Reinforced securing device

The present invention features a securing device for securing at least one object for storage or transport, wherein the securing device comprises: (a) an elongate bendable member having first and second ends, the elongate bendable member comprising at least one inelastically deformable component having load bearing capabilities, and means for reinforcing the inelastically deformable component, wherein the means for reinforcing is situated about at least a portion of the inelastically deformable component, and wherein the means for reinforcing also has load bearing capabilities that contribute to the overall securing capabilities or strength of the securing device. The securing device further features a first loop provided at a first end of the elongate bendable member and a second loop provided at a second end of the elongate bendable member, wherein the first and second loops are deformable and configured to receive a loop of the same or another securing device. Several connection configurations are made possible by the present invention securing device.

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Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to bendable securing, binding, retaining, or tying devices configured to secure one or more objects or items either together or to at least one other item or object for storage or transport. More particularly, the present invention relates to a reinforced double loop twist tie configured for the same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND RELATED ART

Several types of securing devices, having some type of relation to the present invention, that are used for bundling, securing, hanging, and/or tying one or more objects together or to another object exist in the art. For example, wire ties exist in the art that comprise nothing but a metal wire or other similar flexible material. The strength of the wire tie lies solely in the inherent strength characteristics or properties of the wire itself. Thus, if the wire tie breaks or fails under the applied load, the secured state of the object or item being secured by the wire tie is compromised as there is no structural element or elements present to serve as reinforcement or as a backup. Typically, the wire tie will fail when the inherent tensile strength of the wire is exceeded by the applied load.

Other wire ties exist where the core flexible wire is contained within a decorative or protective material, such as plastic or fabric. In this case, the wire tie is still limited in strength by the inherent strength properties of the flexible wire itself as the encasing material is not designed to bear anything but a nominal load. Indeed, these protective materials have been used primarily for one or more of the following reasons: to improve the appearance of the wire tie, to improve the grip of the wire tie, to protect the user from the sharp wire ends, to eliminate contact with the flexible wire, to protect the flexible wire from corrosion, etc.

Still another type of wire tie that exists utilizes rigid loops on its end. These loops function to provide the user with additional flexibility by broadening the potential uses of the wire tie. However, the loops are limited in their application and in their uses by the fact that they are rigid. One of the most evident limitations is that the loops are incapable of receiving each other. In other words, one loop is incapable of being inserted into and passed through the other loop due to their rigid nature and the fact that they are generally of equal size. Therefore, the loops serve limited functions. In one aspect, they may facilitate other objects to be hung or clipped onto the loops. In another object, they may be used as leverage points that receive a special tool designed to facilitate the twisting of the twist-tie around itself. However, inherently, they do little, if anything, to increase the securing advantages of the wire tie when used alone.

The present invention is also related to elastic securing devices, such as bungee cords, etc. Although employing useful hooked ends, and although several of these devices may be coupled together for increased length, these types of securing devices are limited in that they are unable to maintain a bent shape. Instead, they are highly elastic and require some degree of an induced or applied tension force to function properly.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In light of the problems and deficiencies inherent in the prior art, the present invention seeks to overcome these by providing a reinforced double loop securing device.

Although several objects of some of the various exemplary embodiments are specifically recited herein, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention in any way. Indeed, it is contemplated that each of the various exemplary embodiments comprises other objects that are not specifically recited herein. These other objects will be apparent to and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art upon practicing the invention as taught and described herein.

In accordance with the invention as embodied and broadly described herein, the present invention features a securing device for securing at least one object for storage or transport, wherein the securing device comprises: (a) an elongate bendable member having first and second ends, the elongate bendable member comprising at least one inelastically deformable component having load bearing capabilities, and means for reinforcing the inelastically deformable component, wherein the means for reinforcing is situated about at least a portion of the inelastically deformable component, and wherein the means for reinforcing also has load bearing capabilities that contribute to the overall securing capabilities or strength of the securing device; (b) a first loop provided at a first end of the elongate bendable member; and (c) a second loop provided at a second end of the elongate bendable member.

The present invention further features a securing device for securing at least one object for storage or transport, wherein the securing device comprises: (a) an elongate bendable member having first and second ends, the elongate bendable member comprising at least one inelastically deformable component having load bearing capabilities, and means for reinforcing the inelastically deformable component, wherein the means for reinforcing is situated about at least a portion of the inelastically deformable component, and wherein the means for reinforcing also has load bearing capabilities that contribute to the overall securing capabilities or strength of the securing device.

The securing device may further comprise a plurality of reinforcement fibers adjacent the flexible wire, wherein the reinforcement fibers also comprise load bearing capabilities that are configured to further reinforce the flexible wire and the reinforcement sheath, thus further increasing the overall strength of the securing device.

The present invention still further features a securing device for securing at least one object for storage or transport, wherein the securing device comprises: (a) an elongate flexible member having first and second ends; (b) a first loop provided at the first end of the elongate bendable member; (c) a second loop provided at the second end of the elongate bendable member, wherein the first and second loops are sized and configured to be inserted into and pass through one another, thus creating and forming at least one securing configuration.

The present invention also features several methods of use. In one aspect, the present invention features a method for securing an object comprising: (a) providing a first securing device comprising an elongate bendable member having first and second ends, wherein the elongate bendable member comprises an inelastically deformable component having load bearing capabilities, and means for reinforcing the inelastically deformable component also having load bearing capabilities for reinforcing the flexible wire and increasing the overall securing capabilities or strength of the securing device; and (b) manipulating said securing member about an object to support said object.

In another aspect, the present invention features a method for securing an object comprising: (a) providing a first securing device comprising an elongate bendable member and first and second loops located at opposing ends of the elongate bendable member, wherein the first and second loops are configured to be inserted into and pass through each other, thus creating and forming at least one securing configuration; (b) inserting the first loop (or second loop) through the second loop (or first loop) to create a retaining loop; and (c) manipulating the securing device to secure and support an object within the retaining loop.

The method just described further comprises inserting the retaining loop through the first loop to create a second or dual retaining loops.

Furthermore, the method just described further comprises interconnecting a second securing device to the first securing device to create a variety of securing configurations, wherein the second securing device also comprises an elongate bendable member and first and second loops located at opposing ends of the elongate bendable member. In one exemplary securing configuration, the step of interconnecting comprises inserting a first loop of the first securing device through a first loop of the second securing device. In another exemplary securing configuration, the step of interconnecting comprises (a) inserting a first loop of the first securing device through a first loop of the second securing device; and (b) inserting a second loop of the second securing device through the first loop of the first securing device. In still another exemplary securing configuration, the step of interconnecting comprises inserting a first loop of the first securing device through the first and second loops of the second securing device. The method may further comprise inserting a portion of the elongate bending member of the second securing device through the first and second loops of the first securing device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings merely depict exemplary embodiments of the present invention they are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope. It will be readily appreciated that the components of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Nonetheless, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a general perspective view of the present invention reinforced double loop securing device according to one exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 2 illustrates a partial cut-away view of the elongate bendable member of an exemplary reinforced double loop securing device having a flexible wire reinforced by a reinforcement sheath, wherein the combination of these are encased within a protective coating;

FIG. 3 illustrates a partial cut-away view of the elongate bendable member of another exemplary reinforced double loop securing device having a flexible wire reinforced by a plurality of parallel running reinforcement strands as well as a reinforcement sheath containing the wire and reinforcement strands, wherein the combination of these are encased within a protective coating;

FIG. 4 illustrates one exemplary configuration for forming a loop within the securing device, wherein an end of the elongate bendable member is doubled over on itself and crimped to another portion of the elongate bendable member with a crimping member;

FIG. 5 illustrates another exemplary configuration for forming a loop within the securing device, wherein an end of the elongate bendable member is doubled over on itself and wrapped around another portion of the elongate bendable member;

FIG. 6 illustrates one exemplary connection configuration, wherein two separate securing devices are coupled together to effectively create a securing device having an increased length and looped ends;

FIG. 7 illustrates another exemplary connection configuration, wherein the securing device 10-a is used to secure an object within its created loop;

FIG. 8 illustrates still another exemplary connection configuration, wherein the securing device is used to secure multiple objects within its created loops;

FIG. 9-A illustrates one exemplary alternative embodiment for providing a hook on an end of the elongate member of the securing device;

FIG. 9-B illustrates one exemplary alternative embodiment for providing a removable or detachable loop on an end of the elongate member of the securing device;

FIG. 9-C illustrates one exemplary alternative embodiment for providing a loop on an end of the elongate member that selectively opens and closes; and

FIG. 10 illustrates a securing device having means for reinforcing implemented therein, with free ends.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention makes reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof and in which are shown, by way of illustration, exemplary embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. While these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art practice the invention, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that various changes to the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention, as represented in FIGS. 1 through 10, is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is presented for purposes of illustration only and not limitation to describe the features and characteristics of the present invention, to set forth the best mode of operation of the invention, and to sufficiently enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is to be defined solely by the appended claims.

The following detailed description and exemplary embodiments of the invention will be best understood by reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the elements and features of the invention are designated by numerals throughout.

The present invention describes a method and device for securing, binding, tying, or retaining one or more objects. Specifically, the present invention provides or features a reinforced double loop securing device (hereinafter “securing device”). The securing device is comprised of a flexible, semi-rigid, and shape forming material (e.g., a flexible wire), meaning that it is capable of being manipulated or bent into various maintainable or retainable positions. In other words, the securing device of the present invention can be said to comprise an inelastically deformable material capable of maintaining any shape into which it is manipulated or bent.

With reference to FIG. 1, illustrated is a perspective view of a securing device according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the securing device 10 comprises, generally, an elongate bendable member 12 comprised of an inelastically deformable component (not shown), such as a flexible wire, encased within a reinforcement sheath (not shown), each of which are contained within a protective outer coating 48, such as a rubber or any non-slip polymer coating. Provided on a first end 14 of the elongate bendable member 12 is a first loop 18. Likewise, provided on a second end 16 of the elongate bendable member 12 is a second loop 26. In one aspect, first and second loops 18 and 26 may be integrally formed from the first and second ends 14 and 16 of the elongate bendable member 12. In another aspect, first and second loops 18 and 26 may be separate structural elements that are removably coupled or detachable from first and second ends 14 and 16 of the elongate bendable member 12.

First and second loops 18 and 26 are flexible or semi-rigid, and are configured to form eyelets 22 and 30, respectively. Eyelets 22 and 30 may comprise any size, but will preferably be sized accordingly such that they are capable of receiving the opposing loop of the same securing device, or one or more of the loops of a different or separate securing device. Thus, the first loop 18, with its eyelet 22 is configured to receive therethrough the second loop 26, and vice versa. Alternatively, either of the first and second loops 18 and 26 are configured to receive one or more of the loops of a different or separate securing device, depending upon the particular connection or securing configuration desired or required. This concept and the various connection or securing configurations made possible by the present invention are discussed in greater detail below.

As indicated above, the inelastically deformable component may comprise any material capable of being repeatedly bent into various shapes or positions as known by those skilled in the art, such as a flexible metallic wire, wherein each shape or position is intrinsically retained or maintained, meaning that the securing device holds that shape until bent into another subsequent position. The inelastically deformable component is also intended to comprise a range of load bearing capabilities, and particularly tension load bearing capabilities, that allow the securing device to secure loads having masses that fall within that range. As the securing device may be made with a variety of different types, sizes, forms, and compositions of inelastically deformable material, and thus with different load bearing capabilities, various securing devices may be made, each having different securing capabilities. The load bearing capabilities of the inelastically deformable component are most likely pre-determined and directly related to its material makeup, type, size, formation, etc., as will be recognized by one skilled in the art.

In another embodiment, multiple or a plurality of inelastically deformable components may be used collectively or formed in combination with one another to form the securing device. It is contemplated that each of the individual deformable components will comprise pre-determined load bearing capabilities that will contribute to the greater collective load bearing capabilities of the securing device upon forming or assembling each of the individuals components together and using them in a collective manner, also as known by those skilled in the art.

The securing device 10 further comprises means for reinforcing the inelastically deformable material that contributes to the strength and overall load bearing capabilities of the securing device 10. Although the strength or load bearing capabilities of the securing device 10 are derived primarily from the inelastically deformable material, the means for reinforcing the inelastically deformable material is configured to function as a secondary support component having a measure or pre-determined degree of load bearing capabilities that supports or backs up the inelastically deformable material in one or more ways. For example, depending on its material makeup, the means for reinforcing may be designed to bolster the overall load bearing capability of the securing device 10 by bearing a portion of the secured load in conjunction with the inelastically deformable material. In another aspect, the means for reinforcing may function as a backup in the event the inelastically deformable material fails under a load or otherwise. Essentially, the ability of the present invention securing device to secure and support a load is increased or improved as a result of the presence of the means for reinforcing.

The means for reinforcing may comprise many different types and may comprise many different forms, configurations, materials, etc. In one exemplary embodiment, the means for reinforcing comprises a high strength, flexible, low elongation fabric, such as nylon in the form of a reinforcement sheath completely surrounding or encasing the inelastically deformable component core. Some of the types of materials that may be used are nylon, polyester, polypropylene, and other similar materials, as well as blends of these materials. Other exemplary materials include combinations of fibers, including Kevlar®, Spectra® and Technora®. The configuration of the means for reinforcing may be as a sheath, or it may be as a plurality of ribs formed or bonded to the inelastically deformable material. Other similar means for reinforcing the inelastically deformable component(s) will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, the securing device may comprise many different sizes and may comprise many different strength ratings. Indeed, the loops of the securing device may be of any size, the length of the elongate bendable member may be of any size, and the securing device may be designed with any load bearing capability.

One particular advantageous feature of the present invention is a securing device having the combination of flexible looped ends, as well as an overall reinforced material makeup as just described. FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate partial cut-away views of the elongate bendable member, according to two different exemplary embodiments. Specifically, FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate partial cut-away views of the elongate bendable member, each incorporating different means for reinforcing the inelastically deformable or flexible wire component(s) of the securing device.

FIG. 2 illustrates a first exemplary embodiment, wherein the elongate bendable member 12 of the securing device 10 comprises an inelastically deformable component, shown as flexible wire 40. Situated about at least a portion of the flexible wire 40 is means for reinforcing the inelastically deformable component in the form of a reinforcing sheath 44 that surrounds or encases the flexible wire 40. The reinforcing sheath 44 may comprise one of several types of flexible load bearing materials, but will preferably comprise a nylon or other strength or load bearing material, such as those identified above. The flexible wire 40 and the reinforcing sheath 44 are further surrounded by or encased within a protective coating 48, which may comprise any type of coating known in the art. One particular example of a protective coating is a textured rubber coating that provides both weatherproofing and improved gripping characteristics to the securing device 10.

FIG. 3 illustrates a second exemplary embodiment of the elongate bendable member 12 of the securing device 10, wherein the elongate bendable member 12 comprises an inelastically deformable component, also shown as flexible wire 40. Also situated about at least a portion of the flexible wire 40 is means for reinforcing the inelastically deformable component in the form of a reinforcing sheath 44 surrounding or encasing the flexible wire 40. The reinforcing sheath 44 may comprise one of several types of flexible load bearing materials as discussed herein. In addition, unlike the embodiment in FIG. 2, the embodiment of the elongate bendable member 12 as shown in FIG. 3 further comprises a plurality of reinforcement strands 52 situated about the flexible wire 40. These reinforcement strands 52 may be considered tertiary support components as they also comprise load bearing capabilities that further contribute to the overall strength of the securing device 10 (along with primary support component flexible wire 40, and secondary support component reinforcing sheath 44). The reinforcement strands 52 are also flexible so that they can bend with the inelastically deformable component. The material makeup of the reinforcement strands 52 may be any known in the art, and will typically be similar to the means for reinforcing discussed above, such as nylon. In addition, the reinforcement strands 52 may be situated about the flexible wire 40 in any conceivable orientation, such as parallel to, coiled around, or otherwise oriented about the flexible wire 40. As shown in FIG. 3, reinforcement strands 52 are oriented to run parallel to the flexible wire 40. Finally, similar to the embodiment in FIG. 2, the flexible wire 40, the reinforcing sheath 44, and the plurality of reinforcement strands 52 may be further surrounded by or encased within a protective coating 48.

FIG. 4 illustrates one exemplary embodiment for providing a loop 18 on the end 14 of the securing device 10, wherein the end 14 of the elongate bendable member 12 is doubled over upon itself and crimped to another portion of the elongate bendable member 12 with a crimping member 60, which may be any crimping, clamping, or other similar device known in the art capable of securing the end 14 to another portion of the elongate bendable member 12 to form the loop 18. In this embodiment, the loop 18 is integrally formed with the elongate bendable member 12, meaning that the loop 18 is an extension of or formed from the elongate bendable member 12 and/or the inelastically deformable component 40. Although shown with the reinforcing means (reinforcement sheath 44 and reinforcement strands 52) and the protective coating 48 pulled away, the loop 18 may comprise all of the same reinforcing means included or disposed about the elongate bendable member 12, such as a reinforcement sheath, various reinforcement strands, etc. The loop 18 may further comprise the same or a similar protective coating, also as disposed about the elongate bendable member 12. These are represented by the dotted lines in FIG. 4. FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary securing device 10, wherein each of the loops 18 and 26 include or have disposed thereabout reinforcing means and a protective coating.

FIG. 5 illustrates another exemplary configuration for providing a loop 18 on the end 14 of the securing device 10, wherein the end 14 of the elongate bendable member 12 is doubled over upon itself and wrapped around or otherwise engaged with another portion of the elongate bendable member 12 to secure the end 14 to the elongate bendable member 12. In this embodiment, the loop 18 is also integrally formed with the elongate bendable member 12, meaning that the loop 18 is an extension of or formed from the elongate bendable member 12 and/or the inelastically deformable component 40. Although shown with the reinforcing means (reinforcement sheath 44 and reinforcement strands 52) and the protective coating 48 pulled away, the loop 18 may comprise all of the same reinforcing means included or disposed about the elongate bendable member 12, such as a reinforcement sheath, various reinforcement strands, etc. The loop 18 may further comprise the same or a similar protective coating, also as disposed about the elongate bendable member 12. These are represented by the dotted lines in FIG. 4. FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary securing device 10, wherein each of the loops 18 and 26 include or have disposed thereabout reinforcing means and a protective coating.

Integrally forming the loops with the elongate bendable member may be by twisting, crimping, gluing, tying, or otherwise securely attaching the ends of the elongate bendable member to another portion of the elongate bendable member.

The following examples are illustrative of several various connection or securing configurations made possible by the present invention securing device. These examples are only intended to be illustrative of some of the many possible connection or securing configurations, and are thus not meant to be limiting in any way. Indeed, one skilled in the art will recognize other connection or securing configurations made possible by employing one or more securing devices to secure one or more objects that are not specifically recited herein, each of which are intended to be covered by and within the scope of protection of the present invention.

EXAMPLE ONE

FIG. 6 illustrates one exemplary connection configuration, wherein two separate securing devices are coupled together to effectively create a securing device having an increased length and looped ends. In this particular embodiment, a first loop 18-a of a first securing device 10-a is inserted through an eyelet 30-b of a second loop 26-b of a second securing device 10-b. Following this, a first loop 18-b of the second securing device 10-b is inserted through an eyelet 22-a of the first loop 18-a of the first securing device 10-a. Doing this causes the elongate bendable member 12-a of the first securing device 10-a to be contained within the first loop 18-b of the second securing device 10-b. Likewise, this causes the elongate bendable member 12-b of the second securing device 10-b to be contained within the first loop 18-a of the first securing device 10-a. To tightly interlock the first and second securing devices 10-a and 10-b together, the first and second securing devices 10-a and 10-b may be pulled away from one another, which causes the first loop 18-a of the first securing device 10-a to engage the second loop 26-b of the second securing device 10-b. In this connection configuration, the first and second securing devices 10-a and 10-b function as a single securing device effectively having two looped ends, namely first loop 18-b and second loop 26-a, as well as a longer length than each of the individual securing devices used. As such, the lengthened securing device may function in any manner as other securing devices generally described herein.

EXAMPLE Two

FIG. 7 illustrates another exemplary connection configuration, wherein the securing device 10 is used to secure an object 2 a within a retaining loop 70 created by inserting the second loop 26 of the securing device 10 through the eyelet 22 of the first loop 18. This causes the elongate bendable member 12, or at least a portion thereof, to be contained within the first loop 18 as shown. The retaining loop 70, once formed, may be manipulated or resized as needed to properly secure the object 2 therein. This is typically done by further pulling a greater portion of the elongate bendable member 12 through the first loop 18. Stated differently, the first loop 18 is configured to slide along the elongate bendable member 12 aft of the second loop 26. In one aspect, the retaining loop 70 may be sized until the portion of the elongate bendable member 12 forming the retaining loop 70 is secure against the object 2. In another aspect, the object 2 may be hung from a loosely fitting retaining loop 70.

EXAMPLE THREE

Another exemplary connection configuration may comprise that achieved by inserting a loop of a first securing device through a loop of a second securing device, without further interlocking the first and second securing devices together as described in Example One above. In this connection configuration, the elongate bendable member of the first securing device may slide back and forth within the loop of the second securing device as needed. In addition, various other connection configurations may be achieved from this connection configuration.

EXAMPLE FOUR

Another exemplary connection configuration may comprise that achieved by inserting a first loop of a first securing device through first and second loops of a second securing device. In this connection configuration, the elongate bendable member of the first securing device may slide back and forth within the first and second loops of the second securing device as needed. In addition, various other connection configurations may be achieved from this connection configuration.

EXAMPLE FIVE

FIG. 8 illustrates still another exemplary connection configuration, wherein the securing device is used to secure first and second objects 2-a and 2-b within retaining loops 70-a and 70-b. First retaining loop 70-a is created by inserting the first loop 18 through the eyelet 30 of the second loop 26. This causes the elongate bendable member 12, or at least a portion thereof, to be contained within the second loop 26 as shown. Second retaining loop 70-b is created by inserting the first retaining loop 70-a through the eyelet 22 of the first loop 18 and pulling it and the second loop 26 through the first loop 18 until the first loop 18 is caused to slide along the elongate bendable member 12 as shown. This causes the elongate bendable member 12 to be contained within both the first and second loops 18 and 26 and to form the first and second retaining loops 70-a and 70-b, or in other words, this causes the first and second loops 18 and 26 to be slidable along the elongate bendable member 12, respectively. As such, first and second retaining loops 70-a and 70-b may be resized to accommodate loads 2-a and 2-b.

FIG. 9-A illustrates an exemplary alternative embodiment, wherein the securing device 10 comprises a hook, or open loop configuration. The hook or open loop comprises a section break 78, wherein access to the eyelet of the hook or open loop may be directly obtained. The hook is also shown as being detachable via coupling member 76, which may be any known in the art.

FIG. 9-B illustrates another exemplary alternative embodiment, wherein the securing device 10 comprises a structurally independent loop 80 that removably couples or that is detachable from the end 14 of the elongate bendable member 12 of the securing device 10. Loop 80 couples to the end 14 of the elongate bendable member 12 in accordance with any known means in the art. In the particular embodiment shown, loop 80 comprises a metal retainer 84 that secures the loop. The metal retainer 84 further comprises a threaded recess (not shown) configured to receive the mating threaded insert 88 coupled to the end 14 of the elongate bendable member. As such, loop 80 may be attached and detached as desired. Loop 80 is also preferably deformable or flexible and configured to receive a loop of the same or another securing device as discussed herein. However, loop 80 may comprise a rigid loop as well.

FIG. 9-C illustrates still another exemplary alternative embodiment, wherein the securing device 10 comprises a loop 92 having a section break 96 formed within the loop structure that is configured to provide selective access to an eyelet of the loop 92 through the section break 96. The opening of or access to the section break 96 is selectively controlled via closing means as commonly known in the art. In this particular example, closing means comprises a thumb screw 98 that displaces to open and close the section break 96. In a closed position, the thumb screw 98 threads onto the threaded end 100 formed in the loop 92. Other closing means are well known in the art and not specifically discussed herein, but are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention as claimed.

FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the securing device is comprised of an elongate bendable member 112 and first free end 114 and second free end 116. Elongate bendable member 112 further comprises reinforcing means in the form of a reinforcement sheath 144 that surrounds or encases a plurality of reinforcement strands 152, also part of the reinforcing means. The reinforcement sheath 144 and the reinforcement strands 152 encase the inelastically deformable component, shown as flexible wire 140. At each of the ends 114 and 116 is located an end wrap 156 configured to contain the various components of the elongate bendable member 112. Operation of this embodiment to secure an object is primarily achieved by manipulating the elongate bendable member about the object, followed by twisting the elongate bendable member 112 about itself until the object is secure. One skilled in the art will recognize the various connection configurations that may be achieved with the securing device of FIG. 10.

Referring back to FIG. 1, other embodiments of the securing device 10 may comprise, and the present invention further features, a color coding system to assist the user in identifying the components of one or more securing devices when in use. This is particularly useful in the event multiple securing devices are used in combination with one another to secure one or more items. A color coding system may be useful for a variety of reasons, which will be apparent to one skilled in the art. As shown in FIG. 1, the first loop 18 of the securing device 10 comprises a first color, labeled as color A, and the second loop 26 of the securing device 10 comprises a second color, labeled as color B. Colors A and B may comprise any color, but will typically comprise different colors that easily distinguish the first loop 18 from the second loop 26, such as red and black. Alternatively, the first and second loops 18 and 26 of the securing device 10 may comprise the same color, with the intent being to manufacture several securing devices having looped ends of the same color, but providing several colors between different between securing devices. Thus, a first securing device having looped ends of one color may be strategically used with a second or multiple additional securing devices, each having looped ends of the same color, but different from the color of the looped ends of the other securing devices. Using a color coding system, such as those described above, will enable the user to systematically couple multiple securing devices together while eliminating confusion as to which looped ends belong to which securing device. This may aid the user in determining which securing device to manipulate at the appropriate time.

Some of the advantages of the present invention securing device include, but are not limited to, a double loop reinforced securing device that provides at least primary and secondary load bearing support components, a protective coating that improves grip and does not damage or mar object surfaces, loops that are deformable and that are configured to receive the loops of the same or another securing device, and others.

The foregoing detailed description describes the invention with reference to specific exemplary embodiments. However, it will be appreciated that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. The detailed description and accompanying drawings are to be regarded as merely illustrative, rather than as restrictive, and all such modifications or changes, if any, are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention as described and set forth herein.

More specifically, while illustrative exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described herein, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but includes any and all embodiments having modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations as would be appreciated by those in the art based on the foregoing detailed description. The limitations in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based the language employed in the claims and not limited to examples described in the foregoing detailed description or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. For example, in the present disclosure, the term “preferably” is non-exclusive where it is intended to mean “preferably, but not limited to.” Any steps recited in any method or process claims may be executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented in the claims. Means-plus-function or step-plus-function limitations will only be employed where for a specific claim limitation all of the following conditions are present in that limitation: a) “means for” or “step for” is expressly recited; b) a corresponding function is expressly recited; and c) structure, material or acts that support that structure are expressly recited. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined solely by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the descriptions and examples given above.

Claims

1. A securing device for securing at least one object for storage or transport, said securing device comprising:

an elongate bendable member having first and second ends, said elongate bendable member comprising at least one inelastically deformable component having load bearing capabilities and means for reinforcing said inelastically deformable component situated about at least a portion of said inelastically deformable component, said means for reinforcing also having load bearing capabilities that increase the overall strength of said securing device;
a first loop provided at a first end of said elongate bendable member; and
a second loop provided at a second end of said elongate bendable member.

2. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said elongate bendable member and said first and second loops further comprises a protective coating disposed at least partially thereon.

3. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said means for reinforcing comprises at least one reinforcement fiber operable with said inelastically deformable component, said reinforcement fiber comprising load bearing capabilities configured to further reinforce said inelastically deformable component and contribute to the overall securing capabilities of said securing device.

4. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said means for reinforcing comprises a high strength, flexible, low elongation material.

5. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said means for reinforcing comprises a reinforcement sheath that surrounds and encases at least a portion of said inelastically deformable component.

6. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said inelastically deformable component comprises a flexible wire having pre-determined load bearing capabilities.

7. The securing device of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of inelastically deformable components collectively assembled to provide said securing device with pre-determined load bearing capabilities.

8. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said first loop is an integral extension of said elongate bendable member formed by said first end of said elongate bendable member being doubled over upon itself and secured to another portion of said elongate bendable member.

9. The securing device of claim 8, further comprising a crimping member configured to crimp together said first end, as doubled over upon itself, and said portion of said elongate bendable member to secure said first end and said first loop.

10. The securing device of claim 8, wherein said first end, as doubled over upon itself, is wrapped around said portion of said elongate bendable member at least once to secure said first end and said first loop.

11. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said second loop is an integral extension of said elongate bendable member formed by said second end of said elongate bendable member being doubled over upon itself and secured to another portion of said elongate bendable member, thus integrally forming said second loop from said elongate bendable member.

12. The securing device of claim 11, further comprising a crimping member configured to crimp together said second end, as doubled over upon itself, and said portion of said elongate bendable member to secure said second end and said second loop.

13. The securing device of claim 11, wherein said second end, as doubled over upon itself, is wrapped around said portion of said elongate bendable member at least once to secure said second end and said second loop.

14. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said first and second loops are structurally independent of and removably coupled to said elongate bendable member.

15. The securing device of claim 1, wherein at least one of said first and second loops comprises a section break controlled by closing means configured to provide selective access to an eyelet of said loop through said section break.

16. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said first and second loops are flexible.

17. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said first and second loops are sized and configured to be inserted into and pass through each other, thus creating and forming at least one securing configuration.

18. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said inelastically deformable member is bendable into an infinite number of positions, with each position capable of being intrinsically maintained.

19. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said first and second loops are deformable.

20. The securing device of claim 1, wherein said first and second loops further comprise means for reinforcing said first and second loops.

21. The securing device of claim 1, further comprising at least one indicator to identify one of performance, geometric, an end, and size characteristics of said securing device.

22. The securing device of claim 21, wherein said indicator comprises color coded first and second loops.

23. The securing device of claim 21, wherein said indicator comprises a color coded elongate bendable member.

24. A securing device for securing at least one object for storage or transport, said securing device comprising:

an elongate bendable member having first and second ends, said elongate bendable member comprising at least one inelastically deformable component having load bearing capabilities and means for reinforcing said inelastically deformable component situated about at least a portion of said inelastically deformable component, said means for reinforcing also having load bearing capabilities that increase the overall strength of said securing device.

25. The securing device of claim 24, further comprising a loop provided at a first end of said elongate bendable member.

26. The securing device of claim 24, further comprising a loop provided at a second end of said elongate bendable member.

27. The securing device of claim 24, further comprising at least one reinforcement fiber operable with said inelastically deformable component, said reinforcement fiber comprising load bearing capabilities configured to further reinforce said inelastically deformable component and said means for reinforcing, thus further increasing the overall strength of said securing device.

28. The securing device of claim 27, wherein said reinforcement fibers run substantially parallel to said inelastically deformable component.

29. The securing device of claim 27, wherein said reinforcement fibers are coiled about said inelastically deformable component.

30. A securing device for securing at least one object for storage or transport, said securing device comprising:

an elongate flexible member having first and second ends;
a first loop provided at said first end of said elongate bendable member; and
a second loop provided at said second end of said elongate bendable member, said first and second loops being sized and configured to be inserted into and pass through each other, thus creating and forming at least one securing configuration.

31. The securing device of claim 30, wherein said first and second loops are deformable.

32. A method for securing an object comprising:

providing a securing device comprising an elongate bendable member having first and second ends, said elongate bendable member comprising at least one inelastically deformable component having load bearing capabilities and means for reinforcing said inelastically deformable component situated about at least a portion of said inelastically deformable component, said means for reinforcing also having load bearing capabilities that increase the overall strength of said securing device; and
manipulating said securing device about an object for the purpose of supporting and securing said object in a connection configuration.

33. The method of claim 32, further comprising forming first and second loops on said first and second ends of said elongate bendable member, respectively, said first and second loops facilitating the formation of said securing device into a plurality of different connection configurations.

34. A method for securing an object comprising:

providing a first securing device comprising an elongate bendable member and first and second loops located at opposing ends of said elongate bendable member, said first and second loops configured to be inserted into and pass through each other, thus creating and forming at least one securing configuration;
inserting said first loop through said second loop to create a retaining loop; and
manipulating said first securing device to secure and support an object within said retaining loop.

35. The method of claim 34, further comprising color coding said elongate member and said first and second loops.

36. The method of claim 34, further comprising inserting said retaining loop through said first loop to create dual retaining loops.

37. The method of claim 34, further comprising interconnecting a second securing device to said first securing device to create a variety of securing configurations, said second securing device also comprising an elongate bendable member and first and second loops located at opposing ends of said elongate bendable member.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein said interconnecting comprises inserting a first loop of said first securing device through a first loop of said second securing device, thus interconnecting said first and second securing devices.

39. The method of claim 37, wherein said interconnecting comprises:

inserting a first loop of said first securing device through a first loop of said second securing device; and
inserting a second loop of said second securing device through said first loop of said first securing device, thus interconnecting said first and second securing devices.

40. The method of claim 37, wherein said interconnecting comprises inserting a first loop of said first securing device through said first and second loops of said second securing device.

41. The method of claim 40, further comprising inserting a portion of said elongate bendable member of said second securing device through said first and second loops of said first securing device.

Patent History
Publication number: 20060075610
Type: Application
Filed: Oct 13, 2004
Publication Date: Apr 13, 2006
Inventor: Doyle Buchanan (Salt Lake City, UT)
Application Number: 10/965,465
Classifications
Current U.S. Class: 24/300.000
International Classification: A44B 21/00 (20060101);