Towel restraint assembly and method of use thereof

Abstract

A towel restraint assembly and method of use thereof, comprising an adjustable non-elastic strap and a clip assembly for releasably gripping a towel, blanket or other material, wherein such clip assembly permits an expanded range of grip forces and opening widths to accommodate various towel, blanket or other material thicknesses without damaging or puncturing the fabric and, thus, preventing the towel, blanket or other material from being blown off the chair.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to a towel restraint, and more specifically pertains to a towel restraint assembly and method of use thereof, utilized to secure a towel to a seat or other desireable surface and prevent the towel from being blown off the seat or other acceptable surface.

BACKGROUND

Clip-like devices, holders and/or elastic strap assemblies are utilized to hold towels, sheets, blankets, table cloths and the like to keep such articles in place on lounge chairs, furniture, tables, and bedding if subject to air currents or occupant body movements which may tend to dislocate or dislodge part or all of the towel, sheet, blanket, or table cloth.

In particular when people are sunbathing, swimming, boating, or operating a vehicle, they frequently prefer to place a towel on their chair or seat for comfort, to keep the plastic, vinyl, leather or cloth cover from becoming hot during periods of nonuse, and to absorb perspiration or water when wet from swimming. A gust of wind, however, can blow the towel away when the sunbather, swimmer or an occupant leaves the chair. Even when sitting in the chair, the towel can tend to slip down the front of the chair, bunching up and becoming tangled when the sunbather leans forward or adjusts position. In an attempt to temporarily solve this inconvenience, the user usually tries to keep the towel ends tucked into some part of the seating apparatus. Although the effort of keeping the beach towel in place by tucking the ends into the seating apparatus can temporally solve the problem, it is more than likely short lived, subsequent adjustment of position, or vacating of the chair typically causes the towel to again come loose.

A number of clip-like or elastic straps attachment devices have been proposed in the prior art, principally for use with clothing and woven fabric material. For example, the traditional “suspender clip” to hold up trousers uses a pair of metal jaws that are forced together by a clasp mechanism. The sharp, pointed jaws of these devices tend to cause damage and wear to the fabric over time, and are simply incapable of firmly gripping various weights and thicknesses of fabric. This tendency is complicated by the fact that, due to the nature of the clasp mechanism, this type of clip can only exert a fixed amount of gripping force between the jaws, i.e., the grip cannot be adjusted to be either tighter or looser, as may be needed in particular instances or for use with certain fabrics or materials. Furthermore, the metal “suspender clip” devices are subject to breakage and rapid wear, are difficult to operate when environmental conditions are wet and/or cold, and are subject to rust when used outside.

Similar clip-like, hook and loop, or elastic straps with clips on both ends have been proposed as attachment devices for straps for securing corners of bed sheets to a mattress, maintaining tent flaps in a desired position, clamping a towel edge around a lounge chair support tube, and the like. In these applications, there remains a risk of damaging the fabric or material when using conventional gripping devices, since these gripping devices frequently retain material by urging rigid, jagged members together to clamp or grip the material. Clamping by these gripping devices can pierce the fabric or material, and when the material is pulled during use, these conventional devices can tear the fabric or material. Additionally, the specific design of known devices make for limited and restricted use with various types, shapes, sizes of seating apparatus as well as fabric or material. For example, clip assemblies specifically designed to be removably attached to tubing of beach chair, pool lounge or similar furniture are limited in use to furniture with such structure. Moreover, various clip-like anchors have been proposed to anchor or stake blankets, towels and the like in the ground or sand to prevent the ruffling and bunching of such items, wherein each, also, is disadvantageously limited to one particular use.

Furthermore, use of elastic straps with a clip-like attachment device on one end, whether the other end of the strap is permanently attached near the furniture or a second clip-like attachment device is used to secure such end, creates a member with the potential to snap a user or recoil against someone who brushes up against or sits on the device posing a safety concern.

Therefore, it is readily apparent that there is a need for a towel restraint assembly and method of use thereof, wherein convenient and repeated attachment of a towel, blanket or other material to a vehicle seat or other acceptable surface such as the seating or sun deck in a boat or other acceptable surface is enabled, and wherein the towel, blanket or other material may be easily maintained in a desired position on such seating or other acceptable surface without causing a safety concern, irrespective of whether employed on a car, boat, or any other seat or location in virtually any condition.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Briefly described in a preferred embodiment, the present invention overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages and meets the recognized need for such an invention by providing a towel restraint assembly and method of use thereof, comprising an adjustable non-elastic strap and a clip assembly for releasably gripping a towel, blanket or other material, wherein such clip assembly permits an expansive range of grip forces and opening widths to accommodate various towel, blanket or other material thicknesses without damaging or puncturing the fabric and, thus, preventing the towel, blanket or other material from being blown off the chair.

According to its major aspects and broadly stated, the present invention in its preferred form is a towel restraint assembly and method of use thereof, comprising a an adjustable non-elastic strap anchored on one end by a suitable fastener for releasably affixing the strap to the seat area or other acceptable surface, and, on the other end a gripping apparatus for releasably and frictionally gripping a towel, blanket or other material.

Accordingly, a feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to maintain the towel, blanket or other material subjected to air currents or occupant body movements in a desired position on such seating or other selectable surface.

Another feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to prevent the ruffling and bunching of the towel, blanket or other material and to maintain such material in a desired position on such seating or other acceptable surface when such seating is occupied.

Still another feature and advantage of the present version of the invention is its inability to snap a seat occupier or someone who brushes up against or sits on the device, thus alleviating a safety concern.

Still another feature and advantage of the present version of the invention is its ability to avoid damage or puncture of the fabric or material restrained thereby.

Yet another feature and advantage of the present version of the invention is its ability to prevent the seat or other acceptable surface from becoming hot, and from absorbing perspiration or water from the seat occupier.

Yet another feature and advantage of the present version of the invention is its ability to provide a plastic gripping surface which does not cause excessive damage and/or wear to the fabric or material.

Yet another feature and advantage of the present version of the invention is its ability to provide a range of gripping force between the jaws of the clip.

Yet another feature and advantage of the present version of the invention is its ability to provide a range of jaw opening widths to accommodate various towel, blanket or other material thicknesses.

Yet another feature and advantage of the present version of the invention is its ability to accommodate various types, shapes, sizes of seating apparatus, and as well as virtually limitless types of fabric or material.

These and other features and advantages of the present version of the invention will become more apparent to one skilled in the art from the following description and claims when read in light of the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present version of the invention will be better understood by reading the Detailed Description of the Preferred and Alternate Embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawing figures, in which like reference numerals denote similar structure and refer to like elements throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a top view of a boat hull with bench seating in the bow of the boat, helmsman and first mate station chairs, rear bench seating and a rear sun deck showing towels restrained in the seating according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown in use;

FIG. 2 is a top view of a towel with four towel restraint assemblies in each corner of the towel according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown in use;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the towel restraint assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a snap fastener of the towel restraint assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a swivel fastener of the towel restraint assembly according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4C is a perspective view of a lift the dot fastener of the towel restraint assembly according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a gripping apparatus of the towel restraint assembly shown gripping a corner of a towel according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a gripping apparatus of the towel restraint assembly according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 5C is a perspective view of a gripping apparatus of the towel restraint assembly according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED AND SELECTED ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS

In describing the preferred and selected alternate embodiments of the present version of the invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, specific terminology is employed for the sake of clarity. The invention, however, is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific element includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish similar functions.

Referring now to FIG. 1, by way of example, and not limitation, there is illustrated a top view of boat hull A. Other boat styles, vehicles and general seating are contemplated by this invention. In the exemplary, power boat A there is passenger port and starboard open bow bench seating B, helmsman and first mate station chairs C, rear deck sun pad D and rear bench seating E. Other seating styles, surface areas and configurations are contemplated for targeted use of this invention, as are other furniture pieces such as tables and the like whether land based or installed on a vessel. Helmsman and first mate station chairs C are shown as bucket style seating; however, other styles could benefit from use with the present invention, such as ladder back or utility style seating with back rest and arm supports. The seating styles and configurations are generally conventional and therefore not shown or described in detail. That is, it is a feature and advantage of the present invention to accommodate various types, shapes, sizes of seating apparatus or other acceptable surface areas and, therefore the present invention is expressly not limited to the seating shown in FIG. 1. In a preferred use, towels E are shown anchored, as more fully described herein, thereby and covering port and starboard bench seating B and rear deck sun pad D.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is illustrated a top view of a towel E in a rectangular shape having four opposing corners F1, F2, F3, and F4. Depicted in preferred use, towel restraint assembly 10 is shown attached to the four opposing corners F1-F4 of towel E. However, other attachment configurations for towel restraint assembly 10 are contemplated such as restraint along side(s) G, or one, or two or more corners F, according to alternate uses of the present invention. Moreover, towel E, includes but is not limited to, beach towels, blanket, table cloth or other material capable of shielding furniture from the sun, decorating, and/or absorbing perspiration or water, or any other material or fabric wherein secure placement may be desireable. The present invention in its preferred embodiment is towel restraint assembly 10 for releasably gripping towel E and restraining such towel E, thus, preventing air currents or occupant body movements which tend to dislocate part or all of towel E.

Referring now to FIG. 3, towel restraint assembly 10 preferably comprises adjustable, non-elastic strap 20, fastener 30, and gripping apparatus 40. Specifically, towel restraint assembly 10 preferably comprises strap 20 with adjustable buckle 50 for lengthening and shortening the distance between fastener 30 and gripping apparatus 40 in order to accommodate variable distances from fastener 30 to towel E. Strap 20 preferably is made of nylon, as nylon offers a variety of strength, lightweight, flexibility and non-corrosive properties; however, other suitable materials such as plastic, canvas, cloth, leather or polyethylene or other woven material, plastic or the like, may be utilized, provided such material has sufficient strength and/or flexibility as would meet the purpose described herein. The length of strap 20 preferably may vary and is adjustable. The preferred range for strap 20 is generally from 6 inches to 2 feet in length, with the preferred length being 1 foot. The width of strap 20, can vary with the preferred width of ¾ of an inch. Any desirable width or length could be utilized without departing from the intended scope of the present invention. Buckle 50 is preferably constructed of polypropylene, as polypropylene offers a variety of forms and shapes to accommodate strap 20; however, other suitable materials such as wood, metal, aluminum, plastic, nylon or the like, may be utilized, provided such material has sufficient strength and/or durability as would meet the purpose described herein.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4C there is illustrated a perspective view of fastener 30 of towel restraint assembly 10 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Fastener 30 typically is affixed in close proximity to seating B, helmsman and first mate station chairs C, rear deck sun pad D, rear bench seating E or other suitable locations as would meet the purpose described herein in order to provide for subsequent installation of towel restraint assembly 10, and wherein fastener 30 is affixed to one end of strap 20.

Referring now to FIG. 4A, snap fastener 30 preferably comprises a cap 31 eyelet 33 and preferably self-tapping screw 35; however, other suitable securing mechanism other than screw 35, such as rivets, crimping, adhesives or the like may be utilized, provided such mechanism has sufficient strength and/or durability as would meet the purpose described herein. Eyelet 33 of snap fastener 30 is preferably affixed to the location for use, such as boat hull A, using self tapping screw 35 in close proximity to seating B, such as, for example helmsman and first mate station chairs C, rear deck sun pad D or other suitable locations as would meet the purpose described herein. In use, cap 31, preferably is riveted or crimped to one end of strap 20, and preferably is snapped to eyelet 33 securing towel restraint assembly 10 to the selected use location, such as on power boat hull A in close proximity to passenger seating of port and starboard in open bow bench seating B, helmsman and first mate station chairs C, rear deck sun pad D, rear bench seat E or the like.

Cap 31 preferably comprises dome-like rivet top 37 which engages strap 20 between top 37 and underlying socket 39, thereby clamping top 37 and socket 39 together and securing strap 20 therebetween. Socket 39 preferably comprises cup-shaped shell 41 having in-turned flange 44 along its undersurface 43 to receive circular spring element 45 within socket 39 preferably positioned above flange 44. Spring element 45 is preferably split to afford radial expansion and contraction of preferred circular configuration of spring element 45 as it engages and disengages eyelet 33 of the combination.

Eyelet 33 preferably comprises flange 47 with upstanding barrel 49 preferably having outwardly-flared wall 51 with a circumference that gradually increases along its axial length. Barrel 49 is designed to fit through the opening formed by the in-turned flange 43 of socket 39 so that flared wall 51 engages spring element 45. The outer diameter of flared wall 51 is preferably larger than the internal at-rest diameter of spring element 45, whereas the smallest diameter of flared wall 51 is preferably equal to or less than the contracted internal diameter of spring element 45. Thus, spring element 45 is adapted to engage flared wall 51 as cap 31 is positioned over eyelet 33, and flared wall 51 expands spring element 45 so as to allow barrel 49 to pass through spring element 45 such that engagement with flared wall 51 wherein undersurface 43 comes to rest on flange 47, thus, securing cap 31 and strap 20 to eyelet 33.

Referring now to FIG. 4B, there is illustrated a perspective view of twist-lock fastener 50 of towel anchor assembly 10 according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention. Fastener 30 is on one end of strap 20 (as shown in FIG. 3) and alternatively comprises a twist-lock fastener 50 as shown in FIG. 4B. Twist-lock fastener 50 comprises washer 66, tang washer 54, stud 52, and self tapping screw 35, however, other suitable securing mechanism such as rivets, crimping, adhesives or the like can be utilized, provided such mechanisms have sufficient strength and/or durability as would meet the purpose described herein. Stud 52 of twist-lock fastener 50 is typically utilized and/or installed via affixing to location of use, for example, to boat hull A using self-tapping screw 35 in close proximity to seating B, such as, for example, helmsman and first mate station chairs C, rear deck sun pad D or other suitable locations as would meet the purpose described herein. In use, tang washer 54 is secured to one end of strap 20 and centered over stud 52, thereby pushing stud 52 through tang washer 54, wherein twist-lock fastener 50 is twisted, for example, ninety degrees rotation, securing towel restraint assembly 10 to the selected location, such as on power boat hull A in close proximity to passenger seating of port and starboard open bow bench seating B, helmsman and first mate station chairs C, rear deck sun pad D, rear bench seat E or the like.

Stud 52 has self-tapping screw 35, wherein stud 52 comprises base portion 56, upstanding stud 58 and key portion 60 upstanding there from. Key portion 61 twists about vertical center axis of stud 52 and is mounted for rotation about such center axis atop upstanding stud 58. Upstanding stud 58 and key portion 60 are designed to fit through center hole 68 of tang washer 54 until contacting larger diameter base portion 56, wherein key portion 61 is receivable and lockable.

Tang washer 54 is assembled in conjunction with washer 66 and wherein each has center hole 68, designed to fit around upstanding stud 58, wherein tang washer 54 includes tangs 64 which pierce strap 20 to which tang washer 54 is secured. In use, tangs 64 of tang washer 54 are down-turned or bent over washer 66 on the other side of strap 20 therebetween, in order to secure tang washer 54 in position relative to strap 20. Tang washer 54 in conjunction with washer 66 are adapted to engage stud 52 as upstanding stud 58 and key portion 60 are positioned through tang washer 54 in conjunction with washer 66 wherein key portion 60 is rotated ninety degrees locking tang washer 54 in conjunction with washer 66 to stud 52, thus, securing tang washer 54 in conjunction with washer 66 and strap 20 to stud 52.

Referring now to FIG. 4C, there is illustrated a perspective view of fastener 30 of towel restraint assembly 10 according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention. Fastener 30 is on one end of strap 20 and alternatively comprises lift dot fastener 60 as shown in FIG. 4C. Lift dot fastener 60 comprises stud 52, clinch plate 72 and self tapping screw 35, however, other suitable securing mechanism such as rivets, crimping, adhesives or the like can be utilized, provided such mechanisms have sufficient strength and/or durability as would meet the purpose described herein. Stud 52 of lift dot fastener 60 is typically utilized and/or installed via affixing to the location of use, for example, to boat hull A using self-tapping screw 35 in close proximity to seating B, such as, for example, helmsman and first mate station chairs C, rear deck sun pad D or other suitable locations as would meet the purpose described herein. In use, clinch plate 72 is secured to one end of strap 20 and centered over stud 52, thereby pushing stud 52 through clinch plate 72, wherein lift dot fastener 60 is latched securing towel restraint assembly 10 to the selected location, such as, power boat hull A in close proximity to passenger seating of port and starboard open bow bench seating B, helmsman and first mate station chairs C, rear deck sun pad D, rear bench seat E or the like.

Stud 52 has self-tapping screw 35 wherein stud 52 comprises base portion 56, upstanding stud 58, and groove portion 70 on the end 71 opposite self-tapping screw 35 of stud 52. Stud 52 is designed to fit through the center hole 68 of clinch plate 72, into which clinch plate 72 receives and locks into groove portion 70 of stud 52.

Clinch plate 72 comprises tang housing 76 having center hole 68, designed to fit around upstanding stud 58, wherein tang housing 76 includes tangs 64 which pierce strap 20 to which clinch plate 72 is secured. In use, tangs 64 of clinch plate 72 are up-turned or bent over on the other side of strap 20, in order to secure housing 76 in position relative to strap 20. Housing 76 of clinch plate 72 comprises latch mechanism (not shown) operated by lever 74. Housing 76 has center hole 68 designed to fit around and clasp stud 52. Latch mechanism of housing 76 is adapted to engage stud 52 as stud 52 is positioned through latch mechanism by sliding lever 74. Latch mechanism of housing 76 locks into circumferentially grooved tip 70 of stud 52 thus, securing housing 76 and strap 20 to stud 52. Latch mechanism of housing 76 is adapted to disengage stud 52 by sliding lever 74.

Lift dot fastener 60 is commercially available from the Beacon Fabric & Notions TRW Co., under the trademark LIFT-THE-DOT Canvas Fasteners. Stud 52 and self-tapping screw 35 are available from the TRW Co., under the trademark Lift-the-Dot. (Product No. 030062). (Product No. 030205). The corresponding socket with housing 76 is available from the TRW Co., under the trademark Lift-the-Dot. (Product No. 030062).

By way of example but not of limitation, fasteners 30 may be of the hook-and-loop type, snap type, button type, magnetic type, adhesive or any other known and commonly used fastener construction which can be used in the place and under any one or more of the conditions normally expected to be encountered when any towel restraint assembly is being employed in the any one or more of the uses noted above or any of their equivalents.

In operation, eyelet 33, and stud 52 of fasteners 30, 50, and 60 are typically utilized and/or installed via affixing to locations of use, for example, boat hull A, or passenger seating B, or helmsman and first mate station chairs C structure, or rear deck sun pad D or rear bench seating E in close proximity to the selected location, such as, seating B, helmsman and first mate station chairs C, rear deck sun pad D, rear bench seating E or other suitable locations as would meet the purpose described herein. Furthermore, cap 31, tang washer 54, and housing 76 of fasteners 30, 50, and 60 are typically affixed to one end of strap 20 and when a user affixes cap 31, tang washer 54, and housing 76, respectively, of fasteners 30, 50, and 60 to its counterpart eyelet 33, and stud 52 of fasteners 30, 50, and 60 thereby securing towel restraint assembly 10 to boat hull A, or passenger seating B, or helmsman and first mate station chairs C structure, or rear deck sun pad D, or rear bench seating E or the like. Due to fastener 30, 50, and 60 cap 31, tang washer 54, and housing 76, respectively, ability to allow a user to quickly affix and release such member from eyelet 33, and stud 52 of fasteners 30, 50, and 60, towel restraint assembly 10 preferably is attachable and/or removable from boat hull A, or passenger seating B, or helmsman and first mate station chairs C structure, or rear deck sun pad D, or rear bench seating E as selected by such user.

Several towel restraint assemblies 10 may be used, preferably, at least four located at the corners F1-F4 of towel E. The use of towel restraint assemblies 10 of the present invention in a boat setting allows for the carefree use of a towel E without the worry that the towel E will be blown away or easily rumpled. The cumbersome use of other traditional anchors, or weights, such as purses or other objects, or attempts at tucking towel ends into some part of the seating apparatus, is obviated by the use of towel restraint assembly 10 formed in accordance with this invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 5A-5C there is illustrated a perspective view of gripping apparatus 40 of towel restraint assembly 10 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, gripping apparatus 40 is opposingly positioned on strap 20 relative to fastener 30 and preferably comprises a ratchet gripping apparatus 80 as shown in FIG. 5A. Ratchet gripping apparatus 80 preferably comprises first jaw 82 and second jaw 84 members having ramp portions 86 which meet along integral hinge 88. Ramp portions 86 preferably define divergent inclined planes, and are surrounded by sliding collar 90. Sliding collar 90 further comprises ratchet lever 94, wherein ratchet lever 94 releases and locks sliding collar 90. As sliding collar 90 is slid, ratcheting up ramp portions 86 toward first jaw 82 and second jaw 84 members, releasable ratchet lever 94 locks sliding collar 90 against reverse movement, thereby preventing sliding collar 90 from moving toward hinge 88. Ratchet gripping apparatus 80 further preferably comprises notch 96 for attachment of ratchet gripping apparatus 80 to strap 20.

In use, a towel E is placed between first jaw 82 and second jaw 84 and sliding collar 90 is moved from a first position near hinge 88 toward a second position near grip portions 92, thereby resulting in grip portions 92 of first jaw 82 and second jaw 84 being forced together against opposing sides of towel E, releasably and frictionally securing ratchet gripping apparatus 80 to towel E. Furthermore, the amount of grip force exerted by the two jaw members 82 and 84 is incrementally adjustable by moving sliding collar 90 in one direction or the other, wherein by pressing or pulling on ratchet lever 94, sliding collar 90 is moved relative to grip portions 92, either toward hinge 88, wherein jaws 82 and 84 open and release towel E, or away from hinge 88, wherein jaws 82 and 84 grip or re-grip towel E.

Gripping apparatus 80 used in the present embodiment is commercially available from the Homax Products, under the trademark TARP CLIP. (Product No. 5302).

Referring now to FIG. 5B there is illustrated a perspective view of gripping apparatus 40 of the towel restraint assembly 10 according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention. Screw down gripping apparatus 110 comprises first jaw 82 and second jaw 84 members having ramp portions 86 which meet along integral hinge 88. Ramp portions 86 define divergent inclined planes, and ramp portions 86 have a hole 99, wherein bolt 97 is inserted into hole 99 of ramp portion 86 of second jaw 84 and further into hole 99 ramp portion 86 first jaw 82, wherein wing nut 98 is threaded thereon bolt 97. In use, as wing nut 98 is rotated in a first direction clock-wise and threaded further or tightened onto bolt 97, grip portions 92 of first jaw 82 and second jaw 84 are releasably forced together, thereby securing towel E positioned and frictionally secured therebetween. Furthermore, the amount of grip force exerted by the two jaw members 82 and 84 is incrementally adjustable by rotating wing nut 98 counter clockwise, and wherein jaws 82 and 84 open and release towel E, or clockwise, wherein jaws 82 and 84 grip or re-grip towel E. Screw down gripping apparatus 110 further comprises notch 96 for attachment to strap 20.

The location of holes 99, bolt 97 and wing nut 98 midway along the ramp portions and well forward of hinge 88, provides highly effective leverage/clamping action for tightening of screw down gripping apparatus 110. Furthermore, the amount of grip force exerted by the two jaw portions is incrementally adjustable by rotation of wing nut 98 in one direction or the other.

Referring now to FIG. 5C, there is illustrated a perspective view of gripping apparatus 40 of towel restraint assembly 10 according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention. Alternate ratchet gripping apparatus 120 comprises first jaw 82 and second jaw 84 members having ramp portions 86 which meet along integral hinge 88. Ramp portions 86 form divergent inclined planes, and are surrounded by sliding collar 104. As the sliding collar 104 is moved away from the hinge 88 toward grip portions 92 of jaws 82 and 84, the jaws 82 and 84 are forced together against towel E releasably securing alternate ratchet gripping apparatus 120 frictionally to towel E. Ramp stair-stepped grooves 100 are fabricated on outer exterior surface 106 of ramp portions 86. In addition, stair-stepped grooves 102 are also fabricated on the internal top 108 and bottom 110 surfaces of sliding collar 104, wherein stair-stepped grooves 102 of sliding collar 104 are dimensioned to interlock with stair stepped grooves 100 of ramp portions 86.

In use, a towel E is placed between first jaw 82 and second jaw 84, and sliding collar 104 is moved from a first position near hinge 88 toward a second position near grip portions 92, thereby resulting in grip portions 92 of first jaw 82 and second jaw 84 being forced together against opposing sides of towel E, thereby securing alternate ratchet gripping apparatus 120 to towel E. Furthermore, the amount of grip force exerted by the two jaw members 82 and 84 is incrementally adjustable by moving sliding collar 104 in one direction or the other, either toward hinge 88, wherein jaws 82 and 84 open and release towel E, or away from hinge 88, wherein jaws 82 and 84 grip or re-grip towel E, and essentially locking into place via interaction of stair-step grooves 100 and 102. Alternate ratchet gripping apparatus 120 further comprises notch 96 for attachment to strap 20.

Moreover, gripping apparatus 40 includes slot 96 formed transversely therethrough as shown in FIGS. 5A-C. Strap 20 is inserted through slot 96 of gripping apparatus 40 and folded back onto itself and fed through adjustable buckle 50 (shown in FIG. 3); however, strap 20 may be folded back onto itself and sewn or otherwise secured to gripping apparatus 40. Adjustable buckle 50 enables the lengthening and shortening of the distance between fastener 30 and gripping apparatus 40 to accommodate variable distances from fastener 30 to towel E.

The jaw portions, ramp portions, hinge, grip portions and the like of gripping apparatus 40 are suitably formed as a single unit, as from injection molded plastic, for example. The material of which this structure is formed preferably has a predetermined degree of resilient flexibility, so that the jaw portions move resiliently together and then back apart as the assembly is alternately tightened and loosened. Glass fiber reinforced molded nylon is eminently suitable, but it will be understood that any other suitable material may be used, such as molded polypropylene, for example, or any other known and commonly used fastener construction which can be used in the place and under any one or more of the conditions normally expected to be encountered when any clip assembly is being employed in the any one or more of the uses noted above or any of their equivalents. Further, formation from two or more component members could also be accomplished, in lieu of integral formation.

In operation, gripping apparatus 40 is opened when a user opens gripping apparatus 40 by releasing hinge 65 and inserting one end of towel E between the jaws 82 and 84 of gripping apparatus 40 thereby anchoring towel E to towel restraint assembly 10 via gripping apparatus 40 by closing jaws 82 and 84. Several towel restraint assemblies 10 may be used, preferably, having two or more located at the corners of towel E. The use of the towel anchors of the present invention in a boat setting allows for the carefree use of towel E without the worry that towel E will be blown away or easily rumpled. The cumbersome use of other traditional anchors, such as purses, or tucking towel ends into some part of the seating apparatus to secure a towel, are obviated by the use of towel restraint assembly 10 formed in accordance with this invention.

When the gripping apparatus 40 of the towel anchor assembly 10 is in a closed position towel E is gripped between first jaw 82 and second jaw 84 with little or no damage to towel E, wherein such gripping apparatus 40 permits an expanded range of grip forces. Likewise, gripping apparatus 40 permits an expanded range of opening widths to accommodate various towels, blanket or other material thicknesses.

There are other examples in which towel restraint assembly 10 may be used, such as tarps, tent flys, and other material having a sheet-like format. One of the most common uses, however, has been found to be keeping towels or blankets on boat seating apparatus chairs or the sun deck of the boat. Otherwise, they tend to be blown off or at least rearranged by the wind that is so common during boating activities.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are intended to be encompassed by the present invention. Moreover, where the references are made to a towel, the concepts are also applicable to other items and any type of covering or sheet material to be held in close association with an item. Any of such items, whether or not a piece of furniture, may be partially or wholly covered by a towel, sheet, any cloth material, or any flexible woven or unwoven sheet material. Thus, when for purposes of detailed description reference is made to furniture or a towel, the principles of the towel anchor assemblies being described are broad enough to cover uses with any and all of the above-mentioned items to be covered and the above-mentioned coverings, and their reasonable equivalents.

The invention disclosed and claimed relates to the various modifications of assemblies herein disclosed and their reasonable equivalents, and not to any particular item to be partially or wholly covered or to any particular covering used to cover such items so long as such covering can be gripped by the assembly so as to be held in place on or relative to an item with which the covering material is to be associated, either by being covered by such material or having the material being held in a desired predetermined relation to the item, whether or not it is actually covering either part or all of the item. Yet, one or more of the disclosed assemblies embodying the invention herein disclosed and claimed may be used, particularly when the item being gripped by one or more assemblies are only to be temporarily gripped and are to be easily released from the assemblies.

The foregoing description and drawings comprise illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Having thus described exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted by those skilled in the art that the within disclosures are exemplary only, and that various other alternatives, adaptations, and modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention. Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Although specific terms may be employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated herein, but is limited only by the following claims.

Claims

1. A restraint for releasably securing an article relative to an object, said restraint comprising:

a strap;

a fastener for securing a first end of said strap to a surface area of the object, said fastener including a first member fastened to the object and a second member fastened to said strap for releasably engaging said second member with said first member;

a gripping apparatus carried by a second end of said strap, said gripping apparatus having a first jaw member and a second jaw member; and,

means for selectively maintaining said first jaw member and said second jaw member in a closed position about the article.

2. The restraint in accordance with claim 1, wherein said strap material is selected from the group consisting of nylon, plastic, canvas, cloth, leather or polyethylene.

3. The restraint in accordance with claim 1, wherein said strap further comprises a buckle for lengthening and shortening the distance between said fastener and said gripping apparatus.

4. The restraint in accordance with claim 1, wherein said gripping apparatus is formed from material selected from the group consisting of nylon, glass fiber reinforced nylon, or polyethylene.

5. The restraint in accordance with claim 1, wherein said gripping apparatus is formed using injection molding techniques.

6. The restraint in accordance with claim 1, wherein said first and second jaw members further comprise ramp portions joined at a hinge, wherein said hinge holds said first jaw member and said second jaw member in an at least partially open position when at rest.

7. The restraint in accordance with claim 1, wherein said gripping apparatus material is selected from the group consisting of a ratchet gripping apparatus, or a screw down threaded gripping apparatus.

8. The restraint in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for selectively maintaining said first and second jaw members in a closed position relative the article is a cooperative joining of said first jaw member and said second jaw member, wherein said second jaw member is urged into contact with said first jaw member via elastic deformation of said gripping apparatus.

9. The restraint in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for selectively maintaining said first and second jaw members in a closed position relative to the article is a sliding collar having a ratchet lever for releasing and locking said sliding collar.

10. The restraint in accordance with claim 6, wherein said means for selectively maintaining said first and second jaw members in a closed position relative to the article is a sliding collar having interlocking stair-step grooves on an internal surface of said sliding collar and on an exterior surface of said ramp portions for releasing and locking said sliding collar.

11. The restraint in accordance with claim 6, wherein said means for selectively maintaining said first and second jaw members in a closed position relative to the article is a bolt and a nut, wherein said bolt is inserted into an aligned set of holes in said ramp portions, and wherein said nut is tightened on said bolt.

12. The restraint in accordance with claim 1, wherein said gripping apparatus is selected from the group consisting of a snap, a twist lock, or a lift dot.

13. The restraint in accordance with claim 1, wherein said fastener is a snap, wherein said second member further comprises an eyelet riveted to said strap via a cap, said first member is a socket affixed to the object, and wherein said socket and said cap snap together to secure said strap to the object.

14. The restraint in accordance with claim 1, wherein said fastener is a twist lock, wherein said second member further comprises a tang washer and a washer, both having a center hole, wherein said tang washer tangs pierce through said strap proximate said washer and are bent about said washer, and wherein said first member is a stud comprising an upstanding stud and a rotating key portion, wherein said stud is affixed to the object, and wherein said stud is positioned through said tang washer and said washer and said rotating key portion is rotates to secure said strap to the object.

15. The restraint in accordance with claim 1, wherein said fastener is lift dot, wherein said second member further comprises a tang housing having a center hole, wherein said tang housing tangs pierce into a first side of said strap, extending out of a second side of said strap, and are deformed on said second side of said strap, wherein said tang housing has a lever for operating a clinch plate, and wherein said first member is a stud having a circumferentially grooved tip, wherein said stud is affixed to the object, and wherein said stud is positioned through said center hole and said clinch plate locks into said circumferentially grooved tip of said stud to secure said strap to the object.

16. A method for securing a towel to a surface on a boat, said method comprising the steps of:

obtaining an apparatus comprising a strap, a fastener, and a gripping apparatus, said gripping apparatus having a first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein said fastener is secured to a first end of said strap and said gripping apparatus is secured to a second end of said strap;

installing said fastener into a selected location of the surface on the boat;

positioning a first portion of the towel relative thereto;

inserting a second portion of the towel between said first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein the towel is securely held to the boat.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein said fastener further comprises a first member fastened to the boat and a second member fastened to said strap for releasably engaging said second member to said first member.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein said fastener further comprises a holding means for selectively maintaining said first jaw member and said second jaw member in a closed position about the towel.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein said strap material is selected from the group consisting of nylon, plastic, canvas, cloth, leather or polyethylene.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein said fastener further comprises a buckle for lengthening and shortening the distance between said fastener and said gripping apparatus to accommodate variable distances from the towel to the boat.

21. The method of claim 16, wherein said gripping apparatus is selected from the group consisting of a ratchet gripping apparatus, or a screw down gripping apparatus.

22. The method of claim 16, wherein said fastener is selected from the group consisting of a snap, a twist lock, or a lift dot.