FLEXIBLE RATCHETING STRAP

BACKGROUND

Devices and/or components of devices are often capable of performing certain functionalities that other devices and/or components are not configured to perform and/or are not capable of performing. In such scenarios, it may be desirable to adapt one or more systems to enhance the functionalities of devices and/or components that cannot perform the one or more functionalities.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

These drawings illustrate certain aspects of some examples of the present disclosure and should not be used to limit or define the disclosure.

FIG. 1AA is a top isometric view of an example band.

FIG. 1AB is a top isometric view of an example strap.

FIG. 1AC is a bottom isometric view of an example strap.

FIG. 1AD is a bottom isometric view of an example strap.

FIG. 1AE is a top view of an example buckle without a band.

FIG. 1AF is a bottom view of an example buckle without a band.

FIG. 1AG is a back view of an example buckle without a band.

FIG. 1AH is a front view of an example buckle without a band.

FIG. 1BA is an isometric view of an example band.

FIG. 1BB is an isometric view of an example band.

FIG. 1BC is a side view of an example band.

FIG. 1BD is a side cutaway view of an example band.

FIG. 1CA is a top isometric view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 1CB is a bottom isometric view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 1CC is a back view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 1CD is a side cutaway view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 1DA is a top isometric view of an example lever.

FIG. 1DB is a bottom isometric view of an example lever.

FIG. 1DC is a back view of an example lever.

FIG. 1DD is a side view of an example lever.

FIG. 1EA is an isometric view of an example torsion spring.

FIG. 1EB is a bottom view of an example torsion spring.

FIG. 1EC is a side view of an example torsion spring.

FIG. 1FA is an isometric view of an example pin.

FIG. 1FB is a front view of an example pin.

FIG. 1FC is a side view of an example pin.

FIG. 2A is a diagram depicting an initial insertion of a band into a buckle.

FIG. 2B is a diagram depicting a fixed end of a band maneuvering into a band slot on a buckle.

FIG. 2C is a diagram depicting band being inserted into a second band slot on a buckle.

FIG. 2D is a diagram depicting a buckle under text missing or illegible when filed

The examples of FIG. text missing or illegible when filed

FIG. 3A is a closeup view of tooth contours (of lever tooth) sliding against hole contours (of tooth catch hole).

FIG. 3B is a diagram depicting a strap with the lever tooth secured in a tooth catch hole as band insertion begins.

FIG. 3C is a diagram depicting a strap with the lever tooth sliding against a tooth catch hole as band insertion continues.

FIG. 3D is a diagram depicting a strap with the lever tooth exiting a tooth catch hole as band insertion continues.

FIG. 3E is a diagram depicting a strap with the lever tooth approaching a tooth catch hole as band insertion continues.

FIG. 3F is a diagram depicting a strap with the lever tooth beginning to enter a tooth catch hole as band insertion continues.

FIG. 3G is a diagram depicting a strap with the lever tooth secured in a tooth catch hole as band insertion continues.

FIG. 4A is a diagram depicting a lever fully depressed to allow for band removal.

FIG. 4B is a diagram depicting the free end of a band being removed from a band slot.

FIG. 5A is a diagram depicting an example strap wrapped around an example cylindrical object.

FIG. 5B is a diagram depicting an example strap wrapped around multiple wiry objects.

FIG. 6AA is an isometric view of an example strap.

FIG. 6AB is an isometric view of an example strap.

FIG. 6AC is a side view of an example strap.

FIG. 6AD is a top view of an example strap.

FIG. 6AE is a front view of an example strap.

FIG. 6BA is an isometric view of an example band.

FIG. 6BB is a bottom view of an example band.

FIG. 6BC is a side view of an example band.

FIG. 6BD is a top view of an example band.

FIG. 6CA is an isometric view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 6CB is an isometric view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 6CC is a side view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 6CD is a top view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 6CE is a front view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 6DA is an isometric view of an example lever.

FIG. 6DB is an isometric view of an example lever.

FIG. 6DC is a side view of an example lever.

FIG. 6DD is a top view of an example lever.

FIG. 6DE is a front view of an example lever.

FIG. 6EA is an isometric view of an example left torsion spring.

FIG. 6EB is a side view of an example left torsion spring.

FIG. 6EC is a top view of an example left torsion spring.

FIG. 6FA is an isometric view of an example right torsion spring.

FIG. 6FB is a side view of an example right torsion spring.

FIG. 6FC is a top view of an example right torsion spring.

FIG. 7AA is a diagram of an example hose clamp.

FIG. 7AB is a side view of an example hose clamp.

FIG. 7AC is a front view of an example hose clamp.

FIG. 7BA is a top and bottom view of an example band.

FIG. 7BB is a diagram of a portion of an example band.

FIG. 7CA is a diagram of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 7CB is a diagram of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 7CC is a front view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 7CD is a cutaway side view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 7DA is a diagram of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 7DB is a diagram of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 7DC is a front view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 7DD is a side view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 7EA is a diagram of an example long catch.

FIG. 7EB is a diagram of an example long catch.

FIG. 7EC is a side view of an example long catch.

FIG. 7ED is a side view of an example long catch.

FIG. 7FA is a diagram of an example short catch.

FIG. 7FB is a diagram of an example short catch.

FIG. 7FC is a side view of an example short catch.

FIG. 7FD is a side view of an example short catch.

FIG. 8A is a diagram of an example hose clamp.

FIG. 8BA is a side view of a buckle with the main lever in a down position.

FIG. 8BB is a rear view of a buckle (view from the side of the ratchet lever).

FIG. 8CA is a side view of a buckle with the main lever in an up position.

FIG. 8CB is a front view of a buckle (view from the side of the main lever).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Overview and Advantages

In general, this application discloses one or more embodiments of a reusable ratcheting strap and hose clamp which do not require additional tools to use. In some embodiments, an included lever may be used to provide additional tightening. Further, in some embodiments, the band may be removable to allow for replacement of the band for functional (e.g., due to wear, desire for greater length) and/or aesthetic (e.g., color) reasons.

Conventional hose clamps may use a worm gear (“screw and band”) mechanism to tighten and loosen the inward force applied by the hose clamp. Generally, the worm is adapted with an exposed head (e.g., a screw head, hex bolthead, “wing” head, etc.) to allow a user to control the rotation of the worm. In turn, as the worm rotates in either direction, the “gear” (i.e., the band of the hose clamp) translates past the worm to increase or decrease the area enclosed within the hose clamp.

Such conventional hose clamps often require additional tools to achieve the desired tightness (e.g., a screwdriver, drill, driver, etc.). Further, the worm gear mechanism relies on friction of the components to maintain the position of the band (i.e., preventing removal of the band) instead of mechanical/geometric constraints to prevent retraction.

Another conventional mechanism, a cable tie (e.g., a “zip tie”) uses a ratcheting mechanism to prevent backward movement of the band. However, such cable ties, generally, are not removable without destruction. And, even when carefully removed, cable ties require additional tools and suffer from undue wear. Similarly, a handcuff-like design, that is meant to be removable, requires additional tools and often lacks the flexibility to apply a uniform inward force.

As disclosed in one or more embodiments herein, a strap and hose clamp are described which may be tightened and loosened repeatedly with a user's hands and without the use of additional tools. That is, a user may utilize each aspect of strap's (or hose clamp's) utility using only the components affixed thereon. As such, a user may place, tighten, loosen, and remove the strap (or hose clamp) using just their hands. As disclosed in one or more embodiments herein, the hose clamp may include a lever which can be manipulated to provide additional tightening of the band. And, as disclosed in one or more embodiments, the band may be replaced allowing for customizability and longevity of the device.

Embodiment 1

FIG. 1AA is a top isometric view of an example band. FIG. 1AB is a top isometric view of an example strap. FIG. 1AC is a bottom isometric view of an example strap. FIG. 1AD is a bottom isometric view of an example strap.

FIG. 1AE is a top view of an example buckle without a band. FIG. 1AF is a bottom view of an example buckle without a band. FIG. 1AG is a back view of an example buckle without a band. FIG. 1AH is a front view of an example buckle without a band.

FIG. 1BA is an isometric view of an example band. FIG. 1BB is an isometric view of an example band. FIG. 1BC is a side view of an example band. FIG. 1BD is a side cutaway view of an example band.

FIG. 1CA is a top isometric view of an example buckle housing. FIG. 1CB is a bottom isometric view of an example buckle housing. FIG. 1CC is a back view of an example buckle housing. FIG. 1CD is a side cutaway view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 1DA is a top isometric view of an example lever. FIG. 1DB is a bottom isometric view of an example lever. FIG. 1DC is a back view of an example lever. FIG. 1DD is a side view of an example lever.

FIG. 1EA is an isometric view of an example torsion spring. FIG. 1EB is a bottom view of an example torsion spring. FIG. 1EC is a side view of an example torsion spring.

FIG. 1FA is an isometric view of an example pin. FIG. 1FB is a front view of an example pin. FIG. 1FC is a side view of an example pin.

Strap 100 is a mechanical device which may be used to apply inward circumferential force and/or pressure around an object (e.g., see object 580 in FIGS. 5A-5B). Strap 100 may be used to affix one structure to another (e.g., the end of a flexible hose around a rigid tube). Strap 100 may include buckle 106 and band 102 inserted through buckle 106 to allow for tightening (e.g., band insertion 114) and loosening (e.g., band removal 116) of strap 100.

Band 102 is a flexible structure which may circumferentially wrap around an object and apply inward circumferential force and/or pressure on that object. Generally, band 102 may be logically divided into free end 103R and fixed end 103X. At fixed end 103X, band 102 may be removably fixed into buckle 106 (e.g., via stop surface 170 and retention surface 172). At free end 103R, band 102 may loosely dangle and/or be inserted (e.g., via band insertion 114) into buckle 106. In turn, buckle 106 may constrain band 102 from undergoing band removal 116. Band 102 may include tooth catch holes 104, hole contours 105 (of tooth catch holes 104), stop surface 170, and retention surface 172.

Tooth catch hole 104 is a hole through the thickness of band 102. Band 102 may include a series of tooth catch holes 104 disposed along the length of band 102. When band 102 undergoes band insertion 114, lever tooth 126 (of lever 110) may slide into tooth catch holes 104 as band 102 traverses buckle 106. However, tooth catch holes 104 (in combination with lever tooth 126) geometrically and mechanically constrain the reverse movement of band 102 (to prevent band removal 116). Tooth catch hole 104 may have hole contours 105 to complement and interact with tooth contours 127.

Hole contours 105 (see FIG. 1BD) is the shape of the inner surfaces forming tooth catch hole 104. In one or more embodiments, hole contours 105 (on the side of tooth catch hole 104 more proximate to fixed end 103X) are formed such that lever tooth 126 may slide (when undergoing band insertion 114) out of tooth catch hole 104 and onto the surface of band 102, without requiring manual operation of lever 110. Further, in one or more embodiments, the opposing side of tooth catch hole 104 (more proximate to free end 103R) may be formed to prevent lever tooth 126 from exiting tooth catch hole 104 without manual operation of lever 110. Hole contours 105 may be formed as a “ramp” and/or “slope” of one or more constant angles and/or a curved surface with one or more radii.

Buckle 106 is a mechanical device which includes components which may be used to constrain and/or facilitate the movement of band 102. Buckle 106 may include buckle housing 108, lever 110, pin 112, and torsion spring 134.

Cutout 107 is a blind hole, groove, and/or concave recess in one or more components of strap 100. In one or more embodiments, cutouts 107 may be present on buckle housing 108 (see FIG. 1AF), band 102 (see FIG. 1BB).

Buckle housing 108 is a structure which may have a geometry to maintain the placement of the other fixed components of buckle 106, when assembled (e.g., lever 110, pin 112, torsion spring 134, etc.), and further facilitate the movement of band 102. Buckle housing 108 may include one or more housing pin slot(s) 130, one or more textured grip(s) 156, and one or more band slot(s) 174, shoulder stop 176, and retention lip 178.

Lever 110 is a structure which may function to constrain the movement of band 102. Lever 110 may include one or more lever teeth 126 and one or more lever pin slots 128. Torsion spring 134 may be tensioned between lever 110 and buckle housing 108 such as to cause lever tooth 126 to apply a downward force against band 102 (or through tooth catch hole 104). A user may control lever 110 (e.g., to remove the interlocking mating of lever tooth 126 with tooth catch hole 104) by pressing down on pressing surface 160 to thereby overcome the torsion applied by torsion spring 134.

Pin 112 is a structure which may be used to affix one or more components of buckle 106. Pin 112 may be used as a hinge (e.g., forming an axis of rotation) around which one or more components may pivot (or otherwise rotate). Pin 112 may traverse through one or more holes (of various components of buckle 106) and be constrained at one (or both) distal ends by one (or two) housing pin slots 130, respectively. As a non-limiting example, as depicted in FIGS. 1AA-1AH, lever 110 and/or torsion spring 134 may be rotatably affixed (to buckle housing 108) via pin 112 fixed into housing pin slot 130 at both ends.

Protrusion 113 is a protuberant feature of one or more components of strap 100. In one or more embodiments, protrusion 113 may complement the size and/or shape of cutout 107. In one or more embodiments, protrusions 113 may be present on lever 110 (see FIG. 1DB and FIG. 1DC).

Band insertion 114 is the movement of band 102 into and/or through buckle 106. In one or more embodiments where an object (see FIGS. 5A-5B) is circumscribed by strap 100, band insertion 114 may cause an increase in force (and/or pressure) on that object. The direction of band insertion 114 (through buckle 106) is the opposite of the direction of band removal 116 (through buckle 106). Additional details regarding band insertion 114 may be found in the example of FIGS. 2A-2D and FIGS. 3A-3G.

Band removal 116 is the movement of band 102 out of and/or through buckle 106. In one or more embodiments where an object (see FIGS. 5A-5B) is circumscribed by strap 100, band removal 116 may cause a decrease in force (and/or pressure) on that object. The direction of band removal 616 (through buckle 106) is the opposite of the direction of band insertion 114 (through buckle 106). Additional details regarding band removal 116 may be found in the example of FIGS. 4A-4B.

Lever tooth 126 is a structure of lever 110 which may be used to constrain the movement of band 102 with respect to buckle 106. Lever tooth may include tooth contours 127 which complement hole contours 105 and allow for lever tooth 126 to slide (unidirectionally) along band 102. Lever tooth 126 may be rigidly affixed to lever 110 (e.g., constructed together as a single structure). Lever tooth 126 may be constructed to have geometry such that lever tooth 126 traverses (at least partially) into tooth catch hole(s) 104 (e.g., lever tooth 126 is adapted to interlock with tooth catch hole(s) 104 and band 102, generally). In one or more embodiments, the tip of lever tooth 126 may contact buckle housing 108 when disposed through tooth catch hole 104. That is, lever tooth 126 may be adapted to interlock with tooth catch hole 104 such that, on one side, tooth contours 127 allow for movement against hole contours 105 whereas on the other side, lever tooth 126 includes a (substantially) perpendicular surface with respect to tooth catch hole 104. Lever tooth 126 may be disposed on the opposite side (of lever 110) from pressing surface 160.

Tooth contours 127 (see FIG. 1DD) is the shape of the outer surfaces forming lever tooth 126. In one or more embodiments, tooth contours 127 (on the side of lever tooth 126 more proximate to lever pin slot 128) are formed such that lever tooth 126 may slide (when undergoing band insertion 114) along hole contours 105, out of tooth catch hole 104, and onto the surface of band 102, without requiring manual operation of lever 110 (e.g., applying force to pressing surface 160). Further, in one or more embodiments, the opposing side of lever tooth 126 may be formed to prevent lever tooth 126 from exiting tooth catch hole 104 without manual operation of lever 110 (thereby constraining the movement of band 102). As such, when band 102 undergoes band insertion 114, tooth contours 127 allows for band 102 (and tooth catch holes 104 thereof) to slide up to, under, and past lever tooth 126. Conversely, when band 102 is tensioned in the opposite direction (attempting to undergo band removal 116 without lever motion 133), the opposing perpendicular surface of lever tooth 126 prevents band 102 from translating (as lever tooth 126 remains engaged with a tooth catch hole 104). Tooth contours 127 may be formed as a “ramp” and/or “slope” of one or more constant angles and/or a curved surface with one or more radii. In one or more embodiments, tooth contours 127 may complement hole contours 105.

Lever pin slot 128 is one or more holes through lever 110 which allow for pin 112 to pass (partially or fully) therethrough. Lever 110 may be rotatably fixed to buckle housing 108 via pin 112 (i.e., free to pivot around pin 112). As a non-limiting example, in one or more embodiments, lever 110 is fixed with respect to buckle housing in all three linear dimensions and two rotational dimensions, with the ability to pivot (in a limited range) in one rotational dimension (i.e., tightly constrained left/right, up/down, forward/backward, roll, and yaw, with limited range to control pitch).

Housing pin slot 130 is a hole (through or blind), in buckle housing 108, which allows for pin 112 to be fixed to buckle housing 108. Housing pin slot 130 may be circular to allow for the rotation of pin 112, or housing pin slot 130 may have a geometry that rigidly affixes to pin 112. In any embodiment, lever 110 may pivot around pin 112 independently of pin 112 (i.e., where pin 112 does not rotate), or pin 112 may also rotate with respect to buckle housing 108 (and therefore may or may not pivot with lever 110).

Lever motion 133 is the rotational and/or pivoting motion of lever 110 around pin 112 (and lever pin slot 128). In one or more embodiments, lever motion 133 may be caused by a user applying a downward force on pressing surface 160 of lever 110 (overcoming the tortional force applied by torsion spring 134). In one or more embodiments, lever motion 133 may be caused by band insertion 114 (e.g., as tooth catch holes 104 force lever tooth 126 upward). Further, lever motion 133 may be caused (in an opposite direction to a user's applied force) by torsion spring 134 applying tortional force on lever 110.

Torsion spring 134 is a torsion spring which may be installed around pin 112 and tensioned between buckle housing 108 and lever 110. In one or more embodiments, torsion spring 134 may be tensioned against lever 110 such that lever tooth 126 applies a downward force against band 102 (or through tooth catch hole 104). The torsional force applied by torsion spring 634 may be sized such that a user (e.g., with their hand, finger, thumb, etc.) of strap 100 may overcome the torsion (i.e., rotational force, torque, static moment) by applying force to pressing surface 160 of lever 110.

Textured grip 156 is a feature which may be disposed on one or more exterior surfaces of buckle housing 108 and provide increased friction when handled by a user (e.g., with their hand, fingers, palm, etc.). Textured grip 156 may have a complex geometry and/or varied surface (e.g., ridges, bumps, grooves, “pebbling”, or other nonuniform structure) that aids in a user's ability to maintain contact with buckle housing 108. Further, textured grip 156 may be constructed from materials that provide comparatively greater friction than other materials (e.g., an elastomer). As depicted in FIGS. 1AA-1AF and FIGS. 1CA-1CB, textured grip 156 is constructed as a series of grooves and ridges, which when squeezed by a user provides greater mechanical interlocking (compared to an untextured, smooth surface constructed from the same material).

Pressing surface 160 is a structure of lever 110 which allows for a user (of strap 100) to cause lever motion 133 (and allow for band removal 116). A user of strap 100 may apply force to pressing surface 160 to overcome the torsional forces caused by torsion spring 134. In one or more embodiments, when pressing surface 160 is pushed (i.e., a force is applied to pressing surface 160 inward towards buckle housing 108), the static torque created by torsion spring 134 may be overcome and lever 110 may rotate about pin 112. When undergoing rotation (caused by applying force to pressing surface 160), lever tooth 126 may disengage with tooth catch hole 104 allowing for band removal 116 (i.e., band 102 may translate unencumbered beneath raised lever tooth 126).

Stop surface 170 is a surface on band 102 which may be used to constrain the movement of band 102 with respect to shoulder stop 176 (on buckle housing 108). In one or more embodiments, band 102 is inserted into buckle housing 108 through band slot A 174A (e.g., see FIGS. 2A-2B). To prevent fixed end 103X of band 102 from pulling through band slot A 174A, band 102 includes stop surface 170 (on fixed end 103X), and may further include a larger volume, generally, to prevent further movement. In turn, as band 102 is placed into band slot A 174A, stop surface 170 mates with shoulder stop 176 (on buckle housing 108). Due to the complementary geometry of stop surface 170 and shoulder stop 176, further band insertion 114 (through band slot A 174A) is restricted.

Retention surface 172 is a surface on band 102 which may be used to constrain the movement of band 102 with respect to retention lip 178 (on buckle housing 108). In one or more embodiments, band 102 is inserted into buckle housing 108 through band slot A 174A (e.g., see FIGS. 2A-2B). To prevent fixed end 103X of band 102 from falling out of band slot A 174A when band 102 is not under tension, retention surface 172 mates against retention lip 178 to prevent unintentional removal of band 102 from buckle housing 108. Further, to remove band 102, from buckle housing 108, a user may pry band 102 away from buckle housing 108 (prying in a direction opposite lever 110) thereby separating retention surface 172 from retention lip 178 and allowing band 102 to be removed.

Band slot 174, generally, is a partially or fully enclosed passage through buckle housing 108 which allows for (at least a part of) band 102 to pass therethrough (e.g., the width and thickness of band 102 may fit inside of band slot 174). In one or more embodiments, buckle housing 108 may have one or more band slots 174 (e.g., in FIG. 1CD, there are two band slots 174 through buckle housing 108). In one or more embodiments, band slot 174 may be arced to provide curvature to band 102 (e.g., to form a loop). Band slot 174 may be used to constrain band 102 from moving in three rotational dimensions and two linear dimensions, while still allowing band 102 to slide along the length of band slot 174 (unless prevented by some other structure or component). In one or more embodiments, band slot 174 may include additional geometry and/or structure to constrain movement of band 102 (in the third linear dimension) with respect to buckle housing 108 (e.g., shoulder stop 176, retention lip 178).

Band slot A 174A is a band slot 174 which may be used to hold fixed end 103X of band 102. In one or more embodiments, band slot A 174A may include shoulder stop 176 and retention lip 178 (adapted to mate against stop surface 170 and retention surface 172, respectively). In one or more embodiments, band slot A 174A is disposed on an “inner” side of buckle housing 108 (opposite lever 110) such that when band 102 undergoes band insertion 114 (through band slot B 174B), the free end 103R of band 102 remains unencumbered by fixed end 103X.

Band slot B 174B is a band slot 174 which may be used to facilitate the movement of free end 103R (and middle sections) of band 102. In one or more embodiments, band slot B 174B includes a gap to allow for lever tooth 126 to traverse downward into tooth catch hole 104 of band 102.

Shoulder stop 176 is a structure of buckle housing 108 which may be used to constrain the movement of band 102 (e.g., via contact with stop surface 170 on fixed end 103X). As described for stop surface 170, in one or more embodiments, band 102 is inserted into buckle housing 108 through band slot A 174A (e.g., see FIGS. 2A-2B). To prevent fixed end 103X from pulling through band slot A 174A, band 102 includes stop surface 170 (at fixed end 103X) to contact shoulder stop 176. Due to the complementary geometry of stop surface 170 and shoulder stop 176, further band insertion 114 (through band slot A 174A) is restricted thereby holding band 102 fixed with respect to buckle housing 108.

Retention lip 178 is a structure of buckle housing 108 which may be used to constrain the movement of band 102 (e.g., via contact with retention surface 172 on fixed end 103X). As described for retention surface 172, in one or more embodiments, band 102 is inserted into buckle housing 108 through band slot A 174A (e.g., see FIGS. 2A-2B). To prevent fixed end 103X from unintentionally falling out of band slot A 174A, retention surface 172 mates against retention lip 178. Thus, to remove band 102, from buckle housing 108, a user may pry fixed end 103X away from buckle housing 108 (prying in a direction opposite lever 110) thereby separating retention surface 172 from retention lip 178 and allowing band 102 to be removed.

Band Insertion

FIG. 2A is a diagram depicting an initial insertion of a band into a buckle. FIG. 2B is a diagram depicting a fixed end of a band maneuvering into a band slot on a buckle. FIG. 2C is a diagram depicting band being inserted into a second band slot on a buckle. FIG. 2D is a diagram depicting a buckle under text missing or illegible when filed

The examples of FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B depict strap 100 as provided in FIGS. 1AA-1FB. One of ordinary skill in the art, provided the benefit of this detailed description, would understand that strap 600 (see FIG. 6AA), hose clamp 700 (see FIG. 7AA), or hose clamp 800 (see FIG. 8A) may be used instead of (or in addition to) strap 100. The examples in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are intended to provide additional understanding and context of the disclosed technologies and should not be interpreted to limit functionalities provided elsewhere in the detailed description.

As shown in FIG. 2A, band 102 begins to be inserted into buckle 106. A user may insert band 102 into buckle 106 by pushing free end 103R into band slot A 174A (causing band insertion 114).

As shown in FIG. 2B, band insertion 114 continues as band 102 is pulled further into band slot A 174A. As free end 103R of band 102 exits band slot A 174A, a user may pull on free end 103R to assist in causing band insertion 114 (instead of or in addition to pushing fixed end 103X). As band insertion 114 continues, fixed end 103X begins to slide into a locked position where stop surface 170 mates with shoulder stop 176 (and retention surface 172 mates with retention lip 178). Due to the contours of band slot A 174 and band 102, band 102 may be pulled into band slot A 174A without additional maneuvering or manipulation of band 102.

As shown in FIG. 2C, band 102 is fully seated within band slot A 174A where stop surface 170 mates against shoulder stop 176, and retention surface 172 mates against retention lip 178. A user may continue band insertion 114 (e.g., after wrapping band 102 around a desired structure), by inserting free end 103R into band slot B 174B. However, due to the geometry of stop surface 170 and shoulder stop 176, band 102 (at fixed end 103X) does not move with respect to band slot A 174A. Optionally, a force may be applied to lever 110 (e.g., on pressing surface 160) to cause lever motion 133 and move lever tooth 126 out of band slot B 174B, thereby allowing free end 103R to pass more easily therethrough.

As shown in FIG. 2D, free end 103R of band 102 exits band slot B 174B as band insertion 114 continues. Optionally, a force may continue to be applied to lever 110 allowing band 102 to pass more easily through band slot B 174B.

Strap Tightening

FIG. 3A is a closeup view of tooth contours (of lever tooth) sliding against hole contours (of tooth catch hole). FIG. 3B is a diagram depicting a strap with the lever tooth secured in a tooth catch hole as band insertion begins. FIG. 3C is a diagram depicting a strap with the lever tooth sliding against a tooth catch hole as band insertion continues. FIG. 3D is a diagram depicting a strap with the lever tooth exiting a tooth catch hole as band insertion continues. FIG. 3E is a diagram depicting a strap with the lever tooth approaching a tooth catch hole as band insertion continues. FIG. 3F is a diagram depicting a strap with the lever tooth beginning to enter a tooth catch hole as band insertion continues. FIG. 3G is a diagram depicting a strap with the lever tooth secured in a tooth catch hole as band insertion continues.

The examples of FIGS. 3A-3G depict strap 100 as provided in FIGS. 1AA-1FB. One of ordinary skill in the art, provided the benefit of this detailed description, would understand that strap 600 (see FIG. 6AA), hose clamp 700 (see FIG. 7AA), or hose clamp 800 (see FIG. 8A) may be used instead of (or in addition to) strap 100. The examples in FIGS. 3A-3G are intended to provide additional understanding and context of the disclosed technologies and should not be interpreted to limit functionalities provided elsewhere in the detailed description.

In FIG. 3A (showing a closeup of components in FIG. 3C), hole contours 105 (in tooth catch hole 104) are shown sliding against tooth contours 127 (of lever tooth 126) causing lever tooth 126 to shift upward and lever 110 to undergo lever motion 133.

In FIG. 3B, lever tooth 126 (of lever 110) sits securely in a tooth catch hole 104 of band 102. Lever 110 is pivoted as far as physically permitted by torsion spring 134 (clockwise, as depicted, around pin 112). Subsequently, tensile force is applied to free end 103R of band 102 (band 102 is pulled to the right, as depicted). In turn, the applied force causes band 102 to undergo band insertion 114 and begin to move rightward. As fixed end 103X of band 102 is secured in band slot A 174A, only free end 103R of band 102 translates thereby making the cross-sectional area formed by strap 100 smaller.

In FIG. 3C, as band 102 continues to undergo band insertion 114, the sloped surfaces of hole contours 105 and tooth contours 127 cause upward movement of lever tooth 126 (see FIG. 3A for more detail). In turn, as lever tooth 126 moves upward, lever 110 undergoes lever motion 133 (counterclockwise, as depicted, around pin 112) overcoming the torsional forces of torsion spring 134.

In FIG. 3D, lever tooth 126 exits tooth catch hole 104 and (subsequently) slides along the upper surface of band 102. Tooth contours 127 may be rounded such that the force applied to band 102 is distributed over an area to avoid causing damage to band 102.

In FIG. 3E, as band 102 continues to undergo band insertion 114, lever tooth 126 approaches the next tooth catch hole 104 (adjacent to the previous tooth catch hole 104, in a direction away from free end 103R).

In FIG. 3F, lever tooth 126 begins to fall into the next tooth catch hole 104. As lever 110 is under constant tortional forces (due to torsion spring 134), lever tooth 126 maintains contact with the surfaces of band 102 throughout band insertion 114 (unless a force is applied to pressing surface 160). Thus, as the next tooth catch hole 104 moves under lever tooth 126, lever tooth 126 undergoes lever motion 133 (clockwise, as depicted, around pin 112) and traverses into the cavity of tooth catch hole 104.

In FIG. 3G, lever tooth 126 undergoes lever motion 133 (clockwise, as depicted, around pin 112) and rests securely in a tooth catch hole 104 of band 102 (adjacent to the tooth catch hole 104 in FIG. 3B). In one or more embodiments, the series of steps and movements depicted in FIGS. 3B-3G may repeat until a desired tightness of strap 100 is achieved.

Band Removal

FIG. 4A is a diagram depicting a lever fully depressed to allow for band removal. FIG. 4B is a diagram depicting the free end of a band being removed from a band slot.

The examples of FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B depict strap 100 as provided in FIGS. 1AA-1FB. One of ordinary skill in the art, provided the benefit of this detailed description, would understand that strap 600 (see FIG. 6AA), hose clamp 700 (see FIG. 7AA), or hose clamp 800 (see FIG. 8A) may be used instead of (or in addition to) strap 100. The examples in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are intended to provide additional understanding and context of the disclosed technologies and should not be interpreted to limit functionalities provided elsewhere in the detailed description.

In FIG. 4A, a force is applied to pressing surface 160 of lever 110 (e.g., by a user). Consequently, due to the force applied to pressing surface 160, lever 110 undergoes lever motion 133 (pivoting counterclockwise, as depicted, around pin 112). In turn, lever tooth 126 lifts up and out of tooth catch hole 104. As lever tooth 126 is not in any tooth catch hole 104 or pressing against band 102, band 102 may move under lever tooth 126 unobstructed through band slot B 174B. Subsequently, a force may be applied to band 102 to initiate band removal 116.

In FIG. 4B, pressing surface 160 remains depressed (e.g., from a user continuing to apply a force thereon). Band 102 continues to undergo band removal 116 and is nearly removed from band slot B 174B. Subsequently, force on pressing surface 160 may be removed allowing lever to undergo lever motion 133 (in the reverse direction) due to torsion spring 134.

Strap Uses

FIG. 5A is a diagram depicting an example strap wrapped around an example cylindrical object. FIG. 5B is a diagram depicting an example strap wrapped around multiple wiry objects.

The examples of FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B depict strap 100 as provided in FIGS. 1AA-1FB. One of ordinary skill in the art, provided the benefit of this detailed description, would understand that strap 600 (see FIG. 6AA), hose clamp 700 (see FIG. 7AA), or hose clamp 800 (see FIG. 8A) may be used instead of (or in addition to) strap 100. The examples in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B are intended to provide additional understanding and context of the disclosed technologies and should not be interpreted to limit functionalities provided elsewhere in the detailed description.

In FIG. 5A, strap 100 is depicted wrapped around (i.e., circumscribing) object 580 depicted as an example cylinder. In one or more embodiments, starting with band 102 not disposed in band slot B 174B, a user may wrap band 102 around object 580 and insert band 102 into band slot B 174B (band insertion 114). Once inserted, band insertion 114 may continue with free end 103R pulled until band 102 (and strap 100, generally) is wrapped around object 580 to a desired tightness.

In FIG. 5B, strap 100 is depicted wrapped around (i.e., circumscribing) objects 580 depicted as one or more wiry structures (e.g., an extension cord, multiple electronic cables, a rope, etc.). In one or more embodiments, starting with band 102 not disposed in band slot B 174B, a user may wrap band 102 around objects 580 (e.g., proximate to a center of mass) and insert band 102 into band slot B 174B (band insertion 114). Once inserted, band insertion 114 may continue with free end 103R pulled until band 102 (and strap 100, generally) is wrapped around objects 580 to a desired tightness.

Embodiment 2

FIG. 6AA is an isometric view of an example strap. FIG. 6AB is an isometric view of an example strap. FIG. 6AC is a side view of an example strap. FIG. 6AD is a top view of an example strap. FIG. 6AE is a front view of an example strap.

FIG. 6BA is an isometric view of an example band. FIG. 6BB is a bottom view of an example band. FIG. 6BC is a side view of an example band. FIG. 6BD is a top view of an example band.

FIG. 6CA is an isometric view of an example buckle housing. FIG. 6CB is an isometric view of an example buckle housing. FIG. 6CC is a side view of an example buckle housing. FIG. 6CD is a top view of an example buckle housing. FIG. 6CE is a front view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 6DA is an isometric view of an example lever. FIG. 6DB is an isometric view of an example lever. FIG. 6DC is a side view of an example lever. FIG. 6DD is a top view of an example lever. FIG. 6DE is a front view of an example lever.

FIG. 6EA is an isometric view of an example left torsion spring. FIG. 6EB is a side view of an example left torsion spring. FIG. 6EC is a top view of an example left torsion spring.

FIG. 6FA is an isometric view of an example right torsion spring. FIG. 6FB is a side view of an example right torsion spring. FIG. 6FC is a top view of an example right torsion spring.

Strap 600 is a mechanical device used to apply inward circumferential force and/or pressure around a structure (e.g., object 580). Strap 600 may be used to affix one structure to another (e.g., the end of a flexible hose around a rigid tube). Strap 600 may include band 602 which is inserted into buckle 606 to constrain the movement of band 602.

Band 602 may be substantially similar to band 102 described with respect to FIGS. 1AA-1FC.

Tooth catch hole 604 may be substantially similar to tooth catch hole 104 described with respect to FIGS. 1AA-1FC.

Band grip 662 is a structure of band 602 which may disposed on an “inner” side of band 602 (e.g., against an object constrained by strap 600). Band grip 662 includes a geometry that increases friction against the object constrained by band 602 (and strap 600, generally). Band grip 662 may be constructed from materials that provide comparatively greater friction (e.g., an elastomer) than other materials. Further, band grip 662 may have a complex geometry and/or varied surface (e.g., ridges, bumps, grooves, “pebbling”, or other nonuniform structure) that aids in the ability of band 602 to maintain contact with the circumscribed object.

Buckle 606 is a mechanical device which includes components which may be used to constrain and/or facilitate the movement of band 602. Buckle 606 may include buckle housing 608, lever 610, pin 612, right torsion spring 634R, and left torsion spring 634L.

Buckle housing 608 is a structure which may have a geometry to maintain the placement of the other fixed components of buckle 606, when assembled (e.g., lever 610, pin 612, right torsion spring 634R, and left torsion spring 634L, etc.), and further facilitate the movement of band 602. Buckle housing 608 may include one or more housing pin slot(s) 630, one or more textured grip(s) 656, one or more lever stopper(s) 650, and one or more band retainer(s) 652, one or more band mount tab(s) 642, and one or more double-sided band mount tab(s) 643.

Pin 612 is a structure which may be used to constrain and affix one or more components of buckle 606. Pin 612 may be used as a hinge (e.g., forming an axis of rotation) around which one or more components may pivot (or otherwise rotate). Pin 612 may traverse through one or more hole(s) (of components of buckle 606) and be constrained at one or both distal ends by one or two housing pin slot(s) 630, respectively. For example, lever 610, left torsion spring 634L, and/or right torsion spring 634R may be rotatably affixed (to buckle housing 608) via pin 612.

Housing pin slot 630 may be substantially similar to housing pin slot 130 described with respect to FIGS. 1AA-1FC.

Band insertion 614 may be substantially similar to band insertion 114 described with respect to FIGS. 1AA-1FC.

Band removal 616 may be substantially similar to band removal 116 described with respect to FIGS. 1AA-1FC.

Left torsion spring 634L is a torsion spring which may be installed around pin 612 and tensioned between buckle housing 608 and lever 610. Left torsion spring 634L is a torsion spring that may be tensioned against lever 610 such that lever tooth 626 applies a downward force against band 602 (or through tooth catch hole 604). The torsional force applied by left torsion spring 634L may be sized such that a user of strap 600 may overcome the force (e.g., with their hand) when pressing on pressing surface 660 of lever 610.

Right torsion spring 634R is a torsion spring which may be installed around pin 612 and tensioned between buckle housing 608 and lever 610. Right torsion spring 634R is a torsion spring that may be tensioned against lever 610 such that lever tooth 626 applies a downward force against band 602 (or through tooth catch hole 604). The torsional force applied by right torsion spring 634R may be sized such that a user of strap 600 may overcome the force (e.g., with their hand) when pressing on pressing surface 660 of lever 610.

Textured grip 656 may be substantially similar to textured grip 156 described with respect to FIGS. 1AA-1FC.

Lever stopper 650 is a structure of buckle housing 608 which may prevent lever 610 from pivoting beyond a certain point (e.g., angle) around pin 612. When lever 610 is pivoted to release band 602 (e.g., via pressing surface 660), lever 610 will stop rotating upon contact with lever stopper 650. Additionally, like band retainer 652, lever stopper 650 may additionally constrain the movements of band 602 within buckle housing 608.

Band retainer 652 is a structure of buckle housing 608 which may constrain unwanted movement of band 602. Band retainer 652 may prevent band 602 from moving away from buckle housing 608. As a non-limiting example, when lever tooth 626 disengages with tooth catch hole 604 (e.g., via force on pressing surface 660), band retainer 652 constrains the movement of band 602 and band 602 remains pressed against buckle housing 608. Further, during band insertion 614, band retainer 652 may aid in keeping band 602 aligned with respect to buckle housing 608 to ensure smoother movement of band 602.

Band mount tab 642 is a structure which may protrude from buckle housing 608 and interlock with band mount hole 640. Band mount tab 642 may be rigid and have a geometry that corresponds to band mount hole 640 to allow for interlocking of band 602 to buckle housing 608.

Double-sided band mount tab 643 is a structure which may protrude from buckle housing 608 and interlock with band mount hole 640. Band mount tab 642 may be rigid and have a geometry that corresponds to band mount hole 640 to allow for interlocking of band 602 to buckle housing 608. Double-sided band mount tab 643 may include two protrusions, extending in opposite directions, so that band 602 is better constrained on buckle housing 608 (e.g., not allowing for band 602 to disconnect by merely translating in one direction).

Band mount hole 640 is a hole through band 602 which may interlock with band mount tab 642 and/or double-sided band mount tab 643 (of buckle housing 608). Band 602 may include multiple band mount holes 640 (e.g., two as shown in FIG. 6BA) to interlock with a respective number of band mount tabs 642 and/or double-sided band mount tabs 643. When band mount holes 640 are installed on band mount tab 642 and/or double-sided band mount tabs 643, band 602 may be rigidly affixed to buckle housing 608 preventing undesirable detachment of band 602 from buckle housing 608.

Lever 610 is a structure which may constrain the movement of band 602. Lever 610 may include a lever tooth 626 that, at least partially, traverses a tooth catch hole 604 (of band 602) to prevent band removal 616. Left torsion spring 634L and/or right torsion spring 634R may be tensioned against lever 610 (via lever spring tab 648) to cause lever tooth 626 to apply a downward force against band 602 or through tooth catch hole 604. A user may control lever 610 to remove the interlocking mating of lever tooth 626 with tooth catch hole 604 by reversing the torsion (i.e., rotational force, torque, static moment) applied by left torsion spring 634L and/or right torsion spring 634R.

Lever pin slot 628 may be substantially similar to lever pin slot 128 described with respect to FIGS. 1AA-1FC.

Lever spring tab 648 is a structure which may protrude from lever 610 and provide a rigid surface against which left torsion spring 634L and/or right torsion spring 634R may exert force. In turn, as left torsion spring 634L and/or right torsion spring 634R applies a force to lever spring tab 648, a rotational force (torque) is applied to lever 610 (centered around pin 612). Consequently, lever tooth 626 applies a downward force against band 602, through tooth catch hole 604, and/or generally towards buckle housing 608.

Lever tooth 626 may be substantially similar to lever tooth 126 described with respect to FIGS. 1AA-1FC.

Pressing surface 660 may be substantially similar to pressing surface 160 described with respect to FIGS. 1AA-1FC.

Embodiment 3

FIG. 7AA is a diagram of an example hose clamp. FIG. 7AB is a side view of an example hose clamp. FIG. 7AC is a front view of an example hose clamp.

FIG. 7BA is a top and bottom view of an example band. FIG. 7BB is a diagram of a portion of an example band.

FIG. 7CA is a diagram of an example buckle housing. FIG. 7CB is a diagram of an example buckle housing. FIG. 7CC is a front view of an example buckle housing. FIG. 7CD is a cutaway side view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 7DA is a diagram of an example buckle housing. FIG. 7DB is a diagram of an example buckle housing. FIG. 7DC is a front view of an example buckle housing. FIG. 7DD is a side view of an example buckle housing.

FIG. 7EA is a diagram of an example long catch. FIG. 7EB is a diagram of an example long catch. FIG. 7EC is a side view of an example long catch. FIG. 7ED is a side view of an example long catch.

FIG. 7FA is a diagram of an example short catch. FIG. 7FB is a diagram of an example short catch. FIG. 7FC is a side view of an example short catch. FIG. 7FD is a side view of an example short catch.

Hose clamp 700 is a mechanical device which may be used to apply inward circumferential force and/or pressure around an object. Hose clamp 700 may be used to affix one structure to another (e.g., the end of a flexible hose around a rigid tube). Hose clamp 700 may include band 702 which is inserted into buckle 706 to constrain the movement of band 702.

Band 702 is a flexible structure which may circumferentially wraps around another structure (e.g., an object) and applies inward circumferential force and/or pressure on that other structure. At one end, band 702 may be affixed to buckle housing 708 (e.g., via band mount hole(s) 740 and band mount tab 742). At the opposing end, band 702 may be free or inserted (e.g., via band insertion 716) into buckle 706. In turn, buckle 706 may constrain band 702 from undergoing band removal 717. Band 702 may include tooth catch hole(s) 704.

Tooth catch hole(s) 704 are a series of through holes with chamfered (or otherwise contoured) edges disposed on the exterior face of band 702. Tooth catch hole(s) 704 may be shaped such that each ridge is abutted by a ramp on one side and a drop-off on the opposing side (e.g., a ratchet). Thus, when band 702 is undergoing band insertion 716, long catch teeth 760 and/or short catch teeth 762 may slide over the ramp-side of each ridge of Tooth catch hole(s) 704. However, tooth catch hole(s) 704 (in combination with long catch teeth 760 and/or short catch teeth 762) geometrically and mechanically constrain the reverse movement (band removal 717) of band 702.

Buckle 706 is a mechanical device which includes components which may be used to constrain and/or facilitate the movement of band 702. Buckle 706 may include buckle housing 708 to affix band 702, lever 710, and other components therein.

Buckle housing 708 is a structure which may have a geometry to maintain the placement of the other fixed components of buckle 706, when assembled (e.g., lever 710, lever hinge 728, lever spring 734, etc.), and further facilitate the movement of band 602. Buckle housing 708 may include lever hinge slot 730, catch hinge slot 720, and one or more band mount tab(s) 742.

Lever 710 is a structure (e.g., a handle) which may be used to apply additional translation force of band 702 into buckle 706 (e.g., to cause more band insertion 716). Lever 710 may include lever tooth 726 that mates with tooth catch hole(s) 704 to cause additional movement of band 702. Lever 710 may be biased into a “down” position (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 7AA-7AC) via lever spring 734. A user of hose clamp 700 may use an arm of lever 710 (the “handle side”, away from lever teeth 726) as mechanical advantage to increase the force applied by lever teeth 726 (on the opposing side of lever hinge 728, with a comparatively shorter arm length). The distance from a distal end of lever 710 to lever hinge 728 may be a “handle length”.

Long catch 714 is a structure which locks band 702 into buckle 706. Long catch 714 may be biased into a “down” position via long catch spring 724 such that long catch teeth 760 (on long catch arm 756) maintain contact with tooth catch hole(s) 704. A user may control long catch 714 to remove the interlocking mating of long catch teeth 760 with tooth catch hole(s) 704 by reversing the tortional force (i.e., torque) applied by long catch spring 724. Long catch 714 includes long catch arm 756, which has a longer length than short catch arm 758 (of short catch 715), thus making long catch 714 “long” and short catch 715 “short”.

Short catch 715 is a structure which locks band 702 into buckle 706. Short catch 715 may be biased into a “down” position via short catch spring 725 such that short catch teeth 762 (on short catch arm 758) maintain contact with tooth catch hole(s) 704. A user may control short catch 715 to remove the interlocking mating of short catch teeth 762 with tooth catch hole(s) 704 by reversing the tortional force (i.e., torque) applied by short catch spring 725.

Band insertion 716 is the movement of band 702 into and/or through buckle 706 such as to cause an increase in force (and/or pressure) on a structure circumscribed by hose clamp 700. The direction of band insertion 716 is the opposite of the direction of band removal 717.

Band removal 717 is the movement of band 702 out of and/or through buckle 706 such as to cause a decrease in force (and/or pressure) on a structure circumscribed by hose clamp 700. The direction of band removal 717 is the opposite of the direction of band insertion 716.

Catch hinge 718 is a component which affixes long catch 714 and/or short catch 715 to buckle housing 708 via catch hinge slot 720. Catch hinge 718 may be a pin and/or any other component that translates through the bodies of long catch 714, short catch 715, and buckle housing 708 to constrain the movement of the components.

Catch hinge slot 720 is an opening in buckle housing 708 which allows for long catch 714 and/or short catch 715 to be affixed to buckle 706 via catch hinge 718. Catch hinge slot 720 may be circular to allow for the rotation of catch hinge 718 or catch hinge slot 720 may have a geometry that rigidly affixes to catch hinge 718 (where long catch 714 and/or short catch 715 may pivot around catch hinge 718 independently).

Long catch spring 724 is a torsion spring which may be installed around catch hinge 718 and tensioned between buckle housing 708 and long catch spring tab 752 (of long catch 714). Long catch spring 724 may be tensioned to cause long catch 714 (along with long catch arm 756 and long catch teeth 760) to be biased downward against band 702 (and tooth catch hole(s) 704 thereof). The tortional force applied by long catch spring 724 may be sized such that a user of hose clamp 700 may overcome the force (e.g., with their hand) to cause long catch 714 to detach from interlocking with band 702.

Short catch spring 725 is a torsion spring which may be installed around catch hinge 718 and tensioned between buckle housing 708 and short catch spring tab 754 (of short catch 715). Short catch spring 725 may be tensioned to cause short catch 715 (along with short catch arm 758 and short catch teeth 762) to be biased downward against band 702 (and tooth catch hole(s) 704 thereof). The tortional force applied by short catch spring 725 may be sized such that a user of hose clamp 700 may overcome the force (e.g., with their hand) to cause short catch 715 to detach from interlocking with band 702.

Lever tooth 726 is structure which complements the structure of tooth catch hole(s) 704 and causes additional band insertion 716 when lever 710 undergoes a pivoting lever motion (counteracting the tortional bias of lever spring 734). Lever tooth 726 may be disposed on the opposite side of lever hinge 728 than a handle side of lever 710. Lever tooth 726 may be rigidly affixed to lever 710 (e.g., they may be constructed together as a single structure). Lever tooth 726 may be constructed to have the geometry such that lever tooth 726 inserts into tooth catch hole(s) 704 and forces additional band insertion 716. Thus, when lever 710 undergoes pivoting lever motion (counteracting the tortional bias of lever spring 734), lever tooth 726 contacts and forces tooth catch hole(s) 704 (and band 702 as a whole) to undergo additional band insertion 716. The distance from lever tooth 726 to lever hinge 728 may be a “tooth length”.

Lever hinge 728 is a component which affixes lever 710 to buckle housing 708 via lever hinge slot 730. Lever hinge 728 may be a pin and/or any other component that translates through the bodies of lever 710 and buckle housing 708 to constrain the movement of either component.

Lever hinge slot 730 is an opening in buckle housing 708 which allows for lever 710 to be affixed to buckle 706 via lever hinge 728. Lever hinge slot 730 may be circular to allow for the rotation of lever hinge 728, or lever hinge slot 730 may have a geometry that rigidly affixes to lever hinge 728 (where lever 710 may pivot around lever hinge 728 independently).

Lever spring 734 is a torsion spring which may be installed around lever hinge 728 and tensioned between buckle housing 708 and lever 710. Lever spring 734 may be tensioned to cause lever 710 to be biased downward and not contact band 702. The tortional force applied by lever spring 734 may be sized such that a user of hose clamp 700 may overcome the force (e.g., with their hand) to cause upward lever motion.

Band mount hole 740 is a hole through band 702 designed to interlock with band mount tab 742 of buckle housing 708. Band 702 may include multiple band mount holes 740 (e.g., two as shown in FIG. 7BA) to interlock with a respective number of band mount tab 742. When band mount holes 740 are installed on band mount tabs 742, band 702 may be rigidly affixed to buckle housing 708 preventing undesirable detachment.

Band mount tab 742 is a structure protruding from buckle housing 708 designed to interlock with band mount hole 740. Band mount tab 742 may be rigid and have a geometry that corresponds to band mount hole 740 to allow for interlocking of band 702 to buckle housing 708.

Lever spring tab 750 is a structure protruding from lever 710 designed to provide a rigid surface against which lever spring 734 may exert force. In turn, as lever spring 734 applies a force to lever spring tab 750, a rotational force (torque) is applied to lever 710 (centered around lever hinge 728).

Long catch spring tab 752 is a structure protruding from long catch 714 designed to provide a rigid surface against which long catch spring 724 may exert force. In turn, as long catch spring 724 applies a force to long catch spring tab 752, a rotational force (torque) is applied to long catch 714 (centered around catch hinge 718).

Short catch spring tab 754 is a structure protruding from short catch 715 designed to provide a rigid surface against which short catch spring 725 may exert force. In turn, as short catch spring 725 applies a force to short catch spring tab 754, a rotational force (torque) is applied to short catch 715 (centered around catch hinge 718).

Long catch arm 756 is a structure protruding from long catch 714. Additionally, long catch teeth 760 protrude from a distal end of long catch arm 756 (away from catch hinge 718). Long catch arm 756 may be biased to apply a rotational force against band 702 via long catch spring 724. Long catch arm 756 is longer (i.e., has a greater length) than short catch arm 758.

Short catch arm 758 is a structure protruding from short catch 715. Additionally, short catch teeth 762 protrude from a distal end of short catch arm 758 (away from catch hinge 718). Short catch arm 758 may be biased to apply a rotational force against band 702 via short catch spring 725.

Long catch tooth 760 is structure (protruding from long catch arm 756) which complements the structure of tooth catch hole(s) 704. When pressed into tooth catch hole(s) 704, long catch teeth 760 (and long catch 714, generally) mechanically constrain the movement of band 702. Long catch tooth 760 may be constructed to have the geometry to allow for band insertion 716 by merely applying a pulling force to band 702 (in the direction of band insertion 716). Further, long catch tooth 760 may be constructed to have the geometry to prevent band removal 717 by merely applying a pulling force to band 702 (in the direction of band removal 717).

Short catch tooth 762 is structure (protruding from short catch arm 758) which complements the structure of tooth catch hole(s) 704. When pressed into tooth catch hole(s) 704, short catch teeth 762 (and short catch 715, generally) mechanically constrain the movement of band 702. Short catch tooth 762 may be constructed to have the geometry to allow for band insertion 716 by merely applying a pulling force to band 702 (in the direction of band insertion 716). Further, short catch tooth 762 may be constructed to have the geometry to prevent band removal 717 by merely applying a pulling force to band 702 (in the direction of band removal 717).

In any embodiment, long catch 714 may include two long catch teeth 760 disposed in two longitudinally adjacent tooth catch holes 704. Further, short catch 715 may include two short catch teeth 762 disposed in two longitudinally adjacent tooth catch holes 704. One of the tooth catch holes 704 occupied by a long catch tooth 760 may be laterally adjacent to one of the tooth catch holes 704 occupied by a short catch tooth 762.

Embodiment 4

FIG. 8A is a diagram of an example hose clamp. FIG. 8BA is a side view of a buckle with the main lever in a down position. FIG. 8BB is a rear view of a buckle (view from the side of the ratchet lever). FIG. 8CA is a side view of a buckle with the main lever in an up position. FIG. 8CB is a front view of a buckle (view from the side of the main lever).

Hose clamp 800 is a mechanical device which may be used to apply inward circumferential force and/or pressure around an object. Hose clamp 800 may be used to affix one structure to another (e.g., the end of a flexible hose around a rigid tube). Hose clamp 800 may include band 802 which is inserted into buckle 806 to constrain the movement of band 802.

Band 802 is a flexible structure which may circumferentially wrap around another structure and apply inward circumferential force and/or pressure on that other structure. At one end, band 802 may be rotationally pinned into buckle 806. At the opposing end, band 802 may be free or inserted (e.g., via band insertion 816) into buckle 806. In turn, buckle 806 may constrain band 802 from undergoing band removal 817. Band 802 may include band teeth 804.

Band teeth 804 are a series of contoured ridges on the exterior face of band 802. Band teeth 804 may be shaped such that each ridge is abutted by a ramp on one side and a drop-off on the opposing side (e.g., a ratchet). Thus, when band 802 is in undergoing band insertion 816, pawl 814 may slide over the ramp-side of each ridge of band teeth 804. However, band teeth 804 (in combination with pawl 814) geometrically and mechanically constrain the reverse movement (band removal 817) of band 802.

Buckle 806 is a mechanical device which includes components which may be used to constrain and/or facilitate the movement of band 802. Buckle 806 may include buckle housing 808 to affix band 802, main lever 810, and ratchet lever 812.

Buckle housing 808 is a structure which may have a geometry to maintain the placement of the other fixed components of buckle 806, when assembled (e.g., main lever 810, main lever hinge 828, main lever spring 834, etc.), and further facilitate the movement of band 802. Buckle housing 808 may include main lever hinge slot 830 and ratchet lever hinge slot 820.

Main lever 810 is a structure (e.g., a handle) which a user may use to apply additional translation force of band 802 into buckle 806 (e.g., to cause more band insertion 816). Main lever 810 may include main lever tooth 826 that mates with band teeth 804 to cause additional movement of band 802. Main lever 810 may be biased into a “down” position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8A and FIG. 8BA) via main lever spring 834. A user of hose clamp 800 may use the longer arm of main lever 810 (the “handle side”, away from main lever hinge 828) as mechanical advantage to increase the force applied by main lever tooth 826 (on the opposing side of main lever hinge 828, with a comparatively shorter arm length). The distance from a distal end of main lever 810 to main lever hinge 828 may be a “handle length”.

Ratchet lever 812 is a structure which a user may use to remove the interlocking mating of pawl 814 with band teeth 804. Ratchet lever 812 and pawl 814 may be rigidly affixed to pawl 814 (e.g., they may be constructed together as a single structure). Ratchet lever 812 may be biased into a “down” position via ratchet lever spring 824 such that pawl 814 maintains contact with band teeth 804.

Pawl 814 is structure which may complement the structure of band teeth 804 to mechanically constrain the movement of band 802. Pawl 814 may be rigidly affixed to ratchet lever 812 (e.g., they may be constructed together as a single structure). Pawl 814 may be constructed to have the geometry of a single tooth (e.g., like that of band teeth 804) but placed in an opposing direction such that the “ramp” of pawl 814 slides against the “ramp”-sides of band teeth 804 to allow for band insertion 816. Further, the flat “drop-off” side of pawl 814 may interact with the flat “drop-off” sides of band teeth 804 to prevent band removal 817.

Band insertion 816 is the movement of band 802 into and/or through buckle 806 such as to cause an increase in force (and/or pressure) on a structure circumscribed by hose clamp 800. The direction of band insertion 816 is the opposite of the direction of band removal 817.

Band removal 817 is the movement of band 802 out of and/or through buckle 806 such as to cause a decrease in force (and/or pressure) on a structure circumscribed by hose clamp 800. The direction of band removal 817 is the opposite of the direction of band insertion 816.

Ratchet lever hinge 818 is a component which may affix ratchet lever 812 to buckle housing 808 via ratchet lever hinge slot 820. Ratchet lever hinge 818 may be a pin and/or any other component that translates through the bodies of ratchet lever 812 and buckle housing 808 to constrain the movement of either component.

Ratchet lever hinge slot 820 is an opening in buckle housing 808 which may allow for ratchet lever 812 to be affixed to buckle 806 via ratchet lever hinge 818. Ratchet lever hinge slot 820 may be circular to allow for the rotation of ratchet lever hinge 818, or ratchet lever hinge slot 820 may have a geometry that rigidly affixes to ratchet lever hinge 818 (where ratchet lever 812 may pivot around ratchet lever hinge 818 independently).

Ratchet lever motion 822 is the rotational and/or pivoting motion of ratchet lever 812 around the ratchet lever hinge 818. Ratchet lever motion 822 may be caused (in an upward direction) by a user applying an upward force on ratchet lever 812. Conversely, ratchet lever motion 822 may be caused (in a downward direction) by ratchet lever spring 824 applying tortional force on ratchet lever 812.

Ratchet lever spring 824 is a torsion spring which may be installed around ratchet lever hinge 818 and tensioned between buckle housing 808 and ratchet lever 812. Ratchet lever spring 824 may be tensioned to cause ratchet lever 812 (and pawl 814 affixed thereto) to be biased downward against band 802 (and band teeth 804 thereof). The tortional force applied by ratchet lever spring 824 may be sized such that a user of hose clamp 800 may overcome the force (e.g., with their hand) to cause upward ratchet lever motion 822.

Main lever tooth 826 is structure which may complement the structure of band teeth 804 and cause additional band insertion 816 when main lever 810 undergoes (upward) main lever motion 832. Main lever tooth 826 may be disposed on the opposite side of main lever hinge 828 than the handle side of main lever 810. Main lever tooth 826 may be rigidly affixed to main lever 810 (e.g., they may be constructed together as a single structure). Main lever tooth 826 may be constructed to have the geometry of a single tooth (e.g., like that of band teeth 804) but placed in an opposing direction such that the flat “drop-off” side of main lever tooth 826 presses against the flat “drop-off” side of any tooth of band teeth 804. Thus, when main lever 810 undergoes upward main lever motion 832, main lever tooth 826 contacts and forces band teeth 804 (and band 802 as a whole) to undergo additional band insertion 816. The distance from main lever tooth 826 to main lever hinge 828 may be a “tooth length”.

Main lever hinge 828 is a component which may affix main lever 810 to buckle housing 808 via main lever hinge slot 830. Main lever hinge 828 may be a pin and/or any other component that translates through the bodies of main lever 810 and buckle housing 808 to constrain the movement of either component.

Main lever hinge slot 830 is an opening in buckle housing 808 which allows for main lever 810 to be affixed to buckle 806 via main lever hinge 828. Main lever hinge slot 830 may be circular to allow for the rotation of main lever hinge 828, or main lever hinge slot 830 may have a geometry that rigidly affixes to main lever hinge 828 (where main lever 810 may pivot around main lever hinge 828 independently).

Main lever motion 832 is the rotational and/or pivoting motion of main lever 810 around the main lever hinge 828. Main lever motion 832 may be caused (in an upward direction) by a user applying an upward force on main lever 810. Conversely, main lever motion 832 may be caused (in a downward direction) by main lever spring 834 applying tortional force on main lever 810.

Main lever spring 834 is a torsion spring which may be installed around main lever hinge 828 and tensioned between buckle housing 808 and main lever 810. Main lever spring 834 may be tensioned to cause main lever 810 to be biased downward and not contact band 802. The tortional force applied by main lever spring 834 may be sized such that a user of hose clamp 800 may overcome the force (e.g., with their hand) to cause upward main lever motion 832.

Statements

The systems and methods may comprise any of the various features disclosed herein, comprising one or more of the following statements.

Statement 1. A strap, comprising a buckle a lever affixed to the buckle a lever tooth disposed on the lever a band affixed to the buckle; a plurality of tooth catch holes disposed on the band.

Statement 2. The strap of statement 1, wherein the plurality of tooth catch holes are adapted to interlock with the lever tooth.

Statement 3. The strap of statement 2, wherein each tooth catch hole, of the plurality of tooth catch holes, comprises hole contours.

Statement 4. The strap of statement 3, wherein the lever tooth comprises tooth contours.

Statement 5. The strap of statement 4, wherein the hole contours and the tooth contours are adapted to permit the tooth contours to slide along the hole contours when the band is undergoing band insertion.

Statement 6. The strap of statement 5, wherein each tooth catch hole, of the plurality of tooth catch holes, is adapted to contact the lever tooth to prevent a band removal of the band.

Statement 7. The strap of statement 6, wherein the lever is adapted to pivot around a pin causing the lever tooth to disengage with the band.

Statement 8. The strap of statement 7, wherein when the lever is disengaged from the band, the band removal is unobstructed.

Statement 9. The strap of any of statements 1-8, wherein the band comprises a stop surface.

Statement 10. The strap of statement 9, wherein the buckle comprises a shoulder stop.

Statement 11. The strap of statement 10, wherein the stop surface is adapted to mate with the shoulder stop.

Statement 12. The strap of statement 11, wherein the stop surface is adapted to affix the band with respect to the buckle during a band insertion of the band.

Statement 13. The strap of any of statements 1-12, wherein the band comprises a retention surface.

Statement 14. The strap of statement 13, wherein the buckle comprises a retention lip.

Statement 15. The strap of statement 14, wherein the retention surface is adapted to mate with the retention lip.

Statement 16. The strap of statement 15, wherein the retention surface is adapted to affix the band with respect to the buckle during a band removal of the band.

Statement 17. The strap of any of statements 1-16, wherein the buckle comprises a first band slot adapted to allow a first portion of the band to fit therein; a second band slot adapted to allow a second portion of the band to fit therein.

Statement 18. The strap of statement 17, wherein a fixed end of the band is disposed against the first band slot.

Statement 19. The strap of statement 18, wherein the lever tooth is adapted to interlock with the band in the second band slot.

Statement 20. The strap of statement 19, wherein the second band slot is disposed between the first band slot and the lever.

General Notes

As it is impracticable to disclose every conceivable embodiment of the technology described herein, the figures, examples, and description provided herein disclose only a limited number of potential embodiments. A person of ordinary skill in the relevant art would appreciate that any number of potential variations or modifications may be made to the explicitly disclosed embodiments, and that such alternative embodiments remain within the scope of the broader technology. Accordingly, the scope should be limited only by the attached claims. Further, the compositions and methods are described in terms of “comprising,” “containing,” or “including” various components or steps, the compositions and methods may also “consist essentially of” or “consist of” the various components and steps. Moreover, the indefinite articles “a” or “an,” as used in the claims, are defined herein to mean one or more than one of the elements that it introduces. Certain technical details, known to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art, may be omitted for brevity and to avoid cluttering the description of the novel aspects.

For further brevity, descriptions of similarly named components may be omitted if a description of that similarly named component exists elsewhere in the application. Accordingly, any component described with respect to a specific figure may be equivalent to one or more similarly named components shown or described in any other figure, and each component incorporates the description of every similarly named component provided in the application (unless explicitly noted otherwise). A description of any component is to be interpreted as an optional embodiment-which may be implemented in addition to, in conjunction with, or in place of an embodiment of a similarly-named component described for any other figure.

Lexicographical Notes

As used herein, adjective ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third, etc.) are used to distinguish between elements and do not create any ordering of the elements. As an example, a “first element” is distinct from a “second element”, but the “first element” may come after (or before) the “second element” in an ordering of elements. Accordingly, an order of elements exists only if ordered terminology is expressly provided (e.g., “before”, “between”, “after”, etc.) or a type of “order” is expressly provided (e.g., “chronological”, “alphabetical”, “by size”, etc.). Further, use of ordinal numbers does not preclude the existence of other elements. As an example, a “table with a first leg and a second leg” is any table with two or more legs (e.g., two legs, five legs, thirteen legs, etc.). A maximum quantity of elements exists only if express language is used to limit the upper bound (e.g., “two or fewer”, “exactly five”, “nine to twenty”, etc.). Similarly, singular use of an ordinal number does not imply the existence of another element. As an example, a “first threshold” may be the only threshold and therefore does not necessitate the existence of a “second threshold”.

As used herein, indefinite articles “a” and “an” mean “one or more”. That is, the explicit recitation of “an” element does not preclude the existence of a second element, a third element, etc. Further, definite articles (e.g., “the”, “said”) mean “any one of” (the “one or more” elements) when referring to previously introduced element(s). As an example, there may exist “a processor”, where such a recitation does not preclude the existence of any number of other processors. Further, “the processor receives data, and the processor processes data” means “any one of the one or more processors receives data” and “any one of the one or more processors processes data”. It is not required that the same processor both (i) receive data and (ii) process data. Rather, each of the steps (“receive” and “process”) may be performed by different processors.

As used herein, “strap” and “hose clamp” may be used to describe different embodiments. However, any embodiment designated as a “strap” may function as a “hose clamp”. Similarly, any embodiment designated as a “hose clamp” may function as a “strap”. Further, any reference to “strap” or “hose clamp” is not limited to any particular embodiment in the specification.

	Number	Date	Country
	63615198	Dec 2023	US
	63551387	Feb 2024	US

	Number	Date	Country
Parent	29956126	Aug 2024	US
Child	18932372		US
Parent	29956127	Aug 2024	US
Child	18932372		US

FLEXIBLE RATCHETING STRAP

Information

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Date Filed

Date Published

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CPC

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Abstract

Description

Claims

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Provisional Applications (2)

Continuation in Parts (2)