Abstract: A helmet includes a windscreen with a housing for holding a windscreen wiper device being positioned in a chin portion of the helmet. A motive power fitting is provided for a windscreen wiper head and a windscreen wiper rod. The motive power fitting is fixed inside a casing. The windscreen wiper rod coordinates with a fixing axle with one side of the windscreen wiper rod being connected to the conveying portion of the motive power and the other side of the windscreen wiper rod being connected to the windscreen wiper head. The windscreen wiper device on the windscreen wiper head is tightly fixed on the protection windscreen on the protection helmet. The windscreen wiper device includes a power supply with the output being connected to the motive power device. The helmet may be used by a driver on a rainy or foggy day for increasing safety during such weather.

Abstract: A bi-directional information card holder that can hold one or more differently sized information cards in both the landscape and portrait orientation. In some embodiments the card holder is permanently attached to either a hardhat or a soft hat. In some embodiments, the cardholder is connected with a hardhat through a curve. In other embodiments the card holder is removeably attached to either a hardhat or a soft hat. In some embodiments, there is a clear, rigid protective plate that covers and protects the information card.

Abstract: A sports helmet having a pair of strap retainers affixed thereto is provided for use with goggles held on a wearer's head by a strap. One strap retainer is affixed on each side of the helmet at a height above the goggle strap when the goggles are over the eyes of the wearer. The strap retainers are formed with an inner arm affixed to the side of the helmet and an outer arm spaced therefrom. When the wearer moves the goggles upward from the eyes to rest on the front rim of the helmet, the strap slides along the helmet and is entrapped in each strap retainer to prevent the goggles from sliding over the top of the helmet to an inconvenient position.

Abstract: There is provided padding for a helmet interior. The padding has an area of a predetermined function and a thickness defined by the function. It comprises a cover carrying portion associated with the area. The cover carrying portion is adapted to receive a cover designed to cover at least a portion of the exterior of the helmet. The cover forms, when received within the cover carrying portion, at least part of the functional area so as to allow the area to fulfill the function.

Abstract: A personal air-filtration device directing filtered air at the face without the use of a mask or a mouthpiece is described. The inventive device provides filtered air to the user without obstructing the user's mouth, thus allowing the user to talk and consume food and/or water while in operation.

Abstract: There is provided a pad set for a protective helmet. The pad set includes a plurality of internal pads of various thicknesses. A plurality of pad retaining/locating devices each have a pocket for receiving at least one of the plurality of internal pads so as to form an individual pad of the adjustable pad set. At least one fastener for each of the plurality of pad retaining/locating devices respectively secures each of the plurality of pad retaining/locating devices to a selected location within the protective helmet. An anti-microbial/biocidal agent is added to the pad retaining/locating devices and/or integrated into a pile like portion of the at least one fastener of the pad retaining/locating devices.

Abstract: An adapter assembly for releasably supporting lapel mic on a mask includes a mask adapter for mounting on the mask, and a lapel adapter for mounting on the lapel mic. The lapel adapter is releasably connectable with the mask adapter to support the lapel mic on the mask. The adapter assembly has a sound opening that enables sound to pass from a voice emitter of the mask to the microphone of the lapel mic. The lapel connector of the lapel mic is accessible through the adapter assembly when the adapter assembly is connected with the lapel mic. The invention also relates to a method comprising the steps of attaching a lapel adapter to a lapel mic, attaching a mask adapter to a mask, and connecting the lapel mic to the mask.

Abstract: A wireless remote multi-data information and intelligence gathering machine and system designed to be used tactically by the military as well as law enforcement personnel to assist them in intelligence an information gathering in a multitude of scenarios from S.W.A.T. (Special Weapons And Tactics) emergencies, covert surveillance, nighttime intrusion detection, to rescue operations of trapped victims. The information gathering unit and system (IGS) housed in an, all-climate and conditions housing, that's unique combination of components, gather data ranging from gamma detection, zone intrusion detection, audio surveillance, video surveillance, video documentation of identification of personnel and visitors to high risk locations to use in nighttime rescue operations.

Abstract: Helmet attachment apparatus and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus for attaching a device to a helmet includes a first shell member coupled to a second shell member by at least one expandable member. The first and second shell members are adapted to approximately conform to first and second surface portions the helmet. When the first and second shell members are engaged with first and second engagement portions of the helmet, the expandable member is tensioned to secure the first and second shell members to the helmet. At least one of the first and second shell members includes a mount adapted to be attached to the device.

Abstract: A helmet flag for providing added visibility and therefore safety to a rider of virtually any form of transportation that exposes a rider to view. The flag is preferably mounted to the rear of a helmet and is substantially removable. The flexible, interchangeable flag rod is partially comprised of a spring to further insure against breakage. Flags are interchangeable with respect to size, colors, and designs.

Abstract: Pivoting helmet mounts for an optical device are provided. In one aspect, a breakaway connector which is selectively configurable between breakaway and nonbreakaway configurations is provided. In a further aspect, a strap mount system for securing the helmet mount to the helmet employs a rotating ratchet assembly to adjust tension in the strap. In another aspect, a helmet mount for an optical device comprises a track assembly attached to a helmet to allow stowing of the optical device in a further retracted position. The track mount system may further include electrical connectors for attaching a power supply and an electronic device. In another aspect, a mounting bracket allows helmet-mounted optics to be shared with a weapon accessory mount. In a further aspect, a optical sighting device for a weapon combines a reflex sight a night vision goggle to allow targeting at night or in other low-light conditions.

Abstract: A sports headgear apparatus includes a head covering that has a concave inner surface and a convex outer surface. The head covering comprises a panel that has a substantially semi-spherical shape. The panel has a bottom perimeter edge defining an opening into the head covering. A perimeter tube is attached to and is coextensive with the bottom perimeter edge. The tube is substantially airtight. A canister having compressed air therein is fluidly coupled to the tube. A pressure sensitive valve is fluidly coupled to the to canister and opening the canister when the pressure sensitive valve detects a predetermined water depth.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device to rotate a previously unrotatable receiver used with helmets, preferably aircraft helmets.

Abstract: A head stabilizing system is provided. The head stabilizing system is intended to minimize loads on the head and the neck, some of which may be injurious or even fatal, by generating a reaction force that substantially opposes a force acting on the head and generated by rapid deceleration of a vehicle or a crash impact. The head stabilizing system includes a helmet, a connection structure, and at least one resisting member. The resisting member generates a reaction force that opposes the crash impact force, yielding a reduced net force on the head. This reaction force can be generated as a function of position, velocity or acceleration. The resisting member may include a tether, a dashpot, or a dashpot containing a controllable rheological fluid. The viscosity of the controllable rheological fluid can be automatically adjusted in response to changes in status of a vehicle or it's occupant.

Abstract: The present invention provides a face guard connector assembly for a sports helmet, such as a football, hockey or lacrosse helmet. The face guard includes a plurality of elongated bar members that intersect to define a grid. The connector assembly removably connects the face guard to the helmet shell. The connector assembly includes a bracket having at least one channel configured to receive a portion of the face guard. The connector assembly further includes a shock absorber assembly that distributes an impact force at the face guard to the shell in an omni-directional manner. The shock absorber assembly includes an elastomeric grommet, a bushing, and a nut, each have an opening. When aligned, the openings collectively define a passageway configured to receive a fastener that secures the connector assembly to the sports helmet. The helmet shell has opposed side portions with each side portion having a mounting aperture that receives an extent of the shock absorber assembly.

Abstract: The combination comprising a figure element mounted on the bill of a cap. The figure element includes a removable compartment and the mounting means comprises an elongated threaded screw member having an enlarged head at one end engageable through a hole in the bill. A washer is disposed between the screw head and the bill. An enlarged tapered flexible ring is mounted between the outer surface of the bill and the bottom compartment. A lock washer threads on the shank of the screw remote from the head end. The flexible ring permits limited turning of the compartment when the screw is turned to a locked position to facilitate assembly and disassembly of the compartment from the figure element.

Abstract: A helmet attachment includes a structure representing at least one of an animal feature, an insect feature, a historical helmet feature, mythical creature part, and a vehicle feature. The helmet attachment further includes an attachment mechanism for securing the structure to a surface of a helmet.

Abstract: An impact absorbing, modular helmet that prevents or reduces injury to the user and other parties in a collision is described. The helmet has layers on the outer side of the hard casing that increase the time of impact and thereby reduces the intensity of the impact forces to reduce their injury potential. The layers may be made up of uniformly consistent impact absorbing polymer material, a polymer layer filled with air or a polymer honeycombed structure. These impact-absorbing layers may also be made and used as an independent, detachable, external protective cover that may be attached universally over hard casing helmets.

Abstract: An audio system and hat connection assembly incorporated into or adapted for connecting to a hat and comprising a first connection plate and corresponding second connection plate that connect through or to the bill or hat material wherein the first section is adapted for storing the audio circuit and speaker components and connects to the second section in a manner that grips the hat material and provides access to the audio controls. In an alternative embodiment, the connection assembly may comprise a clip that secures the audio system to the hat without penetrating it. The assembly includes storage space for securing at least one speaker and audio system, which may be adapted for storing other items, such as money and keys.

Abstract: A facemask assembly for night vision goggles comprises a frame assembly, a mount assembly for attachment of the night vision goggles, an adjustment strap assembly, and a neck pad assembly, wherein the frame assembly is generally C-shaped and contoured to extend across the upper forehead of a user, with each end of the generally C-shaped frame assembly extending down around the outside of the eyes and to the hollow of the cheeks of a user, below the cheek bones and above the jaw.

Abstract: A football training aid including a device that detachably connects a football player's helmet to the player's shoulder pads, thereby and reducing the tendency and/or ability of the player to lower his head while wearing said device. The exemplary embodiment of the device provides a substantially “T” shaped piece of vinyl, polyurethane, or other resilient material in a length adequate to connect the rear portion of the helmet to a rear portion of the shoulder pads. The present invention also includes several attachment methods for attaching the training device to the helmet and shoulder pads, including VELCRO® strips and a plurality of snaps.

Abstract: A sports helmet includes a liner comprised of impact resistant material and a protective shell encasing an outer surface of the liner. A female audio jack is secured within a rear cavity of the liner and has an aperture extending without the liner for receiving a male audio jack connected to a portable audio device. A pair of cavities are formed on opposite sides of the liner in which are secured speakers. Wiring extends from the female audio jack to the integral speakers. The speakers are positioned and oriented such so as to provide audio to the helmet wearer without blocking surrounding sound, and without affecting the safety aspects of the helmet.

Abstract: A modular helmet system having a helmet base to protect from impacts the crown of a wearer's head and terminating basally in a rear rim and side rims; a C-shaped extension detachably connected to said rims to protect from impacts, when fitted to the helmet base, the base of a wearer's skull; and a crown comb detachably connected centrally over the crown of the helmet base. The helmet base is provided with ventilation windows centrally located over its crown. The comb covers and seals said ventilation windows. The comb is also employed to secure the extension in place, when fitted on the helmet base.

Abstract: A helmet mount for a night vision device is provided having means to attached to headgear, such as a helmet, wherein the mount is rotatable between a use position and a stowed position about an axis that is substantially parallel to the attachment means. In one embodiment, a position adjustment assembly comprises a rotary plate, a helmet block rotationally coupled to the rotary plate and a spring-biased ball and socket system located between the helmet bock and rotary plate. In another embodiment, a tilt adjustment assembly may include a gear system wherein rotation of a lever produces rotation of a night vision device relative to a user's eyes.

Abstract: A shroud plate for headgear is provided that may comprise a shell, an insert, a lock, a release mechanism wherein the shell extends around at least a portion of the insert has a smooth surface with rounded edges and corners and is shaped to match the contour of the headgear, and at least one attachment point wherein the attachment point is laterally movable within a restricted area. Further, the shroud plate may be attachable to headgear at a single attachment point and may be given rotational stability by an elevated ridge or a plurality of legs which may extend over or wrap around an edge of the headgear.

Abstract: A restraint device for controlling the head of a driver during a high-performance vehicle collision. The device includes a rigid member positioned along the back of the driver, a tether for attaching the member to the driver's helmet, and a strap for anchoring the device. The vehicle's seat belt assembly or the driver's own body, such as his torso, waist or legs, may be used to anchor the device. During a vehicle collision, forces from the head are transferred through the device (i.e. tether, rigid member, and strap) into the anchor in order to resist forward movement and downward rotation of the driver's head.

Abstract: A headmount apparatus for mounting vision enhancement equipment thereon which is comprised of a mounting shell having at least one pad and having at least one mounting surface to which the vision enhancing equipment is mounted, where at least one pad is configured to contact the user's head. The headmount apparatus is also comprised of at least one elastic strap which is attached to the mounting shell for securing the mounting shell to the user's head. The headmount apparatus for mounting vision enhancement equipment thereon could alternatively be comprised of at least one mounting frame for attaching vision enhancement equipment, at least one hardware mounting surface for accepting the mounting frame, and a hood configured to fit over a user's head where the hood is made at least in part from an elastic material and which contains the hardware mounting surface.

Abstract: An elastic visor for detachable mounting on headwear is of sheet neoprene having a reinforcing layer of nylon, with a crown aperture that is stretched around, and grips the surface of a headwear to which it is mounted. The neoprene, of about five millimeter thickness, serves to grip the surface of the headwear. The flexible material of the visor permits the peak to deflect under the application of undue force. Ear-protective side flaps and an extended protective neck-flap portion can be incorporated. Decorative crown cut-outs are silhouetted against the helmet.

Abstract: The present invention provides a safety device for use with a sports helmet as a means of reducing neck and spinal cord injuries that are common to contact sports. The preferred embodiment of the inventive device is intended for use with a sports safety helmet. The device comprises an elastic cord having a fastening member at a first end that engages a complementary fastening member disposed on the safety helmet. A second end of the elastic cord attaches to an adjustable strap that attaches to a belt disposed on the body of a user. In operation, the device provides resistance to the user's ability to hold his head in a lowered position. It is appreciated that holding the head in an upright position reduces the risk of accidental neck and/or spinal cord injury due to collisions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device to rotate a previously unrotatable receiver used with helmets, preferably aircraft helmets.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a magnet module adapted for use in an automatic shutdown assembly of a flip-up helmet mount for a night vision device, the magnet module comprising a vertically angled cavity with a substantially L-shaped profile, the cavity including a use end and a stowed end substantially opposite the use end and a bar magnet slidably received within the cavity and movable between the use end and the stowed end.

Abstract: A helmet neck skirt system for covering an entirety of a user's neck to inhibit debris and adverse weather from providing discomfort to the user includes a collar member couplable to a full circumferential length around a base portion of a protective helmet such that the collar member extends down from the helmet generally parallel to the user's neck. Thus, the collar remains in generally spaced relationship to the user's neck and permits the insertion of an upper portion of a jacket or shirt worn by the user between the neck of the user and the lower portion of the collar. The collar extends down a distance sufficient to cover an entirety of the user's neck.

Abstract: The invention is a chin stabilizer system for a full-face helmet, such as a motorcycle helmet or the like. It includes a flexible material having a generally triangular configuration with snap fittings at each point of the triangle. The snap fittings connect the flexible material to the helmet, underneath the chin. One snap fitting connects the material near the chin, while the other two connect the material to the helmet on opposite sides, near the wearer's jaw. The flexible material restrains the helmet from riding up over the face of the wearer.

Abstract: The invention provides a protective collar for use with a full-face crash helmet, particularly for use in motor sports. The collar is at least partially formed from a resilient material that in use extends peripherally entirely around a user's neck. The collar has a recess in which a lower part of the crash helmets is received and secured, and helmet retaining means (e.g loop-pile fastening strips) are provided for retaining the helmet within the recess. The recess has an upwardly facing bottom surface which abuts the lower part of the helmet and a peripherally extending, inwardly facing wall surface which extends upwardly from the bottom surface. The wall surface closely fits against the lower part of the helmet around the periphery of the helmet. The collar is shaped to limit movement, both laterally and in a fore-and-aft direction, of the wearer's head in the event of a violent acceleration or deceleration, such as may occur in an accident.

Abstract: A decorative removable helmet cover adapted for receipt over the top of a hard plastic exterior surface of a ski helmet, a snowboard helmet, a skateboard helmet, a bicycle helmet or hardhat for providing a unique appearance to the helmet or the hardhat. The removable helmet cover includes a flexible dome-shaped soft cloth exterior surface disposed on top of a flexible dome-shaped soft cloth interior liner. The interior liner is adapted for receipt over and conform to an exterior surface of the helmet. A lower circumference of the exterior surface is attached to a hollow elastic band. Also, a lower circumference of the interior liner is attached to the hollow elastic band. Disposed inside the hollow elastic band is an elastic tie. Opposite ends of the tie extend outwardly from an opening in a rear portion of the elastic band. The opposite ends of the tie are received through a tie lock and are attached to a tie pull.

Abstract: A communications device for use with a protective helmet having a headband is provided. Generally, the communications device provides support member for a bone conduction microphone that is easily added to and removed from the protective helmet, allowing the communications device to be readily used with both new and existing protective helmets. While in use, support member positions the bone conduction microphone between the headband and a user's head, preferably between the napestrap and the center of the back of the user's head. The communications device can be used with any type of protective helmet, such as a fireman's helmet, a military helmet, a hard-hat, etc.

Abstract: A protective helmet, which is intended to be only worn by a wearer who is authorized to pass through a security perimeter, comprises an outer shell, a pocket, which is mounted to the outer shell and which defines a window, a flap, which is movable between a position wherein the flap covers the window and positions wherein the flap does not cover the window, and a card, which is disposed in the pocket. The card displays or records data, which are readable through the window by a human, by an electronic reader, or by both, and which are unique to the authorized wearer of the protective garment. The data may comprise symbolic data, such as bar code data, and may comprise a photograph of the authorized wearer of the protective garment. When the flap covers the window, the flap protects the data against becoming unreadable because of foreign matter, such as soot, or because of surface abrasion.

Abstract: A helmet mount for a night vision device is provided having means to attached to headgear, such as a helmet, wherein the mount is rotatable between a use position and a stowed position about an axis that is substantially parallel to the attachment means. In one embodiment, a position adjustment assembly comprises a rotary plate, a helmet block rotationally coupled to the rotary plate and a spring-biased ball and socket system located between the helmet bock and rotary plate. In another embodiment, a tilt adjustment assembly may include a gear system wherein rotation of a lever produces rotation of a night vision device relative to a user's eyes.

Abstract: A system and method for determining the magnitude of linear and rotational acceleration of and direction of impact to a body part, such as a head includes positioning a number of single-axis accelerometers proximate to the outer surface of the body part. A number of accelerometers are oriented to sense respective linear acceleration orthogonal to the outer surface of the body part. The acceleration data sensed is collected and recorded. A hit profile function is determined from the configuration of the body part and the positioning of the plurality of accelerometers thereabout. A number of potential hit results are generated from the hit profile function and then compared to the acceleration data sensed by the accelerometers. One of the potential hit results is best fit matched to the acceleration data to determine a best fit hit result, which yields the magnitude of linear acceleration to and direction of an impact to the body part.

Abstract: The invention relates to a helmet with retractable visors for fast day/night reconfiguration. For that, the helmet (1) is designed at the articulations of the visors to allow the use of articulations that can be disassembled without tools. The day visor (15) is thus made modular and removable and is mounted on the helmet by a translational movement in a direction (F) allowing the upper part (16) to engage in a saggital guide rail of the helmet and allowing rotation axes of the helmet to engage in the articulation part of the lateral arms (8) of the visor, locking being effected by hand using a pivoting lever (8). For night missions, the day visor is removed and replaced with a night module mounted on the helmet using the same type of articulation. The invention applies in particular to helmets for aircraft pilots, allowing unprepared ejection.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing an article associated with headgear that keeps the wearer's head both cool and cushioned from the interior harness of the headgear. The article is a system, liner or pad that is inserted into the headgear or coupled to the headgear harness for cooling and comfort, and includes a water absorbent polymer or other material contained within non-impervious pocket partitions attached to a concave disk of mesh fabric. The mesh fabric provides ventilation portions, which allow for the free flow of air and breathing of the wearer's scalp to facilitate the natural evaporation of perspiration. The article provides a cushion to the wearer's scalp from the abrasive effect of the webbing of the headgear harness. As the pocket partitions swell due to absorption of water by the polymer material, the pockets function as gel-like cushions or pads that protect the wearer's scalp. The article is held in place with small straps, Velcro® tabs, or other retention devices.

Abstract: A safety helmet for bikers, skateboarders, rollerbladers and the like is adapted to include a standalone player such as a compact disc player and/or digital audio player mounted in or on its head-protective shell. Controls for the player are within or directly on the helmet, and earphones are suitably located at a user's ears. Music files or other information may be charged or loaded from a computer, for example in MP3 format, directly into the helmet for subsequent playback. An ambient sound sensor on a rear portion of the helmet senses traffic sounds for the user's safety. Entertainment offered by the helmet will encourage people, particularly children, to wear the helmet, thus encouraging safety and saving lives.

Abstract: A mechanism includes two units for securing a transparent eye protector to a helmet having a recess at either side. Each unit comprises a bracket formed at one end of a frame of the eye protector. The bracket includes, at a free end thereof, an inner raised, round surface, radial first ridges on the raised, round surface, an outer recessed, round surface, and a central hole through the round surfaces. Separate snapping members include two lower, resilient latched pieces inserted into each recess for releasably securing to the helmet, radial second ridges at an upper, outer surface, and a central hole through the upper, outer surface. Bolts are driven through the central holes for fastening the snapping members and the brackets together. Pivoting of the ridges of the bracket about the ridges of the snapping member is done by pulling the eye protector up or down about the helmet.

Abstract: Protective helmet includes a main outer shell having a generally vertical plane of symmetry. At least a first accessory is removably connected to the main outer shell. At least a second accessory is removably connected to the main outer shell. A connecting and locking system is included. When the first accessory is removed, the second accessory can be removably connected to the main outer shell via the connecting and locking system, and when the second accessory is removed, the second accessory can be removably connected to the main outer shell via the connecting and locking system.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a magnet module adapted for use in an automatic shutdown assembly of a flip-up helmet mount for a night vision device, the magnet module comprising a vertically angled cavity with a substantially L-shaped profile, the cavity including a use end and a stowed end substantially opposite the use end and a bar magnet slidably received within the cavity and movable between the use end and the stowed end.

Abstract: A protective helmet with a system allowing for attachment of interchangeable accessories includes interfaces secured to the helmet and capable of receiving various pairs of brackets, each pair of brackets being used to secure a different accessory to the protective helmet. Although the interfaces are located at predetermined locations, the brackets are of varying lengths to ensure a proper pivot axis for the chosen accessory.

Abstract: A helmet (10), especially a sports and recreational activities safety or protective helmet, having eye gear or goggle fastening means which properly position the eye gear and inhibit or prevent the eye gear from moving too far towards the rear of the helmet. More specifically, the outer shell of the helmet of the present invention includes at least one, preferably two, eye gear strap retaining means such as webbing or side clips (20). A gap in the outer shell is formed, which gap is adapted to receive at least a portion of the strap of straps (41) of the eye gear (40) of goggles. Once the strap of straps are received in the gap, the eye gear is properly oriented toward the front of the helment and inhibited or prevented from slipping too far twards the rear of the helmet.

Abstract: The invention provides a protective collar (1) for use with a full-face crash helmet (2), particularly for use in motor sports. The collar (1) is at least partially formed from a resilient material that in use extends peripherally entirely around a user's neck. The collar (1) has a recess (9) in which a lower part of the crash helmet (2) is received and secured, and helmet retaining means (e.g loop-pile fastening strips) (14) are provided for retaining the helmet (2) within the recess (9). The recess (9) has an upwardly facing bottom surface (10) which abuts the lower part of the helmet (2) and a peripherally extending, inwardly facing wall surface (11) which extends upwardly from the bottom surface (10). The wall surface (11) closely fits against the lower part of the helmet (2) around the periphery of the helmet.

Abstract: The drinking device for a diver can be mounted in a helmet or in a hollow-nasal mask mounted on the helmet. The drinking device includes a supply line which can be connected to a mouth piece within the helmet or mask to supply liquid under a slight pressure. In addition, a stopper arrangement is provided for regulating a flow of liquid through the supply line to the mouth piece. This stopper arrangement may be controlled manually by the diver.

Abstract: A device for mounting a noise attenuating ear cup on a helmet shell. The device includes a clamp plate, which is secured to the shell in an operative position extending along a side edge of the shell. A flexible strap extends along an inner surface of the clamp plate. The strap has first and second ends and an intermediate portion bulging inwardly from the inner surface of the clamp plate. The ear cup is attached to the intermediate portion of the strap, and the first end of the strap is anchored to the clamp plate. The second end of the strap is adjustably constrained for longitudinal movement relative to the clamp plate to thereby vary the extent to which the intermediate portion of the strap bulges inwardly from the inner surface of the clamp plate.