Tether apparatus

A tether apparatus is disclosed for coupling a sheet material to an object. The tether comprises a clip having a first jaw member and a second jaw member for grasping the sheet material. A strap extends between a first end and a second end. The first end of the strap is secured to the clip. The second end of the strap defines a closed loop. A continuous cord extends through the closed loop of the strap for encircling the object and enabling the clip to be inserted within the continuous cord for securing the continuous cord to the object. A keeper slidably engages the continuous cord for adjusting the length of the continuous cord by the position of the keeper on the continuous cord.

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Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to tethers and more particularly to an improved apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object.

2. Background of the Invention

Sheet material has been utilized to provide many wide range of uses including but not limited to a cover to shield an object, a liquid absorbent layer, or clothing. In many instances restricting the movement of a sheet material in relation to an object is beneficial or even essential. Since sheet material is often light and has a large surface area, the sheet material may be susceptible to displacement by an airstream and/or by a moving body that makes contact with the sheet material.

Restricting movement of a sheet material in relation to an object may prove to be problematic. First, the sheet material may be relatively thin and flexible proving it difficult to secure a fastening device to the sheet material. Second, the fastening device must be secured to another item. The following U.S. patents and U.S. patent applications are examples of attempts of the prior art to solve this problem.

U.S. Pat. No. 1,782,057 to J. C. Bollinger discloses a device including elongated members having jaws at corresponding ends and handles at opposite corresponding ends. A loop connects to one of the handles. A ring is carried by the loop and adapted to receive an elastic strip. The loop is flexible whereby the ring the strip may partake of a twisting movement relative to the members. The members have transverse grooves in their inner faces forming mating seats and having corresponding grooves in the outer faces of the jaws. An interengaging rib and groove is in the inner faces of the jaws adjacent their outer ends. A coil spring snugly fits in the mating seats. The arms project in the same direction from the ends of the coil spring and extend along the sides of the jaws and having their ends bent laterally to engage the grooves formed in the outer faces of the opposite jaws.

U.S. Pat. No. 1,877,006 to W. E. Merryman discloses a clamp comprising a main member formed of a single piece of material and forming an arm. A circular jaw is remote from the arm. A helix is located between the jaw and the arm. An auxiliary complementary member is formed of a single piece of material and forms an arm. A circular jaw is remote from the last mentioned arm. A cup-shaped spiral forms a continuation of the jaw of the auxiliary member and is adapted to pass through the space encircled by the jaw of the main member when the two jaws are in occlusion. A helix is located between the jaw and arm of the auxiliary member. An axle extends through both the first and the second mentioned helix. Means is provided whereby the two arms may be detachably locked together to cause the jaws to normally contact together.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,707,906 to J. T. Posey discloses a tube holder for hospital tubing comprising an elongated strip with opposing upper and lower faces formed as a plurality of side-by-side, open-ended sleeve like receptacles of varying enclosed cross-sectional area. In one embodiment, the strip is a spring metal piece with a reverse bend forming upper and lower legs with undulating surfaces formed in at least one of the legs, but preferably both of the legs, so that oppositely facing undulations on the upper and lower legs cooperate to form the spaced apart receptacles. Each receptacle has an entrance opening formed by a portion of the upper face being spaced from the lower face by a minimum distance. The entrance opening to each receptacle has a smaller dimension than the maximum dimension of its corresponding receptacle. Each receptacle is movable, say by prying apart the upper and lower legs to increase the spacing at the entrance openings for allowing tubing to slip sideways into any one of the receptacles. A releasable fastener, such as a spring loaded clip, is secured to an end of the strip for holding the tube holder in a fixed position on a bed, sheets, bedclothes, instruments or the like. Hospital tubing of a standard size can be slipped into the larger sized receptacle for confining the tubing but for allowing the tubing to move freely lengthwise through the receptacle. The same tubing can be inserted in the smaller sized receptacle which clamps onto opposite sides of the tubing for securely holding the tubing in place.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,858,285 to D. L. Martin discloses a towel clip holding a towel in place on a chair back of an outdoor chair such as a beach chair or lounge chair. The clip includes a generally C-shaped semirigid clip member, a pair of side-by-side first clamping members of generally spherical shape on one end of the C, and a second pair of generally spherically shaped clamping members on the other end of the C. The first pair of the clamping members are arranged side by side and the second pair of clamping members are arranged front to rear so that the respective pair of clamping members extend along mutually orthogonal axes. The C-shaped clip is made from a plastic material having a recovery force that holds the spherically-shaped clamping members under slight tension normally so that one pair of clamping members interlocks within a narrow space between the other pair of clamping members and vice versa. The clip ends can be spread apart and slipped over the top of a chair back and around a towel draped over the chair back and held frictionally by the clip so that the towel stays in place on the chair back, yet the clip allows sufficient slippage of the towel between the clamping members to prevent pinching or other towel damage.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,093,958 to L. Levine discloses an apparatus to prevent an automobile mat from moving forward, a strap with a metal or plastic loop at the end is attached to the rear underside of a floor mat. In front of the automobile seat one side of an elongated “S”-shaped clip is forced over the exposed edge of the automobile's original carpeting. The other side of the clip is then in an upward direction with the open end of the clip facing toward the rear of the automobile. The loop attached to the floor mat is inserted into the upward facing portion of the “S” clip. The length of the strap attached to the loop is sized to allow hand space to reach under the floor mat during the attaching process. The “S” clip is made of a spring-type material, shaped to tightly squeeze over and be tightly held by the thickness of the automobile carpeting. The shape of the clip also prevents the unintentional separation of the loop from the clip. In alternate embodiments a strap extension assembly is used to vary the length of strap so that the “S” clip can be attached to other portions of the vehicle, allowing the invention to be used in different vehicles. In one version, a buckle assembly is used to attach the strap extension to the floor mat strap. In yet another embodiment a strap hook is used in place of the “S” clip and is adapted to be inserted into the slots provided by the seat track.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,245,715 to J. A. Dinkins discloses a blanket member as is typically utilized as a covering for a beach and the like includes a plurality of clip fasteners arranged for securement about a periphery of the blanket, with each of the clip members including a tether line secured at one end to an associated clip member and at an opposed end to a conical anchor plug. The anchor plug is arranged with concentric rings spaced along the anchor plug to maintain securement of the anchor structure relative to a beach environment. A modification of the invention includes rack structure to accommodate further webs for drying and for purposes of shade and the like.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,584,456 to O. Stephens discloses a clip for securing a towel to a chair. The inventive device includes a mounting assembly for securing to a lounge chair. An engaging assembly projects from the mounting assembly for coupling to a beach towel to secure the towel relative to the lounge chair.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,960,520 to S. K. Conway discloses a clip assembly for holding a towel, sheet or the like relative to an item such as a chair, table or bed so as to prevent undesirable movements thereof relative to such item due to wind, occupant movements, or tilting or upsetting of the item. The clip assembly in all forms has a clip having sections each having a handle at one end and toothed gripping formations at the other end, the clip sections being pivotally movable relative to each other about a pivot axis and being spring biased by a spring to continually urge the handles arcuately apart and the toothed gripping formations arcuately toward each other. The clip assembly is arranged to be able to be attached to a suitable portion of such item as well as to grip the towel or sheet material. One such arrangement has the clip sections so arcuately shaped between the pivot axis and the toothed gripping formations as to provide an opening in which a part of the item such as a bar can be received therethrough without affecting the operation of the handles and the toothed gripping formations. Others have a strap attached to only one of the handles and adapted to be looped around and fastened to a part of the item. The toothed gripping formations may be formed on internally extending cantilever supports positioned between and laterally spaced from the main bodies of the clip sections so as to provide a cantilever spring force together with the gripping force provided by the spring.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,247,211 to C. J. Bell discloses a medical tubing tethering device comprising a tether having a first proximal end and an opposed distal end. A first mechanism is supported adjacent the proximal end of the tether for securing the medical tubing tethering device to a desired object. The distal end, of the tether has a second attachment mechanism for coupling a medical tube thereto to facilitate support of the medical tube once the medical tubing tethering device is supported by the desired object. The tether can be substantially helical so as to be capable of wrapping around the medical tube to tether the medical tube to the patient to prevent unwanted movement of the medical tube relative to the patient. The tether may also be a flexible strap with a pressure sensitive adhesive or a hook and loop touch fastener. The medical tubing tethering device can also be used in combination with a stand alone anchor to facilitate use with a wider range of coupling surfaces.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,490,768 to R. M. Goodall discloses a towel fastener for a lounge chair for holding beach towels, in particular, firmly in place upon lounge chairs. The towel fastener for a lounge chair includes a clip support member being adapted to be mounted about a portion of a lounge chair and having a main tubular portion and a handle portion extending outwardly from the main tubular portion; and also includes a clip member being pivotally attached to the clip support member and having an curved fastening portion which is pivotally disposed about the main tubular portion and also having a handle portion; and further includes a biasing assembly being connected to the clip support member and to the clip member for biasing the curved fastening portion of the clip member upon the tubular portion of the clip support member.

U.S. Pat. D394,382 to B. R. Knight discloses an ornamental design for an outdoor rug fastening device.

U.S. Pat. D463,325 to A. Savoia discloses an ornamental design for a beach towel security strap.

U.S. Patent Application 2001/0022014 to K. Smith discloses a towel clip having a hollow elongated body with an opening running the length of the body wherein the body is made of a flexible memory material, preferably rubber or a plastic and most preferably polypropylene. The body is preferably circular and the opening preferably covering about 75 degrees to about 105 degrees of the diameter to slip over a towel draped over the bar of a chair.

Although the aforementioned prior art have contributed to the development of the art of restricting the movement of a sheet material in relation to an object, none of these prior art patents have solved the needs of this art.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object.

Another object of this invention is to provide an improved apparatus for coupling a tether to a sheet material.

Another object of this invention is to provide an improved apparatus for coupling a tether to an object.

Another object of this invention is to provide an improved apparatus wherein a tether may be adjusted for coupling to multiple objects.

Another object of this invention is to provide an improved apparatus that is are resistant to corrosion.

Another object of this invention is to provide an improved apparatus wherein a tether may be adjusted for increasing or decreasing the overall length of the tether.

The foregoing has outlined some of the more pertinent objects of the present invention. These objects should be construed as being merely illustrative of some of the more prominent features and applications of the invention. Many other beneficial results can be obtained by modifying the invention within the scope of the invention. Accordingly other objects in a full understanding of the invention may be had by referring to the summary of the invention, the detailed description describing the preferred embodiment in addition to the scope of the invention defined by the claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is defined by the appended claims with specific embodiments being shown in the attached drawings. For the purpose of summarizing the invention, the invention relates to an improved apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object. The apparatus comprises a clip having a first jaw member and a second jaw member for grasping the sheet material. A strap extends between a first end and a second end. The first end of the strap is secured to the clip. The second end of the strap defines a closed loop. A continuous cord extends through the closed loop of the strap for encircling the object and enabling the clip to be inserted within the continuous cord for securing the continuous cord to the object. A keeper slidably engages the continuous cord for adjusting the length of the continuous cord by the position of the keeper on the continuous cord.

In a more specific embodiment of the invention, the clip is formed from a polymeric material that encases the strap for securing the clip to the strap. The first jaw member is pivotably secured to the clip. An arm engages the first jaw member for pivoting the first jaw member from an open position to release the sheet material from between the first jaw member and the second jaw member and a closed position to retain the sheet material between the first jaw member and the second jaw member.

In one embodiment of the invention, the strap includes a nylon band or a polypropylene band with an advertisement portion. The cord includes an elastic cable. The keeper includes a cord lock having for applying a compressive force to the continuous cord. A depressible cylinder removes the compressive force against the continuous cord.

In another embodiment of the invention, the apparatus comprises a clip having a base supporting a first jaw member and a second jaw member for grasping the sheet material. The base includes a base loop. The first end of the strap defines a first closed loop and the second end of the strap defines a second closed loop. The first closed loop extends through the base loop of the base for pivotably securing to the strap to the clip.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent and important features of the present invention in order that the detailed description that follows may be better understood so that the present contribution to the art can be more fully appreciated. Additional features of the invention will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and the specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the nature and objects of the invention, reference should be made to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a tether apparatus of the present invention coupling a sheet material to an object;

FIG. 2 is a magnified view of a portion of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a front view of the tether apparatus;

FIG. 4 is a rear view of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a right side view of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a left side view of FIG. 3;

FIG. 7 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 2 illustrating the tether apparatus positioned adjacent to the object with a continuous cord extending through a closed loop of a strap;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 7 illustrating the continuous cord encircling the object and a clip inserted within the closed loop;

FIG. 9 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 8 illustrating the strap inserted within the closed loop;

FIG. 10 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 9 illustrating a keeper slidably engaging the continuous cord;

FIG. 11 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 10 illustrating the sheet material positioned adjacent to the clip;

FIG. 12 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 11 illustrating the clip grasping the sheet material;

FIG. 13 is a front view of the tether apparatus coupling the sheet material to a golf bag;

FIG. 14 is a front view of the tether apparatus coupling the sheet material to a belt;

FIG. 15 is an isometric view of the tether apparatus coupling the sheet material to an anchor;

FIG. 16 is a front view of the tether apparatus coupling the sheet material to a tree branch;

FIG. 17 is a front view of the tether apparatus coupling the sheet material to a backpack;

FIG. 18 is a side view of the tether apparatus coupling the sheet material to a cap;

FIG. 19 is a front view of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 a front view of a second embodiment of the tether apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a rear view of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a right side view of FIG. 20; and

FIG. 23 is a left side view of FIG. 20.

Similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the several Figures of the drawings.

DETAILED DISCUSSION

FIGS. 1 and 2 are isometric views of a tether apparatus 10 for coupling a sheet material 12 to an object 14. The object as shown in FIGS. 1-2 and 7-12 is a chair 20 that rests upon a floor 21. The chair 20 has a back 22 and a seat 24. The back 22 and seat 24 may either be rigidly jointed by welding, gluing, bolting or other similar fasteners or pivotably jointed by a first and second hinge 26 and 28. The back 22 may include a first back frame member 30, a second back frame member 32 and a back joining frame member 34. The seat 24 may include a first seat frame member 36, a second seat frame member 38 and a seat joining frame member 40. The seat 24 may be supported by a first leg 41 and a second leg 42. The first leg 41 may either be rigidly jointed by welding, gluing, bolting or other similar fasteners or pivotably jointed by a third and fourth hinge 44 and 46. The second leg 42 may either be rigidly jointed by welding, gluing, bolting or other similar fasteners or pivotably jointed by a fifth and sixth hinge 48 and 50.

The back 22 may include a plurality of horizontal back straps 52 that extend between the first back frame member 30 and the second back frame member 32. The seat 24 may include a plurality of horizontal seat straps 54 that extend between the first seat frame member 36 and the second seat frame member 38. The back 22 and seat 24 may further include a plurality of vertical straps 56 that extend between the back joining frame member 34 and the seat joining frame member 40. The plurality of horizontal back straps 44, plurality of horizontal seat straps 46 and plurality of vertical straps 48 support an individual on the chair 20.

FIGS. 3-6 are views of the tether apparatus 10 for coupling the sheet material 12 to an object 14. The tether apparatus 10 includes a clip 60 with a base 62 linking a jaw end 64 and a strap end 66. The base 62 further includes a pivot pin 68 located between the jaw end 64 and the strap end 66. The base 62, jaw end 64 and strap end 66 may be constructed of single continuous metallic material, polymeric material or other rigid construction material.

The jaw end 64 includes a first jaw member 70 and a second jaw member 72 for grasping the sheet material 12. The first jaw member 70 pivots about the pivot pin 68. An arm 74 pivots about the pin 68. The arm 74 engages the first jaw member 70 for pivoting the first jaw member 70 from an open position to a closed position. To position the first jaw member 70 into the open position, the arm 74 is pulled up from the base 62 for pivoting about the pivot pin 68 until the arm 74 is perpendicular to the first jaw member 70. As the arm 74 is pulled from the base 62, the arm 74 forces the first jaw member 70 to pivot about the pivot pin 68 until the first jaw member 70 is spaced from the second jaw member 72. To position the first jaw member 70 into the closed position, the arm 74 is pushed down into the base 62 for pivoting about the pivot pin 68 until the arm 74 is parallel with the first jaw member 70. As the arm 74 is pushed towards the base 62, the arm 74 forces the first jaw member 70 to pivot about the pivot pin 68 until the first jaw member 70 is adjacent to the second jaw member 72.

Both the first jaw member 70 and the arm 74 may be constructed of metallic material, polymeric material or other rigid construction material. The first jaw member 70 may include a plurality of first jaw teeth 76 for assisting in grasping the sheet material 12. The second jaw member 72 may include a plurality of second jaw teeth 78 for assisting in grasping the sheet material 12. The second jaw member 72 and the base 62 may be constructed of single continuous metallic material, polymeric material or other rigid construction material.

A strap 80 extends between a first end 82 and a second end 84. The strap 80 may be a nylon band 86, a polypropylene band 88, a metallic band, polymeric band or other material. The first end 82 of the strap 80 is secured to the strap end 66 of the clip 60. The first end 82 may be secured to the strap end 66 by first inserting the first end 82 within a channel 89 located within the strap end 66 and second compressing and/or gluing the strap end 66 to the first end 82. The first end 82 may also be secure to the strap end 66 by molding the strap end 66 around the first end 82 to encase the strap 80 within the clip 60. Additionally, the first end 82 may be secured to the strap end 66 by the strap end 66 having a hole for receiving a ring defined in the first end 82.

The strap 80 includes an advertisement portion 90 for displaying an advertisement while the tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to an object 14. The advertisement portion 90 includes a word mark 92, logo mark 94 or a composite mark 96. The advertisement portion 90 may be created by embroidery methods, labeling methods, or electronic methods. The advertisement portion 90 may also include reflective or holographic labels.

The second end 84 may define a closed loop 100. The closed loop 100 may be secured by stitching, gluing or clamping the second end 84 back on to the strap 80. A cord 106 extends through the closed loop 100 of the strap 80. The cord 106 includes a first cord end 108 and a second cord end 110. A cord clamp 112 secures the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 to form a continuous cord 114. The cord clamp 112 may be constructed of metallic band, polymeric band, textile band or other construction material that applies a compressive force to the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110. Alternatively, the cord 106 may include a continuous cord 114 without a first cord end 108 or a second cord end 110. The cord 106 may include an elastic cable for allowing the cord 106 to increase in length upon a tensile force being applied to the cord 106.

A keeper 120 slidably engages the continuous cord 114. The keeper 120 includes a horizontal channel 122 that traverses through the keeper 120. The keeper 120 also includes a vertical channel 124 that traverses through a portion of the keeper 120. A cord lock 126 having a depressible cylinder 127 slidably engages the vertical channel 124. The depressible cylinder 127 includes a horizontal bore 128 that traverses through the depressible cylinder 127. The dimensions of the horizontal bore 128 are approximately equivalent to the dimensions of the horizontal channel 122.

To utilize the keeper 120, a channel spring 130 is positioned within the vertical channel 124. The depressible cylinder 127 is then positioned within the vertical channel 124 above the channel spring 130. A compressive force is applied to the cord lock 126 to displace the depressible cylinder 127 within the vertical channel 124 and to compress the channel spring 130 until the horizontal bore 128 is aligned with the horizontal channel 122. With the horizontal bore 128 aligned with the horizontal channel 122, the continuous cord 114 is inserted through both the horizontal bore 128 and the horizontal channel 122. During the alignment of the horizontal bore 128 with the horizontal channel 122, the keeper 120 may slidably engage the continuous cord 114. Upon releasing the compressive force from the cord lock 126, the channel spring 130 vertically displaces the depressible cylinder 127 relative to the keeper 120 to misalign the horizontal bore 128 with the horizontal channel 122. The displacement of the horizontal bore 128 relative to the horizontal channel 122 clamps the continuous cord 114 together to resist the keeper 120 from further sliding along the continuous cord 114. The keeper 120 may be constructed from of metallic material, polymeric material or other rigid construction material.

FIGS. 7-10 are isometric views of the tether apparatus 10 being coupled to the chair 20. The continuous cord 114 is positioned between the plurality of vertical straps 56 and about the back joining frame member 34 for encircling the back joining frame member 34. The clip 60 is inserted through the continuous cord 114 for securing the tether apparatus 10 to the chair 20. The clip 60 is pulled through the continuous cord 114 to draw the strap 80 and a portion of the continuous cord 114 through the continuous cord 114 for encircling and securing the tether apparatus 10 to the chair 20.

The height of the clip 60 relative to the back joining frame member 34 may be altered by slidably positioning the keeper 120 at various points along the continuous cord 114. By positioning the keeper 120 adjacent to the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is maximized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 maximized, the clip 60 is positioned at a maximum distance from the back joining frame member 34.

Alternatively, positioning the keeper 120 at the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is minimized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 minimized, the clip 60 is positioned at a minimum distance from the back joining frame member 34.

By positioning the keeper 120 between the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 and the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110, the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 may be varied. By varying the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114, the clip 60 is positioned at various distances from the back joining frame member 34.

FIGS. 11 and 12 are isometric views of the tether apparatus 10 coupling the sheet material 12 to the chair 20. The sheet material 12 has a sheet edge 16. The sheet edge 16 of the sheet material 12 is positioned between the first jaw member 70 and the second jaw member 72 for grasping the sheet material 12. The first jaw member 70 and arm 74 pivot about the pivot pin 68. The arm 74 engages the first jaw member 70 for pivoting the first jaw member 70 from an open position to a closed position.

To position the first jaw member 70 into the closed position for grasping the sheet material 12, the arm 74 is pushed down into the base 62 for pivoting about the pivot pin 68 until the arm 74 is parallel with the first jaw member 70. As the arm 74 is pushed towards the base 62, the arm 74 forces the first jaw member 70 to pivot about the pivot pin 68 until the first jaw member 70 is adjacent to the second jaw member 72. As the arm 74 pivots the first jaw member 70 adjacent to the second jaw member 72, the plurality of first jaw teeth 76 and second jaw teeth 78 grasp the sheet material 12 and the first jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72 apply a compressive force to the sheet material 12 for retaining the sheet material 12 within the clip 60.

To position the first jaw member 70 into the open position for receiving or releasing the sheet material 12, the arm 74 is pulled up from the base 62 for pivoting about the pivot pin 68 until the arm 74 is perpendicular to the first jaw member 70. As the arm 74 is pulled from the base 62, the arm 74 forces the first jaw member 70 to pivot about the pivot pin 68 until the first jaw member 70 is spaced from the second jaw member 72. As the arm 74 pivots the first jaw member 70 is spaced from the second jaw member 72, the plurality of first jaw teeth 76 and second jaw teeth 78 withdraw from the sheet material 12 and the first jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72 apply a compressive force to the sheet material 12 for retaining the sheet material 12 within the clip 60.

The tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the chair 20 for preventing movement of the sheet material 12 relative to the chair 20. The tether apparatus 10 may be secured to the back joining frame member 34 for preventing the sheet material 12 from sliding down the back 22 and seat 24. The tether apparatus 10 could also be secured to the first seat frame member 36 and/or the second seat frame member 38 for preventing the sheet material 12 from sliding off the chair 20. The tether apparatus 10 could additionally be secured to the seat joining frame member 40 for preventing the sheet material 12 from sliding up the back 22 and seat 24.

The chair 20 supports an individual 150 upon the back 22 and seat 24. The chair 20 could also include a lawn chair, a beach chair or other chair. The individual 150 may position the sheet material 12 on the chair 20 to avoid contact between the chair and the individual. Movement of the individual on the chair 20 may cause movement of the sheet material 12 relative to the chair 20. The tether apparatus 10 may be secured to the back joining frame member 34 for preventing the sheet material 12 from sliding down the back 22 and seat 24 upon movement of the individual. The tether apparatus 10 could also be secured to the first seat frame member 36 and/or the second seat frame member 38 for preventing the sheet material 12 from sliding off the chair 20 upon movement of the individual. The tether apparatus 10 could additionally be secured to the seat joining frame member 40 for preventing the sheet material 12 from sliding up the back 22 and seat 24 upon movement of the individual.

A force applied to the sheet material 12 that does displace the sheet material 12 relative to the chair 20 will cause the continuous cord 110 to expand in length. The increase in length of the continuous cord 110 will prevent tearing and reduce stress on the sheet material 12 between the first jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72 of the clip 60 and the force.

While the tether apparatus 10 coupling the sheet material 12 to the chair 20, the distance from the sheet material 12 to the frame members 30, 32, 34, 36, 38 and 40 may be altered by positioning the keeper 120 between the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 and the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 for varying the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114. The continuous cord 110 permits the tether apparatus 10 to be secured to frame members 30, 32, 34, 36, 38 and 40 with various dimensions and cross-sections.

The strap 80 includes an advertisement portion 90 for displaying an advertisement while the tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the chair 20. The advertisement portion 90 may include a word mark 92, logo mark 94 or a composite mark 96. The advertisement portion 90 may be created by embroidery methods, labeling methods, or electronic methods. The advertisement portion 90 may also include reflective or holographic labels.

FIG. 13 illustrates a golf bag 140 for transporting a plurality of golf clubs 142. The golf bag 140 includes a carry strap 144 to facilitate transporting the golf bag 140 by the individual 150. The golf bag 140 may further include a golf coupler 146 coupling a golf eyelet 148 to the golf bag 140.

The individual 150 may require a sheet material to remove moisture, dirt or other debris from the individual 150, golf clubs 142 or other item. The tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the golf bag 140 for the individual 150 to have convenient access to the sheet material 12 while golfing.

The continuous cord 114 is positioned about the golf eyelet 148 for encircling the golf eyelet 148. The clip 60 is inserted through the continuous cord 114 for securing the tether apparatus 10 to the golf bag 140. The clip 60 is pulled through the continuous cord 114 to draw the strap 80 and a portion of the continuous cord 114 through the continuous cord 114 for encircling and securing the tether apparatus 10 to the golf bag 140.

The height of the clip 60 relative to the golf eyelet 148 may be altered by slidably positioning the keeper 120 at various points along the continuous cord 114. By positioning the keeper 120 adjacent to the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is maximized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 maximized, the clip 60 is positioned at a maximum distance from the golf eyelet 148.

Alternatively, positioning the keeper 120 at the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is minimized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 minimized, the clip 60 is positioned at a minimum distance from the golf eyelet 148.

By positioning the keeper 120 between the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 and the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110, the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 may be varied. By varying the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114, the clip 60 is positioned at various distances from the golf eyelet 148.

The tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the golf bag 140 for preventing the separation of the sheet material 12 from the golf bag 140. The tether apparatus 10 may be secured to any other item that is securely fastened to the golf bag 140.

A force applied to the sheet material 12 that displaces the sheet material 12 relative to the golf bag 140 will cause the continuous cord 110 to expand in length. The increase in length of the continuous cord 110 will prevent tearing and reduce stress on the sheet material 12 between the first jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72 of the clip 60 and the force.

The strap 80 includes an advertisement portion 90 for displaying an advertisement while the tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the golf bag 140. The advertisement portion 90 may include a word mark 92, logo mark 94 or a composite mark 96. The advertisement portion 90 may be created by embroidery methods, labeling methods, or electronic methods. The advertisement portion 90 may also include reflective or holographic labels.

FIG. 14 illustrates an individual 150 wearing a shirt 152 and pants 154. The pants 154 may include a plurality of pant couplers 156 for receiving a belt 158. The belt 158 prevents any vertical displacement of the pants 154 relative to the individual 150.

The individual 150 may require a sheet material to remove moisture, dirt or other debris from the individual 150 or other item. The tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the belt 158 and/or the pant couplers 156 for the individual 150 to have convenient access to the sheet material 12.

The continuous cord 114 is positioned about the belt 158 and/or the pant couplers 156 for encircling the belt 158 and/or the pant couplers 156. The clip 60 is inserted through the continuous cord 114 for securing the tether apparatus 10 to the pants 154. The clip 60 is pulled through the continuous cord 114 to draw the strap 80 and a portion of the continuous cord 114 through the continuous cord 114 for encircling and securing the tether apparatus 10 to the pants 154.

The height of the clip 60 relative to the belt 158 and/or the pant couplers 156 may be altered by slidably positioning the keeper 120 at various points along the continuous cord 114. By positioning the keeper 120 adjacent to the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is maximized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 maximized, the clip 60 is positioned at a maximum distance from the belt 158 and/or the pant couplers 156.

Alternatively, positioning the keeper 120 at the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is minimized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 minimized, the clip 60 is positioned at a minimum distance from the belt 158 and/or the pant couplers 156.

By positioning the keeper 120 between the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 and the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110, the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 may be varied. By varying the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114, the clip 60 is positioned at various distances from the belt 158 and/or the pant couplers 156.

The tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the pants 154 for preventing the separation of the sheet material 12 from the individual 150. The tether apparatus 10 may be secured to any other item that is securely fastened to the individual 150.

A force applied to the sheet material 12 that displaces the sheet material 12 relative to the individual 150 will cause the continuous cord 110 to expand in length. The increase in length of the continuous cord 110 will prevent tearing and reduce stress on the sheet material 12 between the first jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72 of the clip 60 and the force.

The strap 80 includes an advertisement portion 90 for displaying an advertisement while the tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the individual 150. The advertisement portion 90 may include a word mark 92, logo mark 94 or a composite mark 96. The advertisement portion 90 may be created by embroidery methods, labeling methods, or electronic methods. The advertisement portion 90 may also include reflective or holographic labels.

FIG. 15 illustrates a shelter 160 for providing cover. The shelter 160 includes a first support 162 and a second support 164 for supporting the sheet material 12. A first anchor 166 and a second anchor 168 may be secured to the ground and positioned adjacent to the shelter 160. The tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the first anchor 166 and the second anchor 168 for retaining the sheet material 12 adjacent to the first support 162 and the second support 164.

The continuous cord 114 is positioned about the first anchor 166 and the second anchor 168 for encircling the first anchor 166 and the second anchor 168. The clip 60 is inserted through the continuous cord 114 for securing the tether apparatus 10 to the first anchor 166 and the second anchor 168. The clip 60 is pulled through the continuous cord 114 to draw the strap 80 and a portion of the continuous cord 114 through the continuous cord 114 for encircling and securing the tether apparatus 10 to the first anchor 166 and the second anchor 168.

The distance of the clip 60 relative to the first anchor 166 and the second anchor 168 may be altered by slidably positioning the keeper 120 at various points along the continuous cord 114. By positioning the keeper 120 adjacent to the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is maximized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 maximized, the clip 60 is positioned at a maximum distance from the first anchor 166 and the second anchor 168.

Alternatively, positioning the keeper 120 at the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is minimized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 minimized, the clip 60 is positioned at a minimum distance from the first anchor 166 and the second anchor 168.

By positioning the keeper 120 between the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 and the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110, the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 may be varied. By varying the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114, the clip 60 is positioned at various distances from the first anchor 166 and the second anchor 168.

The tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the first anchor 166 and the second anchor 168 for preventing the separation of the sheet material 12 from the first support 162 and the second support 164. The tether apparatus 10 may be secured to any other item that is securely fastened to the ground or the first support 162 and the second support 164.

A force applied to the sheet material 12 that displaces the sheet material 12 relative to the first support 162 and the second support 164 will cause the continuous cord 110 to expand in length. The increase in length of the continuous cord 110 will prevent tearing and reduce stress on the sheet material 12 between the first jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72 of the clip 60 and the force.

The strap 80 includes an advertisement portion 90 for displaying an advertisement while the tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the first anchor 166 and the second anchor 168. The advertisement portion 90 may include a word mark 92, logo mark 94 or a composite mark 96. The advertisement portion 90 may be created by embroidery methods, labeling methods, or electronic methods. The advertisement portion 90 may also include reflective or holographic labels.

FIG. 16 illustrates a tree 170 secured to the ground. The tree 170 has a branch 172. The individual 150 may require a sheet material to remove moisture, dirt or other debris from the individual 150 or other item from a location next to the tree 170. The individual 150 may also require hanging a sheet material that contains moisture to promote drying from a location next to the tree 170.

The tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the branch 172 for the individual 150 to have convenient access to the sheet material 12 while located next to the tree 170. The continuous cord 114 is positioned about the branch 172 for encircling the branch 172. The clip 60 is inserted through the continuous cord 114 for securing the tether apparatus 10 to the tree 170. The clip 60 is pulled through the continuous cord 114 to draw the strap 80 and a portion of the continuous cord 114 through the continuous cord 114 for encircling and securing the tether apparatus 10 to the tree 170.

The height of the clip 60 relative to the branch 172 may be altered by slidably positioning the keeper 120 at various points along the continuous cord 114. By positioning the keeper 120 adjacent to the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is maximized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 maximized, the clip 60 is positioned at a maximum distance from the branch 172.

Alternatively, positioning the keeper 120 at the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is minimized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 minimized, the clip 60 is positioned at a minimum distance from the branch 172.

By positioning the keeper 120 between the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 and the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110, the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 may be varied. By varying the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114, the clip 60 is positioned at various distances from the branch 172.

The tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the tree 170 for preventing the separation of the sheet material 12 from the tree 170. The tether apparatus 10 may be secured to any other item that is securely fastened to the tree 170.

A force applied to the sheet material 12 that displaces the sheet material 12 relative to the tree 170 will cause the continuous cord 110 to expand in length. The increase in length of the continuous cord 110 will prevent tearing and reduce stress on the sheet material 12 between the first jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72 of the clip 60 and the force.

The strap 80 includes an advertisement portion 90 for displaying an advertisement while the tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the tree 170. The advertisement portion 90 may include a word mark 92, logo mark 94 or a composite mark 96. The advertisement portion 90 may be created by embroidery methods, labeling methods, or electronic methods. The advertisement portion 90 may also include reflective or holographic labels.

FIG. 17 illustrates a backpack 180 for transporting items. The backpack 180 includes a first arm strap 182 and a second arm strap 184 to facilitate transporting the backpack 180 on the back of the individual 150. The backpack 180 may further include a pack coupler 186 coupling a pack eyelet 188 to the backpack 180.

The individual 150 may require a sheet material to remove moisture, dirt or other debris from the individual 150 or other item. The tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the backpack 180 for the individual 150 to have convenient access to the sheet material 12 while carrying the backpack 180.

The continuous cord 114 is positioned about the pack eyelet 188 for encircling the pack eyelet 188. The clip 60 is inserted through the continuous cord 114 for securing the tether apparatus 10 to the backpack 180. The clip 60 is pulled through the continuous cord 114 to draw the strap 80 and a portion of the continuous cord 114 through the continuous cord 114 for encircling and securing the tether apparatus 10 to the backpack 180.

The height of the clip 60 relative to the pack eyelet 188 may be altered by slidably positioning the keeper 120 at various points along the continuous cord 114. By positioning the keeper 120 adjacent to the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is maximized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 maximized, the clip 60 is positioned at a maximum distance from the pack eyelet 188.

Alternatively, positioning the keeper 120 at the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is minimized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 minimized, the clip 60 is positioned at a minimum distance from the pack eyelet 188.

By positioning the keeper 120 between the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 and the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110, the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 may be varied. By varying the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114, the clip 60 is positioned at various distances from the pack eyelet 188.

The tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the backpack 180 for preventing the separation of the sheet material 12 from the backpack 180. The tether apparatus 10 may be secured to any other item that is securely fastened to the backpack 180.

A force applied to the sheet material 12 that displaces the sheet material 12 relative to the backpack 180 will cause the continuous cord 110 to expand in length. The increase in length of the continuous cord 110 will prevent tearing and reduce stress on the sheet material 12 between the first jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72 of the clip 60 and the force.

The strap 80 includes an advertisement portion 90 for displaying an advertisement while the tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the backpack 180. The advertisement portion 90 may include a word mark 92, logo mark 94 or a composite mark 96. The advertisement portion 90 may be created by embroidery methods, labeling methods, or electronic methods. The advertisement portion 90 may also include reflective or holographic labels.

FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate a hat 190 for covering a head of the individual 150. The hat 190 may include a head portion 192 and a brim portion 194. The hat 190 may further include a hat adjuster 196 for varying the diameter of the head portion 192.

The hat 190 may be easily removed from the head of the individual 150 by either wind and/or from hat striking an object. In some situations the individual 150 may not be able to retrieve the hat 190 once the hat 190 has become dislodged from the head. The tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the hat 190 for preventing the separation of the sheet material 12 from the golf bag 140. The sheet material 12 may include the shirt 152 of the individual 150.

The continuous cord 114 is positioned about the hat adjuster 196 for encircling the hat adjuster 196. The clip 60 is inserted through the continuous cord 114 for securing the tether apparatus 10 to the hat 190. The clip 60 is pulled through the continuous cord 114 to draw the strap 80 and a portion of the continuous cord 114 through the continuous cord 114 for encircling and securing the tether apparatus 10 to the hat 190.

The height of the clip 60 relative to the hat adjuster 196 may be altered by slidably positioning the keeper 120 at various points along the continuous cord 114. By positioning the keeper 120 adjacent to the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is maximized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 maximized, the clip 60 is positioned at a maximum distance from the hat adjuster 196.

Alternatively, positioning the keeper 120 at the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 is minimized. With the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 minimized, the clip 60 is positioned at a minimum distance from the hat adjuster 196.

By positioning the keeper 120 between the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 and the furthest distance from the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110, the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114 may be varied. By varying the length of the continuous cord 114 that traverses through the continuous cord 114, the clip 60 is positioned at various distances from the hat adjuster 196.

The tether apparatus 10 couples the shirt 152 of the individual 150 to the hat 190 for preventing the separation of the shirt 152 from the hat 190. The tether apparatus 10 may be secured to any other item that is securely fastened to the hat 190.

A force applied to the sheet material 12 that displaces the sheet material 12 relative to the hat 190 will cause the continuous cord 110 to expand in length. The increase in length of the continuous cord 110 will prevent tearing and reduce stress on the sheet material 12 between the first jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72 of the clip 60 and the force.

The strap 80 includes an advertisement portion 90 for displaying an advertisement while the tether apparatus 10 couples the sheet material 12 to the hat 190. The advertisement portion 90 may include a word mark 92, logo mark 94 or a composite mark 96. The advertisement portion 90 may be created by embroidery methods, labeling methods, or electronic methods. The advertisement portion 90 may also include reflective or holographic labels.

FIGS. 20-23 are views of a second embodiment of the tether apparatus 10 of the present invention. The clip 60 comprises a suspender clip 200. The suspender clip 200 includes a base 202 linking a jaw end 204 and a strap end 206. The base 202 further includes a first pivot aperture 210 and a second pivot aperture 212 located between the jaw end 204 and the strap end 206. The base 202, jaw end 204 and strap end 206 may be constructed of single continuous metallic material, polymeric material or other rigid construction material.

The jaw end 204 includes a first jaw member 214 and a second jaw member 216 for grasping the sheet material 12. The first jaw member 214 pivotably engages the base 262. A jaw member closure arm 220 pivotably engages the first pivot aperture 210 and the second pivot aperture 212 of the base 202. The jaw member closure arm 220 includes an operator arm 222 and a jaw engaging arm 224. Preferably, the operator arm 222 and the jaw engaging arm 224 define a ninety (90) degree bend 226. Upon rotation of the operator arm 222 towards the base 202, the jaw engaging arm 224 is pressed against the first jaw member 214 and forces the first jaw member 214 into the second jaw member 216. A retainer spring plate 228 is positioned between the first jaw member 214 and the base 262 for distancing the first jaw member 214 from the second jaw member 216 when the jaw member closure 220 is not engaged.

Both the first jaw member 214 and the arm 216 may be constructed of metallic material, polymeric material or other rigid construction material. The first jaw member 214 may include a plurality of first jaw teeth 230 for assisting in grasping the sheet material 12. The second jaw member 216 may include a plurality of second jaw teeth 232 for assisting in grasping the sheet material 12. The plurality of first jaw teeth 230 and the plurality of second jaw teeth 232 may be off set such that the plurality of first jaw teeth 230 do not make contact with the plurality of second jaw teeth 232. Both the second jaw member 216 and the base 262 may be constructed of single continuous metallic material, polymeric material or other rigid construction material.

The strap end 206 of the base 202 includes a base loop 234. The base loop 234 may be constructed of metallic material, polymeric material or other rigid construction material. The strap 80 extends between a first end 82 and a second end 84. The strap 80 may be a nylon band 86, a polypropylene band 88, a metallic band, polymeric band or other material. The first end 82 of the strap 80 includes a first closed loop 240 and the second end 84 of the strap 80 includes a second closed loop 242. The first closed loop 240 extends through the base loop 234 for pivotably securing the strap 80 to the suspender clip 200. The first closed loop 240 may be secured by stitching, gluing or clamping the first end 82 back on to the strap 80.

The second end 84 may define a second closed loop 242. The second closed loop 242 may be secured by stitching, gluing or clamping the second end 84 back on to the strap 80. A cord 106 extends through the second closed loop 242 of the strap 80. The cord 106 includes a first cord end 108 and a second cord end 110. A cord coupling 244 secures the first cord end 108 and the second cord end 110 to form a continuous cord 114. The cord coupling 244 may be constructed encasing the first and second cord end 108 and 110 within a molded encasement 246.

The present disclosure includes that contained in the appended claims as well as that of the foregoing description. Although this invention has been described in its preferred form with a certain degree of particularity, it is understood that the present disclosure of the preferred form has been made only by way of example and that numerous changes in the details of construction and the combination and arrangement of parts may be resorted to without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A tether apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object, the tether comprising;

a clip having a first jaw member and a second jaw member for grasping the sheet material;
a strap extending between a first end and a second end;
said first end of said strap being secured to said clip;
said second end of said strap defining a closed loop;
a continuous cord extending through said closed loop of said strap for encircling the object and enabling said clip to be inserted within said continuous cord for securing said continuous cord to the object; and
a keeper slidably engaging said continuous cord for adjusting the length of said continuous cord by the position of said keeper on said continuous cord.

2. A tether apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object as set forth in claim 1, wherein said clip formed from a polymeric material.

3. A tether apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object as set forth in claim 1, wherein said clip formed from a polymeric material; and

said polymeric material encasing said strap for securing said clip to said strap.

4. A tether apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object as set forth in claim 1, wherein said first jaw member pivotably secured to said clip; and

an arm engaging said first jaw member for pivoting said first jaw member from an open position to release the sheet material from between said first jaw member and said second jaw member and a closed position to retain the sheet material between said first jaw member and said second jaw member.

5. A tether apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object as set forth in claim 1, wherein said strap includes a nylon band.

6. A tether apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object as set forth in claim 1, wherein said strap includes a polypropylene band.

7. A tether apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object as set forth in claim 1, wherein said strap includes a nylon band; and

said nylon band includes an advertisement portion.

8. A tether apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object as set forth in claim 1, wherein said cord includes an elastic cable.

9. A tether apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object as set forth in claim 1, wherein said keeper includes a cord lock for applying a compressive force to said continuous cord.

10. A tether apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object as set forth in claim 1, wherein said keeper includes a cord lock for applying a compressive force to said continuous cord; and

said keeper formed from a polymeric material.

11. A tether apparatus for coupling a sheet material to an object as set forth in claim 1, wherein said keeper includes a cord lock for applying a compressive force against said continuous cord; and

said cord lock includes a depressible cylinder for removing the compressive force against said continuous cord.

12. A tether apparatus for coupling a textile to an object, the tether comprising;

a clip having a first jaw member and a second jaw member for grasping the sheet material;
said first jaw member pivotably secured to said clip;
an arm engaging said first jaw member for pivoting said first jaw member from an open position to release the sheet material from between said first jaw member and said second jaw member and a closed position to retain the sheet material between said first jaw member and said second jaw member a strap extending between a first end and a second end;
said first end of said strap being secured to said clip;
said second end of said strap defining a closed loop;
a continuous cord extending through said closed loop of said strap for encircling the object and enabling said clip to be inserted within said continuous cord for securing said continuous cord to the object;
a keeper slidably engaging said continuous cord for adjusting the length of said continuous cord by the position of said keeper on said continuous cord; and
said keeper includes a cord lock for applying a compressive force to said continuous cord.

13. A tether apparatus for coupling a textile to an object as set forth in claim 12, wherein said clip formed from a polymeric material.

14. A tether apparatus for coupling a textile to an object as set forth in claim 12, wherein said clip formed from a polymeric material; and

said polymeric material encasing said strap for securing said clip to said strap.

15. A tether apparatus for coupling a textile to an object as set forth in claim 12, wherein said strap includes a nylon band.

16. A tether apparatus for coupling a textile to an object as set forth in claim 12, wherein said strap includes a polypropylene band.

17. A tether apparatus for coupling a textile to an object as set forth in claim 12, wherein said strap includes a nylon band; and

said nylon band includes an advertisement portion.

18. A tether apparatus for coupling a textile to an object as set forth in claim 12, wherein said cord includes an elastic cable.

19. A tether apparatus for coupling a textile to an object as set forth in claim 12, wherein said keeper formed from a polymeric material.

20. A tether apparatus for coupling a textile to an object as set forth in claim 12, wherein said cord lock includes a depressible cylinder for removing the compressive force against said continuous cord.

21. A tether apparatus for coupling a textile to an object, the tether comprising;

a clip having a base supporting a first jaw member and a second jaw member for grasping the sheet material;
said first jaw member pivotably securing to said base;
said base having a base loop;
an arm engaging said first jaw member for pivoting said first jaw member from an open position to release the sheet material from between said first jaw member and said second jaw member and a closed position to retain the sheet material between said first jaw member and said second jaw member a strap extending between a first end and a second end;
said first end of said strap defining a first closed loop;
said second end of said strap defining a second closed loop;
said first closed loop extending through said base loop of said base for pivotably securing to said strap to said clip;
a continuous cord extending through said second closed loop of said strap for encircling the object and enabling said clip to be inserted within said continuous cord for securing said continuous cord to the object;
a keeper slidably engaging said continuous cord for adjusting the length of said continuous cord by the position of said keeper on said continuous cord;
said keeper includes a cord lock for applying a compressive force to said continuous cord; and
said cord lock includes a depressible cylinder for removing the compressive force against said continuous cord.
Patent History
Publication number: 20070220717
Type: Application
Filed: Mar 21, 2007
Publication Date: Sep 27, 2007
Inventor: John K. Brinson (Tampa, FL)
Application Number: 11/726,066
Classifications
Current U.S. Class: Plural Fasteners Having Intermediate Flaccid Connector (24/298)
International Classification: A44B 21/00 (20060101);