Securing tool

Abstract

The present invention relates to a base body (10) fixed to a first belt (4A) and a securing body (30) fixed to a second belt (4B) so as to be rotatable relative to the base body (10). The base body (10) is provided with a securing body (16), while the securing body (30) is provided with a securing claw (42) capable of being engaged with and disengaged from the securing portion (16). The base body (10) is provided with an elastically deformable portion (18) capable of being elastically deformed in a direction to bring the securing portions (16) and the securing claw (42) into a firmer engagement when a load is applied in a predetermined direction.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a securing tool in which a first member is secured to a second member. Specifically, the invention relates to a securing tool used for securing a first member with a second member in a length adjustable manner, tightening and fixing a first member to a second member, or connecting and fixing a first member to a second member.

2. Description of Related Art

A securing tool has been used for securing a first member to a second member in a length adjustable manner or for tightening and fixing a first member to a second member.

As such a securing tool for securing a first member to a second member in a length adjustable manner, a length adjuster with suspension loosening prevention (document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2001-78806) and a buckle (document 2: Examined Utility Model Application Publication No. Hei 1-30883) have been known.

Describing the length adjuster disclosed in document 1 with reference to the numerals (assigned in document 1), the length adjuster is for adjusting a length of a suspension attached to, for example, a portable pouch, the adjuster including a fixing member 4 and a movable member 12 provided to the fixing member 4 via a hinge in a lockable and unlockable manner. The fixing member 4 has a plurality of holes 6, 11, a lateral bar 7, pin holes 8 and a dent 9. The movable member 12 has a plurality of holes 14, 16, a lateral bar 15 and pins 17 to be fitted in the pin holes 8. A suspension 1 is threaded through the holes 6 and 11 of the fixing member 4 and the holes 14 and 16 of the movable member 12 in this order so as to wind around the lateral bar 15 and go out from the hole 11 of the fixing member 4.

When the movable member 12 is latched relative to the fixing member 4, the suspension 1 is winded around the lateral bar 15 extending between the holes 14, 16 to strengthen the friction force, thereby providing loosening prevention. When the movable member 12 is unlatched relative to the fixing member 4, the loosening prevention is released.

Describing the buckle disclosed in document 2 with reference to the numerals (assigned in document 2), the buckle is used for, for example, a suspender and includes a main body 1 rotatably supported and a securing body 15. The main body 1 has a securing hole 4 and a securing portion C that are formed in a width direction. The securing body 15 has a securing strip 19.

When the securing body 15 is rotated relative to the main body 1, the securing portion C of the main body 1 is engaged with an upper surface M of the securing strip 19. At the same time, a tape B is sandwiched between a lower surface N of the securing strip 19 and a lower inner wall 4b of the securing hole 4 of the main body 1.

According to either of the disclosures in documents 1 and 2, a relatively large force is necessary for both a securing operation and a releasing operation.

Specifically, in the length adjuster disclosed in document 1, the adjuster has an arrangement in which a tip end projection of the movable member 12 is elastically engaged with a tip end of the fixing member 4 when the fixing member 4 is latched relative to the movable member 12. Hence, the fitting state between the movable member 12 and the fixing member 4 needs to be relatively firm in order to maintain the secured state. However, if arranging so, a relatively large force will be necessary for the securing and releasing operations.

In the buckle disclosed in document 2, the buckle has an arrangement in which the securing portion C of the main body 1 is engaged with the upper surface M of the securing strip 19 of the securing body 15 when the securing body 15 is rotated relative to the main body 1. Hence, the fitting state between the securing portion C of the main body 1 and the securing strip 19 of the securing body 15 also needs to be relatively firm in order to maintain the secured state. However, if arranging so, a relatively large force will be necessary for the securing and releasing operations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to provide a securing tool of which securing and releasing operations can be performed with a relatively small force and securing state will not be inadvertently released.

A securing tool according to an aspect of the invention is for securing a second member to a first member and receives a load in a predetermined direction when the securing tool is in a secured state. The securing tool includes: a base body fixed to the first member; and a securing body fixed to the second member so as to be rotatable relative to the base body. One of the base body and the securing body includes a securing portion. The other of the base body and the securing body includes a securing claw engageable with the securing portion. At least one of the base body and the securing body includes an elastically deformable portion to be elastically deformed in a direction to bring the securing portion and the securing claw into a firmer engagement when the load is applied in the predetermined direction.

Herein, the first member and the second member are not limited to a belt, a string or the like, and a shape, material, size thereof may be any. In other words, the first member and the second member may be a member to which a belt, a string or the like is attached i.e. a fabric used for garments or a buckle itself used for bags for example.

According to this invention, when the securing body is rotated relative to the base body, the securing claw is engaged with the securing portion. Thereby, the second member is secured relative to the first member. When a load is applied in the predetermined direction in this secured state, the elastically deformable portion provided at least to the one of the base body and the securing body is elastically deformed. That is, the elastically deformable portion is elastically deformed in the direction to make the engagement between the securing portion and the securing claw firmer.

Hence, when a load is applied in the direction during use, such an elastic deformation is made in the direction to make the securing portion and the securing claw engage with each other more firmly, it is not necessary to strengthen the engagement between the securing claw and the securing portion, but it is possible to provide the securing tool of which securing and releasing operations can be performed with a relatively small force and secured state will not be inadvertently released

A securing tool according to another aspect of the invention is for securing a second member to a first member and receives a load in a predetermined direction when the securing tool is in a secured state. The securing tool includes: a base body fixed to the first member; a securing body fixed to the second member so as to be rotatable relative to the base body. One of the base body and the securing body is formed as a frame having: lateral walls on both sides; and connecting bars respectively connecting respective pairs of facing end sides of the lateral walls. The frame has: a rotation guide provided on one end side of the lateral walls; a fixing portion provided on the other end side of the lateral walls and fixed to the first member; and a securing portion provided between the lateral walls at a section between the rotation guide and the fixing portion. The other of the base body and the securing body includes a securing claw engageable with the securing portion. The lateral walls of the frame have an elastically deformable portion to be elastically deformed in a direction to bring the securing portion and the securing claw into a firmer engagement when the load is applied in the predetermined direction.

According to this invention, when the securing body is rotated relative to the base body, the securing claw is engaged with the securing portion. Thereby, the second member is secured relative to the first member. When a load is applied in the predetermined direction in this secured state, i.e. when the load is applied in the direction to separate the rotation guide and the fixing portion of the frame from each other, the lateral walls on the both sides are elastically deformed in the direction to approach to each other. This deformation makes the gap provided between the securing portions extending between the lateral walls that connect the rotation guide and the fixing portion of the frame. That is, the lateral walls are elastically deformed in the direction to make the engagement between the securing portion and the securing claw firmer.

Accordingly, when a load is applied in the direction during use, such an elastic deformation is made in the direction to make the securing portion and the securing claw engage with each other more firmly. Hence, it is not necessary to strengthen the engaging state between the securing claw and the securing portion, but it is possible to provide the securing tool of which securing and releasing operations can be performed with a relatively small force and secured state will be hardly released when not intended

In a securing tool according to another aspect of the invention, the securing portion may preferably have a pair of securing pieces that inwardly project from the frame toward each other. The securing pieces may preferably have, between tip ends thereof, an insertion gap for the securing claw to be inserted.

According to the invention, when the securing body is rotated relative to the base body, the securing claw is inserted in the insertion gap provided between the pair of securing pieces inwardly projecting from the lateral walls of the frame toward each other and elastically engaged with the pair of securing pieces. Additionally, since the pair of securing pieces are provided in the respective middle portion of the lateral walls, the middle portions of the lateral walls are elastically deformed in the directions away from each other when the securing claw is inserted in the insertion gap between the pair of securing pieces, and elastically return after the securing claw is elastically engaged with the pair of securing pieces. Therefore, the securing operation can be performed with a smaller force.

In a securing tool according to another aspect of the invention, the securing portion may preferably have: first securing portions formed on respective tip ends of the pair of securing pieces; and second securing portions formed along respective side edges of the pair of securing pieces. The securing claw may preferably have: a first securing claw engageable with the first securing portions; and a second securing claw elastically engageable with the second securing portions.

According to the invention, when the securing body is rotated relative to the base body, the first and second securing claws are respectively engaged with the first and second securing portions. In this secured state, even when there occurs a displacement in a rotation axis direction between the base body 10 and the securing body 30, the second securing claw 42 and the second securing surface 24 are still in engagement, so that the engagement of the base body 10 and the securing body 30 will be hardly released. Further, even when there occurs a displacement in directions orthogonal to the rotation axis, the engagement of the base body and the securing body will not be inadvertently released due to the engagement between the first securing claw and the first securing surface.

In a securing tool according to another aspect of the invention, the second securing claw may preferably be provided to the other of the base body and the securing body so as to project in a width direction. The first securing claw may preferably be provided to the second securing claw at a substantially middle position in the width direction.

According to the invention, since the first securing claw is provided in the substantially middle position in the width direction of the first securing claw, a force applied on the first securing claw can be substantially evenly dispersed and borne by the first securing claw. Hence, even when receiving a load, the securing tool can be prevented from tilting and twisting.

In a securing tool according to another aspect of the invention, the elastically deformable portion may preferably have slits defined in the respective lateral walls of the frame.

According to the invention, since the elastically deformable portion is formed to include the slits respectively defined in the lateral walls of the frame, the elastically deformable portion can have a structure capable of being deformed when the load is applied in the predetermined direction, while maintaining the rigidity of the frame. No only that, since it is only necessary to provide the slits in the lateral walls, the structure of the securing tool can be simple.

A securing tool according another aspect of the invention is for securing a second member to a first member and receives a load in a predetermined direction when the securing tool is in a secured state. The securing tool includes: a base body fixed to the first member; and a securing body fixed to the second member so as to be rotatable relative to the base body. One of the base body and the securing body includes a third securing portion and a fourth securing portion that are spaced apart from each other in the predetermined direction. The other of the base body and the securing body includes a securing claw engageable with the third securing portion. At least one elastically deformable portion is provided between the third securing portion and the one of the base body and the securing body. The elastically deformable portion allows the third securing portion to be displaced and elastically deformed in a direction that brings the fourth securing portion into a firmer engagement with the securing claw when the load is applied in the predetermined direction.

According to this invention, when the securing body is rotated relative to the base body, the third securing claw is engaged with the third securing portion. Thereby, the second member is secured relative to the first member. When the load is applied in the predetermined direction in this secured state, the third securing portion is displaced and elastically deformed in the direction to bring the fourth securing portion into engagement.

Hence, when a load is applied in the direction during use, the third securing portion is displaced to make not only the third securing portion but also the fourth securing portion engage with the securing claw, it is not necessary to strengthen the engaging state between the securing claw and the securing portion, but it is possible to provide the securing tool of which securing and releasing operations can be performed with a relatively small force and secured state will be hardly released when not intended

In a securing tool according to another aspect of the invention, the one of the base body and the securing body may preferably be formed as a frame having: lateral walls on both sides; and connecting bars respectively connecting respective pairs of facing end sides of the lateral walls. The frame may preferably have: a rotation guide for guiding a rotation of the other of the base body and the securing body, the rotation guide being provided on one end side of the lateral walls; a fixing portion provided on the other end side of the lateral walls and fixed to the first member; and a third securing portion and a fourth securing portion provided between the lateral walls at a section between the rotation guide and the fixing portion. The fourth securing portion may preferably have a pair of securing pieces that inwardly project from the lateral walls toward each other, the securing pieces having a space between tip ends thereof. The third securing portion may preferably project inwardly from the lateral walls toward each other and have a securing projection at a middle portion thereof, the securing projection being inserted in the space. The elastically deformable portion may preferably be formed in ranges from the respective lateral walls to the securing projection of the third securing portion.

According to the invention, since the fourth securing portion includes the pair of securing pieces that are inwardly projecting toward each other from the lateral walls with the space between the tip ends thereof, while the third securing portion includes the arm portions each projecting from the lateral walls inwardly toward to each other to be inserted in the space, a force applied on the arm portions can be evenly dispersed and borne on the arm portions on the left and right sides, even when the third securing portion is displaced and the fourth securing portion is engaged with the securing claw. Further, since it is only necessary to provide the elastically deformable portions in the third securing portion in ranges from the respective lateral walls to the securing projection, the structure and arrangement of the third securing portion can be simple.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view showing a first embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a securing tool according to the first embodiment when the securing tool is unlatched;

FIG. 3 is a cross section showing the securing tool according to the first embodiment when the securing tool is unlatched;

FIG. 4 is another cross section showing the securing tool according to the first embodiment when the securing tool is latched;

FIG. 5 is a cross section taken along V-V line in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the securing tool according to the first embodiment when seen from a rear side thereof;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the securing tool according to the first embodiment when the securing tool is latched and seen from the rear side thereof;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a securing tool according to a second embodiment when the securing tool is unlatched;

FIG. 9 is a cross section showing the securing tool according to the second embodiment when the securing tool is unlatched;

FIG. 10 is a cross section showing the securing tool according to the second embodiment when the securing tool is latched;

FIG. 11 is a cross section showing the securing tool according to the second embodiment where the securing tool is latched with a load being applied thereto; and

FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a modification of the invention;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

First Embodiment

The first embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 7. FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view showing a securing tool of the invention used as a securing tool for a fastening belt. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the securing tool when being unlatched. FIG. 3 is a cross section showing the securing tool when being unlatched. FIG. 4 is a cross section showing the securing tool when being latched. FIG. 5 is a cross section taken along V-V line in FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the securing tool when seen from a rear side thereof. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the securing tool when being latched and seen from the rear side thereof.

A securing tool 5 of the present invention includes, as shown in FIG. 1, a base body 10 attached to one belt 4A and a securing body 30 attached to the other belt 4B so as to be rotatable relative to the base body 10. When the securing body 30 is secured to the base body 10, the belts 4A and 4B provide a fastening function. When the securing body 30 is removed from the base body 10, the fastening state is released. In the fastening state, a load (a tensile force) is applied in a predetermined direction (a longitudinal direction of the belts 4A, 4B).

As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the base body 10 is formed as a rectangular frame having lateral walls 11, 12 on both lateral sides and connecting bars 13, 14 connecting both end sides of the lateral walls 11, 12.

A base end side of the lateral walls (the upper side in FIG. 2) is formed thicker than the other parts and provided with a bearing hole 15 as a rotation guide for supporting the securing body 30 so as to be rotatable to an inner surface facing to the securing body 30. Securing portions 16 are provided between the lateral walls 11, 12 between the connecting bars 13, 14. A belt fixing portion 17 through which the belt 4A is threaded is provided between the securing portion 16 and the connecting bar 14. An elastically deformable portion 18 is formed in the lateral walls 11, 12 between the securing portion 16 and the connecting bar 13.

The securing portion 16 includes a pair of securing pieces 21, 22 each projecting inwardly toward each other from the respective lateral walls 11, 12, the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 having an insertion gap 20 between tip ends thereof. As shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 each have a first securing surface 23 as a first securing portion on an outer tip edge as well as a second securing surface 24 as a second securing portion provided along an outer side edge (a side edge on the connecting bar 14 side).

The elastically deformable portion 18 is capable of being elastically deformed in a direction to bring the securing portions 16 and a below described securing claw 40 into a firmer engagement when the load is applied in the predetermined direction. Specifically, the elastically deformable portion 18 includes slits 18A, 18B formed in the respective lateral walls 11, 12.

The securing body 30 has a width slightly smaller than a length between the lateral walls 11, 12 on a base end side thereof. The securing body 30 is formed so as to gradually become wider as being closer toward a tip end from the base end and then become narrower to form a triangular shape with the tip end at a substantially middle of the width direction.

On the base end of the securing body 30, shafts 31 to be inserted and rotatably supported in the bearing holes 15 of the base body 10 are projecting on both sides of the width direction. Therebetween (i.e. between the two shafts 31), two rectangular recesses 32 are defined. An outer diameter of the shaft 31 is formed smaller than an inner diameter of the bearing hole 15, forming a relatively large clearance (a play) therebetween.

In a central portion of the securing body 30, two slit openings 34, 35 are defined respectively on the base end side and the tip end side with a crosspiece 33 extending in the width direction interposed therebetween. The other belt 4B is inserted through the slit opening 34 to an inner surface side of the securing body 30, winded around the crosspiece 33 and pulled out through the slit opening 35 to an outer surface side of the securing body 30. Thus, the crosspiece 33 and the slit openings 34, 35 function as a belt fixing portion 36 for threading and fixing the other belt 4B.

At the tip end of the securing body 30, a securing claw 40 engageable with the securing portion 16 is formed. In addition, an elongated hole 43 elongated in the width direction is defined in a central portion of the triangular shape. The securing claw 40 includes a first securing claw 41 capable of being elastically engaged with and disengaged from the first securing surfaces 23 as well as a second securing claw 42 elastically engageable with the second securing surfaces 24.

As shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, the second securing claw 42 rises from an inner wall of the slit opening 35 toward the inner surface side, the second securing claw 42 having a securing projection 42A at a tip end thereof.

The first securing claw 41 has a T-shaped securing protrusion 41A projecting from the tip end side toward the base end side, at a substantially central position in the width direction of the second securing claw 42.

In such an arrangement, when the securing body 30 is rotated relative to the base body 10, i.e. when the securing body 30 is closed, the first securing claw 41 and the second securing claw 42 of the securing body 30 abut the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 of the base body 10.

As the securing body 30 is closed, initially the second securing claw 42 is elastically deformed in a direction away from the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 to be gradually inserted into the opening between the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 and the connecting bar 14. Subsequently, once the securing projection 42A of the second securing claw 42 has come over the pair of securing pieces 21, 22, the second securing claw 42 returns to its original state, thereby securing the securing projection 42A of the second securing claw 42 to the second securing surface 24 of the pair of securing pieces 21, 22.

Meanwhile, the first securing claw 41 presses the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 in respective directions away from each other, as the securing body 30 is closed. This pressing elastically and outwardly deforms middle portions of the lateral walls 11, 12. Note that, the slits 18A, 18B formed in the respective middle portions of the lateral walls 11, 12 enable easy elastic deformation of the lateral walls 11, 12. Subsequently, once the securing protrusion 41A of the first securing claw 41 has come over the pair of securing pieces 21, 22, the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 return to its original position, thereby securing the securing protrusion 41A of the first securing claw 41 to the first securing surface 23 of the pair of securing pieces 21, 22.

When the securing body 30 is thus closed relative to the base body 10 and held in such a state, the belt 4B approaches the belt 4A, so that a fastening function of the belts 4A, 4B is generated.

In the fastening state, the belts 4A, 4B (the securing tool 5) are receiving forces in the respective directions away from each other (i.e. tensile forces are applied thereon).

Accordingly, the both ends sides of the lateral walls 11, 12 forming the frame of the base body 10 are pulled in respective directions away from each other, so that the lateral walls 11, 12 of the frame are elastically deformed in respective directions toward each other. This deformation makes the gap between the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 narrower, the securing pieces 21, 22 being provided between the lateral walls 11, 12 between the belt fixing portion 17 and the bearing hole 15 as the rotation guide. That is, the lateral walls 11, 12 are elastically deformed in the directions that bring the first securing surface 23 and the first securing claw 41 into a firmer engagement. Thus, the secured state will not be inadvertently released.

Further, since there is the clearance between the bearing hole 15 of the base body 10 and the shafts 31, the securing body 30 may be displaced relative to the base body 10 by a length of the clearance.

For example, when the securing body 30 moves in a longitudinal direction of the base body 10 by the length of the clearance, the engaging state between the second securing claw 42 and the second securing surface 24 becomes less firm. However, since the engaging state between the first securing claw 41 and the first securing surface 23 still remains unchanged, the secured state will not be inadvertently released.

In contrast, when the securing body 30 moves in the width direction of the base body 10 by the length of the clearance, the engaging state between the first securing claw 41 and the securing surface 23 becomes less firm. However, since the engaging state between the second securing claw 42 and the securing surface 24 still remains unchanged, the secured state will not be inadvertently released.

Therefore, the first embodiment can provide the following advantages.

(1) When a larger load is applied in the direction to separate the belts 4A, 4B from each other in the fastening state, the base body 10 is elastically deformed in the direction to bring the first securing surface 23 and the first securing claw 41 into a firmer engagement. Hence, it is not necessary to strengthen the engaging state between the first securing claw 41 and the first securing surface 23, but it is possible to provide the securing tool of which securing and releasing operations can be performed with a relatively small force and secured state will not be inadvertently released.

(2) Since the securing portion 16 includes: the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 that inwardly extend toward each other respectively from the lateral walls 11, 12 and have the insertion gap 20 between the tip ends thereof to be inserted with the first securing claw 41; and the first securing surface 23 formed at the tip ends of the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 to secure the first securing claw 41 inserted from the insertion gap 20, when the securing body 30 is rotated relative to the base body 10, the first securing claw 41 is inserted in the insertion gap 20 between the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 inwardly projecting toward each other from the lateral walls 11, 12 of the frame and then elastically engaged with the first securing surface 23. Additionally, since the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 are provided in the respective middle portion of the lateral walls 11, 12, the middle portions of the lateral walls 11, 12 are elastically deformed in the directions away from each other when the securing claw 41 is inserted in the insertion gap 20 between the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 and then elastically return after the securing claw 41 is elastically engaged with the pair of securing pieces 21, 22. Therefore, the securing operation can be performed with a smaller force.

(3) Since the pair of securing pieces 21, 22 each have the second securing surface 24 formed along the side edge thereof, and the securing body 30 has the second securing claw 42 elastically engageable with the second securing surface 24, the first securing claw 41 and the second securing claw 42 are respectively engaged with the first securing surface 23 and the second securing surface 24 when the securing body 30 is rotated relative to the base body 10. In this secured state, even when there occurs a displacement in the width direction between the base body 10 and the securing body 30, the second securing claw 42 and the second securing surface 24 are still in engagement, so that the engagement of the base body 10 and the securing body 30 will not be inadvertently released. Further, even when there occurs a displacement in directions orthogonal to the shafts 31 for rotating the base body 10 and the securing body 30, the engagement of the base body 10 and the securing body 30 will not be inadvertently released due to the engagement between the first securing claw 41 and the first securing surface 23.

(4) Since the first securing claw 41 is provided in the substantially middle position in the width direction of the second securing claw 42, a force applied on the first securing claw 41 can be substantially evenly dispersed and borne by the second securing claw 42. Hence, even when receiving a load, the securing tool can be prevented from tilting and twisting.

(5) Since the elastically deformable portion 18 includes the slits 18A, 18B respectively defined in the lateral walls 11, 12 of the base body 10, the elastically deformable portion 18 can have a structure capable of being deformed when the load is applied in the predetermined direction, while maintaining the rigidity of the frame. Further, since it is only necessary to provide the slits 18A, 18B in the lateral walls 11, 12, the structure of the securing tool 5 can be simple.

Second Embodiment

A second embodiment will be illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 11. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a securing tool of the second embodiment when being unlatched. FIG. 9 is a cross section showing the securing tool when being unlatched. FIG. 10 is a cross section showing the securing tool when being latched. FIG. 11 is a cross section showing the securing tool when being latched with a load being applied thereto. In the description of these figures, same components as of the first embodiment will be denoted by like numerals, and explanations thereof will be omitted or simplified.

The securing tool 5 of the second embodiment is similar to the securing tool 5 of the first embodiment in having the base body 10 and the securing body 30 rotatable relative to the base body 10, but is different from the first embodiment in having a different securing portion to be provided for the base body 10 and a different securing claw to be provided for the securing body 30.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, only the second securing claw 42 is provided in the second embodiment among the securing claws of the securing body 30 of the first embodiment. The base body 10 of the second embodiment includes: a third securing portion 50 and a fourth securing portion 60 that are provided in a predetermined direction with a predetermined space therebetween; and an elastically deformable portion 56 to allow the third securing portion 50 to be displaced and elastically deformed in a direction to bring the fourth securing portion 60 and the securing claw 42 into a firmer engagement when a load is applied in a predetermined direction.

The fourth securing portion 60 includes a pair of securing pieces 62, 63 each inwardly projecting toward each other from the respective lateral walls 11, 12 with a space 61 between tip ends thereof. The pair of securing pieces 62, 63 each have a fourth securing surface 64 along an outer side edge thereof.

The third securing portion 50 includes: arm portions 51, 52 inwardly projecting from the respective lateral walls 11, 12 toward each other; and a securing projection 53 connecting tip ends of the arm portions 51, 52 and being inserted in the space 61. On an outer side edge of the securing projection 53, a third securing surface 54 is formed, with which the securing claw 42 of the securing body 30 is engaged. The third securing surface 54 is disposed so as to be closer to the connecting bar 14 than the securing surface 64 is.

The elastically deformable portion 56 is formed in a range from the respective lateral walls 11, 12 to the securing projection 53 of the third securing portion 50, i.e. in the arm portions 51, 52. Specifically, the arm portions 51, 52 are formed so as to: inwardly extend from the lateral walls with a slight inclination toward the connecting bar 13 side and a width becoming gradually narrower as closer to a substantially middle portion of the width direction; make a curve toward the connecting bar 13 side at the substantially middle portion; and further extend to be jointed to the securing projection 53.

In such an arrangement, when the securing body 30 is rotated relative to the base body 10, i.e. when the securing body 30 is closed, the securing claw 42 of the securing body 30 is secured to the third securing portion 50 of the base body 10, specifically to the third securing surface 54 (see FIG. 10). At this time, the fourth securing surface 64 is being slightly secured relative to the securing claw 42. Herein, the fourth securing surface 64 may not at all be engaged with the securing claw 42.

In such a state, when a force is applied on the securing tool 5 in a direction to separate the securing tool 5 (i.e. a load is applied), the third securing portion 50 is displaced toward the base end side of the base body 10, as shown in FIG. 11. Specifically, the arm portion 51, 52 are elastically deformed to allow the securing projection 53 to be displaced toward the base end side of the base body 10 while keeping the engagement state with the securing claw 42. The displacement makes the fourth securing surface 64 of the fourth securing portion 60 and the securing claw 42 engage with each other.

Thus, when a large load is applied in a predetermined direction in the fastening state, the third securing portion 50 is displaced and elastically deformed in the direction to make not only the third securing portion 50 but also the fourth securing portion 60 engage with the securing claw 42, so that the secured state will not be inadvertently released.

Therefore, the second embodiment can provide the following advantages.

(1) When a larger load is applied in the direction to separate the belts 4A, 4B from each other in the fastening state, the third securing portion 50 is displaced by being elastically deformed in the direction to make not only the third securing portion 50 but also the fourth securing portion 60 engage with the securing claw 42. Hence, it is not necessary to strengthen the engaging state between the securing claw 42 and the securing portions 50, 60, but it is possible to provide the securing tool of which securing and releasing operations can be performed with a relatively small force and secured state will not be inadvertently released.

(2) Since the fourth securing portion 60 includes the pair of securing pieces 62, 63 that are inwardly projecting toward each other from the lateral walls 11, 12 with the space 61 between the tip ends thereof, while the third securing portion 50 includes: the arm portions 51 52 each projecting from the lateral walls 11, 12 inwardly toward to each other; and the securing projection 53 provided at the tip ends of the arm portions so as to be inserted in the space 61, a force applied on the arm portions 51 52 can be evenly dispersed and borne on the arm portions 51 52 on the left and right sides, even when the third securing portion is displaced and the fourth securing portion is engaged with the securing claw. Further, since the elastically deformable portion 56 is formed in the arm portions 51, 52, the structure and arrangement of the third securing portion 50 can be simple.

[Modifications]

It is to be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to the above described embodiments, but includes modifications and improvements without departing from the scope of the invention.

As one example, although the base body 10 is fixed to the belt 4A in the first and second embodiments, the belt 4A may not be used and the base body 10 may be directly fixed In such an arrangement, as shown in FIG. 12, a thin plastic plate 70 may be integrally formed on the outer periphery of the base body 10; a plurality of holes 71 may be defined along the outer peripheral edge of the plate 70 with a certain interval; and the base body 10 may be stitched and fixed using the holes 71 to a to-be-fastened body as the first member (or the second member).

An another example, although the base body 10 is provided with the securing portions (the first and second securing surfaces 23, 24 or the third and fourth securing surfaces 54, 64) as well as the elastically deformable portions 18, 56; and the securing body 30 is provided with the securing claws (the first and second engaging claws 41, 42) in the respective first and second embodiments, the base body 10 and the securing body 30 may be provided the other way around. Specifically, the securing body 30 may be provided with the securing portions (the first and second securing surfaces 23, 24 or the third and fourth securing surfaces 54, 64) and the elastically deformable portions 18, 56, while the base body 10 may be provided with the securing claws (the first and second engaging claws 41, 42).

As another example, although the base body 10 includes the first and second securing surfaces 23, 24; while the securing body 30 includes the first and second securing claws 41, 42, only the first securing surface 23 and the first securing claw 41 may be provided.

As another example, although the securing projection 53 of the third securing portion 50 is positioned in the space 61 of the fourth securing portion 60, the fourth securing portion 60 may have either one of the members.

As another example, although an application example in which the invention is used for a securing tool for a fastening belt, the invention is not limited thereto and can be applied for other usages.

Specifically, the invention may be applied to a securing tool for fastening wrist watch bands or a securing tool for fastening supporters. The invention may also be used for securing a first member with a second member in a length adjustable manner, tightening and fixing a first member to a second member, or connecting and fixing a first member to a second member.

The priority application Number JP2005-208985 upon which this patent application is based is hereby incorporated by reference.

Claims

1. A securing tool for securing a second member to a first member, the securing tool receiving a load in a predetermined direction when being in a secured state, comprising:

a base body fixed to the first member; and

a securing body fixed to the second member so as to be rotatable relative to the base body, wherein

one of the base body and the securing body includes a securing portion,

the other of the base body and the securing body includes a securing claw engageable with the securing portion, and

at least one of the base body and the securing body includes an elastically deformable portion to be elastically deformed in a direction to bring the securing portion and the securing claw into a firmer engagement when the load is applied in the predetermined direction.

2. A securing tool for securing a second member to a first member, the securing tool receiving a load in a predetermined direction when being in a secured state, comprising:

a base body fixed to the first member;

and a securing body fixed to the second member so as to be rotatable relative to the base body, wherein

one of the base body and the securing body is formed as a frame having: lateral walls on both sides; and connecting bars respectively connecting respective pairs of facing end sides of the lateral walls,

the frame has: a rotation guide provided on one end side of the lateral walls; a fixing portion provided on the other end side of the lateral walls and fixed to the first member; and a securing portion provided between the lateral walls at a section between the rotation guide and the fixing portion,

the other of the base body and the securing body includes a securing claw engageable with the securing portion, and

the lateral walls of the frame have an elastically deformable portion to be elastically deformed in a direction to bring the securing portion and the securing claw into a firmer engagement when the load is applied in the predetermined direction.

3. The securing tool according to claim 2, wherein

the securing portion has a pair of securing pieces that inwardly project from the frame toward each other, the securing pieces having, between tip ends thereof, an insertion gap for the securing claw to be inserted.

4. The securing tool according to claim 2, wherein

the securing portion has: first securing portions formed on respective tip ends of the pair of securing pieces; and second securing portions formed along respective side edges of the pair of securing pieces, and

the securing claw has: a first securing claw engageable with the first securing portions; and a second securing claw elastically engageable with the second securing portions.

5. The securing tool according to claim 2, wherein

the second securing claw is provided to the other of the base body and the securing body so as to project in a width direction, and

the first securing claw is provided to the second securing claw at a substantially middle position in the width direction.

6. The securing tool according to claim 2, wherein

the elastically deformable portion has slits defined in the respective lateral walls of the frame.

7. A securing tool for securing a second member to a first member, the securing tool receiving a load in a predetermined direction when being in a secured state, comprising:

a base body fixed to the first member; and

a securing body fixed to the second member so as to be rotatable relative to the base body, wherein

one of the base body and the securing body includes a third securing portion and a fourth securing portion that are spaced apart from each other in the predetermined direction,

the other of the base body and the securing body includes a securing claw engageable with the third securing portion, and

at least one elastically deformable portion is provided between the third securing portion and the one of the base body and the securing body, the elastically deformable portion allowing the third securing portion to be displaced and elastically deformed in a direction that brings the fourth securing portion into a firmer engagement with the securing claw when the load is applied in the predetermined direction.

8. The securing tool according to claim 7, wherein

the one of the base body and the securing body is formed as a frame having: lateral walls on both sides; and connecting bars respectively connecting respective pairs of facing end sides of the lateral walls,

the frame has: a rotation guide for guiding a rotation of the other of the base body and the securing body, the rotation guide being provided on one end side of the lateral walls; a fixing portion provided on the other end side of the lateral walls and fixed to the first member; and a third securing portion and a fourth securing portion provided between the lateral walls at a section between the rotation guide and the fixing portion,

the fourth securing portion has a pair of securing pieces that inwardly project from the lateral walls toward each other, the securing pieces having a space between tip ends thereof,

the third securing portion projects inwardly from the lateral walls toward each other and has a securing projection at a middle portion thereof, the securing projection being inserted in the space, and

the elastically deformable portion is formed in ranges from the respective lateral walls to the securing projection of the third securing portion.