MULTIPLE PURPOSE STRAP-PACK SYSTEM

Abstract

Apparatus and methods are provided which can be adjustably configured to support and carry a variety of objects. The strap-pack system comprises a family of member elements, each having a variety of common fasteners attached thereto. A single member may be self-attached to form carrying apertures, or can be attached to other members for new configurations which can be further attached to outside objects. The basic members comprise a single layer strap connected to a multiple layered strap, each having a plurality of fasteners attached thereto. End fasteners include a releasable hook fastener at one end for attaching the system to outside objects, and hook and loop or snap-fit or side release buckles at the other ends. Interior fasteners are engaged to define holding apertures, while the space between layers is available for smaller articles. An elongated extension strap member is provided which can be used for belt, over-the shoulder holding, or for tethering movable objects.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This application succeeds U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/699,795, filed on Jul. 18, 2005.

This invention relates generally to belting, strapping and packing systems secured to a user's body or extremities or an inanimate object for supporting and transporting objects. In particular, this invention relates to a strapping system that can be rapidly reconfigured for multiple attachments or variable configurations. The invention comprises elements having multiple attachment means that may be joined together to form a variety of configurations for holding a plurality of different objects.

2. Description of the Relevant Art

Many devices support particular objects from the human body. The goal is to aid people to move objects hands-free. Other devices support or restrain items against outside forces. These provide support for a variety of articles. However, all of these prior art devices generally have only a fixed configuration.

Early Inventions

One group of early inventions centers around stand-alone devices. Bell describes a device for carrying cans of oil in saddlebags on a pack animal. (U.S. Pat. No. 417,220). Davey depicts a carrier for military equipment such as ammunition, bedding, and foods that was adjustable for comfort. (U.S. Pat. No. 874,945).

Carr describes a device consisting of a specialized sling and buckle which allows firemen to carry items while keeping his hands free (U.S. Pat. No. 1,490,066). The device embodies a strap one end of which can be turned back and another end which contains a conventional buckle of ordinary construction. The buckle is slotted so as to permit the user to form loops radially engaging one or more sling straps, with snap-hook fasteners provided at each end of a sling for chaining one or more together.

One major limitation to Carr's invention is that it uses a cinch down sling in conjunction with the loop. As an improvement, our invention allows the user to cinch or access and store the strap, while maintaining the hold on items, as seen in FIG. 14. Our invention provides additional improvement to Carr by providing a multi-layered neck with a plurality of fastener and attachment means as seen in FIGS. 3, 13, 14, and 15.

The invention attains further improvement by providing a full range of loop adjustments which are not limited to the intervals of spaced holes or affixed items at specific locations along the loop. The invention also provides a positive lock which simultaneously provides safety while storing unused loose ends; by securing the excess strap onto itself and not allowing the strap to feed back through the buckle or the loose ends to hang free, as in FIGS. 2, 8, and 9. The user may also choose to allow the loose ends to hang free, as in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 7, and 8.

Dettweiler describes an improvement to belts that are useful primarily to lineman (U.S. Pat. No. 1,504,030). The Dettweiler belt includes an adjustable supporting element along with a coupling element, which is secured to the waist of a lineman. An additional component is a coupling element to support tools. The major limitation of the Dettweiler device is that it is inflexible and static. Our invention improves on Dettweiler by providing a full range of loop adjustments that are not limited to the fixed intervals of spaced holes or affixed items.

Lewis demonstrates carrier for a miner's carbide flask that allowed easy inversion of the flask for discharging its contents (U.S. Pat. No. 1,605,195).

Modern Devices

Moore discloses a device in which one part of a strap is attached to a garment, orthopedic brace or the like (U.S. Pat. No. 3,827,107). Another part of the adjustable strap end is pulled until it passes through the buckle and then is variably tightened to secure the garment in variable positions. The Moore invention uses many of the same components as our invention, but the components must be permanently attached to the garment. Thus, Moore is limited since the strap and buckle must be permanently attached. Our invention provides improvement by allowing flexible attaching to the garment. FIGS. 1 through 15.

George discloses a beverage belt device with insulated receptacles for supporting cold beverage containers (U.S. Pat. No. 4,018,371).

Baum describes a belt-supported camera bag with shoulder and waist support straps to free the hands of the carrier (U.S. Pat. No. 4,545,414). The Baum device shows a cushioned camera bag with shoulder and waist support straps that can be used individually or together to support the bag, thus freeing the user's hands to operate the camera. Baum is limited because it is pre-designed to have the bag permanently attached to its strap support system. In contrast, our invention provides for a versatile and configurable system that can be attached in multiple ways to clothing or other objects. FIGS. 9 through 15.

Victor describes a personal military webbing system in which components are attached to a webbing harness through apertures and hooking elements (U.S. Pat. No. 4,676,419). Dennis discloses a soft drink carrier consisting of a pouch connected to an elongated strip with that forms a V-shaped opening that goes around the neck of the user (U.S. Pat. No. 4,754,903).

Patricy illustrates a single strap securement system that has frictional gripping with Velcro mating portions for mounting items such as hammocks or snow skis to a support (U.S. Pat. No. 4,878,274). Our invention has many improvements and additional combinations, as seen in FIGS. 8 through 15.

Hess III also describes a single belt system for carrying dive belt articles, e.g. weights (U.S. Pat. No. 4,907,729).

Bryant further describes a single strap securing mechanism for keeping elongated members such as an extension cord together (U.S. Pat. No. 4,963,410). It discloses an apparatus for securing together segments of elongated members such as an extension cord. Our invention shows improvements through the multi-layered neck containing a plurality of fastener means, as seen in FIG. 13.

Payne demonstrates a single belt carrier apparatus with an adjustable belt worn about the waist that carries a beverage container and a pouch for small articles (U.S. Pat. No. 5,060,835). Maskovich describes an elastic belt strap for a jogger's compact portable equipment that has at least two opposing slots to receive belts ends (U.S. Pat. No. 5,410,762).

Another single strap is shown by McLellan for attaching ladders to a vehicle rack wherein a cinch ring is attached to one end so that the strap can be wrapped around the ladder and attaching mechanism (U.S. Pat. No. 5,603,591). One surface of the strap is covered by the loop fabric of a complementary loop and hook fastening system. The other surface of the strap is covered by a short section of hook material. Our invention improves by providing a full range of adjustment and the capacity extensions through using additional buckles and straps, as seen in FIG. 7.

Cole shows a system and method for using a fastening device which is covered its entire length with adhering surfaces (U.S. Pat. No. 5,604,961). Cole's device uses at least one fastening element with an elongated flexible member which has releaseably inter-engaging, interlocking or compressively joining, coupling or adhering opposing surfaces covering the entire length, with the exception of a tab end. Our invention provides an improvement over Cole and similar devices that have lengths of left-over strap after the securing process by means of a loop end fastener, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7.

Smrt shows a device and method for transporting containers or hand tools such that the device can be attached to clothing, thus freeing the hands (U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,712).

Fisher shows a hand tool support strap for hand tools, guns, and other hand-held implements (U.S. Pat. No. 6,029,321). It has a pistol grip handle and is held by a hand and wrist. Fisher's device includes an elongated strip of flexible material having a ring attached to a first transverse end of the strip. A first fastener member is attached to the lower surface of the strip, and a second fastener members releaseably engagable with the first fastener member is attached to the upper surface of the strip. As seen in FIG. 14, our invention improves on Fisher's device by allowing an object to be attached to the system while allowing hands-free movement of the user when not using the attached object.

Another keeper strap is shown by Tseng wherein a closeable loop is formed as a noose for hanging an item under its own weight (U.S. Pat. No. 6,256,845). Tseng shows a closable loop keeper strap for securing, storing, and transporting household, garden, and industrial items. The elongated strap has a series of groves spaced apart such that an opposite single raised protrusion fits into in order to secure the straps adjustment. One limitation of Tseng is that the adjustments are limited to the interval spacing of the groves. As an improvement, our invention provides a full range of adjustment, not limited to the pre-defined intervals of space grooves, while providing a positive lock adjustment by rolling the excess strap and securing itself, as seen in FIGS. 1 and 2 (#31).

Severson discloses a keeper strap which will also retain the connector ends of items such as hoses and extension cords (U.S. Pat. No. 6,523,229).

McCay illustrates a tie-down strap assembly to hold a load behind a motorcycle driver (U.S. Pat. No. 6,394,720). McCay discloses a strap assembly comprising a first section of flat shock cord with a loop at one end and a female side release buckle at the opposite end. A second section of flat webbing with a loop with a pull through male section of a side release buckle that can be connected to the female section. The webbing can be used to tighten the strap assembly against the shock cord. One major limitation of McCay's device is that does not allow a full range of adjustment. In contrast, with our invention the user can form a loop in any position along the strap to secure objects of varying size, while still allowing the buckle to be used and adjusted. Loops of various sizes can be formed by feeding the webbing through the “D” Rings or forming a loop utilizing the hook and loop fastener. FIGS. 7 and 14.

Load Specific Patents

A modern load specific patent for carrying skis and poles is taught by Esopi (U.S. Pat. No. 3,486,672). Our invention improves on Esopi by providing additional flexibility and configurations. See FIGS. 8-15. Other load specific patents include Larkin et al. for a tool restraint apparatus with two flexible straps used to tether tools from a workman's wrist (U.S. Pat. No. 5,130,899). The Larkin device includes two flexible straps, one connected to the user's wrist and a second attached to a tool. The first end secures around the user's wrist while the second end secures around a tool. Our present invention allows many more combinations, as seen in FIGS. 8 through 15.

Daniels describes a nursing bottle holder tethered to a support strap so that one strap is secured around the bottle placed in a connected harness and another strap is available to secure the whole thing to an object (U.S. Pat. No. 5,265,834). The Daniels device is limited because of the permanently affixed members designed for a specific purpose at one end as well as specific locations along the length of the harness and the use of snap and socket sets placed at specific locations upon the harness limiting the adjustment range for securing the whole thing around a variety of objects. The present invention is an improvement because one end can be configured to secure multiple sized bottles within a quick releasing system while the other end offers a combination of configurations providing a plurality of attachment opportunities to a variety of objects, as seen in FIGS. 1 through 8.

Kauker shows a carrier for watches that includes a loop for attaching the clothing of the wearer and a hanger suspended by the loop (U.S. Pat. No. 5,540,367). Our invention improves on Kauker by allowing the wearer to quickly reconfigure the system for multiple applications and providing for the ability to hold several different items at the same time, while having multiple attachments and a quick release system. See FIGS. 1 through 15.

Miller et al. describe a strap device system for restraining prisoners in a vehicle. A restraint buckle at one end secures the strap around a prisoner's lower legs or wrists and a moveable locking clip at the other end secures the bound limbs as the strap is pulled tight (U.S. Pat. No. 5,581,853). The Miller device consists of a restraint buckle at one end of a strap that can be placed around a prisoner's lower legs or wrists and fastened into an adjustable loop and, at the other end, a moveable locking clips so that the strap can be extended. A loop at the same end allows the strap to be pulled through a closed vehicle door and the movable locking clip is then wedged against the outside of the vehicle, thus securing the prisoner's bound limbs. The major limitation of the Miller device is its limited application to a vehicle carrying prisoners. Our invention improves on this prior art by providing a multi-layered neck with a plurality of fastener and attachment means. FIGS. 3, 13, 14, and 15. In addition to being configurable to restrain prisoners in vehicles, our invention can be quickly reconfigured to adapt to multiple applications, as shown in FIGS. 8 through 15.

Janeway demonstrates locking assembly device that secures sliding windows in a closed position (U.S. Pat. No. 5,620,215). One substantially inelastic strap with a coupling device is permanently fixed to one sliding window and another inelastic strap with a coupling device is permanently fixed to another window. The two coupling devices can be connected and separated, thus securing and freeing the sliding windows. When the two windows are closed and the coupling devices mated tautly the system locks the window in the closed position. The major limitation of the Janeway device is its limited configuration to securing sliding windows only. Our invention improves on Janeway's device by being quickly re-configured to adapt to multiple applications, as seen in FIGS. 8 through 15.

Other keeper strap arrangements include Koerner who discloses a keeper for coiled items that uses a single flexible strap with loops and hooks on opposite sides throughout the entire surface of the keeper (U.S. Pat. No. 5,048,158).

Chen describes a key holder assembly with separable straps of hooks and loop fasteners (U.S. Pat. No. 5,069,050). The Chen device consists of a pair of key rings, a pair of flexible mounting straps, and a pair of hook and loop fastening patches. Each strap contains a heat sealed permanently attached patch. Each strap is folded around one of the key rings and back onto itself. The major limitation of the Chen device is that its configuration is fixed to hold a single item. Our invention improves on Chen by allowing quick and easy reconfiguration in multiple applications while holding several items with multiple attaching/releasing components. FIGS. 3, 6, 8, and 13.

In general, the above known carrying devices fail to meet the industries need for a belting, strapping, and or packing system that can be reconfigured rapidly and easily to perform a wide variety of attaching, holding, and bundling tasks.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Introduction

Our invention overcomes the many limitations and disadvantages of currently known carrying or securing devices. The advantages of the invention include:

• • 1) Multiple attaching/quick release system to hold a variety of items;
  • 2) Versatile configurations of system to provide multiple ways of attaching the invention to clothing or other objects;
  • 3) Easy access and storage of items;
  • 4) Reusable time after time, while maintaining set adjustment for holding items;
  • 5) Quick and easy to reconfigure for multiple applications; and
  • 6) Improves user safety by securing unused loose ends of device.

Basic Construction Configurations in Best Modes

Our multiple purpose Strap-Pack system has 15 basic fabric construction configurations that during assembly accept a plethora of hardware. Based upon the user's construction specifications creates a versatile system that is quick and easy to reconfigure to multiple applications and or built to fit specific uses.

The following explanations illustrate the 15 basic construction configurations:

Neck A) Best Modes FIG. 1—numbers 13, 14, 15, 16, 18 and 21. Short neck no space for belt to fit through. Insertion of a Plurality of hooks, holders and fasteners at 18 and 21.

Neck B) Best Modes FIG. 1—numbers 13, 14, 15, 16, 18 and 21. This neck may be extended to allow a belt or other item to fit through. This neck has no snap rivet set. Insertion of a Plurality of hooks, holders and fasteners at 18 and 21.

Neck C) Best Modes FIG. 2—numbers 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 22, 23, 21 and 35. This neck has the same configuration as Neck B with an addition comprising a single layer strapping means 12 and snap rivet set 22 and 23. Insertion of a Plurality of hooks, holders and fasteners at 18 and 21. The addition of a hook and loop fastener Best Modes FIG. 3—number 35 may also be configured.

Loop A) Best Modes FIG. 1—numbers 11, 24, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 31. This adjustment is made so that, when the side release buckle is engaged a first aperture 30 is formed. Alternately buckle 28 may be released so that male 29 and/or female 27 portions may be connected to other strapping means to create an extended strapping configuration.

Loop B) Best Modes FIG. 4—numbers 11, 21, 31 and 37. This loop fabric is configured the same as loop A. The main difference is the insertion of a plurality of hooks, holders and fasteners 37 at 21.

Loop C) Best Modes FIG. 5—numbers 10,11, 25 and 31. Eliminating loop 21 from Best Modes FIG. 1 and stitching the distal end of 11 at 25 which creates a loop variation when cut to create two loop straps means 11 that include hook and loop fasteners 10 attached to each of two loop straps 11 allowing a full range of adjustment. The addition of a hook and loop fastener Best Modes FIG. 3—number 31 may also be configured at each end of cut strap means 11.

During construction Necks A, B or C can be interchanged with Loops A, B or C. Necks A, B or C can be eliminated from Loops A, B or C or visa versa (Example Best Modes FIGS. 6 and 7). These combinations or lack of combinations make up 15 separate single members, not including the variations of hardware and the multiple configurations when two or more single members are combined.

Further Detailed Description of Invention

The present invention provides a quick release belting, strapping and or packing apparatus that can be adjustably configured to support and retain a variety of objects. The configurations described below include strapping necks, loops, and optional fastener means selected from a variety of common attachment means.

The strapping necks may have multiple layers of strapping of adjustable length, width and thickness, including the ability for the excess strap to be rolled up and secured unto its self. The fastening means may be reconfigured to utilize various types of snaps, rings, fasteners or buckles, adapted to particular load connectors as well as other strapping mates. Examples include: quick-release hook fasteners, snap-fit, side release buckles, hook and loop fasteners, D ring, and socket and stud button arrangements.

A single member may be self-attached to form webbed loops of various sizes, which can be further attached to outside objects, including body or clothing pieces such as waist belts or belt loops, in order to support many different articles. Single members also may be variably sized, and or interconnected to other members to provide a plurality of adjustable body and article attachment means. Such body adjustment will allow the system to be comfortably worn by different sized persons or animals, while securely holding the different articles.

Although many member elements may be configured, the descriptions below will be made of a more simple system comprising the minimum of two different elements. These descriptions will illustrate the following:

• • the relative length and widths of system members and/or elements;
  • the types of materials used to construct the system;
  • the number of attachment points;
  • the types of attachment points; and
  • the number and types of quick release means.

This invention is especially useful to those working in construction, warehousing, outside activities, janitorial, military; sports, fire fighting, police, medical and other services. The rapid reconfiguration features will enable them to quickly adapt to variations in their normal and emergency needs.

It is a prime object of this invention to provide the means and apparatus to create reconfigurable systems of strapping elements, each of which has a plurality of fasteners attached thereon for multiple holding and carrying purposes.

A further object of this invention is to provide fastening systems and methods that can be quickly changed to new configurations.

Another object of this invention is to provide methods and apparatus that can be easily secured around a plurality of objects external to the user.

It is yet another object of this invention to provide apparatus which can be comfortably secured around a user's body or extremities.

It is an additional object of this invention to reduce the time, weight, cost and space penalties associated with carrying many separate equipments under controlled and emergency conditions.

It is still another object of this Invention to provide attachment systems that are inexpensively manufactured, are structurally rigid and safe, and will have a reliable long life.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a perspective rear view of a first single reconfigurable strap kit element of our multiple purpose strap system, said element being shown in an open posture.

FIG. 2 presents a perspective back view of a second single strap portion of multiple purpose strap system showing the features thereof in FIG. 1, with the addition of a connector strap having snap fastener and sockets for formation of an additional loop.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective front right side view in the open posture showing the features thereof in FIG. 2 with the addition of a second connector strap fastener.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective front view of a single strap portion of a multiple purpose strap system kit, including the features of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3 with a variation of snaps, rings, fasteners or buckles.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective back view of a third single strap portion of a multiple purpose strap system including the features thereof in FIG. 2 or 3 with a loop variation that includes fasteners attached to each of two loop straps.

FIG. 6 presents a perspective front view in the open posture showing the features thereof in FIG. 2 or 3 without the loop.

FIG. 7 presents a perspective view of an elongated strapping member having a loop without the neck suitable for multiple configurations.

FIG. 8 presents an aspect view of a system in which basic members of this Invention are attached to each other using a variety of snaps, rings, fasteners or buckles.

FIG. 9 is a frontal view of a strapping system in use about a waist, showing multiple connections of multiple single strap portions utilizing a variety of snaps, rings, fasteners or buckles.

FIG. 10 shows a right side view of the waist strapping system of FIG. 9, showing multiple connections of multiple single strap elements.

FIG. 11 is a left side view of the waist strapping system of FIG. 9, showing a different single strap arrangement.

FIG. 12 illustrates a left side view of the waist strapping system of FIG. 11, showing multiple uses of a single strap portion.

FIG. 13 presents a right side view of the waist strapping system of FIG. 9, in use view thereof, showing multiple uses of multiple single strap portions, utilizing a conventional waist belt.

FIG. 14 depicts a frontal aspect view of a workman using a combination waist strapping system to provide both a safety strap for holding tools in use, and for storing other work items to be used, utilizing a carpenters tool belt.

FIG. 15 presents a top aspect view of a system in which basic members of this Invention provide support to a travel bag such as a gym bag and to other travel items.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

The best mode of the Invention provides a versatile strapping application that secures while providing easy access and storage of items while utilizing simultaneously a multiple attaching and quick release system that maintains adjustment to secured items.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective back view of a first single strap kit element 40 of our multiple purpose strap system, said element being shown in an open unbuckled posture. This element includes a single layer strapping means 11 connected to a multiple layered strapping means 13, each having a plurality of fastener means attached thereto. Multiple layered strapping means 13 further comprises a plurality of single layered strapping means 14, fixed together at their extremities by stitching means 15 & 16. Stitching means 15 are depicted at a first extremity 17 as forming a loop 18 around the base of a releasable snap hook fastener 19, said loop 18 including both single layered strapping means 11 and multiple layered strapping means 13. Hook fastener 19 is illustrated as having rotational freedom about an axis normal to the narrow edge of the strap. Rotation about an axis along the length of the strap is also possible.

Prior to stitching, the folded ends 26 of multiple layer strap means 13 are passed through the belt receiving slot 24 in the female portion 27 of a snap-fit, side release buckle 28. The male portion 29 of buckle 28 is attached to single layer strap 11 by passing the strap's opposite end through the belt-receiving slot on male portion 29 of buckle 28. The length of strap 11 is adjusted by means of hook and loop fastener 31. This adjustment is made so that, when the side release buckle is engaged, a first aperture 30 is formed to fit around the outer surface contour of an article to be securely held. Strap 11 may be made from many types of flexible materials such as plastic, leather, or fabric webbing. The strap may additionally be made elastic for greater security, and/or made resilient for surface protection of an article to be carried. Alternately, rather than providing support, buckle 28 may be released so that male 29 and/or female 27 portions may be connected to other strapping means to create an extended strapping configuration.

FIG. 2 shows a basic strap member 45 of our invention, comprising single layer strapping means 11 and 12 connected to a multiple layered strapping means 13, each having a plurality of fastener means attached thereto. Multiple layered strapping means 13 comprises a plurality of single layered strapping means 14, fixed together at their extremities by stitching means 15 & 16. Stitching means 15 is depicted at a first extremity 17 as forming a loop 18 around the base of a releasable snap hook fastener 19, said loop 18 including both single layered strapping means 12 and multiple layered strapping means 13. Hook fastener 19 is illustrated as having rotational freedom about axis 20 normal to the narrow edge of the strap, however rotation about an axis along the length of the strap is also possible.

Stitching means 16 are disposed at the second extremity 25 of multiple layer strapping means 13 so as to form an attachment loop between the folded ends 26 of a layer of multiple layer strapping means 13, and to bind the looped strap folded ends 26 to single layered strap 11. This strap combination is further secured by rivet 22, which comprises a rivet head and the socket portion of a snap-button fastener 23. Prior to stitching, the folded ends 26 of multiple layer strap means 13 are passed through the belt receiving slot 24 in the female portion 27 of a snap-fit, side release buckle 28. The male portion 29 of buckle 28 is attached to single layer strap 11 by passing the strap's opposite end through the belt-receiving slot on male portion 29 of buckle 28. The length of strap 11 is adjusted by means of a hook and loop fastener 31. This adjustment is made so that, when the side release buckle is engaged, a first aperture 30 is formed to fit around the outer surface contour of an article to be securely held. Again, strap 11 may be made from many types of flexible materials the strap may additionally be made elastic for greater security, and/or made resilient for surface protection of an article to be carried. Alternately, rather than providing support, buckle 28 may be released so that male 29 and/or female 27 portions may be connected to other strapping means to create an extended strapping configuration.

Single layer strapping means 12 further comprises a combination snap button socket and stud fastener means 32 and 33, disposed at its end opposite to the connection with hook fastener 19. When socket portion 32 is engaged with the stud fastener 23 on multiple layered strapping means 13, a second closed aperture means 34 is formed. This constant perimeter aperture may also be used for holding other articles to be carried. It is particularly adapted for articles with flat profiles, such as a canteen, or to compliment articles such as clothing. When socket 32 is engaged, the stud portion 33 is available for interconnecting with the socket portion of other configurations of this invention. When socket 32 is not engaged, strap 12 may interconnect with either sockets or studs of such other configuration. When both fastener 28 and socket 32 are released, extended strapping means are obtained with multiple elements of common connectivity to other strap configurations, and/or to articles having mating fasteners thereon.

FIG. 3 shows a reversed perspective view of an alternate embodiment 50 of the FIG. 2 strap member 45. The main difference in embodiment 50 is the addition of another hook and loop fastener 35 disposed at the end of single layer 12 opposite to the connection with hook fastener 19. As shown, fastener 35 is attached to single layer 12 by being sandwiched between fastener socket 32 and stud 33. This addition provides at least three features:

• • a) When socket portion 32 is engaged with the stud fastener 23 on multiple layered strapping means 13, the hook and loop fastener 35 may be tightly wrapped around all layers of strapping means 12 and 13, thus providing additional load carrying strength for hanging heavier items from hook 19 or strapping means 11.
  • b) When socket portion 32 is engaged with the stud fastener 23 on multiple layered strapping means 13, the hook and loop fastener 35 may be loosely wrapped around all layers of strapping means 12 and 13, thus providing a third aperture means for holding small diameter objects such as a pen or a screwdriver.
  • c) When socket portion 32 is either engaged or disengaged with the stud fastener 23 on multiple layered strapping means 13, the hook and loop fastener 35 may be left open to permit connections with other strapping means having mating hook or loop fasteners so that the article holding capacity of the strapping system is increased.

FIG. 4 shows a front perspective view of an alternate embodiment 55 showing many of the same best modes in FIG. 3 strap member 50. The main difference in embodiment 55 is the elimination or insertion of a plurality of hooks, holders and fasteners 37 and 39 in loops 18 and 21. This provides the Invention the ability to tailor itself to a wide variety of users.

FIG. 5 shows a rear perspective view of an alternate embodiment 60 showing many of the same best modes in FIG. 2 strap member 45. The main difference in embodiment 60 is a loop variation where the end of single layer strapping means 11 distal to the multiple layered strapping means 13, is connected to the multiple layered strapping means 13. When cut to create two loop straps means 11 that include hook and loop fasteners 10, attached to each of two loop straps 11, a full range of adjustment to secure objects is obtained.

FIG. 6 presents a front perspective view of an alternate embodiment 65 including many of the same best modes in FIG. 3 strap member 50. The main difference in embodiment 65 is the connection elimination of single layer strapping means 1, male portion 29 of buckle 28 and loop fastener 31 from multiple layered strapping means 13.

FIG. 7 presents a perspective view of an elongated strapping member 70 suitable for belting, leashing, bag wrapping, over-the-shoulder, tie down, and many other uses. This strapping member is longer, simpler, has a single layer strapping means 11, the connection elimination of multi layer strapping means 13, and may be fitted with a pair of optional D-ring or other type fastener means 41. Fastener 41 is secured to strapping means 11 by hook and loop fastener 31, after the length is adjusted at the belt receiving slot 29 of a snap-fit, side release buckle 28. The D-ring fastener means 41 is generally used to connect with multiple hooking means, and are particularly useful when connected to hook fastener 19 on basic strap members 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 and 65. In addition to the hands-free supporting functions mentioned above, the elongated strapping member 70 is easily used for other functions such as tethering. These applications include animal leashing, and general weather securing of movable objects such as boats.

FIGS. 8 through 11 portray elements of this Invention kit being utilized in a group of sample connections with other members of this Invention.

FIG. 8 presents an aspect view 75 of a system in which basic members 40, 45, 50 and 70 of this Invention are attached to each other using a variety of snaps, rings, fasteners or buckles. Although not shown, elongated strap 70 utilizing buckle 28 could also be used in conjunction with strapping means 11 on members 40, 45, 50, and 65 utilizing buckle 28, to enlarge the first aperture 30. Elongated strap member 70 utilizing buckle 28 or fastener 31 could also be used in conjunction with a multiple number of other elongated strap members 70 utilizing buckle 28 or fastener 31 to create an extended strapping configuration.

FIG. 9 depicts a frontal aspect view 80 of workman 59 using a combination system in which the elongated strapping member 70 is used as a waist belt. Additional basic strap members 40, 45 or 50 are attached to the workman's waist utilizing a variety of snaps, rings, fasteners or buckles.

FIG. 10 depicts a right side aspect view 85 of workman 59 using a combination system in which the elongated strapping member 70 is used as a waist belt. An additional basic strap member 40 and/or 45 is attached to the workman's waist using a variety of snaps, rings, fasteners or buckles.

FIG. 11 depicts a left side aspect view 90 of workman 59 using a combination system in which the elongated strapping member 70 is used as a waist belt. An additional basic strap member 50 is attached to the workman's waist using a variety of snaps, buckles and rings.

FIGS. 12 through 15 portray members of this Invention being utilized in a group of sample applications.

FIG. 12 illustrates a left side elevation view 95 of the torso of a workman 59 wearing a combination system in which the elongated strapping member 70 is used as a belt supporting basic strapping members 45 or 50. Side release buckles 28 are used as a regular waist belt buckle on the elongated member 70. Hook 19 of the basic member is simply connected to the D-ring fastener means 41 attached to elongated member 70. Articles such as a pair of gloves 51 are held within aperture 30, formed by latching the side release buckles 28.

FIG. 13 shows a right side elevation view 100 of the basic member 40, 45, or 50 of this invention holding a plurality of articles while being attached to a conventional belt 56. Articles being held include an eyeglass case 53, a knife with a belt clip 52, a set of keys 54, and a pair of gloves 51.

FIG. 14 depicts a frontal aspect view 105 of workman 59 using a combination system in which the elongated strapping member 70 is used as a safety strap for holding tool 45. An additional basic strap 45 or 50 is attached to the workman's waist tool holder 46, and is shown holding gloves 51.

FIG. 15 presents a top aspect view 110 of a system in which basic members 45 or 50 of this Invention are attached to a travel bag such as a gym bag 60 having a handle 61. Articles illustrated include a towel 62, a pager or cell phone 55, and a set of keys 54. In this case the device is being used to add capacity to a carrying bag. Although not shown, elongated strap 70 could also be used as bag strapping and or a shoulder strap.

The foregoing descriptions and drawings have been given for illustrative purposes only, it being understood that the Invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed, but is intended to embrace any and all equivalents alternatives, modifications and rearrangements of elements falling within the scope of the Invention as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, comprising:

a plurality of first strapping means for securing articles, each said first strapping means having side edges with first and second ends and a flexible plane surface between said ends and said edges, said plane surface provided substantially along the length thereof with means for attaching fastener means;

means for adjusting the length of each said first strapping means;

a first releasable fastener means disposed at the first end of each said first strapping means for supporting attachment to external objects;

a second releasable fastener means disposed at the second end of each said first strapping means for attachment to any said first strapping means; and

a third releasable fastener means disposed along said first strapping means 15 so as to provide a mating connection by which portions of said first strapping means define a first aperture for holding external objects.

2. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 1, further comprising:

a plurality of second strapping means for securing articles, each said second strapping means having side edges with first and second ends and a flexible plane surface between said ends and said edges, said plane surface provided substantially along the length thereof with means for attaching fastener means;

means for attachment of the first end of each said second strapping means to the first end of each said first strapping means; and

a fourth releasable fastener means disposed at the second end of said second strapping means for attachment to any said strapping means.

3. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 2, further comprising means for adjusting the length of each said second strapping means.

4. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 3, further comprising mating fastening means for connection to said fourth quick release fastener means, said mating fastener means disposed along said first strapping means so as to provide a mating connection by which portions of said second strapping means define a second aperture for holding external objects.

5. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 4; further comprising:

a plurality of third elongated strapping means for securing articles, each said third elongated strapping means having side edges with first and second ends and a plane surface between said ends and said edges, said plane surface provided substantially along the length thereof with means for attaching fastener means;

a fifth releasable fastener means at the first end of each said third elongated strapping means for supporting attachment to external objects;

a sixth releasable fastener means disposed at the second end of each said third strapping means for attachment to any said first strapping means; and

a seventh releasable fastener means disposed along said third strapping means so as to provide a mating connection by which portions of said third elongated strapping means define a third aperture for connecting the strapping system to a user's body or inanimate object.

6. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 5, further comprising means for adjusting the length of each said third elongated strapping means.

7. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 6, wherein all said releasable fastener means comprise quick release fasteners.

8. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 7, wherein all said strapping means comprise multiple layered strap members.

9. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 8, wherein all said multiple layered straps further comprising means for supporting objects between adjacent multiple layered strap members.

10. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 9, wherein all said multiple layered strap members are elastic.

11. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 10, wherein said first quick release fastener means comprises hook fastener means.

12. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 11, wherein said second quick release fastener means comprises a hook and loop fastener.

13. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 12, wherein said third quick release fastener means comprises side release buckles.

14. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 13, wherein said fourth quick release fastener means comprises a back-to-back snap button pair.

15. A multiple purpose strapping system having means for securing articles, as recited in claim 14, wherein said fifth quick release fastener means comprises optional D-ring connecting means.

16. A method of securing articles, comprising the steps of:

providing a plurality of first strapping means for securing articles, each said first strapping means having side edges with first and second ends and a flexible plane surface between said ends and said edges, said plane surface provided substantially along the length thereof with means for attaching fastener means;

adjusting the length of each said first strapping means;

attaching first releasable fastener means to the first end of each said first strapping means for supporting external objects;

attaching second releasable fastener means to the second end of each said first strapping means for attachment to any said first strapping means; and

disposing third releasable fastener means along said first strapping means so as to provide a mating connection by which portions of said first strapping means define a first aperture for holding external objects.

17. A method of securing articles, as recited in claim 16, further comprising the steps of:

providing a plurality of second strapping means for securing articles, each said second strapping means having side edges with first and second ends and a flexible plane surface between said ends and said edges, said plane surface 15 provided substantially along the length thereof with means for attaching fastener means;

adjusting the length of each said second strapping means;

attaching the first end of each said second strapping means to the first end of each said first strapping means; and

disposing fourth releasable fastener means at the second end of said second strapping means for attachment to any said strapping means.

18. A method of securing articles, as recited in claim 17, further comprising the step of: providing mating fastening means for connection to said fourth quick release fastener means, said mating fastener means disposed along said first strapping means so as to provide a mating connection by which portions of said second strapping means define a second aperture for holding external objects.

19. A method of securing articles, as recited in claim 18, further comprising the steps or:

providing a plurality of third elongated strapping means for securing articles, each said third elongated strapping means having side edges with first and second ends and a plane surface between said ends and said edges, said plane surface provided substantially along the length thereof with means for attaching fastener means;

adjusting the length of each said third strapping means;

attaching fifth releasable fastener means to the first end of each said third elongated strapping means for supporting attachment to external objects;

attaching sixth releasable fastener means to the second end of each said 10 third trapping means for attachment to any said first strapping means; and

disposing seventh releasable fastener means along said third strapping means so as to provide a mating connection by which portions of said third elongated strapping means define a third aperture for connecting the strapping system to a user's body.

20. A method of securing articles, as recited in claim 19, wherein all said strapping means comprise multiple layered strap members for supporting objects between adjacent multiple layers.