Split Piping Slider

Abstract

Disclosed is a split piping slider to attach to a fabric article via piping rail. The split piping slider includes an attachment structure, a first collar, and a second collar. The attachment structure includes a first end and a second end. The first collar is coupled to the attachment structure at the first end to define a first connection region and to attach to or slide along the piping rail. The second collar is coupled to the attachment structure at the second end to define a second connection region and to attach to or slide along the piping rail. The split piping slider to flexes at one or more points along the attachment structure or at the first connection region and the second connection region in response to applying a tensile force to the attachment structure.

Description

BACKGROUND

Piping is a functional and decorative trim that is typically sewn along the seams and edges of articles made from fabric, such as backpacks, garments, and other articles. This narrow strip of fabric, which often encloses a cord, serves multiple purposes, including structural support, shape maintenance, aesthetic enhancement, edge protection, and more. Piping adds strength to the seams and edges of the article, helping it to withstand the stresses of carrying heavy loads. This reinforcement helps to prevent the seams from tearing or fraying over time, ensuring that the article remains intact and usable for a longer period. By reinforcing these vulnerable areas, piping contributes significantly to the overall durability of the article. The stiffened edges created by piping help the article maintain its intended shape.

Piping can be used to add a visual accent to the backpack. It often comes in contrasting or complementary colors, which can make the design more attractive and stylish. For instance, a backpack might have black piping along the edges of brightly colored or patterned fabric, creating a striking visual contrast that enhances the overall look of the bag. This decorative use of piping allows designers to add a touch of flair and personality to the product, making it more appealing to consumers. By covering the raw edges of the fabric, piping helps prevent fraying and wear. This protective function extends the life of the backpack, especially in high-stress areas like the corners and edges. These are the parts of the backpack that are most prone to damage, and the added protection from the piping helps to mitigate this wear and tear, ensuring that the backpack remains functional and attractive for a longer time. Piping, therefore, enhances both the durability and appearance of an article, making it a practical and appealing feature in the design and construction thereof.

Despite the advancements to date, a need exists for a device that can couple with piping to serve as a handle, attachment point, and other functions. Such a device would further expand the utility of piping, allowing it to contribute even more to the functionality and versatility of the article.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates generally to a split piping slider, substantially as illustrated by and described in connection with at least one of the figures, as set forth more completely in the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the devices, systems, and methods described herein will be apparent from the following description of particular examples thereof, as illustrated in the accompanying figures; where like or similar reference numbers refer to like or similar structures. The figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the devices, systems, and methods described herein.

FIG. 1a illustrates a perspective view of a piping slider system in accordance with an aspect of this disclosure.

FIGS. 1b and 1c illustrate side elevation views of the piping slider system.

FIG. 1d illustrates a top plan view of the piping slider system.

FIGS. 1e and 1f illustrate side elevation views of the piping slider system, respectively, without and with a tensile force applied to the split piping slider.

FIG. 2a illustrates a perspective view of a split piping slider in accordance with a first aspect of this disclosure.

FIGS. 2b through 2e illustrate, respectively, first, second, third, and fourth side elevation views of the split piping slider.

FIGS. 2f and 2g illustrate, respectively, top and bottom plan views of the split piping slider.

FIG. 3a illustrates a perspective view of a split piping slider in accordance with a second aspect of this disclosure.

FIGS. 3b through 3e illustrate, respectively, first, second, third, and fourth side elevation views of the split piping slider.

FIGS. 3f and 3g illustrate, respectively, top and bottom plan views of the split piping slider.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

References to items in the singular should be understood to include items in the plural, and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise or clear from the text. Grammatical conjunctions are intended to express any and all disjunctive and conjunctive combinations of conjoined clauses, sentences, words, and the like, unless otherwise stated or clear from the context. Recitation of ranges of values herein are not intended to be limiting, referring instead individually to any and all values falling within and/or including the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value within such a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. In the following description, it is understood that terms such as “first,” “second,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “front,” “back,” and the like are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms. For example, while in some examples a first side is located adjacent or near a second side, the terms “first side” and “second side” do not imply any specific order in which the sides are ordered.

The terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” or the like, when accompanying a numerical value, are to be construed as indicating a deviation as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art to operate satisfactorily for an intended purpose. Ranges of values and/or numeric values are provided herein as examples only, and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of the disclosure. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (“e.g.,” “such as,” or the like) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the disclosed examples and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the disclosure. The terms “e.g.,” and “for example” set off lists of one or more non-limiting examples, instances, or illustrations. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any unclaimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosed examples.

The term “and/or” means any one or more of the items in the list joined by “and/or.” As an example, “x and/or y” means any element of the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, “x and/or y” means “one or both of x and y”. As another example, “x, y, and/or z” means any element of the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}. In other words, “x, y, and/or z” means “one or more of x, y, and z.”

Described is a split piping slider configured for use in conjunction with a fabric article having piping, such as bags, backpacks, garments, etc.

In one example, a split piping slider configured to attach to a fabric article via piping rail comprises: an attachment structure having a first end and a second end; a first collar coupled to the attachment structure at the first end to define a first connection region and configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail; and a second collar coupled to the attachment structure at the second end to define a second connection region and configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail, wherein, in response to applying a tensile force to the attachment structure, the split piping slider is configured to flex at one or more points along the attachment structure or at the first connection region and the second connection region.

In another example, a split piping slider configured to attach to a fabric article via piping rail comprises: a webbing rod having a first end and a second end, the webbing rod configured to attach with a webbing strap; a first collar coupled to the webbing rod at the first end to define a first connection region and configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail, wherein the first collar comprises a first channel configured to receive at least a first portion of the piping rail via a first slot; and a second collar coupled to the webbing rod at the second end to define a second connection region and configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail, wherein the second collar comprises a second channel configured to receive at least a second portion of the piping rail via a second slot, and wherein, in response to applying a tensile force to the webbing rod, the split piping slider is configured to flex at one or more points along the webbing rod or at the first connection region and the second connection region.

In yet another example, a split piping slider configured to attach to a fabric article via piping rail comprises: a webbing rod having a first end and a second end, the webbing rod configured to attach with a webbing strap; a first collar coupled to the webbing rod at the first end to define a first connection region and configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail, wherein the first collar comprises a first channel configured to receive at least a first portion of the piping rail via a first slot; and a second collar coupled to the webbing rod at the second end to define a second connection region and configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail, wherein the second collar comprises a second channel configured to receive at least a second portion of the piping rail via a second slot, and wherein, in response to applying a tensile force to the webbing rod, the split piping slider is configured to flex at one or more points along the webbing rod or at the first connection region and the second connection region such that the first collar and the second collar are torqued toward each other.

In some examples, material thickness is reduced to redistribute stress to localize flexibility at the one or more points along the webbing rod or at the first connection region and the second connection region.

In some examples, the first collar comprises a first channel configured to receive at least a first portion of the piping rail via a first slot and the second collar comprises a second channel configured to receive at least a second portion of the piping rail via a second slot.

In some examples, the first channel defines a first axis and the second channel defines a second axis.

In some examples, the first axis and the second axis are (1) parallel or concentric in an absence of the tensile force, and/or (2) transverse in response to applying a tensile force.

In some examples, the split piping slider is configured to flex at one or more points along the attachment structure.

In some examples, the split piping slider is configured to flex at the first connection region and the second connection region.

In some examples, a diameter of each of the first channel and the second channel is between 4 mm and 5 mm.

In some examples, the attachment structure, the first collar, and the second collar collectively define a C-shaped profile.

In some examples, the attachment structure is linear or curved.

In some examples, the attachment structure is a handle.

In some examples, the attachment structure comprises one or more fasteners.

In some examples, the attachment structure is a webbing bar.

FIG. 1a illustrates a perspective view of a piping slider system 100 in accordance with an aspect of this disclosure. FIGS. 1b and 1c illustrate side elevation views of the piping slider system 100, while FIG. 1d illustrates a top plan view of the piping slider system 100. FIGS. 1e and 1f illustrate side elevation views of the piping slider system 100, respectively, without and with a tensile force applied to the split piping slider 102.

The piping slider system 100 generally comprises a split piping slider 102 and a fabric article 104. As illustrated, the split piping slider 102 is configured to attach to the fabric article 104 via piping rail 106 formed along at least a portion of an edge of the fabric article 104. The piping rail 106 can be typically sewn along the seams and/or edges of the fabric article 104 and encloses a cord (or other core material) to increase its structural integrity.

The fabric articles 104 can be made from a variety of materials, depending on the intended use and desired characteristics. Example materials include, for example, cotton, polyester, leather, nylon, canvas, denim, velvet, linen, wool, polyurethane leather, microfiber, suede, corduroy, twill, satin, etc. Example fabric articles 104 include, for example, backpacks, handbags, luggage, and clothing like jackets and dresses. Additional example include home decor items such as pillows, cushions, and bedding, as well as upholstery on furniture. In addition, the fabric articles 104 could include outdoor gear like tents and sleeping bags, pet accessories, sports equipment bags, baby gear, costumes, and vehicle covers.

An objective of the split piping slider 102 is to provide a movable attachment point along the piping rail 106. The split piping slider 102, therefore, allows for adjustable and repositionable points of attachment without the need for sewing or use of permanent fixtures. Split piping sliders 102 are particularly useful in modular designs where flexibility and customization are useful. For example, on a backpack, a split piping slider 102 may be used to attach adjustable straps, carabiners, water bottles, or other gear. In garments, they can be used to adjust the fit or add decorative elements.

The use of split piping sliders 102 offers several benefits, such as ease of use, versatility, and enhanced durability. Split piping sliders 102 can be easily attached and repositioned without the need for tools. Split piping sliders 102 can also add functionality to items, allowing for various configurations and adjustments.

By distributing stress along the piping rail 106, split piping sliders 102 help in maintaining the integrity of the fabric item. Split piping sliders 102 are therefore versatile and practical component that enhances the functionality and adaptability of fabric articles 104 with piping rail 106, allowing for adjustable attachment points and increased utility. The split piping slider 102 is configured to support the weight and tension applied to them without damaging the piping rail 106.

The illustrated split piping slider 102 is configured to couple a webbing strap 118 to the fabric article 104, examples of which are illustrated in FIGS. 1e and 1f. The webbing strap 118 is a durable, generally flat, woven strip of material that can be used for securing, fastening, and supporting loads in a variety of applications.

While the various examples herein describe a split piping slider 102 configured to engage a webbing strap 118, the disclosed split piping slider 102 can be used for various purposes, such as attaching other accessories, serving as handles, or the like. To that end, the present disclosure should not be limited to use with webbing straps 118.

As illustrated, the split piping slider 102 generally comprises an attachment structure 110 and one or more collars 108. The one or more collars 108 are configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail 106, while the attachment structure 110 is configured to couple with, to, or otherwise engage the item being attached to the fabric article 104 (e.g., a webbing strap 118).

In the illustrated example, the split piping slider 102 comprises two collars 108 bridged by the attachment structure 110 to define a generally c-shaped side profile (as best shown in FIG. 1b) with a pass-through opening 112. The two collars 108 bridged by the attachment structure 110, in effect, creates a handle-like shape.

The attachment structure 110 can be generally linear (as illustrated), curved, or otherwise. In the illustrated example of webbing straps, the attachment structure 110 can be a webbing bar whereby the webbing strap is passed through the pass-through opening 112 sewn around the attachment structure 110 (here, a webbing bar) and onto itself.

While illustrated as a webbing bar, in other examples, the attachment structure 110 can be shaped as a handle for manipulation by a user, in which case the attachment structure 110 may be configured to increase ergonomics and functionality (e.g., providing a comfortable and secure grip). In other examples, the attachment structure 110 may include or be configured to engage one or more fastener, such as snaps, clips, threaded fasteners, etc.

With reference to FIGS. 1e and 1f, the split piping sliders 102 are subjected to forces during use. For example, the split piping sliders 102 can experience tensile force applied by webbing strap 118 (or other component) that is sewn to the attachment structure 110 in the direction indicated by arrow 114. Under this tensile load, the collars 108 of the split piping slider 102 are configured to hold on to the piping rail 106 to prevent a pull-off failure.

As best illustrated in FIG. 1f, the disclosed split piping slider 102 employs a unique feature to increase the hold strength on the piping rail 106 when a tensile force is applied in the direction indicated by arrow 114. That is, as the tensile force is increased, the split piping slider 102 begins to flex.

As the split piping slider 102 flexes, the two separate collars 108 are torqued toward each other as indicated by arrows 116a, 116b. As illustrated, in response to the torqueing, the two collars 108 are brought closer together and rotated/pivoted. This torqueing action increases the hold strength of the split piping slider 102, preventing a pull-off failure. To that end, the split piping slider 102 can be figured to flex at one or more points along the attachment structure 110 or at the connection regions 120 between the attachment structure 110 and the collars 108. More specifically, in the illustrated example, each end of the attachment structure 110 is coupled to a collar 108 at a connection region 120.

In the example illustrated in FIGS. 1e and 1f, the upper collar 108 defines a first channel axis 122a (i.e., an axis concentric with the channel 202 of the upper collar 108) and the lower collar 108 defines a second channel axis 122b (i.e., an axis concentric with the channel 202 of the lower collar 108). In the absence of a tensile force (i.e., the relaxed state of FIG. 1e), the first channel axis 122a and the second channel axis 122b are concentric (i.e., sharing a common access) and/or parallel to one another, thus allowing the split piping slider 102 to slide along the piping rail 106. Upon applying a tensile force (i.e., the loaded state of FIG. 1e), the split piping slider 102 flexes at one or more points along the attachment structure 110 or at the connection regions 120 such that the first channel axis 122a and the second channel axis 122b are transverse and/or non-parallel to one another, thus allowing the split piping slider 102 to better-grip the piping rail 106.

To facilitate and direct flexing to one or more targeted points, the split piping slider 102 can be shaped to decrease rigidity at one or more targeted points. One technique to reduce the rigidity of a split piping slider 102 at specific locations is through the incorporation of features such as ribs, gussets, or thin sections in those areas. These features can be strategically designed to decrease material thickness and redistribute stress, resulting in localized flexibility, while maintaining overall structural integrity. Additionally, introducing cutouts, holes, or relief patterns in the split piping slider 102 can also help reduce stiffness by allowing for controlled deformation in targeted regions. Finally, altering the material composition by blending or reinforcing with additives like fibers or fillers can tailor the mechanical properties, enhancing flexibility in desired locations while preserving strength elsewhere.

The split piping slider 102 can be fabricated from, for example, a synthetic or semi-synthetic polymers (e.g., plastics, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyoxymethylene (POM) (t also known as acetal, polyacetal, and polyformaldehyde), etc.), composite materials (e.g., fiber glass), or a combination thereof using a plastic injection technique, additive manufacturing, or otherwise. In some examples, the split piping slider 102 may be fabricated using material extrusion (e.g., fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), material jetting, binder jetting, powder bed fusion, directed energy deposition, VAT photopolymerisation, and/or any other suitable type of additive manufacturing/3D printing process. In other examples, the split piping slider 102 may be fabricated from a metal (or a metal alloy).

Additive manufacturing techniques print objects in three dimensions, therefore both the minimum feature size (i.e., resolution) of the X-Y plane (horizontal resolution) and the layer height in Z-axis (vertical resolution) are considered in overall printer resolution. Horizontal resolution is the smallest movement the printer's extruder can make within a layer on the X and the Y axis, while vertical resolution is the minimal thickness of a layer that the printer produces in one pass. Printer resolution describes layer thickness and X-Y resolution in dots per inch (DPI) or micrometers (μm). The particles (3D dots) in the horizontal resolution can be around 50 to 100 μm (510 to 250 DPI) in diameter. Typical layer thickness (vertical resolution) is around 100 μm (250 DPI), although the layers may be as thin as 16 μm (1,600 DPI). The smaller the particles, the higher the horizontal resolution (i.e., higher the details the printer produces). Similarly, the smaller the layer thickness in Z-axis, the higher the vertical resolution (i.e., the smoother the printed surface will be). A printing process in a higher vertical resolution printing, however, will take longer to produce finer layers as the printer has to produce more layers. In some examples, portions of the split piping slider 102 may be formed or otherwise fabricated at different resolutions during a printing operation.

FIG. 2a illustrates a perspective view of a split piping slider 102 in accordance with a first aspect of this disclosure. FIGS. 2b through 2e illustrate, respectively, first, second, third, and fourth side elevation views of the split piping slider 102, while FIGS. 2f and 2g illustrate, respectively, top and bottom plan views of the split piping slider 102.

As mention in connection with FIGS. 1a through 1f, the illustrated split piping slider 102 comprises two collars 108 bridged by the attachment structure 110 to define a generally c-shaped side profile with a pass-through opening 112. The one or more collars 108 are configured to fit over the piping rail 106. Each of the one or more collars 108 devices a channel 202 configured to accommodates the diameter of the piping rail 106. In the illustrated examples, the attachment structure 110 is generally linear and non-parallel to the piping rail 106 (when installed). In other examples, it is contemplated that the attachment structure 110 can be parallel to the piping rail 106 (when installed).

Each of the one or more collars 108 defines a channel 202 that is split via a slot 204 (e.g., an opening, splice, cut, or similar) that allows the one or more collars 108 to be easily attached to or detached from the piping rail 106. The outer diameter of the piping rail 106 can vary depending on the type of fabric article 104 and can be, for example, between 2 mm and 15 mm, between 3 mm and 10 mm, between 4 mm and 5 mm, or about 4.3 mm in this example.

The width of the webbing strap 118 can vary depending on the application and can be, for example, between 5 mm and 40 mm, between 10 mm and 20 mm, or about 15 mm in this example. The distance between the first collar 108 and second collar 108 can therefore be configured to accommodate the width of a selected webbing strap 118. In some examples, the distance between the first collar 108 and second collar 108 can be slightly larger (e.g., 1 mm to 3 mm) than the width of the selected webbing strap 118 to enable the webbing strap 118 to pass therethrough without buckling, wrinkling, or otherwise.

The inner diameter of the channel 202 can be slightly larger than the outer diameter of the piping rail 106 to accommodate the piping rail 106, while allowing the collars 108 to be slid onto and along the piping rail 106. For example, the inner diameter of the channel 202 can be 1 or 2 mm larger or 5% to 15% larger than the outer diameter of the piping rail 106.

FIG. 3a illustrates a perspective view of a split piping slider 102 in accordance with a second aspect of this disclosure. FIGS. 3b through 3e illustrate, respectively, first, second, third, and fourth side elevation views of the split piping slider 102, while FIGS. 3f and 3g illustrate, respectively, top and bottom plan views of the split piping slider 102.

The split piping slider 102 of FIGS. 3a through 3g is substantially the same as the split piping slider 102 of FIGS. 2a through 2g except that the distance between the first collar 108 and second collar 108 is configured to accommodate a webbing strap 118 that is 20 mm in width.

While the present method and/or system has been described with reference to certain implementations, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present method and/or system. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from its scope. For example, block and/or components of disclosed examples may be combined, divided, re-arranged, and/or otherwise modified. Therefore, the present method and/or system are not limited to the particular implementations disclosed. Instead, the present method and/or system will include all implementations falling within the scope of the appended claims, both literally and under the doctrine of equivalents.

Claims

1. A split piping slider configured to attach to a fabric article via piping rail, the split piping slider comprising: an attachment structure having a first end and a second end;a first collar coupled to the attachment structure at the first end to define a first connection region and configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail; anda second collar coupled to the attachment structure at the second end to define a second connection region and configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail,wherein, in response to applying a tensile force to the attachment structure, the split piping slider is configured to flex at one or more points along the attachment structure or at the first connection region and the second connection region.

2. The split piping slider of claim 1, wherein the first collar comprises a first channel configured to receive at least a first portion of the piping rail via a first slot and the second collar comprises a second channel configured to receive at least a second portion of the piping rail via a second slot.

3. The split piping slider of claim 2, wherein the first channel defines a first axis and the second channel defines a second axis.

4. The split piping slider of claim 3, wherein the first axis and the second axis are parallel or concentric in an absence of the tensile force.

5. The split piping slider of claim 3, wherein the first axis and the second axis are transverse in response to applying a tensile force.

6. The split piping slider of claim 1, wherein the split piping slider is configured to flex at one or more points along the attachment structure.

7. The split piping slider of claim 1, wherein the split piping slider is configured to flex at the first connection region and the second connection region.

8. The split piping slider of claim 2, wherein a diameter of each of the first channel and the second channel is between 4 mm and 5 mm.

9. The split piping slider of claim 1, wherein the attachment structure, the first collar, and the second collar collectively define a C-shaped profile.

10. The split piping slider of claim 1, wherein the attachment structure is linear.

11. The split piping slider of claim 1, wherein the attachment structure is curved.

12. The split piping slider of claim 1, wherein the attachment structure is a handle.

13. The split piping slider of claim 1, wherein the attachment structure comprises one or more fasteners.

14. The split piping slider of claim 1, wherein the attachment structure is a webbing bar.

15. A split piping slider configured to attach to a fabric article via piping rail, the split piping slider comprising: a webbing rod having a first end and a second end, the webbing rod configured to attach with a webbing strap;a first collar coupled to the webbing rod at the first end to define a first connection region and configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail, wherein the first collar comprises a first channel configured to receive at least a first portion of the piping rail via a first slot; anda second collar coupled to the webbing rod at the second end to define a second connection region and configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail, wherein the second collar comprises a second channel configured to receive at least a second portion of the piping rail via a second slot, andwherein, in response to applying a tensile force to the webbing rod, the split piping slider is configured to flex at one or more points along the webbing rod or at the first connection region and the second connection region.

16. The split piping slider of claim 15, wherein the first channel defines a first axis and the second channel defines a second axis, andwherein the first axis and the second axis are parallel or concentric in an absence of the tensile force.

17. The split piping slider of claim 15, wherein the first channel defines a first axis and the second channel defines a second axis, andwherein the first axis and the second axis are transverse in response to applying a tensile force.

18. The split piping slider of claim 15, wherein material thickness is reduced to redistribute stress to localize flexibility at the one or more points along the webbing rod or at the first connection region and the second connection region.

19. A split piping slider configured to attach to a fabric article via piping rail, the split piping slider comprising: a webbing rod having a first end and a second end, the webbing rod configured to attach with a webbing strap;a first collar coupled to the webbing rod at the first end to define a first connection region and configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail, wherein the first collar comprises a first channel configured to receive at least a first portion of the piping rail via a first slot; anda second collar coupled to the webbing rod at the second end to define a second connection region and configured to attach to or slide along the piping rail, wherein the second collar comprises a second channel configured to receive at least a second portion of the piping rail via a second slot, andwherein, in response to applying a tensile force to the webbing rod, the split piping slider is configured to flex at one or more points along the webbing rod or at the first connection region and the second connection region such that the first collar and the second collar are torqued toward each other.

20. The split piping slider of claim 19, wherein material thickness is reduced to redistribute stress to localize flexibility at the one or more points along the webbing rod or at the first connection region and the second connection region.