20. Figure 14 illustrates an embodiment in which the retaining portion 2 is in slight contact with the spacer 18 so as to obtain a compromise between free rotation of the retaining portion 2 and slightly restricted rotation to prevent loosening of the strap 20. For the purposes of this invention, "in slight contact" means that the contact pressure between the retaining portion 2 and the spacer 18 is less than 300 Pa.For the purposes of this invention, "free rotation" means rotation of the retaining portion 2 without friction against the spacer 18. "Slightly braked rotation" for the purposes of this invention means that, for the same tangential force exerted on the inner face 31 of the strap 20 on the retaining portion 2, the rotational speed of the retaining portion 2 when rubbing against the spacer 18 is 20% lower than the rotational speed of the retaining portion 2 when rotating freely. "Compromise" for the purposes of this invention means that the friction of the retaining portion 2 on the spacer 18 results in a rotational speed of the retaining portion 2 that is between the rotational speed when rotating freely and the rotational speed when rotating slightly braked.

[0334] Figure 15 shows an example of a spacer 18 with a profile that allows the two webbing strands 29, 30 to be brought closer together. This bringing together can be improved by the presence of the tab 34, which forces one webbing strand 30 into contact with the other webbing strand 29, with the two webbing strands 29, 30 emerging on either side of each slot 15, 16.

[0335] Thus, the profile of the spacer 18 advantageously comprises two opposing lateral faces situated respectively in plane P4 and plane P5 shown in Figure 15. Planes P4 and P5 advantageously intersect at the inner portion of the connector 11 or 12, that is to say, towards the portion of space where the two strap strands 29, 30 each emerge to extend in order to allow the closure of the strap 20. "Closure of the strap 20" in the sense of the invention means that the strap forms a loop closed by the contact of the inner faces of the tension strand 29 and the adjustment strand 30. Advantageously, plane P4 forms with plane P2 an acute angle of less than 90°, and preferably less than 45°, and even more preferably, an angle of less than 30°. In this figure, plane P2 is the plane perpendicular to plane P1, which is the average plane of the base 110 containing the two slots of connector 11 or 12.The plane P2 in the example of figure 15 passes through the axis of rotation of the support portion 2.

[0336] Figure 16 represents a case in which the mobile support portion 2, rotating around an axis, forms the spacer 18. In this latter case, no additional element is used to form the spacer 18.

[0337] Figure 17 illustrates a scenario in which the rotating movable retaining portion 2 forms two conical parts facing each other. This geometry allows for smooth rolling and ensures controlled contact between the rotating movable retaining portion 2 and the spacer 18. Indeed, only the central part 201 of the retaining portion 2 is in contact with the spacer 18, for example, by means of the formation of a ring creating a circumferential protrusion.

[0338] The tongue

[0339] The device includes a tab, referred to as tab 34, intended to be positioned or integrated into connector 11 or 12. Tab 34 provides the function of a strap slip brake.

[0340] The contact area between the tab 34 and a webbing strand lies within a plane shown in Figure 15, labeled P3. Plane P3 is advantageously oriented so that it intersects plane P5, thereby pushing the webbing strand 30 towards the other webbing strand 29 entering the slot 16 furthest from the tab 34. When the webbing strand 30 wraps around the retaining portion 2 and exits through the slot 15 closest to the tab 34, it is constrained to come into contact with the other webbing strand 29 entering the slot 16 furthest from the tab 34. This ensures friction between the two webbing strands 29 and 30, preventing the webbing 20 from loosening naturally.

[0341] The tab 34 can be made of plastic-type material, rubber or the same material as the fastening loop 19.

[0342] According to one example, the thickness of the tongue 34, depending on the material and shape, is between 1 and 5 mm and its length is between 2 mm and 3 cm.

[0343] According to one embodiment, the tab 34 is fixed to the rear of the base 110. According to another embodiment, the tab 34 is an integral part of the base 110. In this case, the tab 34 can be obtained by an extension of the rear face 120 of the base 110 covering the top of the rear slot 15 in a "cap" fashion.

[0344] According to one embodiment, the tongue 34 is a rectangular or rounded piece. This piece is intended to be in contact with the strap 20. It may be slightly curved towards the front of the base 110.

[0345] According to one embodiment, the tab 34 is flexible or semi-rigid. "Flexible" for the purposes of this invention means that the tab 34 has a Young's modulus of less than 0.1 GPa. The tab 34 is, for example, made of an elastomer, in particular rubber, silicone, polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or any other material suitable to those skilled in the art. "Semi-rigid" for the purposes of this invention means that the tab 34 has a Young's modulus between 0.2 GPa and 2 GPa. The tab 34 is, for example, made of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), polyamide 6 (PA6), or any other material suitable to those skilled in the art.

[0346] According to one embodiment, the tongue 34 is rigid.

[0347] The tab 34 has the advantage of reducing strap slippage by bringing the strap strands 29, 30 into contact with each other, creating friction between them over a sufficiently large area when the strap is pulled, when the fastening buckle 19 is in a horizontal position. For the purposes of this invention, a "sufficiently large area" is defined as an area of ​​at least 50 mm². 2The term "horizontal position" in the context of this invention refers to the nominal position of the base 110, which is not necessarily horizontal, i.e., perpendicular to the direction of gravity, during use. The tab 34 also offers the advantage of allowing for flexible adjustment of the strap's sliding motion within the base 110 when the strap is pulled, combined with a manual rocking motion of the base 110 of the fastening buckle 19. For example, pulling the strap 20 at a 90° angle to the axis formed by the rear face of the spacer 18 will open the angle between the slot and the strap 20, facilitating the strap's sliding within the base 110.

[0348] Figure 15 shows an example of how the tab 34 is positioned at the rear of the base 110 of a quick-release buckle 19 positioned on a horizontal plane. This representation shows the curvature imparted to the strap 20 by the positioning of the tab 34. This strap curvature, combined with the friction between the two strap strands 29 and 30, reduces strap slippage within the base 110. Conversely, a manual rocking motion of the base 110, combined with pulling on the strap 20, opens the angle between the slot and the strap 20, thus improving the strap 20's sliding within the base 110.

[0349] In a preferred embodiment, the rear of the buckle 202 is curved to force the webbing strand 30, which wraps around the retaining portion 2 and exits through the slot 15 closest to the tab 34, to come into contact with the other webbing strand 29 entering the slot 16. This ensures friction between the two webbing strands 28 and 29 and prevents the webbing 20 from loosening naturally. Such a curve is shown in Figure 17, which provides an example of a shape that forces the webbing strand 30 of the strap 20 to move towards the other webbing strand 29 entering the slot 16 furthest from the curve arranged at the rear of the connector 11 or 12.When the quick-release fastening loop 19 has a base 110, the rear of the curved loop 202 corresponds, for example, to the curved rear face 120 of the rear part 112 of the base 110 as in the embodiment examples shown in Figures 19 to 21.

[0350] Strap adjustment buckle incorporating the strap adjustment device

[0351] Another aspect of the invention relates to a strap tightening adjustment device 10 integrated into a strap adjustment buckle. An example embodiment is shown in Figure 25. This strap tightening adjustment device 10 is analogous in all respects to the strap tightening adjustment device 10 integrated into the quick-release fastening buckle 19 described previously, except that the strap adjustment buckle does not have a connector 11 or 12, but a body comprising only an adjustment portion 27, but no connection portion 26. All embodiments of the adjustment portion 27 of the connector 11 or 12 are applicable to the adjustment portion 27 of the body of the strap adjustment buckle.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. A device for adjusting the fastening of two strap strands, said strap having an inner face and an outer face, said device having a quick-release fastening buckle (19) having a connector (11 or 12) having: ■ A base (110), and; ■ A spacer (18) arranged on said base, said spacer separating two slots (15, 16), the two slots (15, 16) each being adapted to the passage of a strand of webbing (20), said spacer comprising a guide surface intended to come into contact with said inner face of said webbing and; ■ A retaining portion (2), separate from said spacer, and mounted movably for rotation on said base, said retaining portion having a support surface intended to come into contact with said inner face of said strap.

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the connector is a male connector (11).

3. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the connector is a female connector (12).

4. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two slots (15, 16) comprise a tension slot (16) and an adjustment slot (15), said tension slot being adapted to allow the passage of a tension strand of the strap and said adjustment slot being adapted to allow the passage of an adjustment strand of said strap.

5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spacer (18) is embedded on the base (110).

6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotating movable retaining portion (2) is knurled.

7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the retaining portion (2) is arranged on the base (110) parallel to the spacer (18).

8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spacer (18) has a profile enabling the passage of the strap according to a first angle of pull of the strap inserted in the two slots (15, 16) and hindering the passage of the strap according to a second angle of pull of the strap inserted in the two slots (15, 16), said spacer (18) forming a guide portion (6).

9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connector (11 or 12) has a tab (34) forming a second portion of the strap guide allowing one strand of strap to be directed towards the other strand of strap so as to create a friction zone between the two strands of strap slowing their movement within the slots (15, 16).

10. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the base (110) of the male connector (11) is curved on its face furthest from the elements (13, 14) of the male connector, said curvature forming a second guide portion (202) of the strap allowing one strand of strap to be directed towards the other strand of strap so as to create a friction zone between the two strands of strap slowing their movement within the slots (15, 16).

11. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the retaining portion (2) forms a device for adjusting the tightness of at least one strap strand (20) inserted into a quick-opening fastening loop (19).

12. Device according to claim 11, characterized in that the clamping adjustment device comprises at least one tab (34).

13. Object comprising two fasteners for fixing two strands of webbing and a device for adjusting the fixing of two strands of webbing according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. Helmet comprising two fasteners for securing two strap strands and a device for adjusting the fastening of two strap strands according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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