LOAD SUSPENSION SYSTEM

Abstract

A load suspension system is disclosed, for suspending a load from a human body. The system includes a number of straps, certain of which will include elastic elements to provide a desired shock protection to the system. The elasticity of such elements may be limited by means of one or more range limiters. Padded sections are included at predetermined locations to provide greater comfort to a user, and attachment points are also included for connecting to a load, such as a tool belt, one or more tools, or apparel. Padded sections may include a gel component for greater comfort, and the various straps may also include accessory attachment points for reversibly connecting desired accessories to the system. A method of manufacturing a load suspension system is also disclosed.

Description

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates generally to a personal load suspension system, and more particularly to a suspender system configured to bear a load from a tool belt.

2. Background Art

The use of personal suspender systems (“suspenders”) in conjunction with belts and back supports has increased in recent years as employers and tradesmen have realized that such systems help distribute, balance, and secure heavy loads, thereby lessening the incidence and severity of work-related accidents. Often tool belts may be utilized to bear relatively heavy loads, which may include tools, fasteners, and other implements of a user's trade. In addition to the hazard posed by such objects to the user should the belt shift or become unstable, there is also the issue of back strain due to the weight involved, balancing of the load, movement of the user, and a myriad of other factors.

More recently, belt and back support combinations have become more commonplace, with the back support helping to minimize back injuries and stabilize a wearer, while also more securely supporting the tool belt. Additionally, suspenders are being connected to such systems to help distribute loads from the waist to the shoulders. While these changes represent important steps in the lessening of back-related injuries, traditional combinations of traditional-style suspenders with traditional tool belt systems still leave much to be desired in terms of comfort, flexibility, safety, and effectiveness. For example, traditional suspender configurations may become easily displaced from a desired orientation on a user's shoulder, resulting in possible injury, or damage to the contents of the tool belt. Furthermore, traditional suspender systems have not been well-designed to accommodate the heavier loads and changing job demands that exist in certain labor-intensive trades. Accordingly, a need exists for a load suspension system having increased comfort and flexibility, while maintaining ease of use.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

In one embodiment, a load suspension system is disclosed, having a plurality of straps for operative connecting to a load to be borne by a user. The straps typically will include connection points for operatively connecting to a load, and may also include accessory attachment points for retaining desired accessories. At least one stretch element is incorporated into the load suspension system, to provide a degree of shock absorption to the system. The elasticity of such a stretch element may be limited by a range limiter, comprising a relatively inelastic material, and traversing a stretch element such as to define a maximal stretch length.

In one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a load suspension system is disclosed, comprising the steps of providing a plurality of straps, operatively connecting such straps via a central section, and incorporating at least one stretch element and at least one pad section into select straps. In one embodiment, the method further comprises operatively connecting reversible attachment points to select straps to reversibly connect to a load.

Other aspects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following description and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view one embodiment of a load suspension system.

FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of a load suspension system in use.

FIG. 3 is a rear view of one embodiment of a load suspension system.

FIG. 4 is a rear view of one embodiment of a load suspension system in use.

FIG. 5 is a top view of one embodiment of a load suspension system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As shown in FIG. 1, one embodiment of the invention comprises a load suspension system 1 having a pair of front straps 2, each of which comprises first and second stretch elements 4, and a pad section 6 disposed between each of the first and second stretch elements 4. The pad section 6 is disposed such that it will rest substantially upon a user's shoulder when the load suspension system 1 is worn by the user. A central section 8 operatively connects to an upper end of each of the front straps 2, and is also operatively connected to an upper end of at least one rear strap 3.

The pad section 6 may comprise any material or combination thereof known in the art to provide comfort to a user in a load-bearing application. In one embodiment, the pad section 6 comprises a resilient foam selected to provide a desired degree of comfort and durability. In one embodiment, the resilient foam of the pad section 6 is encased in a fabric, to advantageously protect the foam and to maintain a desired shape of the pad section 6. In one embodiment, when a fabric is used with the foam, the fabric will operatively connect to one or more adjoining components of the load suspension system, thereby maintaining the position of the foam relative to such components. In one embodiment, the fabric is breathable, to better permit passage of air into and through the pad section 6, advantageously providing ventilation to a user's shoulder beneath the pad section 6, and/or more effective evaporation of sweat or other moisture that may permeate the pad section 6.

In one embodiment, the pad section 6 comprises a gel component. The gel component may be of any type known in the art. In one embodiment, the gel component comprises a discreet gel insert 7 disposed in a predetermined location within the pad section 6. In one embodiment, the pad 6 section is configured to be relatively inelastic relative to the elasticity of the stretch elements 4.

Various configurations described herein advantageously provide shock-absorption with respect to a suspended load operatively connected to the load suspension system 1, while maintaining stability of the load on a user's shoulders by minimizing displacement of the pad section 6. Typical loads include, but are not limited to, tool belts, tools, and tool pouches.

Stretch elements 4 may comprise any material or combination of materials known in the art. In one embodiment, a stretch element 4 may comprise multiple subcomponents, each having similar or varying degrees of elasticity, to provide a desired balance of elasticity and support to the load suspension system 1. In such an embodiment, the stretch element 4 may comprise a central elastic element and a peripheral elastic element. In one embodiment, a binding component 9 may operatively connect along a periphery of multiple components to provide reinforcement of the operative connections therebetween. The binding component 9 may also function as a peripheral elastic element, as described above with respect to the stretch elements 4.

In one embodiment, a relatively short length of binding component 9 is operatively connected to a relatively longer periphery of various other components, thereby achieving a desired curvature in such components. For example, in such a configuration where a length of webbing is bunched along its periphery and stitched to a shorter length of binding component 9, the result will be a rippling or folding effect on the webbing, causing it to bunch along its periphery, thereby forming a concave cross-section in the webbing. The binding component 9 may comprise, but is not limited to, binding tape. Such a configuration advantageously imparts a curvature to the webbing, which may more comfortably conform to the contours of a user's body.

In one embodiment, the load suspension system 1 includes at least one reinforcing element 12 disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pad section 6. The reinforcing element 12 will operatively connect to a first location on the front strap 2, above the pad section 6, and to a second location on the front strap 2, below the pad section 6. The reinforcing element 12 may pass through the pad section 6, or along any outer surface thereof. The reinforcing element 12 may also operatively connect to one or more locations along the length of the pad section 6. In one embodiment, the reinforcing element operatively connects to a resilient foam and/or a gel insert disposed in the pad section 6. A reinforcing element 12 advantageously provides a redundant connection should a load-bearing component of the pad section 6 fail, due to e.g., heavy loads, or wear. A reinforcing element 12 may also advantageously limit any elasticity of the pad section 6.

In one embodiment, the load suspension system 1 includes at least one stabilizing element 14 configured to reversibly connect each of the pair of front straps 2. Typically, any such stabilizing element 14 will be disposed such that it may traverse a front surface of a user's body when the load suspension system 1 is in use. The stabilizing element 14 will typically comprise two strap segments reversibly connectable via a buckle 16 or similar component. The stabilizing element 14 may also have an adjustable length, permitting adjustment of fit to a user's size and comfort. Such a configuration advantageously provides an increased stability and/or customized fit to the load suspension system 1.

In one embodiment, each front strap 2 includes at least one range limiter 10 oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the operatively connected front strap 2, and traversing at least one stretch element 4. Typically, the range limiter 10 will be operatively connected to the load suspension system 1 such that the range limiter 10 will have a predetermined amount of slack along at least a portion of its length when one or more underlying stretch elements 4 are in an un-stretched configuration. Each range limiter 10 will have a limited elasticity, typically substantially below that of the stretch element 4, such that the range limiter 10 will define a maximum stretch range of the stretch element 4. Each range limiter 10 will operatively connect to a front strap 2 at locations above and below its associated stretch element 4.

In one embodiment, the range limiter 10 may have an adjustable length, or may be attachable at multiple locations along the length of the front strap 2, so as to provide a user-selectable maximum stretch range for the operatively connected stretch element 4. Range limiter 10 configurations may include hook-and-loop components, or any other components known in that art to permit user adjustment of length and/or connection point. In one embodiment, the range limiter 10 is operatively connected directly to, or continuous with, a reinforcing element 12 traversing the pad section 6.

As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2, in use, upper ends of the front straps 2 will extend over a user's shoulders to meet at an operatively connected central section 8 (not visible in FIG. 2), typically disposed behind a user's neck and/or adjacent an upper portion of a user's back. Pad sections 6 rest atop the user's shoulders, and a stabilizing element 14, if present, will typically be disposed across a user's chest. A lower end of each front strap 2 will typically include a reversible connector 18 for operatively connecting to a load such as a tool belt 20. Each front strap 2 may also include an adjuster 22 slideably disposed along a length of the front strap 2. The adjuster 22 may be of any type known in the art, including, but not limited to, a slide buckle. The adjuster 22 advantageously allows a user to adjust the length of the front strap 2 for increased comfort, improved fit, and/or to adjust for varying loads on the load suspension system 1.

In one embodiment, one or more accessory fasteners 24 may be operatively connected at one or more locations on the load suspension system 1. An accessory fastener 24 may comprise a webbing loop, pouch, snap-hook, or any other element known in the art for retaining a desired accessory.

As shown in FIG. 3, one embodiment of the load suspension system 1 comprises at least one rear strap 3. A single rear strap configuration (not shown) will typically include a single strap operatively connected to a location on the central section 8 furthest from the operative connection points of the front straps 2, such that it will be substantially centered on a user's back when worn.

In an alternative embodiment, a pair or any plurality of rear straps 3 are operatively connected to the central section 8. In one embodiment, a pair of rear straps 3, comprise a continuation of the front straps 2 configured to pass through the central section 8.

One or more adjusters 22 may be disposed on each of the rear straps 3. Each of the rear straps 3 will typically terminate in an operative connection to a reversible connector 18 for operatively connecting to a load, such as a tool belt, tool pouch, and/or any other type of belt or apparel known in the art.

In one embodiment, a retaining loop 26, or similar connector may be disposed at a central location of the central section 8. Such a retaining loop 26 advantageously provides a centralized attachment point for easily storing the load suspension system 1 in a storage location. In one embodiment, the retaining loop 26 and suspension system 1 may be configured to provide a predetermined degree of fall protection to a user. For example, a line may be connected to the retaining loop 26 to help stabilize the user when used in an environment with hazardous footing. However, the use of the load suspension system 1 as a fall protection device may require additional components, beyond the current scope of the instant application.

As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4, the load suspension system will typically be worn such that the pad sections 6 rest upon a user's shoulders, and the central section 8, is disposed behind the user's neck, typically over the midline of the user's back. In one embodiment, the central section 8 will include a gel component 28. The gel component 28 advantageously provides additional cushioning, resulting in increased comfort to the user. Reversible connectors 18 operatively connected to the rear straps 3 are reversibly connectable to a load at one or more locations along the user's back and/or sides.

As shown in FIG. 5, in one embodiment, each of the front straps 2 will have a curved configuration. Such curvature will typically be defined by a greater angle relative to a centerline C nearer the central section 8, and a lesser angle relative to a centerline C as the front strap 2 extends away from the central section 8. A curved configuration of the front strap 2 advantageously provides increased comfort to a user by providing sufficient clearance for neck movement, yet providing a substantially vertical orientation at its distal end (when worn) to operatively connect a load to be suspended by the load suspension system 1. For purposes of describing the angle of curvature, the term “centerline” means an imaginary line bisecting the central section 8 and passing between the front straps 2, in the same plane, and equidistant to each. In one embodiment, each of the front straps 2 will be configured to curve both inwardly and outwardly, along their length, relative to the central section 8.

The various components of the load suspension system 1 may comprise any material or combination thereof known in the art. In one embodiment, the components will include elastic and relatively inelastic webbing. The various components of embodiments of the invention may comprise any shape and/or size that does not render such embodiments non-functional in the manner described. For example, in one embodiment, the central section 8 will comprise an ovoid shape. In one embodiment, construction and assembly of the load suspension system 1 comprises the stitching of the various components to other operatively connected components in a predetermined manner. Construction and assembly techniques may comprise any such techniques known in the art.

In one embodiment, any combination of a front strap 2, rear strap 3, range limiter 10 and reinforcing element 12, may be formed of a single continuous element, typically a fabric webbing. The continuous element may pass through, under, or over an operatively connected central section 8, and/or pad section 6. In one embodiment, a plurality of front straps 2 and/or a plurality of rear straps 3, may each comprise a single continuous element. Typically, such a continuous element will operative connect at a non-midpoint location thereof to the central section 8 of the load suspension system 1. Stretch elements 4, and associated components such as range limiters 10, may also be disposed along one or more rear straps 3.

As used herein, references to “front” strap and “rear” strap are relative to the central section 8. For example, a portion of a front strap 2 may extend over a user's shoulder to operatively connect to a central section 8 disposed on the user's back. Accordingly, the terms “front” and “rear” when referring to a component of the load suspension system 1 are terms of convenience and differentiation, and should not be construed as locational limitations relative to a user's body. Similarly, the terms “upper” and “lower” when referring to a strap or similar component, are terms of relational convenience, typically referencing elements that are proximal to (upper) and distal from (lower) a central section 8.

While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art, having benefit of this disclosure, will appreciate that other embodiments can be devised which do not depart from the scope of the invention as disclosed herein. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be limited only by the attached claims.

Claims

1. A load suspension system, comprising:

a first front strap and a second front strap, each comprising (a) a first stretch element and a second stretch element, and (b) a pad section operatively connected between the first stretch element and the second stretch element;

a central section operatively connecting an upper end of the first front strap to an upper end of the second front strap; and

at least one rear strap operatively connected to the central section.

2. The load suspension system of claim 1, further comprising at least one range limiter operatively connected at predetermined locations above and below at least one of the first and second stretch elements.

3. The load suspension system of claim 2, wherein the at least one range limiter has a predetermined length substantially equal to a maximal stretch length of the at least one of the first and second stretch elements.

4. The load suspension system of claim 3, wherein a first end of the at least one range limiter is operatively connected at an interface between the at least one stretch element and an adjoining component of the load suspension system.

5. The load suspension system of claim 2, wherein at least one end of the at least one range limiter comprises a selected component of hook and loop tape.

6. The load suspension system of claim 1, further comprising a reinforcing element operatively connecting two ends of the pad section.

7. The load suspension system of claim 6, wherein the reinforcing element is at least partially disposed within the pad section.

8. The load suspension system of claim 1, further comprising a gel component disposed in at least one selected from (a) each pad section, and (b) the central section.

9. The load suspension system of claim 1, further comprising at least one accessory retention component operatively connected to at least one selected from the first front strap, the second front strap, and the at least one rear strap.

10. The load suspension system of claim 1, wherein each stretch element comprises a central elastic element and a peripheral elastic element.

11. The load suspension system of claim 10, wherein the central elastic element and the peripheral elastic element differ in at least one characteristic selected from (a) material composition and (b) elasticity.

12. The load suspension system of claim 10, wherein the peripheral elastic element comprises a binding component operatively connecting a plurality of subcomponents of the load suspension system, and beginning and terminating substantially along opposite sides of the central elastic element.

13. The load suspension system of claim 10, wherein the binding component is operatively connected to a central element such that the central element will have a non-planar configuration along a surface thereof.

14. The load suspension system of claim 1, wherein an upper section of each front strap has an inward curvature and a lower section of each front strap has an outward curvature.

15. The load suspension system of claim 1, further comprising a reversible connector operatively connected to a lower end of at least one selected from the first front strap, the second front strap, and the at least one rear strap.

16. The load suspension system of claim 1, further comprising an adjuster operatively connected to at least one selected from the first front strap, the second front strap, and the at least one rear strap.

17. A method of manufacturing a load suspension system, comprising the steps of:

providing a first strap and a second strap;

operatively connecting the first strap and the second strap to a central section;

incorporating a pad section and a pair of stretch elements into one selected from the first strap and the second strap, such that the stretch elements are disposed on opposite sides of the pad section.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein incorporating the pad section comprises at least partially encasing a resilient foam in a fabric, and operatively connecting two ends of the fabric to components of the selected strap.

19. The method of claim 17, further comprising operatively connecting a range limiter to a first location, above one of the stretch elements, and a second location below the one of the stretch elements.

20. The method of claim 17, further comprising operatively connecting a reversible connector to a lower end of each of the first strap and the second strap.