Coupling system

Abstract

An exemplary coupling system described herein enables an individual to mount various accessories to a tree or stable column. According to one exemplary embodiment, the coupling system includes a set of corresponding mating members which have various attached accessories. Consequently, the system provides a convenient, portable, and inexpensive means to exploit the advantages of a tree for the purposes of hunting and/or nature watching.

Description

FIELD

[0001] The present exemplary system and method relates to the field of bracketing and mounting technology. More specifically, the present exemplary system and method relate to a mounting system configured to be used in tandem with hunting or nature watching equipment.

BACKGROUND

[0002] For many years hunters, bird watchers, and nature enthusiasts have found that elevated observation points enhance their ability to conceal themselves while proffering them a superior line of sight. In wooded areas, trees offer an abundance of such vantage points. In order to utilize the advantages of a tree, an individual must climb the tree using branches and/or limbs. Unfortunately many trees do not provide sufficient foot and hand holds necessary for easy climbing. Thus, the individual is required to revert to mechanical means to scale such trees.

[0003] Many methods currently exist for attaching steps and/or platforms to trees including screws, pulley systems, chains, and/or industrial strength bands. Problems inherent with such systems include low portability, risk of theft, wear and corrosion due to the elements, prohibitive costs, and limitation of use to one tree at a time.

SUMMARY

[0004] The present system includes a set of corresponding mating members that is mounted to a stable column or tree. In the case of a stable column, a series of heads will run down the sides of the column where the coupling technology can be engaged. In the case of a tree, the system utilizes a threaded member with an attached shank and washer defining an engagement section configured to be coupled to a bracket member including a head receiving slot. The threaded members can be left in a tree for any length of time providing the owner the liberty to remove them at their leisure.

[0005] The present exemplary system provides for easy removal and/or attachment of a bracket that in turn, may be coupled to a tree step, a tree stand, or any number of hunting accessories. The present exemplary system enables the owner to remove the attached apparatus before leaving for the day, providing a large measure of protection from theft. The owner can exploit the mobility of the bracket system by having a single tree stand and/or set of steps that may be use at multiple sites, thereby saving extra expense. Further, the bracket system does not require threading or finding of holes to couple the bracket member to the threaded member, thereby requiring nothing more than low to no light during assembly. Additionally, in the case of steps, a single hand may be used to couple the mating members. Further, it is intended that the present system will be used to mount various objects useful to hunting and nature watching. This bracket system could have, but is not limited to, any of the following attachments, a step, a tree stand, an accessory stand, a feeder system, a pulley system, a camera holder or any similar device.

[0006] It is the object of the present embodiment to improve upon the prior art and provide a portable and reusable system to attach, but is not limited to, any of the following objects a step, a tree stand, an accessory stand, a feeder system, a pulley system, a camera holder or any similar device.

[0007] It is another object of the present embodiment to provide for a system that uses a set of corresponding mating members to couple accessories to a tree.

[0008] It is another object of the present embodiment to provide for a system that uses a set of corresponding mating members to couple the accessories to the head of a specially designed column or ladder.

[0009] It is another object of the present embodiment to provide a system that would be used on multiple trees or columns.

[0010] It is another object of the present embodiment to provide a slotted bracket that has an inverted keyhole designed to receive a threaded member including a defined engagement section.

[0011] It is another object of the present embodiment to provide a system that is easy to attach and remove, thereby increasing the portability and usability of the present system.

[0012] It is another object of the present embodiment to provide a reverse of the coupling system, wherein the slotted bracket could be coupled to a countersunk screw and would accept a specially designed head. Attached to the head is an accessory that could include, but is not limited to, a step, a tree stand, an accessory stand, a feeder system, a pulley system, a camera holder or any similar device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of the present system and method and are a part of the specification. The illustrations are merely exemplary of the present system and method and do not limit the scope thereof.

[0014] FIG. 1 is an assembled perspective view of a collapsible step incorporating an exemplary coupling system, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the components of the collapsible step incorporating the exemplary coupling system, according to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the exemplary collapsible step illustrated in FIG. 1 prior to the coupling of the system, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 4 is an assembled perspective view illustrating an exemplary coupling system, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a disassembled perspective view of the exemplary coupling system of FIG. 4, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a structural column incorporating the present exemplary coupling system, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 7 is a magnified perspective view of the structural column of FIG. 6, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a tree stand that may be coupled to a tree of structural column using the present exemplary coupling system, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 9 is an exploded view illustrating an accessory holder using the present exemplary coupling system, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0023] Throughout the drawing, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The present specification discloses an exemplary system and method for structurally mounting objects to a stable column or tree. More specifically, according to one exemplary embodiment, an exemplary system for structurally mounting objects to a stable column or tree includes mating 40335-0003 members including a slotted bracket in a first member and an exposed shaft having a coupling head in a second member. Further details of the exemplary mounting system will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 through 9.

[0025] As used herein, and in the appended claims, the term "slotted bracket" will be used broadly to refer to any device that serves as the female component of corresponding mating members, wherein it can be, but is not limited to, a plate with an impressed inverted keyhole, hole, slot, or in the case of a reverse system, a plate with an impressed keyhole.

[0026] Additionally, as used herein, and in the appended claims, the term "coupling head" will be used broadly to refer to any device that serves as the male component of corresponding mating members. An exemplary embodiment of the "coupling head" can be, but is not limited to, an engagement section defined by a washer or other protruding member on a first side and a head of a screw, the head of a shank, or any other interfering member configured to provide interference with the slotted bracket when engaged on a second side.

[0027] In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present system and method for forming a removable mounting bracket. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present method may be practiced without these specific details. Reference in the specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The appearance of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0028] The present bracket system includes, according to one exemplary embodiment, a plurality of mating members, wherein a first member includes a slotted bracket and a second member includes a coupling head. FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a bracket system incorporated in a removable step system (1), according to one exemplary embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the exemplary removable tree step system (1) is of the type primarily used for hunting activities, although in no way restricted to that use. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the exemplary tree step system (1) including an exemplary embodiment of the bracket system includes, but is in no way limited to, a screw member (3) and a bracket member (7). According to the illustrated embodiment, the screw member (3) includes a conical screw portion (2), a protruding member (4) such as a stationary washer, an engagement section or shank (5), and an interference coupling head (6). As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the exemplary coupling head (6) may be a bolt head.

[0029] Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the coupling head (6) is matingly received by and coupled to a slotted bracket member (7). According to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the slotted bracket member (7) includes an inverted key hole (8) enabling the slotted bracket member to be coupled to the screw member (3). According to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the slotted bracket member (7) includes a first and a second protrusion or tab (9) attached perpendicularly to the slotted bracket member. As shown, both the first and the second protrusions or tabs (9) includes a hole (10) drilled there through. Additionally, a narrow slot (11) is formed in at least one end of the slotted bracket member (7).

[0030] According to one exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a platform (12) is attached to the slotted bracket member (7). The platform (12) can be utilized as a step and may include, but is not limited to, a top surface area for the foot including at least one surface with machined serration for added traction on step, or any non-slip upper surface (13) to increase the level of safety for users. The exemplary platform (12) may include a hole (14) drilled parallel to the upper surface through which a pin (15) can be inserted to couple the platform to the first and second protrusion tabs (9). The platform (12) also includes an anti slip spike (16) which traverses the narrow slot (11) during assembly to access to the trunk of a tree, as demonstrated in FIGS. 1 and 3.

[0031] FIG. 3 demonstrates how the present exemplary removable tree step system (1) is separated after use. Specifically, the slotted bracket member (7) is slid up allowing the engagement section or shank (5) to slide along the inverted keyhole (8) until the largest portion of the inverted keyhole (8) is adjacent to the interference coupling head (6) of the screw member (3). Once concentrically aligned, the interference coupling head may be passed through the largest portion of the keyhole (8), thereby uncoupling the tree step system (1).

[0032] During use, a hunter or nature observer may selectively insert a number of screw members (3) into a stable column or tree. According to one exemplary embodiment, the screw member (3) may be rotationally driven into the trunk of a tree using a driving device, such as a wrench or drill imparting a rotational force on the interference coupling head (6). As the screw member (3) is rotated, the conical portion (2) of the screw member (3) may be driven into the trunk of a tree until the washer (4) abuts the surface of the tree. According to one exemplary embodiment, the screw member has sufficient threads (not shown), in terms of quantity and height, along the insertable section of the screw member (3) to prevent stripping of the screw member from the tree trunk as the system supports the body weight of a hunter.

[0033] Once the screw member (3) is appropriately anchored in a tree or other stable column, the screw may remain therein for the duration of the season, or for an undetermined period of time.

[0034] With one or more screw members (3) selectively inserted in a tree or other stable column, any number of tree steps or secondary components having a bracket member may be coupled to the screw members (3). Specifically, according to one exemplary embodiment, a tree step may be coupled to the one or more screw members (3), as illustrated in FIG. 1. In order to couple a tree step to the screw members (3), the largest portion of the inverted keyhole (8) section of the bracket member (7) is concentrically aligned with the interference coupling head (6) of the screw member (3). Once aligned, the bracket member (7) is passed over the interference coupling head (6) until the channel portion of the inverted keyhole (8) is aligned with the engagement section or shank (5) of the screw member (3). Once aligned, the bracket member (7) is translated downward causing the engagement section or shank (5) of the screw member (3) to enter the channel portion of the inverted keyhole (8), allowing the interference coupling head (6) to resist removal of the bracket member (7) without an upward force.

[0035] With the bracket member (7) securely coupled to the screw member (3), the exemplary platform (12) may be pivoted about the axis formed by the pin (15). As the exemplary platform (12) is rotated, the anti-slip spike (16) passes through the narrow slot (11) in the bracket member (7) engaging the tree. The anti-slip spike (16) provides a second coupling point for the exemplary removable tree step system (1), resisting rotation of the bracket member (7) about the engagement section or shank (5).

[0036] With the anti-slip spike (16) engaged in the tree or stable column, the user may then climb on the removable tree step system (1) to ascend the tree or stable column (1). The above-mentioned coupling method may be repeatedly performed to couple a plurality of steps to a tree or stable column (1).

[0037] Once the present exemplary removable tree step system (1) is no longer desired for use, the user need not remove the entire system. Rather, to temporarily dismantle the removable tree step system (1), the individual merely disengages the anti-slip spikes (16) by pulling outwardly on the exemplary platform (12). Once the anti-slip spike (16) is dis-engaged, the user may impart an upward force on the exemplary platform (12), concentrically aligning the largest portion of the inverted keyhole (8) with the interference coupling head (6). Once aligned, the bracket member (7) may be removed from the screw member (3).

[0038] One advantage of the present exemplary removable tree step system (1) over traditional tree step systems is that a user may uncouple the tree step and leave the screw member (3) in the tree or stable column for an undetermined period of time. In contrast, most traditional tree step systems include connection hardware that must be removed along with the tree steps. Further, unlike some traditional tree step systems, the present exemplary removable tree step system (1) does not include fine elements such as threads for coupling the screw member (3) to the bracket member (7). Consequently, the present exemplary removable tree step system (1) is not susceptible to corrosion, freezing, disfigurement, and/or other element induced failures. Moreover, due the interchangeable nature of the present removable tree step system (1), a user may insert a number of screw members (3) in a plurality of trees and/or stable columns and use a single set of bracket members (7) to selectively engage the screw members. This will reduce the overall cost to a hunter of having access to multiple sites. Further, a hunter may remove the bracket member (7) and associated exemplary platform or step (12) after each use to eliminate the risk of theft.

[0039] When access to the identified tree or stable column is no longer desired, a user may completely dismantle the removable tree step system (1). Particularly, according to one exemplary embodiment, a user may completely dismantle the removable tree step system (1) by removing the screw member (3) from the tree or stable column. According to one exemplary embodiment, the screw member (3) is removed by imparting a rotational force on the interference coupling head (6) that coincides with a backing out of the screw member threads (not shown). Once removed from the tree or stable column, the screw member (3) may then be taken by the user.

[0040] While the exemplary mounting system described above is detailed with respect to a removable tree step system (1), the same mounting system may also be incorporated with any number of bow-hunting apparatuses including, but in no way limited to, a tree stand, an accessory holder, and the like. Specifically, FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate a tree stand (400) and an accessory holder (500) respectively.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 4, an exemplary tree stand (400) is illustrated incorporating the present exemplary bracket system. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the exemplary tree stand includes a bracket member (7) formed in the main support member (405) of the tree stand (400). As shown, the bracket member (7) includes an inverted keyhole (8) configured to be selectively coupled to a screw member (3; FIG. 1) in a similar manner as was described with reference to the removable tree step system (1) above. In addition to the bracket member (7), the exemplary tree stand (400) includes a platform (410) coupled to the main support member by a number of cables (415) and a pin (not shown). The platform (410) may be configured for use by a hunter for standing or other weight support. Additionally, the exemplary tree stand (400) includes a seat member (420) on top of the main support member (405). The exemplary seat member (420) may be used for seating and/or an anchor point for coupling a safety restraint device, as is known in the art. While a single bracket member (7) is formed in the illustrated tree stand (400), any number of bracket members (7) having corresponding inverted keyholes (8) formed therein may be formed in the main support member (405) to increase the stability and load capacity of the exemplary tree stand (400).

[0042] Similarly, FIG. 5 illustrates an accessory holder (400) that may be used in bow hunting applications. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the exemplary accessory holder (500) includes a bracket member (7) having an inverted keyhole (8) formed therein. As described above, the inverted keyhole (8) is configured to receive and be coupled to a screw member (3). The exemplary accessory holder illustrated in FIG. 5 includes a cantilevered arm (510) protruding from the bracket member (7) and terminating in a pulley system (520) coupled to the cantilevered arm by a number of pins (530). The exemplary accessory holder may then have a cable or other rope coupled to the pulley system (520) for raising and lowering a bow, a call device, a light, or any other accessory that may be raised up to a tree stand by a hunter. As is illustrated, any number of bow hunting and/or bird watching accessories may be coupled to a tree or other structural column using the present screw member and mating bracket member having an inverted keyhole.

[0043] In addition to the above-mentioned embodiment, a reverse coupling system may also be used to form a removable tree step and/or tree stand. Specifically, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the reverse coupling system includes a screw portion (21) including a screw (20), which is anchored to a slotted bracket (17) having an inverted keyhole (18) formed therein, by a joining pin (22) creating a hinge (23). According to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the incorporation of the joining pin (22) to create a hinge (23) provides a rotational mobility in the slotted bracket (17) allowing the bracket to move away from the tree trunk when a shank (24) or other mounted component is being coupled thereto.

[0044] According to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, a step or shank (24) that is to be coupled to the slotted bracket includes a coupling head (19) configured to be mated with the slotted bracket (17) completing the present exemplary system. As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the exemplary step or shank (24) includes a fixed washer (4) adjacent to the coupling head (19), defining an engagement section or shank (5) that is configured to engage the narrow section of the inverted keyhole (18) in the slotted bracket (17). Similar to the exemplary mounting system described above, the reverse coupling system illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 may allow a hunter to provisionally remove a step or tree stand from a tree or stable column without removing the entire coupling apparatus.

[0045] In addition to the above-mentioned applications, the present exemplary removable tree step system (1; FIG. 1) may be adapted for a number of similar climbing uses. Particularly, the teachings of the present exemplary system may be used in a utility pole or ladder application, as may be demonstrated by FIGS. 8 and 9. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 8, a number of threaded members (27) may be secured to one or more internally threaded orifices formed in a utility pole or a main ladder member (26). According to this exemplary embodiment, the threaded members (27) may include a fixed washer defining an engagement section or shank configured to receive an inverted keyhole section of a mounting bracket, as is described in detail above. According to this exemplary embodiment, the threaded members (27) may have external threads configured to securely mate with the internal threads of the internally threaded orifices. Once secured in the internally threaded orifices, the threaded members (27) may remain without attachment to a bracket member (28) for an undetermined period of time. Consequently, the threaded members will increase the level of safety of utility poles and/or ladders by preventing unauthorized climbing by individuals without access to the appropriate bracket members (28).

[0046] The preceding description has been presented only to illustrate and describe exemplary embodiments of the present system and method. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the system and method to any precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. It is intended that the scope of the system and method be defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A tree mounting coupling system, comprising: a shank member including a cylindrical body, a stop member disposed along said cylindrical body, a head portion formed on a first end of said cylindrical body, and an engagement section defined by said stop member and said head portion; and a plate member including a body, wherein said body defines a head reception orifice, wherein said head reception orifice includes a first portion sized to receive said head portion of said shank member and a second portion sized to slideably receive said engagement section while creating an interference with said head portion.

2. The tree mounting coupling system of claim 1, further comprising: an accessory coupled to one of said shank or said plate member; wherein said accessory includes one of a tree step, a tree stand, an accessory holder, a camera holder, a ladder column, or a pulley system.

3. The tree mounting coupling system of claim 1, further comprising a threaded portion formed on a second end of said cylindrical body.

4. The tree mounting coupling system of claim 1, further comprising a conical threaded portion coupled to said plate member.

5. A step system comprising: a shank member including a cylindrical body, a stop member disposed along said cylindrical body, a head portion formed on a distal end of said cylindrical body, and an engagement section defined by said stop member and said head portion; a plate member including a body, wherein said body defines a head reception orifice, wherein said head reception orifice includes a first portion sized to receive said head portion of said shank member and a second portion sized to slideably receive said engagement section while creating an interference with said head portion; and a weight bearing member, wherein said weight bearing member is coupled to one of said shank member or said plate member.

6. The step system of claim 5, further comprising an accessory coupled to one of said shank or said plate member; wherein said accessory includes one of a tree step, a tree stand, an accessory holder, a camera holder, a ladder column, or a pulley system.

7. The step system of claim 5, further comprising: a plurality of protrusion members coupled to said plate member, wherein said protrusion members comprise a body defining a pin receiving orifice formed in each of said protrusion members; and a plurality of pin members, at least one pin member traversing each of said protrusion members via said pin receiving orifice and said weight bearing member to form a hinge member.

8. The step system of claim 7, further comprising a spike member coupled to a proximal side of said weight bearing member.

9. The step system of claim 8, further comprising a spike receiving member, wherein said spike receiving member is defined by said plate member such that said spike member passes through said spike receiving member to a proximal side of said plate member.

10. The step system of claim 5, further comprising a threaded portion formed on a distal end of said cylindrical body.

11. The step system of claim 5, further comprising a conical threaded member coupled to said plate member.

12. The step system of claim 11, wherein said weight bearing member is coupled to said shank member.

13. The step system of claim 5, further comprising: a column member; a proximal end of said shank member being coupled to said column member.

14. The step system of claim 13, further comprising a plurality of support members disposed along a length of said column member.

15. The step system of claim 14, further comprising a base plate coupled to said column member.

16. A tree step system, comprising: a conical threaded member including a cylindrical body, a thread stop member disposed along said cylindrical body, a head portion formed on a distal end of said cylindrical body, and an engagement section defined by said thread stop member and said head portion; a weight bearing member, having a spike member attached to the proximal end of said weight bearing member a plate member including a body, wherein said body defines a head reception orifice, wherein said head reception orifice includes a first portion sized to receive said head portion of said shank member and a second portion sized to slideably receive said engagement section while creating an interference with said head portion, a plurality of protrusion members coupled to said plate member, wherein said protrusion members comprise a body defining a pin receiving orifice formed in each of said protrusion members; and a plurality of pin members, at least one pin member traversing each of said protrusion members via said pin receiving orifice and said weight bearing member to form a hinge member.

17. The tree step system of claim 16, further comprising: an accessory coupled to one of said shank or said plate member wherein said accessory includes one of a tree step, a tree stand, an accessory holder, a camera holder, a ladder column, or a pulley system