U.S. patent application number 14/818857 was filed with the patent office on 2016-02-11 for adjuster for adjusting a length of a cord.
The applicant listed for this patent is NIKE, Inc.. Invention is credited to Michael J. Lombardi, JR., Lindsey V.J. Martin, Allyson Richwine.
Application Number | 20160037846 14/818857 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53879832 |
Filed Date | 2016-02-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160037846 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lombardi, JR.; Michael J. ;
et al. |
February 11, 2016 |
ADJUSTER FOR ADJUSTING A LENGTH OF A CORD
Abstract
An adjuster for adjusting a length of a cord is provided. The
adjuster comprises a t-component having a sliding member and a
cross member that are integrally formed to form, at least, a first
angle. In response to an application of force, the t-component is
adapted to move from a first position to a second position, which
increases the first angle. The adjuster also comprises a channel
body that has a recessed cavity that is adapted to receive the
cross member when the t-component is moved from the first position
to the second position. The channel body further comprises a
sliding channel, where the sliding member is slidably engaged with
the channel body within the sliding channel. A first guide channel
extending from a first side surface of the channel body to the
sliding channel is also a component of the channel body.
Inventors: |
Lombardi, JR.; Michael J.;
(Hillsboro, OR) ; Martin; Lindsey V.J.;
(Hillsboro, OR) ; Richwine; Allyson; (Portland,
OR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NIKE, Inc. |
Beaverton |
OR |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53879832 |
Appl. No.: |
14/818857 |
Filed: |
August 5, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62033915 |
Aug 6, 2014 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
24/115G |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43C 7/00 20130101; F16G
11/101 20130101; A41F 19/00 20130101; A41D 2300/33 20130101; A41F
9/025 20130101; A43C 9/00 20130101; A41F 1/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A41F 19/00 20060101
A41F019/00; A43C 7/00 20060101 A43C007/00; A43C 9/00 20060101
A43C009/00 |
Claims
1. An adjuster that allows for an adjustment to a length of a cord,
the adjuster comprising: a t-component, the t-component comprising:
(A) a sliding member, the sliding member having a first side
surface and an opposite second side surface, and a bottom surface
and an opposite top end, the sliding member comprising a
pass-through channel having a bottom surface and an opposite top
surface, and (B) a cross member, the cross member having a top
surface and an opposite bottom surface, and a first engaging
surface and an opposite second engaging surface, the top end of the
sliding member integrally formed with the bottom surface of the
cross member forming a first angle between the sliding member and
the cross member, the t-component is adapted to increase the first
angle in response to an application of force in a direction
substantially parallel with a direction of sliding motion of the
sliding member from a first position to a second position; and a
channel body having a first side surface and an opposite second
side surface, a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, and a
recessed cavity adapted to receive the cross member, the recessed
cavity extending from the top surface of the channel body toward
the bottom surface of the channel body, the channel body
comprising: (A) a sliding channel having a first side surface and a
second side surface, a distance between the first side surface and
the second side surface of the sliding channel being greater than a
distance between the first side surface and the second side surface
of the sliding member such that the sliding member is slidably
engaged with the channel body within the sliding channel, the
bottom surface of the sliding member positionable closer to the
bottom surface of the channel body when the t-component is in the
second position than when the t-component is in the first position,
and (B) a first guide channel having a top surface and an opposite
bottom surface, the first guide channel extending from the first
side surface of the channel body to the sliding channel.
2. The adjuster of claim 1, wherein the top surface of the first
guide channel has a first top edge and a second top edge, the
second top edge being closer to the first side surface of the
sliding channel than the first top edge.
3. The adjuster of claim 2, wherein a distance between the first
top edge and perpendicular to the bottom surface is greater than a
distance between the second top edge and perpendicular to the
bottom surface.
4. The adjuster of claim 1, further comprising: a first crimp
cavity having a first side surface and an opposite second side
surface that is adjacent to the first side surface of the sliding
member; and a second crimp cavity having a first side surface and
an opposite second side surface that is adjacent to the second side
surface of the sliding member.
5. The adjuster of claim 4, wherein the first side surface of the
first crimp cavity has a bottom edge that is located nearer to the
bottom surface of the channel body than the bottom surface of the
pass-through channel when the t-component is in the first
position.
6. The adjuster of claim 5, wherein the bottom edge of the first
crimp cavity is located farther from the bottom surface of the
channel body than the bottom surface of the pass-through channel
when the t-component is in the second position.
7. The adjuster of claim 1, further comprising a second guide
channel having a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, the
second guide channel extending from the second side surface of the
channel body to the sliding channel.
8. The adjuster of claim 7, wherein the first guide channel, the
pass-through channel, and the second guide channel form a
continuous channel when the t-component is in the second
position.
9. The adjuster of claim 1, wherein the top surface of the cross
member is curved in a direction extending from the first engaging
surface to the second engaging surface.
10. The adjuster of claim 1, wherein when the t-component is in the
first position, the cross member is convexly shaped, the cross
member being positionable to be concavely shaped when in the second
position.
11. The adjuster of claim 1, wherein the top end of the sliding
member is integrally formed with the bottom surface of the cross
member forming a second angle between the sliding member and the
cross member, the t-component being adapted to increase the second
angle in response to the application of force in a direction
substantially parallel with the direction of sliding motion of the
sliding member from the first position to the second position.
12. The adjuster of claim 1, wherein a position on the bottom
surface of the cross member that is integrally formed with the top
end of the sliding member is equidistant from a bottom edge of the
first engaging surface and a bottom edge of the second engaging
surface.
13. An adjuster that allows for an adjustment to a length of a
cord, the adjuster comprising: a t-component, the t-component
comprising: (A) a sliding member, the sliding member having a first
side surface and an opposite second side surface, and a bottom
surface and an opposite top end, the sliding member comprising a
pass-through channel having a bottom surface and an opposite top
surface, (B) a cross member, the cross member having a top surface
and an opposite bottom surface, and a first engaging surface and an
opposite second engaging surface, the top end of the sliding member
integrally formed with the bottom surface of the cross member, and
(C) the t-component being adaptable to be moved from a first
position to a second position in response to an application of
force in a direction substantially parallel with a direction of
sliding motion of the sliding member, the first engaging surface
and the second engaging surface being adaptable to move from a
first position corresponding to the first position of the
t-component to a second position corresponding to the second
position of the t-component, the first engaging surface and the
second engaging surface being closer to the sliding member when the
t-component is in the first position than when the t-component is
in the second position; and a channel body having a first side
surface and an opposite second side surface, a top surface and a
bottom surface, the channel body comprising: (A) a sliding channel
having a first side surface and a second side surface, a distance
between the first side surface and the second side surface of the
sliding channel being greater than a distance between the first
side surface and the second side surface of the sliding member such
that the sliding member is slidably engaged with the channel body
within the sliding channel, the bottom surface of the sliding
member positioned closer to the bottom surface of the channel body
when the t-component is in the second position than when the
t-component is in the first position, and (B) a first guide
channel, the first guide channel having a top surface and an
opposite bottom surface, the first guide channel extending from the
first side surface of the channel body to the sliding channel.
14. The adjuster of claim 13, further comprising a second guide
channel having a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, the
second guide channel extending from the second side surface of the
channel body to the sliding channel, wherein the first guide
channel, the pass-through channel, and the second guide channel
form a continuous channel when the t-component is in the second
position.
15. The adjuster of claim 13, further comprising: a first crimp
cavity having a first side surface and an opposite second side
surface that is adjacent to the first side surface of the sliding
member; and a second crimp cavity having a first side surface and
an opposite second side surface that is adjacent to the second side
surface of the sliding member.
16. The adjuster of claim 15, wherein the first side surface of the
first crimp cavity has a bottom edge that is located nearer to the
bottom surface of the channel body than the bottom surface of the
pass-through channel when the t-component is in the first
position.
17. The adapter of claim 13, the channel body further comprising a
recessed cavity adapted to receive the cross member, the recessed
cavity extending from the top surface of the channel body toward
the bottom surface of the channel body.
18. An adjuster that allows for an adjustment to a length of a
cord, the adjuster comprising: a t-component, the t-component
comprising: (A) a sliding member, the sliding member having a first
side surface and an opposite second side surface, and a bottom
surface and an opposite top end, the sliding member comprising a
pass-through channel having a bottom surface and an opposite top
surface, (B) a cross member, the cross member having a top surface
and an opposite bottom surface and a first engaging surface and an
opposite second engaging surface, the top end of the sliding member
integrally formed with the bottom surface of the cross member, and
(C) the t-component being adaptable to be moved from a first
position to a second position in response to an application of
force in a direction substantially parallel with a direction of
sliding motion of the sliding member, the cross member being
convexly shaped when the t-component is in the first position, and
the cross member being adapted to be concavely shaped when the
t-component is in the second position; and a channel body having a
first side surface and an opposite second side surface, a top
surface and a bottom surface, and a recessed cavity adapted to
receive the cross member, the recessed cavity extending from the
top surface of the channel body toward the bottom surface of the
channel body, the channel body comprising: (A) a sliding channel
having a first side surface and a second side surface, a distance
between the first side surface and the second side surface of the
sliding channel being greater than a distance between the first
side surface and the second side surface of the sliding member such
that the sliding member is slidably engaged with the channel body
within the sliding channel, the bottom surface of the sliding
member positioned closer to the bottom surface of the channel body
when the t-component is in the second position than when the
t-component is in the first position, and (B) a first guide channel
having a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, the first
guide channel extending from the first side surface of the channel
body to the sliding channel.
19. The adjuster of claim 18, further comprising a second guide
channel having a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, the
second guide channel extending from the second side surface of the
channel body to the sliding channel, wherein the first guide
channel, the pass-through channel, and the second guide channel
form a continuous channel when the t-component is in the second
position.
20. The adjuster of claim 18, the top surface of the cross member
and the first engaging surface defining a first acute angle, the
top surface of the cross member and the second engaging surface
defining a second acute angle, the bottom surface of the cross
member and the first engaging surface defining a first obtuse
angle, and the bottom surface of the cross member and the second
engaging surface defining a second obtuse angle.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/033,915, filed Aug. 6, 2014, entitled "Adjuster
For Adjusting A Length of A Cord," the entirety of which is
incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to adjustably
securing a cord-like structure.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Cords have traditionally been used, in conjunction with an
adjustment mechanism, as a way to adjust a hem, such as to loosen
or tighten, for example, an opening in a garment (e.g., ankle
opening in a pair of pants, a waist opening in a jacket or coat).
However, when the cord is cinched around the opening to tighten the
fit around the wearer, the excess cord pulled through the mechanism
may flop around and can get in the way of the wearer of the
apparel.
SUMMARY
[0004] Aspects generally relate to an adjuster for adjusting the
length of a cord extending through an opening, such as a hem. A
cord, as used herein, may refer to a length of any material, where
the length of the cord extending through the opening can be
adjusted. For instance, a cord may include a string, thread, yarn,
rope, drawstring, filament, wire, cable, a combination thereof, or
the like. The adjuster may comprise, generally, a t-component and a
channel body. The t-component, in response to an application of
force, may be moved from a first position to a second position.
While the t-component is in the first position, a cord that extends
through the adjuster may be locked in place relative to the
adjuster so that the cord is resistant to movement through the
adjuster. When, however, the t-component is in the second position,
a substantially continuous channel is formed such that the cord may
be moved in either lateral direction relative to the adjuster, thus
allowing for an opening (e.g., a pant leg hem, a waist hem, a
backpack strap) or any other adjustable structure to be
adjusted.
[0005] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in
the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify
key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter,
nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of
the claimed subject matter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] Illustrative aspects hereof are described in detail below
with reference to the attached drawing figures, which are
incorporated by reference herein and wherein:
[0007] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an adjuster for
adjusting a length of a cord, in accordance with an aspect
hereof;
[0008] FIG. 2 depicts a cross sectional view of the adjuster of
FIG. 1 along cutline 2-2, in accordance with an aspect hereof;
[0009] FIG. 3 depicts a cross sectional view of an adjuster having
a t-component in a first position, in accordance with an aspect
hereof;
[0010] FIG. 4 depicts a cross sectional view of an adjuster having
a t-component in a transitional position, in accordance with an
aspect hereof;
[0011] FIG. 5 depicts a cross sectional view of an adjuster having
a t-component in a second position, in accordance with an aspect
hereof;
[0012] FIG. 6 depicts a top plan view of an adjuster for adjusting
a length of a cord, in accordance with an aspect hereof;
[0013] FIG. 7 depicts a side elevational view of an adjuster for
adjusting a length of a cord, in accordance with an aspect hereof;
and
[0014] FIG. 8 depicts a cross sectional view of an adjuster for
adjusting a length of a cord and a diameter of an illustrative
circle formed using a cross member of a t-component, in accordance
with an aspect hereof.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0015] The subject matter of aspects hereof is described with
specificity herein to meet statutory requirements. However, the
description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this
patent. Rather, the inventors have contemplated that the claimed
subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include
different steps or combinations of steps similar to the ones
described in this document, or to include a different combination
of components, in conjunction with other present or future
technologies.
[0016] Aspects hereof relate to an adjuster for adjusting the
length of a cord that extends around an opening. A cord, as used
herein, may refer to a length of any material, where the length can
be adjusted. For instance, a cord may include a string, thread,
yarn, rope, drawstring, filament, lacing, wire, cable, a
combination thereof, or the like. The cord could be made from any
material suitable for use with the adjuster, such as, for example,
rubber, plastic, metal, cotton, nylon, wool, polyester, leather,
etc. A cord to be adjusted may be used in various industries, such
as apparel, article of footwear, backpacks, to-be-worn equipment,
electronics, etc. In aspects, the cord is flexible such that the
shape of the cord can be manipulated by way of the adjuster, as
further described herein. For exemplary purposes only, the cord may
be an elastic cord that extends through the hem of a pant leg so
that the ankle opening around the ankle of the wearer of the pants
may be adjusted to be loosened or tightened relative to a portion
of the wearer extending therethrough. Another example is a cord
that extends through a hem at the waist opening of a jacket, coat,
or pant so that the waist opening can be loosened or tightened
relative to the torso of the wearer extending therethrough.
Similarly, for example, the cord may be a strap on a backpack or
other wearable item so that the length of the strap may be adjusted
according to the wearer's specifications.
[0017] In aspects, the adjuster generally comprises a t-component
and a channel body. The t-component and the channel body, in one
aspect, are made from the same material, but in an alternative
aspect, they may be made from different materials. For instance,
one or both of the t-component and the channel body could be made
from a polymer-based material (e.g., plastic material), rubber,
etc. As will be described herein, the t-component may be at least
somewhat flexible to allow the t-component to move from a first
position to a second position. In particular, a cross member of the
t-component, when force is applied, may change shape from a convex
position toward a concave position, and then from the concave
position to the convex position. As such, the choice of material
for at least the t-component, and the cross member in particular,
may be dependent upon the flexibility and resilience desired.
[0018] As mentioned, the t-component is capable of being moved from
a first position to a second position, where, in aspects, the
t-component in the first position does not allow a cord to move
relative to the adjuster (e.g., limits lateral sliding motion of
the cord relative to the adjuster), but in the second position, the
cord is able to move in one or more lateral directions with less
force required to accomplish the movement relative to the force
required with t-component in the first position. The t-component
generally includes a sliding member and a cross member. To move the
t-component from the first position to the second position, an
application of force may be applied to a top surface of the cross
member in a direction substantially parallel with movement of the
sliding member. The sliding member includes a pass-through channel
that allows the cord to pass from a first guide channel of the
channel body to a second guide channel of the channel body. When
the t-component is in the first position, the cord may become
crimped in locations on the cord where the cord moves between the
first guide channel and the pass-through channel, and between the
pass-through channel and the second guide channel, hereinafter
referred to as a first crimp cavity and a second crimp cavity,
respectively.
[0019] Accordingly, in one aspect, the present invention provides
an adjuster that allows for an adjustment to a length of a cord.
The adjuster comprises a t-component that has a sliding member. The
sliding member has a first side surface and an opposite second side
surface, and a bottom surface and an opposite top end. The sliding
member also comprises a pass-through channel having a bottom
surface and an opposite top surface. In addition to the sliding
member, the t-component also has a cross member, where the cross
member has a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, and a
first engaging surface and an opposite second engaging surface. The
top end of the sliding member is integrally formed with the bottom
surface of the cross member forming a first angle between the
sliding member and the cross member. The t-component is adapted to
increase the first angle in response to an application of force in
a direction substantially parallel with a direction of sliding
motion of the sliding member from a first position to a second
position. The adjuster also includes a channel body having a first
side surface and an opposite second side surface, a top surface and
an opposite bottom surface, and a recessed cavity adapted to
receive the cross member. The recessed cavity extends from the top
surface of the channel body toward the bottom surface of the
channel body. The channel body comprises a sliding channel having a
first side surface and a second side surface. A distance between
the first side surface and the second side surface of the sliding
channel is greater than a distance between the first side surface
and the second side surface of the sliding member such that the
sliding member is slidably engaged with the channel body within the
sliding channel. The bottom surface of the sliding member is
positionable to be closer to the bottom surface of the channel body
when the t-component is in the second position than when the
t-component is in the first position. The channel body also
includes a first guide channel having a top surface and an opposite
bottom surface. The first guide channel extends from the first side
surface of the channel body to the sliding channel.
[0020] In another aspect, the present invention provides an
adjuster that allows for an adjustment to a length of a cord. The
adjuster comprises a t-component, which has a sliding member that
has a first side surface and an opposite second side surface, and a
bottom surface and an opposite top end. The sliding member
comprises a pass-through channel having a bottom surface and an
opposite top surface. The t-component also has a cross member,
which has a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, and a first
engaging surface and an opposite second engaging surface. The top
end of the sliding member is integrally formed with the bottom
surface of the cross member. The t-component is adaptable to be
moved from a first position to a second position in response to an
application of force in a direction substantially parallel with a
direction of sliding motion of the sliding member. The first
engaging surface and the second engaging surface are adaptable to
move from a first position corresponding to the first position of
the t-component to a second position corresponding to the second
position of the t-component. Further, the first engaging surface
and the second engaging surface are closer to the sliding member
when the t-component is in the first position than when the
t-component is in the second position. The adjuster also comprises
a channel body, which has a first side surface and an opposite
second side surface, a top surface and a bottom surface. The
channel body includes a sliding channel having a first side surface
and a second side surface. The distance between the first side
surface and the second side surface of the sliding channel is
greater than a distance between the first side surface and the
second side surface of the sliding member, thus allowing the
sliding member to be slidably engaged with the channel body within
the sliding channel. The bottom surface of the sliding member is
positioned closer to the bottom surface of the channel body when
the t-component is in the second position than when the t-component
is in the first position. The channel body also has a first guide
channel, where the first guide channel has a top surface and an
opposite bottom surface. The first guide channel extends from the
first side surface of the channel body to the sliding channel.
[0021] A third aspect hereof provides an adjuster that allows for
an adjustment to a length of a cord. The adjuster includes a
t-component, where the t-component comprises a sliding member. The
sliding member has a first side surface and an opposite second side
surface, and a bottom surface and an opposite top end.
Additionally, the sliding member comprises a pass-through channel
having a bottom surface and an opposite top surface. The
t-component also includes a cross member, where the cross member
has a top surface and an opposite bottom surface and a first
engaging surface and an opposite second engaging surface. The top
end of the sliding member is integrally formed with the bottom
surface of the cross member. The t-component is adaptable to be
moved from a first position to a second position in response to an
application of force in a direction substantially parallel with a
direction of sliding motion of the sliding member. The cross member
is convexly shaped when the t-component is in the first position
and is adapted to be concavely shaped when the t-component is in
the second position. The adjuster further includes a channel body
that has a first side surface and an opposite second side surface,
a top surface and a bottom surface, in addition to a recessed
cavity that is adapted to receive the cross member. The recessed
cavity extends from the top surface of the channel body toward the
bottom surface of the channel body. The channel body comprises a
sliding channel having a first side surface and a second side
surface, where a distance between the first side surface and the
second side surface of the sliding channel is greater than a
distance between the first side surface and the second side surface
of the sliding member, allowing for the sliding member to be
slidably engaged with the channel body within the sliding channel.
The bottom surface of the sliding member is positioned closer to
the bottom surface of the channel body when the t-component is in
the second position than when the t-component is in the first
position. The channel body also comprises a first guide channel
having a top surface and an opposite bottom surface. The first
guide channel extends from the first side surface of the channel
body to the sliding channel.
[0022] Turning to FIG. 1, a perspective view of an adjuster 100 for
adjusting a length of a cord is depicted, in accordance with an
aspect hereof. The adjuster generally comprises a t-component 200
and a channel body 300. The t-component comprises a sliding member
202 and a cross member 220. As shown in FIG. 1, the sliding member
202 has a top end 210. The top end 210 of the sliding member 202
may be integrally formed with the cross member 220, as will be
described in further detail herein. The sliding member 202 and the
cross member 220 also have other features, which will be discussed
in more detail herein with respect to, at least, FIG. 2. As shown
in FIG. 1, the cross member 220 is curved in a direction extending
from one side of the cross member 220 to the other.
[0023] The t-component 200 is capable of being moved from a first
position to a second position in response to an application of
force in a direction substantially parallel with a direction of
sliding motion of the sliding member 202. For example, at least a
substantial portion of the cross member 220 of the t-component 200
may be positioned outside the boundaries of the channel body 300
when the t-component 200 is in the first position, but at least a
substantial portion of the cross member 220 may be positioned
within a recessed cavity 310 of the channel body 300 when the
t-component 200 is in a second position, as shown by item 256 in
FIG. 5. This extension of the cross member 220 outside the
boundaries of the channel body 300 may allow for easier engagement
by a wearer to cause the deflection of the cross member 220 upon an
application of force, in an exemplary aspect. In one aspect, the
cross member 220 of the t-component 200 is curved. For example,
when the t-component 200 is in the first position, the cross member
220 may be convexly shaped. In this aspect, the cross member 220 is
positionable to be concavely shaped when in the second position.
While the cross member 220 is illustrated in FIG. 1 as having a
curved shape, other configurations are also contemplated to be
within the scope of aspects hereof. The curved shape of the cross
member 220, as illustrated in the figures herein, may be selected
based upon the desired rate of rebound of the t-component 200 when
returning from the second position to the first position, on the
desired tensile strength of the t-component 200, etc. The curvature
of the cross member 220 provides a spring-like reaction to a
wearer-applied force, which is effective for crimping the cord for
purposes of limiting the ability of the cord to slide therethrough,
in an exemplary aspect.
[0024] The channel body 300 comprises a second side surface 304 and
a top surface 306. The channel body 300 also comprises other
features, which will be shown in, at least, FIG. 2. As shown, a
second guide channel 340 extends from the second side surface 304
into a portion of the channel body 300. In aspects, a cord is
inserted through a first guide channel 330, through a pass-through
channel 212 of the sliding member 202 of the t-component 200, and
through the second guide channel 340. The ability of the
t-component 200 to move from the first position to the second
position allows a cord to be moved in a direction through the
adjuster 100 so that a corresponding opening, such as an ankle
opening, waist opening, backpack strap, or the like, can be
adjusted to have a tightening or loosening effect. For instance,
the adjuster and cord may be positioned on an ankle opening on a
pair of pants. The wearer of the pants may desire for the ankle
opening to be looser or tighter. The adjuster allows the user to
make the adjustment by applying force on the t-component 200 to
move the t-component 200 from a first position to a second
position.
[0025] FIG. 2 depicts a cross sectional view of the adjuster 100 of
FIG. 1 along cut line 2-2, the adjuster 100 for adjusting a length
of a cord, in accordance with an aspect hereof. FIG. 2 illustrates
two components of the adjuster 100, those being the t-component 200
and the channel body 300. The t-component 200 comprises a sliding
member 202 and a cross member 220. The sliding member 202 generally
comprises a first side surface 204 and a second side surface 206,
in addition to a bottom surface 208 and a top end 210. The sliding
member 202 also comprises a pass-through channel 212 that allows a
cord to pass through from the first side surface 204 to the second
side surface 206 of the sliding member 202. The pass-through
channel 212 comprises a bottom surface 214 and a top surface 216.
The sides 204 and 206 of the sliding member 202 are at least
partially open, thus allowing for the cord to pass through.
[0026] The cross member 220 of the t-component 200 comprises a top
surface 222, a bottom surface 224, and a first engaging surface 226
and a second engaging surface 234. The first engaging surface 226
comprises a bottom edge 228 and is configured to be moved from a
first position (e.g., position and orientation of item 230 in FIG.
3) to a second position (e.g., position and orientation of item 232
in FIG. 5). Generally, the first position of the first engaging
surface 226 corresponds to the first position (e.g., shape and
position of item 254 in FIG. 3) of the t-component 200, while the
second position of the first engaging surface 226 corresponds to
the second position (e.g., shape and position of item 256 of FIG.
5) of the t-component 200. Likewise, the second engaging surface
234 has a bottom edge 236 and is capable of being moved from a
first position (e.g., position and orientation of item 238 in FIG.
3) to a second position (e.g., position and orientation of item 240
in FIG. 5). Generally, the first position of the second engaging
surface 234 corresponds to the first position (e.g., shape and
position of item 254 in FIG. 3) of the t-component 200, while the
second position of the second engaging surface 234 corresponds to
the second position (e.g., shape and position of item 256 of FIG.
5) of the t-component 200. In one aspect, the first engaging
surface 226 and the second engaging surface 234 are closer to the
sliding member 202 when the t-component 200 is in the first
position (e.g., shape and position of item 254 of FIG. 3) than when
the t-component is in the second position (e.g., shape and position
of item 256 of FIG. 5).
[0027] In aspects, the top surface 222 of the cross member 220 and
the first engaging surface 226 define a first acute angle 242,
while the top surface 222 of the cross member 220 and the second
engaging surface 234 define a second acute angle 244. Similarly,
the bottom surface 224 of the cross member 220 and the first
engaging surface 226 define a first obtuse angle 246, while the
bottom surface 224 of the cross member 220 and the second engaging
surface 234 define a second obtuse angle 248. The first acute angle
242, the second acute angle 244, the first obtuse angle 246, and
the second obtuse angle 248 are defined when the t-component 200
is, at least, in the first position (e.g., shape and position of
item 254 in FIG. 3), but may persist when the t-component 200 is
moved from the first position (e.g., shape and position of item 254
in FIG. 3) to the second position (e.g., shape and position of item
256 in FIG. 5).
[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, the top end 210 of the sliding member
202 may be integrally formed with at least a portion of the bottom
surface 224 of the cross member 220, which causes the formation of
a first angle 250 and a second angle 252 between the sliding member
202 and the cross member 220. In an aspect, the t-component 200 is
adapted to increase the first angle 250 and the second angle 252 in
response to an application of force in a direction substantially
parallel with a direction of sliding motion of the sliding member
202 from a first position to a second position. In one aspect, the
application of force to the t-component 200 is a manual force made
by, for example, the wearer of a garment that utilizes the adjuster
100.
[0029] As mentioned, the bottom surface 224 of the cross member 220
is integrally formed with the top end 210 of the sliding member
202. In one aspect, a position on the bottom surface 224 of the
cross member 220 that is integrally formed with the top end 210 of
the sliding member 202 is equidistant from a bottom edge 228 of the
first engaging surface 226 and a bottom edge 236 of the second
engaging surface 234 such that the position of integration is in
the middle of the cross member 220.
[0030] The channel body 300 comprises a first side surface 302, a
second side surface 304, a top surface 306, and an opposite bottom
surface 308. The top surface 306 of the channel body 300 comprises
a recessed cavity 310 that is adapted to receive the cross member
220. The recessed cavity 310 provides for an opening into which at
least a portion of the t-component 200 can be inserted. For
instance, when the t-component 200 is in a first position, at least
a substantial portion of the cross member 220 may be outside of the
recessed cavity 310, but when the t-component 200 is in a second
position, at least a substantial portion of the cross member 220
may be positioned within the recessed cavity 310, which may be
effective for aligning two or more portions of components provided
herein for effective slidability of a cord. The recessed cavity
310, in one aspect, extends from the top surface 306 of the channel
body 300 toward the bottom surface 308 of the channel body 300.
[0031] The channel body 300 further comprises a sliding channel 320
having a first side surface 322 and a second side surface 324. The
distance between the first side surface 322 and the second side
surface 324 of the sliding channel 320 is greater than the distance
between the first side surface 204 and the second side surface 206
of the sliding member 202, which allows the sliding member 202 to
be slidably engaged with the channel body 300 within the sliding
channel 320. Further, the bottom surface 208 of the sliding member
202 is positionable closer to the bottom surface 308 of the channel
body 300 when the t-component 200 is in the second position (e.g.,
shape and position of item 256 in FIG. 5) than when the t-component
is in the first position (e.g., shape and position of item 254 in
FIG. 3). As previously mentioned, the t-component 200 is adapted to
be moved from a first position to at least a second position. For
instance, FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate the t-component 200 in a first
position, while FIG. 5 illustrates the t-component 200 in an
exemplary second position.
[0032] The channel body 300 illustrated in FIG. 2 comprises a first
guide channel 330 and a second guide channel 340. The first guide
channel 330 comprises a top surface 332 and an opposite bottom
surface 338, and extends from the first side surface 302 of the
channel body 300 toward the sliding channel 320. The top surface
332 of the first guide channel 330 has a first top edge 334 and a
second top edge 336, the second top edge 336 being closer to the
first side surface 322 of the sliding channel 320 than the first
top edge 334. The first top edge 334 may be located on or near to
the first side surface 302 of the channel body 300. A first
distance between the first top edge 334 of the first guide channel
330 and perpendicular to the first bottom surface 335 is greater
than a second distance between the second top edge 336 and
perpendicular to the a second bottom surface 337 of the first guide
channel 330. Distances between other top edges and bottom surfaces
gradual decrease from the first distance to the second
distance.
[0033] As mentioned, the channel body 300 also comprises a second
guide channel 340. The second guide channel 340 comprises a top
surface 342 and an opposite bottom surface 348, and extends from
the second side surface 304 of the channel body 300 toward the
sliding channel 320. The top surface 342 of the second guide
channel 340 has a first top edge 344 and a second top edge 346, the
second top edge 346 being closer to the second side surface 324 of
the sliding channel 320 than the first top edge 344. The first top
edge 344 may be located on or near to the second side surface 304
of the channel body 300. A first distance between the first top
edge 344 of the second guide channel 340 and perpendicular to the a
first bottom surface 345 is greater than a second distance between
the second top edge 346 and perpendicular to the a second bottom
surface 347 of the second guide channel 340. The transition from
the first distance to the second distance in both the first guide
channel 330 and the second guide channel 340 may be gradual, the
transition from the first distance to the second distance in both
the first guide channel 330 and the second guide channel 340 may be
stepwise, or the transition from the first distance to the second
distance in both the first guide channel 330 and the second guide
channel 340 may be a combination of gradual and stepwise (as
shown.)
[0034] The first guide channel 330, the pass-through channel 212,
and the second guide channel 340 form a continuous channel when the
t-component is in the second position, as shown in FIG. 5 herein.
As such, when the adjuster 100 is utilized for adjustment of an
article using a cord, the cord is able to be moved in one or more
directions when the t-component is in the second position.
[0035] The channel body 300 further comprises a first crimp cavity
350 and a second crimp cavity 360. The first crimp cavity 350
comprises a first side surface 352 and an opposite second side
surface 356 that is adjacent to the first side surface 204 of the
sliding member 202. The first side surface 352 of the first crimp
cavity 350 has a bottom edge 354 that is located nearer to the
bottom surface 308 of the channel body 300 than the bottom surface
214 of the pass-through channel 212 when the t-component 200 is in
the first position. Further, the bottom edge 354 of the first crimp
cavity 350 is located farther from the bottom surface 308 of the
channel body 300 than the bottom surface 214 of the pass-through
channel 212 when the t-component 200 is in the second position.
[0036] The second crimp cavity 360 comprises a first side surface
362 and an opposite second side surface 366 that is adjacent to the
second side surface 206 of the sliding member 202. The first side
surface 362 of the second crimp cavity 360 has a bottom edge 364
that is located nearer to the bottom surface 308 of the channel
body 300 than the bottom surface 214 of the pass-through channel
212 when the t-component 200 is in the first position. Further, the
bottom edge 364 of the second crimp cavity 360 is located farther
from the bottom surface 308 of the channel body 300 than the bottom
surface 214 of the pass-through channel 212 when the t-component
200 is in the second position.
[0037] FIG. 3 depicts a cross sectional view of an adjuster, such
as the adjuster 100 of FIG. 1, where the t-component 200 of the
adjuster 100 is in a first position, in accordance with an aspect
hereof. FIG. 3 is generally similar to FIG. 2, but illustrates the
adjuster 100 with an exemplary cord 150. FIG. 3 illustrates the
t-component 200 and the channel body 300, in addition to other
components that have been previously discussed in relation to FIG.
2. As shown here, the t-component 200 is in a first position 254.
Likewise, the first engaging surface 226 and the second engaging
surface 234 are both in a first position (e.g., position and
orientation of items 230 and 238, respectively). In one aspect, and
as shown here in FIG. 3, while the t-component 200 is in the first
position 254, the cross member 220 is convexly shaped.
[0038] As also described in relation to FIG. 2, the top end 210 of
the sliding member 202 is integrally formed with the bottom surface
224 of the cross member 220, forming a first angle 250 and a second
angle 252 between the sliding member 202 and the cross member 220.
The t-component 200 is adapted to increase the first angle 250 and
the second angle 252 in response to an application of force in a
direction substantially parallel with a direction of sliding motion
of the sliding member 202 when the t-component 200 is moved from a
first position 254 to a second position (e.g., shape and position
of item 256 in FIG. 5).
[0039] Additionally, the cord 150 is shown in FIG. 3 as being
crimped, such that it may not be capable of being substantially
moved in either lateral direction. This occurs because of the first
crimp cavity 350 and the second crimp cavity 360, and the first
guide channel 330 and the second guide channel 340 being sized and
thus adapted to hold the cord 150 in place relative to the adjuster
100 so that an adjustment is not made to the cord while the
t-component 200 is in the first position, as shown in FIG. 3.
[0040] FIG. 4 depicts a cross sectional view of an adjuster, in
accordance with an aspect hereof. The adjuster of FIG. 4 is similar
to adjuster 100 of FIG. 1 but illustrates the t-component 200 in a
different position, as will be described below. As shown in FIG. 4,
the t-component 200 is between what is referred to herein as a
first position (e.g., shape and position of item 254 of FIG. 3) and
a second position (e.g., shape and position of item 256 of FIG. 5).
As mentioned, the t-component 200 is adapted to be moved from a
first position to a second position in response to, for example, an
application of force in a direction substantially parallel with a
direction of sliding motion of the sliding member 202. FIG. 4
illustrates that an application of force in a direction
substantially parallel with a direction of sliding motion of the
sliding member 202 has been applied to the cross member 220 of the
t-component 200, thus resulting in the t-component 200 moving from
the first position toward the second position. As shown, the
t-component 200 in this intermediary position, and in particular
the cross member 220, is now at least partially within the recessed
cavity 310 of the channel body 300. As such, the cord 150 in FIG. 4
is less crimped than it is in FIG. 3, as the t-component 200 is
moving from a first position to an intermediary position.
[0041] FIG. 5 depicts a cross sectional view of an adjuster, in
accordance with an aspect hereof. The adjuster in FIG. 5 is similar
to adjuster 100 of FIG. 1, but the t-component 200 is in a
different position, as will be described below. As mentioned, the
t-component 200 as shown in FIG. 5 is in a second position 256. The
second position 256 of the t-component 200 also corresponds to the
first engaging surface 226 being in a second position 232, in
addition to the second engaging surface 234 being in a second
position 240. The movement of the t-component 200 from the first
position (e.g., shape and position of item 254 in FIG. 3) to the
second position 256 may result in the first engaging surface 226
and the second engaging surface 234 being at least partially
removed from the channel body 300, as shown in FIG. 5. This may
depend upon the type of material (e.g., flexibility of the
material) used for the t-component 200. Further, when the
t-component 200 is in the second position 256, the first guide
channel 330, the pass-through channel 212, and the second guide
channel 340 form a continuous channel 370, which allows a cord,
such as cord 150, to be moved in either lateral direction. In one
aspect, the cord 150 is substantially straight (e.g., linear in
shape) while the t-component 200 is in the second position 256. In
a further aspect, and as shown here in FIG. 5, the cross member 220
is positionable to be concavely shaped while the t-component 200 is
in the second position 256.
[0042] As mentioned above in reference to FIG. 2, the size of the
channel opening for both the first guide channel 330 and the second
guide channel 340 is decreased from a first perimeter to a second
perimeter toward the sliding channel 320. This particular
configuration is advantageous because the top edges 336 and 346 in
cooperation with the second bottom surfaces 337 and 347 are able to
interface with the cord 150 to provide a frictional force to the
cord so that the cord is partially held in place while the
t-component 200 is in the second position 256, while gradually
freeing the cord 150 from the frictional force from the second top
edges 336 and 346 to the first top edges 334 and 344. In other
words, the frictional force provided at a center portion of the
adjuster is enough to provide an improved controllability of the
adjuster by preventing the cord 150 from sliding too fast, but is
not so great as to hold the cord 150 with such force that the
ability of the cord 150 to slide through the channels 330, 212, and
340, is compromised. The improved adjustability of the adjuster may
additionally allow for an improved fine-tuning of the position of
the adjuster on the cord 150. While the improved controllability
caused by the configuration of the sliding channel 320 described
above is described in relation to the t-component 200 being in the
second position 256, other components other than a t-component
could be used to provide the same improved controllability of the
movement of the cord. Other configurations of the t-component could
be used to provide the same functionality as described herein.
[0043] As mentioned in relation to FIG. 3, the top end 210 of the
sliding member 202 is integrally formed with the bottom surface 224
of the cross member 220, forming a first angle 250 and a second
angle 252 between the sliding member 202 and the cross member 220.
The t-component 200 is adapted to increase the first angle 250 and
the second angle 252 in response to an application of force in a
direction substantially parallel with a direction of sliding motion
of the sliding member 202 when the t-component 200 is moved from a
first position (e.g., shape and position of item 254 in FIG. 3) to
a second position 256. FIG. 5 illustrates the increase of the first
angle 250 and the second angle 252 when the t-component 200 is
moved from the first position (e.g., shape and position of item 254
in FIG. 3) to the second position 256. Additionally, the
t-component 200 in the second position 256, and in particular the
cross member 220, is now substantially within the recessed cavity
310 of the channel body 300. In one aspect, a larger part of the
cross member 220 is located within the recessed cavity 310 of the
channel body 300 when the t-component 200 is in the second position
256 than when the t-component 200 is in the first position (e.g.,
shape and position of item 254 in FIG. 3).
[0044] FIG. 6 depicts a top plan view of the adjuster 100 for
adjusting a length of a cord, in accordance with an aspect hereof.
The t-component 200 is illustrated, and particularly the cross
member 220 having a top surface 222. Furthermore, FIG. 6
illustrates the first side surface 302, the second side surface
304, and the top surface 306 of the channel body 300.
[0045] FIG. 7 depicts a side elevational view of the adjuster 100
for adjusting a length of a cord, in accordance with an aspect
hereof. This exemplary side view of the adjuster 100 illustrates
the first side surface 302 of the channel body 300 and the first
guide channel 330. As mentioned, a cord, such as the cord 150
referenced in FIGS. 3-5, may be placed through, at least, the first
guide channel 330 and various components not shown in FIG. 7 but
shown in, for example, FIG. 2, including the first crimp cavity
350, the pass-through channel 212, the second crimp cavity 360, and
the second guide channel 340. The cord may be used to adjust an
opening (e.g., an ankle opening, a waist opening) by moving the
t-component 200 from the first position to the second position.
[0046] FIG. 8 depicts a cross sectional view of an adjuster for
adjusting a length of a cord, in accordance with an aspect hereof.
In addition to the adjuster 100, FIG. 8 illustrates a diameter 402
of a circle 400 formed when the shape of the cross member 220 is
continued to form the circle 400. In aspects, the diameter 402 of
the circle 400 increases as the t-component 200 is moved from a
first position toward a second position. During the t-component's
200 transition from the first position to the second position, the
cross member 220 may become substantially flat or linear, at which
time the cross member 220 will transition from a convex position to
a concave position. When the cross member 220 is in a concave
position, the circle 400 would then be formed on the opposing side
of the channel body 300. The diameter 402 of the circle 400 would
then begin to decrease as the transition of the t-component 200 to
the second position continues.
[0047] The following listing of exemplary aspects supports and is
supported by the discussion provided herein. These
specifically-listed aspects are exemplary in nature and not
limiting as to the scope of features provided herein.
[0048] Aspect 1
[0049] An adjuster that allows for an adjustment to a length of a
cord, the adjuster comprising a t-component, the t-component
comprising a sliding member, the sliding member having a first side
surface and an opposite second side surface, and a bottom surface
and an opposite top end, the sliding member comprising a
pass-through channel having a bottom surface and an opposite top
surface, and a cross member, the cross member having a top surface
and an opposite bottom surface, and a first engaging surface and an
opposite second engaging surface, the top end of the sliding member
integrally formed with the bottom surface of the cross member
forming a first angle between the sliding member and the cross
member, the t-component is adapted to increase the first angle in
response to an application of force in a direction substantially
parallel with a direction of sliding motion of the sliding member
from a first position to a second position; and a channel body
having a first side surface and an opposite second side surface, a
top surface and an opposite bottom surface, and a recessed cavity
adapted to receive the cross member, the recessed cavity extending
from the top surface of the channel body toward the bottom surface
of the channel body, the channel body comprising a sliding channel
having a first side surface and a second side surface, a distance
between the first side surface and the second side surface of the
sliding channel being greater than a distance between the first
side surface and the second side surface of the sliding member such
that the sliding member is slidably engaged with the channel body
within the sliding channel, the bottom surface of the sliding
member positionable closer to the bottom surface of the channel
body when the t-component is in the second position than when the
t-component is in the first position, and a first guide channel
having a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, the first
guide channel extending from the first side surface of the channel
body to the sliding channel.
[0050] Aspect 2
[0051] The adjuster of aspect 1, wherein the top surface of the
first guide channel has a first top edge and a second top edge, the
second top edge being closer to the first side surface of the
sliding channel than the first top edge.
[0052] Aspect 3
[0053] The adjuster of aspect 2, wherein a distance between the
first top edge and perpendicular to the bottom surface is greater
than a distance between the second top edge and perpendicular to
the bottom surface.
[0054] Aspect 4
[0055] The adjuster of aspect 1, further comprising a first crimp
cavity having a first side surface and an opposite second side
surface that is adjacent to the first side surface of the sliding
member; and a second crimp cavity having a first side surface and
an opposite second side surface that is adjacent to the second side
surface of the sliding member.
[0056] Aspect 5
[0057] The adjuster of aspect 4, wherein the first side surface of
the first crimp cavity having a bottom edge that is located nearer
to the bottom surface of the channel body than the bottom surface
of the pass-through channel when the t-component is in the first
position.
[0058] Aspect 6
[0059] The adjuster of aspect 5, wherein the bottom edge of the
first crimp cavity located farther from the bottom surface of the
channel body than the bottom surface of the pass-through channel
when the t-component is in the second position.
[0060] Aspect 7
[0061] The adjuster of aspect 1, further comprising a second guide
channel having a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, the
second guide channel extending from the second side surface of the
channel body to the sliding channel.
[0062] Aspect 8
[0063] The adjuster of aspect 7, wherein the first guide channel,
the pass-through channel, and the second guide channel form a
continuous channel when the t-component is in the second
position.
[0064] Aspect 9
[0065] The adjuster of aspect 1, wherein the top surface of the
cross member is curved in a direction extending from the first
engaging surface to the second engaging surface.
[0066] Aspect 10
[0067] The adjuster of aspect 1, wherein when the t-component is in
the first position, the cross member is convexly shaped, the cross
member being positionable to be concavely shaped when in the second
position.
[0068] Aspect 11
[0069] The adjuster of aspect 1, wherein the top end of the sliding
member is integrally formed with the bottom surface of the cross
member forming a second angle between the sliding member and the
cross member, the t-component being adapted to increase the second
angle in response to the application of force in a direction
substantially parallel with the direction of sliding motion of the
sliding member from the first position to the second position.
[0070] Aspect 12
[0071] The adjuster of aspect 1, wherein a position on the bottom
surface of the cross member that is integrally formed with the top
end of the sliding member is equidistant from a bottom edge of the
first engaging surface and a bottom edge of the second engaging
surface.
[0072] Aspect 13
[0073] An adjuster that allows for an adjustment to a length of a
cord, the adjuster comprising a t-component, the t-component
comprising a sliding member, the sliding member having a first side
surface and an opposite second side surface, and a bottom surface
and an opposite top end, the sliding member comprising a
pass-through channel having a bottom surface and an opposite top
surface, a cross member, the cross member having a top surface and
an opposite bottom surface, and a first engaging surface and an
opposite second engaging surface, the top end of the sliding member
integrally formed with the bottom surface of the cross member, and
the t-component being adaptable to be moved from a first position
to a second position in response to an application of force in a
direction substantially parallel with a direction of sliding motion
of the sliding member, the first engaging surface and the second
engaging surface being adaptable to move from a first position
corresponding to the first position of the t-component to a second
position corresponding to the second position of the t-component,
the first engaging surface and the second engaging surface being
closer to the sliding member when the t-component is in the first
position than when the t-component is in the second position; and a
channel body having a first side surface and an opposite second
side surface, a top surface and a bottom surface, the channel body
comprising a sliding channel having a first side surface and a
second side surface, a distance between the first side surface and
the second side surface of the sliding channel being greater than a
distance between the first side surface and the second side surface
of the sliding member such that the sliding member is slidably
engaged with the channel body within the sliding channel, the
bottom surface of the sliding member positioned closer to the
bottom surface of the channel body when the t-component is in the
second position than when the t-component is in the first position,
and a first guide channel, the first guide channel having a top
surface and an opposite bottom surface, the first guide channel
extending from the first side surface of the channel body to the
sliding channel.
[0074] Aspect 14
[0075] The adjuster of aspect 13, further comprising a second guide
channel having a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, the
second guide channel extending from the second side surface of the
channel body to the sliding channel, wherein the first guide
channel, the pass-through channel, and the second guide channel
form a continuous channel when the t-component is in the second
position.
[0076] Aspect 15
[0077] The adjuster of aspect 13, further comprising a first crimp
cavity having a first side surface and an opposite second side
surface that is adjacent to the first side surface of the sliding
member; and a second crimp cavity having a first side surface and
an opposite second side surface that is adjacent to the second side
surface of the sliding member.
[0078] Aspect 16
[0079] The adjuster of aspect 15, wherein the first side surface of
the first crimp cavity has a bottom edge that is located nearer to
the bottom surface of the channel body than the bottom surface of
the pass-through channel when the t-component is in the first
position.
[0080] Aspect 17
[0081] The adapter of aspect 13, the channel body further
comprising a recessed cavity adapted to receive the cross member,
the recessed cavity extending from the top surface of the channel
body toward the bottom surface of the channel body.
[0082] Aspect 18
[0083] An adjuster that allows for an adjustment to a length of a
cord, the adjuster comprising a t-component, the t-component
comprising a sliding member, the sliding member having a first side
surface and an opposite second side surface, and a bottom surface
and an opposite top end, the sliding member comprising a
pass-through channel having a bottom surface and an opposite top
surface, a cross member, the cross member having a top surface and
an opposite bottom surface and a first engaging surface and an
opposite second engaging surface, the top end of the sliding member
integrally formed with the bottom surface of the cross member, and
the t-component being adaptable to be moved from a first position
to a second position in response to an application of force in a
direction substantially parallel with a direction of sliding motion
of the sliding member, the cross member being convexly shaped when
the t-component is in the first position, and the cross member
being adapted to be concavely shaped when the t-component is in the
second position; and a channel body having a first side surface and
an opposite second side surface, a top surface and a bottom
surface, and a recessed cavity adapted to receive the cross member,
the recessed cavity extending from the top surface of the channel
body toward the bottom surface of the channel body, the channel
body comprising a sliding channel having a first side surface and a
second side surface, a distance between the first side surface and
the second side surface of the sliding channel being greater than a
distance between the first side surface and the second side surface
of the sliding member such that the sliding member is slidably
engaged with the channel body within the sliding channel, the
bottom surface of the sliding member positioned closer to the
bottom surface of the channel body when the t-component is in the
second position than when the t-component is in the first position,
and a first guide channel having a top surface and an opposite
bottom surface, the first guide channel extending from the first
side surface of the channel body to the sliding channel.
[0084] Aspect 19
[0085] The adjuster of aspect 18, further comprising a second guide
channel having a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, the
second guide channel extending from the second side surface of the
channel body to the sliding channel, wherein the first guide
channel, the pass-through channel, and the second guide channel
form a continuous channel when the t-component is in the second
position.
[0086] Aspect 20
[0087] The adjuster of aspect 18, the top surface of the cross
member and the first engaging surface defining a first acute angle,
the top surface of the cross member and the second engaging surface
defining a second acute angle, the bottom surface of the cross
member and the first engaging surface defining a first obtuse
angle, and the bottom surface of the cross member and the second
engaging surface defining a second obtuse angle.
[0088] While exemplary aspects are provided herein with a focus on
implementation in connection with an article of clothing or other
wearable articles, it is understood that features specifically and
the concept generally may be applied to a variety of
implementations. As such, it is contemplated that the illustrated
examples directed to an article of clothing or other wearable
articles may not be limiting but merely exemplary in nature in some
aspects.
[0089] Many different arrangements of the various components
depicted, as well as components not shown, are possible without
departing from the spirit and scope hereof. Aspects hereof have
been described with the intent to be illustrative rather than
restrictive. Alternative aspects will become apparent to those
skilled in the art that do not depart from its scope. A skilled
artisan may develop alternative means of implementing the
aforementioned improvements without departing from the scope
hereof.
[0090] While specific elements and steps are discussed in
connection to one another, it is understood that any element and/or
steps provided herein is contemplated as being combinable with any
other elements and/or steps regardless of explicit provision of the
same while still being within the scope provided herein. Since many
possible aspects may be made of the disclosure without departing
from the scope thereof, it is to be understood that all matter
herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings is to be
interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
* * * * *