U.S. patent application number 12/130594 was filed with the patent office on 2009-12-03 for load suspension system.
This patent application is currently assigned to ROOSTER PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.. Invention is credited to IHAB AYOUB, KIRK BROWN.
Application Number | 20090294500 12/130594 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41378535 |
Filed Date | 2009-12-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090294500 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BROWN; KIRK ; et
al. |
December 3, 2009 |
LOAD SUSPENSION SYSTEM
Abstract
A load suspension system is disclosed, for suspending a load
from a human body. The system includes a number of straps, certain
of which will include elastic elements to provide a desired shock
protection to the system. The elasticity of such elements may be
limited by means of one or more range limiters. Padded sections are
included at predetermined locations to provide greater comfort to a
user, and attachment points are also included for connecting to a
load, such as a tool belt, one or more tools, or apparel. Padded
sections may include a gel component for greater comfort, and the
various straps may also include accessory attachment points for
reversibly connecting desired accessories to the system. A method
of manufacturing a load suspension system is also disclosed.
Inventors: |
BROWN; KIRK; (SAN ANTONIO,
TX) ; AYOUB; IHAB; (SAN ANTONIO, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ROOSTER PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL , INC
ATTN: LEGAL, 17280 N GREEN MOUNTAIN RD.
SAN ANTONIO
TX
78247
US
|
Assignee: |
ROOSTER PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL,
INC.
SAN ANTONIO
TX
|
Family ID: |
41378535 |
Appl. No.: |
12/130594 |
Filed: |
May 30, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
224/651 ;
224/259; 224/627; 224/645 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45F 3/14 20130101; A45F
3/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
224/651 ;
224/645; 224/627; 224/259 |
International
Class: |
A45F 3/04 20060101
A45F003/04; A45F 3/14 20060101 A45F003/14 |
Claims
1. A load suspension system, comprising: a first front strap and a
second front strap, each comprising (a) a first stretch element and
a second stretch element, and (b) a pad section operatively
connected between the first stretch element and the second stretch
element; a central section operatively connecting an upper end of
the first front strap to an upper end of the second front strap;
and at least one rear strap operatively connected to the central
section.
2. The load suspension system of claim 1, further comprising at
least one range limiter operatively connected at predetermined
locations above and below at least one of the first and second
stretch elements.
3. The load suspension system of claim 2, wherein the at least one
range limiter has a predetermined length substantially equal to a
maximal stretch length of the at least one of the first and second
stretch elements.
4. The load suspension system of claim 3, wherein a first end of
the at least one range limiter is operatively connected at an
interface between the at least one stretch element and an adjoining
component of the load suspension system.
5. The load suspension system of claim 2, wherein at least one end
of the at least one range limiter comprises a selected component of
hook and loop tape.
6. The load suspension system of claim 1, further comprising a
reinforcing element operatively connecting two ends of the pad
section.
7. The load suspension system of claim 6, wherein the reinforcing
element is at least partially disposed within the pad section.
8. The load suspension system of claim 1, further comprising a gel
component disposed in at least one selected from (a) each pad
section, and (b) the central section.
9. The load suspension system of claim 1, further comprising at
least one accessory retention component operatively connected to at
least one selected from the first front strap, the second front
strap, and the at least one rear strap.
10. The load suspension system of claim 1, wherein each stretch
element comprises a central elastic element and a peripheral
elastic element.
11. The load suspension system of claim 10, wherein the central
elastic element and the peripheral elastic element differ in at
least one characteristic selected from (a) material composition and
(b) elasticity.
12. The load suspension system of claim 10, wherein the peripheral
elastic element comprises a binding component operatively
connecting a plurality of subcomponents of the load suspension
system, and beginning and terminating substantially along opposite
sides of the central elastic element.
13. The load suspension system of claim 10, wherein the binding
component is operatively connected to a central element such that
the central element will have a non-planar configuration along a
surface thereof.
14. The load suspension system of claim 1, wherein an upper section
of each front strap has an inward curvature and a lower section of
each front strap has an outward curvature.
15. The load suspension system of claim 1, further comprising a
reversible connector operatively connected to a lower end of at
least one selected from the first front strap, the second front
strap, and the at least one rear strap.
16. The load suspension system of claim 1, further comprising an
adjuster operatively connected to at least one selected from the
first front strap, the second front strap, and the at least one
rear strap.
17. A method of manufacturing a load suspension system, comprising
the steps of: providing a first strap and a second strap;
operatively connecting the first strap and the second strap to a
central section; incorporating a pad section and a pair of stretch
elements into one selected from the first strap and the second
strap, such that the stretch elements are disposed on opposite
sides of the pad section.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein incorporating the pad section
comprises at least partially encasing a resilient foam in a fabric,
and operatively connecting two ends of the fabric to components of
the selected strap.
19. The method of claim 17, further comprising operatively
connecting a range limiter to a first location, above one of the
stretch elements, and a second location below the one of the
stretch elements.
20. The method of claim 17, further comprising operatively
connecting a reversible connector to a lower end of each of the
first strap and the second strap.
Description
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The invention relates generally to a personal load
suspension system, and more particularly to a suspender system
configured to bear a load from a tool belt.
[0003] 2. Background Art
[0004] The use of personal suspender systems ("suspenders") in
conjunction with belts and back supports has increased in recent
years as employers and tradesmen have realized that such systems
help distribute, balance, and secure heavy loads, thereby lessening
the incidence and severity of work-related accidents. Often tool
belts may be utilized to bear relatively heavy loads, which may
include tools, fasteners, and other implements of a user's trade.
In addition to the hazard posed by such objects to the user should
the belt shift or become unstable, there is also the issue of back
strain due to the weight involved, balancing of the load, movement
of the user, and a myriad of other factors.
[0005] More recently, belt and back support combinations have
become more commonplace, with the back support helping to minimize
back injuries and stabilize a wearer, while also more securely
supporting the tool belt. Additionally, suspenders are being
connected to such systems to help distribute loads from the waist
to the shoulders. While these changes represent important steps in
the lessening of back-related injuries, traditional combinations of
traditional-style suspenders with traditional tool belt systems
still leave much to be desired in terms of comfort, flexibility,
safety, and effectiveness. For example, traditional suspender
configurations may become easily displaced from a desired
orientation on a user's shoulder, resulting in possible injury, or
damage to the contents of the tool belt. Furthermore, traditional
suspender systems have not been well-designed to accommodate the
heavier loads and changing job demands that exist in certain
labor-intensive trades. Accordingly, a need exists for a load
suspension system having increased comfort and flexibility, while
maintaining ease of use.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0006] In one embodiment, a load suspension system is disclosed,
having a plurality of straps for operative connecting to a load to
be borne by a user. The straps typically will include connection
points for operatively connecting to a load, and may also include
accessory attachment points for retaining desired accessories. At
least one stretch element is incorporated into the load suspension
system, to provide a degree of shock absorption to the system. The
elasticity of such a stretch element may be limited by a range
limiter, comprising a relatively inelastic material, and traversing
a stretch element such as to define a maximal stretch length.
[0007] In one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a load
suspension system is disclosed, comprising the steps of providing a
plurality of straps, operatively connecting such straps via a
central section, and incorporating at least one stretch element and
at least one pad section into select straps. In one embodiment, the
method further comprises operatively connecting reversible
attachment points to select straps to reversibly connect to a
load.
[0008] Other aspects and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the following description and the appended
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a front view one embodiment of a load suspension
system.
[0010] FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of a load suspension system in
use.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a rear view of one embodiment of a load suspension
system.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a rear view of one embodiment of a load suspension
system in use.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a top view of one embodiment of a load suspension
system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0014] As shown in FIG. 1, one embodiment of the invention
comprises a load suspension system 1 having a pair of front straps
2, each of which comprises first and second stretch elements 4, and
a pad section 6 disposed between each of the first and second
stretch elements 4. The pad section 6 is disposed such that it will
rest substantially upon a user's shoulder when the load suspension
system 1 is worn by the user. A central section 8 operatively
connects to an upper end of each of the front straps 2, and is also
operatively connected to an upper end of at least one rear strap
3.
[0015] The pad section 6 may comprise any material or combination
thereof known in the art to provide comfort to a user in a
load-bearing application. In one embodiment, the pad section 6
comprises a resilient foam selected to provide a desired degree of
comfort and durability. In one embodiment, the resilient foam of
the pad section 6 is encased in a fabric, to advantageously protect
the foam and to maintain a desired shape of the pad section 6. In
one embodiment, when a fabric is used with the foam, the fabric
will operatively connect to one or more adjoining components of the
load suspension system, thereby maintaining the position of the
foam relative to such components. In one embodiment, the fabric is
breathable, to better permit passage of air into and through the
pad section 6, advantageously providing ventilation to a user's
shoulder beneath the pad section 6, and/or more effective
evaporation of sweat or other moisture that may permeate the pad
section 6.
[0016] In one embodiment, the pad section 6 comprises a gel
component. The gel component may be of any type known in the art.
In one embodiment, the gel component comprises a discreet gel
insert 7 disposed in a predetermined location within the pad
section 6. In one embodiment, the pad 6 section is configured to be
relatively inelastic relative to the elasticity of the stretch
elements 4.
[0017] Various configurations described herein advantageously
provide shock-absorption with respect to a suspended load
operatively connected to the load suspension system 1, while
maintaining stability of the load on a user's shoulders by
minimizing displacement of the pad section 6. Typical loads
include, but are not limited to, tool belts, tools, and tool
pouches.
[0018] Stretch elements 4 may comprise any material or combination
of materials known in the art. In one embodiment, a stretch element
4 may comprise multiple subcomponents, each having similar or
varying degrees of elasticity, to provide a desired balance of
elasticity and support to the load suspension system 1. In such an
embodiment, the stretch element 4 may comprise a central elastic
element and a peripheral elastic element. In one embodiment, a
binding component 9 may operatively connect along a periphery of
multiple components to provide reinforcement of the operative
connections therebetween. The binding component 9 may also function
as a peripheral elastic element, as described above with respect to
the stretch elements 4.
[0019] In one embodiment, a relatively short length of binding
component 9 is operatively connected to a relatively longer
periphery of various other components, thereby achieving a desired
curvature in such components. For example, in such a configuration
where a length of webbing is bunched along its periphery and
stitched to a shorter length of binding component 9, the result
will be a rippling or folding effect on the webbing, causing it to
bunch along its periphery, thereby forming a concave cross-section
in the webbing. The binding component 9 may comprise, but is not
limited to, binding tape. Such a configuration advantageously
imparts a curvature to the webbing, which may more comfortably
conform to the contours of a user's body.
[0020] In one embodiment, the load suspension system 1 includes at
least one reinforcing element 12 disposed substantially parallel to
the longitudinal axis of the pad section 6. The reinforcing element
12 will operatively connect to a first location on the front strap
2, above the pad section 6, and to a second location on the front
strap 2, below the pad section 6. The reinforcing element 12 may
pass through the pad section 6, or along any outer surface thereof.
The reinforcing element 12 may also operatively connect to one or
more locations along the length of the pad section 6. In one
embodiment, the reinforcing element operatively connects to a
resilient foam and/or a gel insert disposed in the pad section 6. A
reinforcing element 12 advantageously provides a redundant
connection should a load-bearing component of the pad section 6
fail, due to e.g., heavy loads, or wear. A reinforcing element 12
may also advantageously limit any elasticity of the pad section
6.
[0021] In one embodiment, the load suspension system 1 includes at
least one stabilizing element 14 configured to reversibly connect
each of the pair of front straps 2. Typically, any such stabilizing
element 14 will be disposed such that it may traverse a front
surface of a user's body when the load suspension system 1 is in
use. The stabilizing element 14 will typically comprise two strap
segments reversibly connectable via a buckle 16 or similar
component. The stabilizing element 14 may also have an adjustable
length, permitting adjustment of fit to a user's size and comfort.
Such a configuration advantageously provides an increased stability
and/or customized fit to the load suspension system 1.
[0022] In one embodiment, each front strap 2 includes at least one
range limiter 10 oriented substantially parallel to the
longitudinal axis of the operatively connected front strap 2, and
traversing at least one stretch element 4. Typically, the range
limiter 10 will be operatively connected to the load suspension
system 1 such that the range limiter 10 will have a predetermined
amount of slack along at least a portion of its length when one or
more underlying stretch elements 4 are in an un-stretched
configuration. Each range limiter 10 will have a limited
elasticity, typically substantially below that of the stretch
element 4, such that the range limiter 10 will define a maximum
stretch range of the stretch element 4. Each range limiter 10 will
operatively connect to a front strap 2 at locations above and below
its associated stretch element 4.
[0023] In one embodiment, the range limiter 10 may have an
adjustable length, or may be attachable at multiple locations along
the length of the front strap 2, so as to provide a user-selectable
maximum stretch range for the operatively connected stretch element
4. Range limiter 10 configurations may include hook-and-loop
components, or any other components known in that art to permit
user adjustment of length and/or connection point. In one
embodiment, the range limiter 10 is operatively connected directly
to, or continuous with, a reinforcing element 12 traversing the pad
section 6.
[0024] As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2, in use, upper ends of
the front straps 2 will extend over a user's shoulders to meet at
an operatively connected central section 8 (not visible in FIG. 2),
typically disposed behind a user's neck and/or adjacent an upper
portion of a user's back. Pad sections 6 rest atop the user's
shoulders, and a stabilizing element 14, if present, will typically
be disposed across a user's chest. A lower end of each front strap
2 will typically include a reversible connector 18 for operatively
connecting to a load such as a tool belt 20. Each front strap 2 may
also include an adjuster 22 slideably disposed along a length of
the front strap 2. The adjuster 22 may be of any type known in the
art, including, but not limited to, a slide buckle. The adjuster 22
advantageously allows a user to adjust the length of the front
strap 2 for increased comfort, improved fit, and/or to adjust for
varying loads on the load suspension system 1.
[0025] In one embodiment, one or more accessory fasteners 24 may be
operatively connected at one or more locations on the load
suspension system 1. An accessory fastener 24 may comprise a
webbing loop, pouch, snap-hook, or any other element known in the
art for retaining a desired accessory.
[0026] As shown in FIG. 3, one embodiment of the load suspension
system 1 comprises at least one rear strap 3. A single rear strap
configuration (not shown) will typically include a single strap
operatively connected to a location on the central section 8
furthest from the operative connection points of the front straps
2, such that it will be substantially centered on a user's back
when worn.
[0027] In an alternative embodiment, a pair or any plurality of
rear straps 3 are operatively connected to the central section 8.
In one embodiment, a pair of rear straps 3, comprise a continuation
of the front straps 2 configured to pass through the central
section 8.
[0028] One or more adjusters 22 may be disposed on each of the rear
straps 3. Each of the rear straps 3 will typically terminate in an
operative connection to a reversible connector 18 for operatively
connecting to a load, such as a tool belt, tool pouch, and/or any
other type of belt or apparel known in the art.
[0029] In one embodiment, a retaining loop 26, or similar connector
may be disposed at a central location of the central section 8.
Such a retaining loop 26 advantageously provides a centralized
attachment point for easily storing the load suspension system 1 in
a storage location. In one embodiment, the retaining loop 26 and
suspension system 1 may be configured to provide a predetermined
degree of fall protection to a user. For example, a line may be
connected to the retaining loop 26 to help stabilize the user when
used in an environment with hazardous footing. However, the use of
the load suspension system 1 as a fall protection device may
require additional components, beyond the current scope of the
instant application.
[0030] As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4, the load suspension
system will typically be worn such that the pad sections 6 rest
upon a user's shoulders, and the central section 8, is disposed
behind the user's neck, typically over the midline of the user's
back. In one embodiment, the central section 8 will include a gel
component 28. The gel component 28 advantageously provides
additional cushioning, resulting in increased comfort to the user.
Reversible connectors 18 operatively connected to the rear straps 3
are reversibly connectable to a load at one or more locations along
the user's back and/or sides.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 5, in one embodiment, each of the front
straps 2 will have a curved configuration. Such curvature will
typically be defined by a greater angle relative to a centerline C
nearer the central section 8, and a lesser angle relative to a
centerline C as the front strap 2 extends away from the central
section 8. A curved configuration of the front strap 2
advantageously provides increased comfort to a user by providing
sufficient clearance for neck movement, yet providing a
substantially vertical orientation at its distal end (when worn) to
operatively connect a load to be suspended by the load suspension
system 1. For purposes of describing the angle of curvature, the
term "centerline" means an imaginary line bisecting the central
section 8 and passing between the front straps 2, in the same
plane, and equidistant to each. In one embodiment, each of the
front straps 2 will be configured to curve both inwardly and
outwardly, along their length, relative to the central section
8.
[0032] The various components of the load suspension system 1 may
comprise any material or combination thereof known in the art. In
one embodiment, the components will include elastic and relatively
inelastic webbing. The various components of embodiments of the
invention may comprise any shape and/or size that does not render
such embodiments non-functional in the manner described. For
example, in one embodiment, the central section 8 will comprise an
ovoid shape. In one embodiment, construction and assembly of the
load suspension system 1 comprises the stitching of the various
components to other operatively connected components in a
predetermined manner. Construction and assembly techniques may
comprise any such techniques known in the art.
[0033] In one embodiment, any combination of a front strap 2, rear
strap 3, range limiter 10 and reinforcing element 12, may be formed
of a single continuous element, typically a fabric webbing. The
continuous element may pass through, under, or over an operatively
connected central section 8, and/or pad section 6. In one
embodiment, a plurality of front straps 2 and/or a plurality of
rear straps 3, may each comprise a single continuous element.
Typically, such a continuous element will operative connect at a
non-midpoint location thereof to the central section 8 of the load
suspension system 1. Stretch elements 4, and associated components
such as range limiters 10, may also be disposed along one or more
rear straps 3.
[0034] As used herein, references to "front" strap and "rear" strap
are relative to the central section 8. For example, a portion of a
front strap 2 may extend over a user's shoulder to operatively
connect to a central section 8 disposed on the user's back.
Accordingly, the terms "front" and "rear" when referring to a
component of the load suspension system 1 are terms of convenience
and differentiation, and should not be construed as locational
limitations relative to a user's body. Similarly, the terms "upper"
and "lower" when referring to a strap or similar component, are
terms of relational convenience, typically referencing elements
that are proximal to (upper) and distal from (lower) a central
section 8.
[0035] While the invention has been described with respect to a
limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art, having
benefit of this disclosure, will appreciate that other embodiments
can be devised which do not depart from the scope of the invention
as disclosed herein. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should
be limited only by the attached claims.
* * * * *