Abstract:
A secure fastener for use with divers&#39; hoods comprises a post assembly ( 3000 ) and a latch assembly ( 2700 ). The post assembly comprises an inner post ( 2555 ), an outer post ( 3015 ), and a locking pin ( 2900 ). The inner post is placed inside the diver&#39;s hood ( 125 ). A hollow column ( 2567 ) on the inner post passes through a hole in the hood material. The outer post is joined with the inner post via the column. The column contains recesses ( 2565 ) that mate with an inner ridge ( 2550 ) on the outer post ( 3015 ). It also contains cuts ( 2570 ) that relieve the column walls and allow the inner and outer posts to slidably engage. The inner and outer posts are forced together, engaging the ridge with the lowest recess on the column. A locking pin ( 2900 ) is then inserted into the column, preventing flexure of the column walls and locking the two halves of the post assembly in place. The post assembly is thus able to accommodate different wall thicknesses encountered in diving hoods. Projections ( 2560 ), present on the inner surfaces of the inner and outer posts, prevent rotation of the assembly. A latch assembly ( 2700 ) is slidably engaged to the upper flange ( 2530 ) on the outer post. The latch can rotate on the post without disengaging The latch can be disengaged only by deliberately lifting a finger ( 2710 ) thereon. Thus the latch and post assembly are secure, rotatable, and can be removed only by deliberate action of the diver.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of the filing date of Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/261,152, Filed Jan. 11, 2001. 
     
    
     
       FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH  
         [0002]    None  
         SEQUENCE LISTING OR PROGRAM  
         [0003]    None  
         BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       Field Of Invention  
         [0004]    This invention relates generally to diving masks, and in particular to a method and apparatus for firmly securing a mask to a diver&#39;s hood while permitting the mask to be moved from the diver&#39;s eye area without being detached and lost.  
         BACKGROUND—Prior Art—Diving Mask Requirements  
         [0005]    Divers frequently wear wet suits or dry suits and other paraphernalia, such as a tank, buoyancy compensating device, breathing regulator, hood, fins, and gloves. Just prior to or once in the water, the diver puts on his or her fins. One of the last pieces of diving gear that a diver puts on before entering the water is the mask. Fins are put on just prior to, or once in the water because it is very difficult to walk with them on.  
           [0006]    After all the diving gear is on, the diver must hold and carry the mask and two fins until ready to enter the water. Diving gloves make it difficult to hold items and work with one&#39;s hands. The diver is likely to drop the mask or fins before entering the water. Also, any last-minute adjustments to the diver&#39;s gear necessitate putting the fins or mask down. If the mask is dropped or put down on a dirty surface, it may need to be rinsed off before it can be worn. This is very awkward when the diver is wearing gloves and other diving gear. If the diver stumbles or falls, she or he may not be able to break the fall because his or her hands are full.  
           [0007]    The diver does not put on the mask until ready to enter the water because it is not possible to breathe through the nose with the mask on. Also any breath exhaled through the nose will fog the inside of the mask—requiring the diver to remove and defog it. Further, wearing the mask greatly diminishes the diver&#39;s upward, downward, and peripheral vision, resulting in a safety hazard before entering the water.  
           [0008]    If the diver places the mask on top of his or her head for temporary storage, it is likely to fall off because there is no secure way to attach the mask to the hood. If the diver places the mask and strap around her or his neck it is very uncomfortable, and it is very difficult to put the mask on one&#39;s face from this location  
           [0009]    If the diver is wearing a neoprene hood, it is difficult to properly place a silicone mask strap around the rear portion of the head because it tends to stick to the hood, and can become twisted. This problem is difficult to see and correct, especially if the diver is wearing gloves.  
           [0010]    When a diver is under water, another diver can knock the mask off the diver&#39;s face by collision with an object, by swimming through and getting caught on kelp, and so forth. If the mask is knocked off the diver&#39;s head, visibility is greatly reduced and the mask can be lost. Even if the wearer or another diver finds the mask, it can be difficult to reinstall properly because of sticking between the strap and the hood. Again, this difficulty is compounded if the diver is wearing gloves.  
           [0011]    While at the surface, it may be necessary for the diver to remove the mask. This is done in order to improve vision, to breathe through the nose, to defog the mask, to remove water that has leaked past the seal formed between the mask and the diver&#39;s face, or to reposition a mask that will not stay in place.  
           [0012]    Placing the mask on top of the diver&#39;s head creates a risk of having it knocked off by a wave, or pushed off by the water while the diver swims. This is complicated by the fact that if the diver is wearing a hood, they will not be able to sense that the mask is being removed from their head. Placing the mask under the diver&#39;s chin is uncomfortable and restricts the ability to move the divers head, and it is difficult to reinstall the mask from this position.  
           [0013]    Holding the mask with one hand restricts the diver&#39;s activity. The mask can slip out of the diver&#39;s hand without the diver realizing it, especially if they are wearing gloves.  
         Background—Prior—Art—Goggle Mounting System  
         [0014]    In U.S. Pat. No. 4,686,712 (1987) Spiva shows a goggle mounting system for a cyclist&#39;s helmet. The goggles are attached to the helmet by a pair of straps, one on each side. One strap is attached to the helmet by a keyhole and post (K&amp;P) fastener. The other strap is attached to the helmet by a hook-and-loop (H&amp;L) fastener. Separating only the H&amp;L fastener permits the user to remove the goggles from their eyes, while keeping the goggles attached to the helmet by the keyhole and post fastener. In this condition, the goggles hang downward from one side of the helmet.  
           [0015]    While this arrangement is suitable for cyclists, it is not useful for divers. In preparation for entering the water, it is preferred for divers to place their mask on top of their head. When they are ready to enter the water, the divers move the mask over their eyes. While the K&amp;P fastener can swivel, the H&amp;L fastener cannot. In order to move the mask to the top of the diver&#39;s head, the H&amp;L fastener must be disengaged, the mask position changed, then the fastener re-engaged. This awkward maneuver is made more cumbersome when the diver wears gloves, as is frequently the case. In addition, when the H&amp;L fastener is disengaged, the K&amp;P fastener is loose and can also disengage. This can cause the diver to drop the mask, or lose it altogether at the surface or under water. Because the H&amp;L is on the side of the diver&#39;s head, it is not possible for the diver to visually align or determine whether the fastener is fully engaged. Also, if one of the two straps were to break the mask could be easily lost because the remaining H&amp;L or K&amp;P could disengage.  
         Background—Prior—Art—Fastener  
         [0016]    In U.S. Pat. No. 2,311,231 (1943), Illsche shows a fastener for garments and other articles of flexible material. Illsche employs a bottom plate, a top plate, and a post. The bottom plate is placed on one side of the article, and the top plate is placed on the opposite side of the article. Each plate has a hole with coarse threads. The two plates are aligned and a post with threads or thread-like projections is screwed axially through both, joining them.  
           [0017]    While it would be possible to place such a fastener on a diver&#39;s hood, and secure a mask to the hood using straps and K&amp;P fasteners in conjunction with the posts, such an arrangement would not be suitable for use by divers. The act of moving the mask from the diver&#39;s face to the top of her or his head would tend to unscrew the post, causing loss of the mask. In addition, as above, the K&amp;P fastener is unsuitable because it is easily disengaged and can cause loss of a mask when the diver is hit by a wave, jumps into the water, is kicked by another diver, swims through and gets entangled in kelp, and the like. Illsche&#39;s device was designed for articles of relatively constant thickness. Additionally, the K&amp;P design leaves all parts exposed so the assembly can get entangled in kelp, fishing line, and the like while diving.  
         Background—Objects and Advantages  
         [0018]    Accordingly, one object and advantage of the present invention is to provide an improved method and apparatus for securing a diver&#39;s mask to a hood. Another object is to provide a mask and attachment, which is less susceptible to loss. Further objects are to provide a locking fastener which can be adjusted to fit articles of various thicknesses, which swivels without releasing, securely holding the mask while permitting it to be moved from the diver&#39;s face to the top of his or her head, which is easily engaged and released, to provide a fastener which can be engaged and released by a diver who is wearing gloves, and which will not disengage in response to trauma such as occurs when the diver&#39;s head is kicked by another diver, the diver swims through and gets entangled in kelp, or the diver simply jumps into the water. A further object is to provide two locking fasteners, attached to straps on either side of a mask, the other end of the straps being connected to the mask with strap tension adjusted at the mask end of the straps.  
           [0019]    Additional objects and advantages will become apparent from a consideration of the drawings and ensuing description  
         SUMMARY  
         [0020]    In accordance with the invention, a diver&#39;s mask uses a post and latch (P&amp;L) fastener to secure a mask to a diver&#39;s hood. The hood material can have a range of thicknesses. Two posts are attached to the diver&#39;s hood on opposite sides of the diver&#39;s head. Latches, which mate to the posts, are attached to straps, which in turn are attached to the diver&#39;s mask, with tension adjustment in the straps normally being done at the mask. The latch is easily attached and locked to the P&amp;L fastener by sliding the latch onto the post. The latch can swivel 90 degrees or more without disengaging. It will not disengage when the strap connecting the mask to the fastener is slack. It is disengaged only by a deliberate action on the part of the diver. The fastener can easily be engaged or disengaged by a diver wearing gloves. The fastener prevents loss or dropping of the diver&#39;s mask in response to trauma such as being kicked in the mask by another diver&#39;s fin, being knocked off the top of the diver&#39;s head by a wave at the surface, removed by the force of impact while doing a giant stride entry, while diving, swimming through and becoming entangled in kelp, and the like. 
       
    
    
     DRAWINGS—Figures  
       [0021]    [0021]FIG. 1 is a side view of a diver&#39;s hood with a built-in, reinforced neoprene strip, post-and-latch fastener, and mask over the diver&#39;s eyes, in accordance with the invention.  
         [0022]    [0022]FIG. 2 is a side view of the assembly of FIG. 1 with the mask on top of the diver&#39;s head.  
         [0023]    [0023]FIG. 3 is a side view of the hood with a built-in, reinforced neoprene strip.  
         [0024]    [0024]FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the reinforced neoprene strip assembly.  
         [0025]    [0025]FIG. 5 shows the layers of the reinforced neoprene strip.  
         [0026]    [0026]FIG. 6 is a side view of an inner post used in the assembly of FIG. 1.  
         [0027]    [0027]FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of an inner post used in the assembly of FIG. 1.  
         [0028]    [0028]FIG. 7 is a side view of an outer post used in the assembly of FIG. 1.  
         [0029]    [0029]FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of an outer post used in the assembly of FIG. 1.  
         [0030]    [0030]FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a post assembly used in the assembly of FIG. 1.  
         [0031]    [0031]FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the post assembly inserted in the neoprene strip assembly.  
         [0032]    [0032]FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a latch used in the assembly of FIG. 1.  
         [0033]    [0033]FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of an alternative latch assembly.  
         [0034]    [0034]FIG. 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the alternative latch and post.  
         [0035]    [0035]FIG. 13 shows a cross-sectional view of the alternative latch positioned for release from an alternative post.  
         [0036]    [0036]FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of an alternative latch and post design.  
         [0037]    [0037]FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of the alternative latch and post design.  
         [0038]    [0038]FIG. 16 is an exploded view of an alternative post assembly.  
         [0039]    [0039]FIG. 17 shows a cut-away view of the alternative post assembly assembled.  
         [0040]    [0040]FIG. 18 shows a cut-away view of an alternative latch which is released by pressing, instead of linking the finger.  
         [0041]    [0041]FIG. 19 shows a cut-away view of the alternative latch in place on an alternative post assembly.  
         [0042]    [0042]FIG. 20 shows a cut-away view of the alternative latch with its release tab depressed  
         [0043]    [0043]FIG. 21 shows a cut-away view of the alternative latch partially removed from an alternative post assembly.  
         [0044]    [0044]FIG. 22 shows a top view of the alternative latch in place on a post on a diver&#39;s hood, holding the diver&#39;s mask in place on his or her eye area.  
         [0045]    [0045]FIG. 23 shows a top view of the alternative latch still locked in place with the diver&#39;s mask on top of the diver&#39;s head.  
         [0046]    [0046]FIG. 24 shows an exploded view of an alternative post assembly.  
         [0047]    [0047]FIG. 25 shows a cross-sectional view of the assembled alternative post assembly. FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of an alternative latch and strap assembly.  
         [0048]    [0048]FIG. 27 shows a cross-sectional view of the alternative latch and post assembly.  
         [0049]    [0049]FIG. 27A shows a side view of an alternative strap.  
         [0050]    [0050]FIG. 28 shows a side view of an alternative locking pin with a pointed tip.  
         [0051]    [0051]FIG. 29 shows a cross-sectional view of an alternative locking pin with a pointed tip fully inserted into a post assembly.  
         [0052]    [0052]FIG. 30 shows a section of neoprene attached to a strap that fits around the diver&#39;s neck in order to prevent loss of the diver&#39;s mask.  
         [0053]    [0053]FIG. 31 shows the section-and-strap assembly in place on the diver&#39;s head and neck.  
         [0054]    [0054]FIG. 32 shows an alternative retaining mechanism with a strap for securing the neoprene section to the diver&#39;s diving gear.  
         [0055]    [0055]FIG. 33 shows a detail of an alternative, coiled retaining strap.  
         [0056]    [0056]FIG. 34 shows the alternative retaining mechanism connected between the neoprene section on the diver&#39;s head to the diving gear.  
         [0057]    [0057]FIG. 35 shows an alternative connection between the neoprene section and the strap in place on the diver&#39;s head.  
         [0058]    [0058]FIG. 36 shows an alternative retaining mechanism for securely fastening a mask strap to the diver&#39;s hood.  
         [0059]    [0059]FIG. 37 shows an alternative retaining mechanism for fastening a mask strap to the diver&#39;s hood using a H&amp;L fastener.  
                                             DRAWINGS-Reference Numerals                                 100 Mask    420 Hole    702 Base        105 Strap    425 Hole    705 Column        110 Latch    430 Hole    710 Flange        115 Post    600 Inner post    715 Recesses        120 Strip Assembly    602 Base    800 Locking pin        125 Hood    603 Points    805 Base        130 Seam    605 Column    810 Column        400 Strip    615 Ridge    815 Flange        405 Strip    620 Hole    900 Post assembly        410 Strip    625 Recesses   1105 Strap adjuster        415 Hole    700 Outer post   1110 Slot       1115 Shoulder   1730 Collar   2560 Projections       1120 Finger   1735 Column   2565 Recesses       1122 Hook   1740 Flange   2567 Column       1123 Inner edge   1745 Recess   2570 Cuts       1124 Outer side   1750 Head   2572 Hood fabric       1200 Latch   1755 Locking pin   2600 Post assembly       1202 Larger portion   1760 Recesses   2640 Recess       1203 Smaller portion   1765 Ridge   2680 Tapered inner edge       1205 Post   1800 Undercut   2685 Tapered outer edge       1210 Ramp   1900 Latch   2700 Latch assembly       1215 Finger   1905 Tab   2705 Strap       1216 Ramp   1910 Finger   2710 Finger       1220 Hook   2500 Post assembly   2715 Hook       1500 Latch   2505 Locking pin   2720 Latch       1505 Finger   2510 Column   2810 Recess       1510 Post   2515 Flange   2820 Ramp       1515 Ramp   2520 Recess   2830 Slot       1700 Post assembly   2525 Point   2840 Flange       1705 Inner post   2530 Upper flange   2850 Short leg       1710 Column   2535 Outer post   2900 Locking pin       1715 Ridges   2545 Column   2905 Flange       1720 Base   2550 Ridge   2910 Outer edge       1725 Projections   2555 Inner post   2920 Recess       3000 Post assembly   3135 F. End of clasp   3510 End       3015 Outer post   3140 End of strap   3520 Head       3020 Recess   3145 H&amp;L fastener   3525 Strap       3100 Head Strap   3210 Latch   3530 Stiching       3110 Posts   3300 Tether Strap   3600 Strap       3120 Strap   3305 C-shaped clip   3610 Plastic loop       3125 Connecting strap   3400 Coil Strap   3700 Half H&amp;L fastener       3130 M. End of clasp   3500 Hose   3710 Half H&amp;L fastener                  
 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
     First Embodiment  
     Hood with Reinforced Strip and Swiveling, Locking Latch-and-Post Fasteners—Mask in Place Over Diver&#39;s Eyes—FIG.  1   
       [0060]    A mask  100  is secured in an operative position to the face of a diver wearing a hood  125  by a strap  105 , a latch  110 , a post  115 , and a reinforced neoprene strip assembly  120  attached to hood  125 . Identical strip, latch, and post assemblies (not shown) are located on the opposite side of hood  125  in complementary positions. In the operative position, mask  100  protects the diver&#39;s eyes and nose, enabling underwater vision.  
         [0061]    When viewed from the front, mask  100  is generally rectangular in shape, 20 cm wide, 10 cm high, and 7 cm deep. It covers the diver&#39;s eye and nose area (not shown), forming a seal around the perimeter bounded by the wearer&#39;s forehead, temples, and upper lip. Straps  105  attached to the sides of the mask terminate in latches  110  that attach to posts  115  affixed to the hood. Mask  100  is in a storage, inactive, inoperative, or carrying position when it is positioned on top of the diver&#39;s head (FIG. 2). Straps  105  communicating between mask  100  and latches  110  are generally made of sturdy, slightly stretchy silicone rubber. Hood strip assembly  120 , generally made of reinforced neoprene, is discussed in detail below.  
       FIG.  2 —Mask Resting on Diver&#39;s Head  
       [0062]    [0062]FIG. 2 shows mask  100  moved to its storage position on hood  125 . In this position, the diver can breathe through their nose, has unobstructed vision, and can attend to various matters prior to entering the water, while floating or swimming on the surface of the water, or after leaving the water. Although mask  100  is removed from the diver&#39;s eyes, strap  105  is still securely anchored by latch  110  and post  115  and will not disengage. The matching strap, latch, and post on the opposite side of hood  125  are also anchored similarly. Thus mask  100  is firmly secured to straps  105  that terminate in latches  110  that attach to posts  115  affixed to the diver&#39;s hood  125 .  
         [0063]    To move mask  100  to the storage position top of his or her head, the diver simply grasps it, moves it forward, slightly stretching straps  105  to lift mask  100  away from his or her face, and rotates or pushes mask  100  upward. Latches  110  rotate on posts  115  without becoming detached. When mask  100  is released, it rests on top of hood  125 .  
       FIGS.  3 - 5 —Reinforced Neoprene Strip  
       [0064]    [0064]FIG. 3 shows a side view of hood  125  with seam  130  of strip assembly  120 . Strip assembly  120  comprises three stitched and laminated strips, described in detail below. Strip assembly  120  can be built into the hood  125  with sewn seam  130  or constructed as a separate item and affixed to hood  125  by adhesive (not shown), a H&amp;L fastener (not shown), or by sewn seam  130 .  
         [0065]    [0065]FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of strip assembly  120 . Strips  400 ,  405 , and  410  preferably are bonded together by glue.  
         [0066]    [0066]FIG. 5 shows the three strips that comprise strip assembly  120  (FIG. 4). All three have the same length and width, approximately 30.5 cm and 2.5 cm. A first strip  400  is preferably made of neoprene rubber, approximately 3 mm thick. A second strip  405  is made of nylon fabric, approximately 0.5 mm thick. Third strip  410  is also made of neoprene, approximately 3 mm thick.  
         [0067]    Strips  405  and  410  contain holes  415 ,  420 ,  425 , and  430 , all about 8 mm in diameter. Strip  405  and  410  are stacked flat and glued together so that holes  415  and  425  are aligned with each other, and holes  420  and  430  are aligned with each other.  
         [0068]    Strip  400  is added to the stack and glued after two inner posts  600  (FIG. 6) are inserted through holes  415  and  425 , and  420  and  430 .  
       FIGS.  6 - 9 —Post Assembly  
       [0069]    Post  115  (FIGS. 1 and 2) comprises three components. From the outside of hood  125  (FIG. 1), post  115  appears as a column resting on a circular disc. The top of the column terminates in a flange, slightly larger in diameter than the column. Post  115  comprises an inner post  600  (FIG. 6), located inside hood  125 , an outer post  700  (FIG. 7), located on the outside of hood  125  and coupled with inner post  600 , and a locking pin  800  (FIG. 8) which rigidly fixes inner post  600  and outer post  700  together as a unit.  
         [0070]    [0070]FIG. 6 shows a side view of an inner post  600 . Base  602  of inner post  600  is approximately 2.5 cm in diameter. Base  602  has a series of raised points  603  that are preferably 2 mm in diameter and 2 mm high. Inner post  600  has a central column  605  with four slots extending partway from the distal end toward the base. Central column  605  is preferably about 7.6 mm in diameter, and 8.1 mm high, with a ridge  615  near the top. Ridge  615  is preferably half-round in contour and about 8.8 mm in diameter.  
         [0071]    [0071]FIG. 6A shows a cross-sectional view of inner post  600  (FIG. 6). A hole  620 , about 3.9 mm in diameter, extends through column  605 . Column  605  preferably contains three internal recesses  625 . These recesses are semicircular in shape and have a maximum diameter of 5 mm.  
         [0072]    [0072]FIG. 7 shows a side view of an outer post  700 . Base  702  of outer post  700  is about 2.5 cm in diameter. Outer post  700  has a central column  705  about 4.3 mm high, with an inner diameter of 7.6 mm and an outer diameter of 10.1 mm. At one end, column  705  is joined with base  702 . At the other end, column  705  terminates in a flange  710 . The outer diameter of flange  710  is preferably 14.9 mm.  
         [0073]    [0073]FIG. 7A shows a cross-sectional view of outer post  700  (FIG. 7). The inner surface of column  705  preferably has three recesses  715 , each with a diameter of 8.8 mm.  
         [0074]    [0074]FIG. 8 shows a locking pin  800  and all the components of post assembly  900 . Locking pin  800  has a base  805  with diameter of approximately 12.4 mm and height 1.4 mm. Column  810  is axially joined to base  805 . The diameter of column  810  is preferably 3.9 mm. Column  810  terminates in a flange  815  with an outer diameter 5.0 mm.  
         [0075]    The components of post assembly  900  comprising inner post  600 , outer post  700 , and locking pin  800  join together in the order shown in FIG. 8. Column  605  of inner post  600  is passed through holes  415  and  425  or  420  and  430  (FIG. 5) of strip assembly  120  (FIG. 9). Strips  405  and  410  (FIG. 9) are compressed between the top of base  602  of inner post  600  and the bottom of base  702  of outer post  700 .  
         [0076]    Ridge  615  on column  605  of inner post  600  springably enters one of the recesses  715  in column  705  of outer post  700 . Inner post  600  and outer post  700  are forcibly mated, moving ridge  615  as far into column  705  as possible. Thus ridge  615  expands into the innermost possible recesses of column  705 , temporarily securing inner post  600  and outer post  700  on strip assembly  120  (FIG. 9).  
         [0077]    Next, locking pin  800  is inserted into the inner opening of column  605 . There, flange  815  of locking pin  800  forcibly enters one of the recesses  625  (FIG. 6A) in column  605  of inner post  600 . Locking pin  800  is inserted as far as possible into column  605 , expanding into recess  625  (FIG. 6A), as determined by the location of inner post  600  with respect to outer post  700 . With these conditions met, inner post  600 , outer post  700 , and locking pin  800  will be securely fastened to strip assembly  120  (FIG. 9).  
         [0078]    [0078]FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of post assembly  900  in place in strip assembly  120 .  
       FIG.  10 —Locking Latch  
       [0079]    [0079]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a locking latch  110 . A strap adjuster  1105  is attached to latch  10 . Instead, strap adjuster  1105  can be replaced with an attachment (not shown), which permanently affixes a strap (not shown) to latch  110 .  
         [0080]    Latch  110  comprises a slot  1110  of width approximately 12 mm and depth about 14 mm, a shoulder  1115  with inner width about 15 mm and depth about 17 mm, and a hooked finger  1120 . Finger  1120  is about 6 mm wide and 18 mm long. Hook  1122  on finger  1120  extends approximately 2.5 mm downward toward slot  1110 . The plane forming the inner edge  1123  of hook  1122  is perpendicular to the bottom surface of finger  1120 . The outer side  1124  of hook  1122  is angled to form a ramp for sliding over flange  710  of outer post  700  (FIG. 7).  
         [0081]    In use, strap  105  (FIG. 1) is affixed to latch  110 , then to one side of mask  100  (FIG. 1). As described above in connection with FIG. 1, a complimentary strap and latch are used on the opposite side of the diver&#39;s head.  
         [0082]    Latch  110  is attached to post assembly  900  (FIG. 8) by simply sliding slot  1110  over column  705  of outer post  700  (FIG. 7). The underside of flange  710  of outer post  700  rests on shoulder  1115 , preventing latch  110  from moving in a direction away from base  702  of outer post  700 . The underside of finger  1120  rests on the top of locking pin  800  (FIG. 8), preventing latch  110  from moving in a direction toward the base  702  of outer post  700 . Column  705  of outer post  700  rests against the inner, curved end of slot  1110 , preventing latch  110  from moving in a direction toward column  705  of outer post  700 . Finger  1120  straddles the top of flange  710 , while inside edge  1123  of hook  1122  rests against the outer side of flange  710 . Slot  1110 , shoulder  1115 , finger  1120 , and hook  1122  prevent any relative motion of latch  110  and outer post  700 . Thus latch  110  is securely attached to outer post  700 .  
         [0083]    To remove latch  110  from outer post  700  (FIG. 7), the wearer simply lifts hook  1122  of finger  1120 , bending finger  1120  so that the bottom of hook  1122  is raised above the tops of flange  710  and locking pin  800  (FIG. 8). Latch  11 O can then slide off of outer post  700 . The lifting of hook  1122  of finger  1120  must be done by a deliberate action on the part of the diver. Thus the mask will detach from the hood only when the diver desires.  
       Operation—FIGS.  1 - 10   
       [0084]    Latch  110  engages outer post  700  by sliding over it until locked in place by hook  1122  of finger  1120 . Latch  110  is released by lifting finger  1120  and sliding latch  110  off outer post  700 . This assembly provides a latch that is secure and that can be disengaged only by a deliberate action of the diver.  
       Second Embodiment  
     Covered Locking Latch with Swivel Release Feature—FIGS.  11 - 13   
       [0085]    In this and all subsequent embodiments, dimensions of the post and latch are similar to those of the first embodiment.  
         [0086]    This embodiment comprises a covered slotted fastener with a locking finger. The inner post and locking pin are the same as in the first embodiment. The outer post is also the same, except for the addition of a ramp on one side.  
         [0087]    [0087]FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a covered latch  1200 . To secure latch  1200 , the wearer inserts post  1205  (FIG. 12) into the larger portion  1202  of the slotted fastener comprising larger portion  1202  and smaller portion  1203 . The shape of the opening in latch  1200  is similar to that shown in FIG. 26 below. When post  1205  is fully inserted in larger portion  1202 , latch  1200  is slid over post  1205  so that post  1205  moves into smaller portion  1203  of the slotted fastener. Ramp  1216  (FIG. 12), lifts finger  1215  (FIG. 12) on the way in.  
         [0088]    As shown in FIG. 12, when post  1205  is fully inserted into smaller portion  1203 , finger  1215  rests on post  1205  and hook  1220  on finger  1215  blocks the exit of post  1205 .  
         [0089]    Latch  1200  can be removed from post  1205  in two ways. Finger  1215  can be lifted so that hook  1220  is raised above the top of post  1205 , enabling latch  1200  to be removed from post  1205  as described above. Alternatively, latch  1200  can be rotated so that hook  1220  is aligned adjacent to ramp  1210 .  
         [0090]    [0090]FIG. 13 shows hook  1220  engaged against and partially up ramp  1210 . If the user continues to push latch  1200  in the direction of ramp  1210 , latch  1200  wire disengage from post  1205 .  
         [0091]    Once again, latch  1200  is securely attached to post  1205 . Only a deliberate action of the user can separate the two parts. Either finger  1215  must be raised, or latch  1200  must be rotated  180  degrees in order to slide latch  1200  away from ramped post  1205 . Because latch  1200  has a smooth cover, and because latch  1200  covers post  1205 , this design is virtually immune to snagging on kelp and the like.  
       Operation—FIGS.  11 - 13   
       [0092]    Latch  1200  engages post  1205  by sliding over it until hook  1220  on finger  1215  falls on the trailing edge of post  1205 . Latch  1200  is securely fastened to post  1205  until deliberately removed by lifting finger  1215  and sliding latch  1200  off post  1205 . Alternatively, the diver can rotate latch  1200  to a position at which hook  1220  of finger  1215  can slide up ramp  1210 , allowing latch  1200  to slide off post  1205 . Thus in this embodiment, latch  1200  can be removed from post  1205  in either of two ways.  
       Third Embodiment  
     Alternative Release Finger Position—FIGS.  14 - 15   
       [0093]    [0093]FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a modified latch  1500  with release finger  1505  in a position adjacent post  1510 , instead of straddling it. The inner and outer posts and locking pin are the same as in the first preferred embodiment. The latch is similar to that in the second embodiment, except that the finger is relocated to allow 360 degrees of latch engagement.  
         [0094]    [0094]FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional, side view of latch  1500  and post  1510  in the locked position. Finger  1505  has a ramp  1515  to permit the user to slide latch  1500  over post  1510  during engagement. Ramp  1515  lifts finger  1505  as post  1510  is moved into the locked position in latch  1500 .  
         [0095]    Latch  1500  is fly attached to post  1510  and can be removed only by raising finger  1505 .  
       Operation—FIGS.  14 - 15   
       [0096]    Latch  1500  is slidably engaged with post  1510  and is securely locked when finger  1505  falls on the trailing edge of post  1510 . Post  1510  enters latch  1500  from the end nearest the point at which the strap (not shown) is attached to latch  1500 . Latch  1500  is disengaged by lifting the end of finger  1505 , located on the side of latch  1500  instead of its end. Thus this embodiment provides a different position for entry and exit of post  1510 , and a different position for finger  1505 .  
       Fourth Embodiment  
     Alternative Release Method—FIGS.  16 - 23   
       [0097]    In this embodiment, the inner post is the same as that used in the first embodiment above. The outer post is the same as in the first embodiment, except that it contains an undercut on the bottom of its flange for the finger to hook into. The locking pin is the same as that shown in the first embodiment, except that relief slots have been cut into its shaft. The latch is the same as that shown in the second embodiment above except that the finger hooks into the undercut on the bottom of the flange of the outer post. This allows 360 degrees of latch engagement. In this embodiment, the latch and post assembly is separated by pressing downward on a lever, instead of lifting a finger.  
         [0098]    [0098]FIG. 16 shows an exploded view of post assembly  1700 , which comprises an inner post  1705  with split column  1710  having ridges  1715  at the top. Base  1720  of inner post  1705  contains numerous projections  1725  that help to anchor assembly  1700  in the hood strip assembly  120  (FIG. 1), or directly in the hood itself, as shown below.  
         [0099]    Instead of being part of the outer post as shown in the above embodiments, collar  1730  is a separate component. Collar  1730  comprises a column  1735 , and a flange  1740 . Collar  1730  has a recess  1745  in the top to accommodate head  1750  of locking pin  1755 . Collar  1730  has a number of inner recesses  1760  (three are shown, although there can be more or less). Recesses  1760  accepts ridge  1715  of inner post  1705 , in the same manner as in FIG. 8. When post assembly  1700  is assembled, collar  1730  slidably fits into base  1720 .  
         [0100]    [0100]FIG. 17 shows a cut-away view of post assembly  1700  in the filly assembled condition. An undercut  1800  in collar  1730  accepts a locking finger, as described below in connection with latch  1900  (FIG. 18).  
         [0101]    [0101]FIG. 18 is a cut-away view of latch  1900 . Latch  1900  contains a tab  1905 , to which is attached a finger  1910 . When latch  1900  is secured to post assembly  1700 , finger  1910  resides in undercut  1800 . While engaged to post assembly  1700 , latch  1900  can swivel 360 degrees without becoming disengaged. Finger  1910  is free to follow the circular path within the channel created by undercut  1800 .  
         [0102]    [0102]FIG. 19 shows latch  1900  locked on post assembly  1700 . Finger  1910  is ally inserted into undercut  1800 .  
         [0103]    Tab  1905  of latch  1900  is shown in the depressed position in FIG. 20. Finger  1910  is removed from undercut  1800 . This permits latch  1900  to slidably disengage from post assembly  1700 .  
         [0104]    [0104]FIG. 21 shows latch  1900  being removed from post assembly  1700 .  
         [0105]    Mask  100  is secured over the diver&#39;s eyes by strap  105  (FIG. 22). Strap  105  is attached to mask  100  and latches  1900  (on each side of mask  100 ), and post assemblies  1700  on hood  125 . Post assembly  1700  is shown directly attached to hood  125 , without the use of strip assembly  120  (Fig  3 ).  
         [0106]    [0106]FIG. 23 shows mask  100  still securely attached to hood  125 , but in a raised position on top of the diver&#39;s head.  
         [0107]    Again, this latch-and-post fastener is free to swivel, yet cannot be disengaged without deliberate action on the part of the wearer. In this case, tab  1905  must be depressed and latch  1900  slid off post assembly  1700 .  
       Operation—FIGS.  16 - 23   
       [0108]    Post assembly  1700  slidably enters latch  1900  from the rear, or strap side, and securely locks when finger  1910  engages undercut  1800 . Latch  1900  is disengaged by pressing tab  1905  to release finger  1910  from undercut  1800 , then sliding latch  1900  off of post assembly  1700 . Thus in this embodiment, latch  1900  is removed by the application of force in the direction of post assembly  1700 , instead of away from it as in the embodiments described above.  
       Fifth Embodiment  
     Latch with Central Finger and Alternative Post Assembly—FIGS.  24 - 27 A  
       [0109]    In this embodiment, inner post  2555  and outer post  2535  slidably couple and are held in place by ridge  2550  on outer post  2535  and one of recesses  2565  on inner post  2555 . A sharp point  2525  on locking pin  2505  enables installation of post assembly  2500  without the need to punch a hole in hood fabric  2572  of hood  125  (FIG. 1). Instead of a finger that latches at the perimeter of the upper flange  2530  on outer post  2535 , hook  2715  of latch assembly  2700  engages recess  2520  in locking pin  2505 .  
         [0110]    [0110]FIG. 24 shows an exploded view of post assembly  2500 . Locking pin  2505  has a smooth cylindrical column  2510  extending from flange  2515 . Locking pin  2505  also has a circular recess  2520  in the center of flange  2515 . Locking pin  2505  has a sharp point  2525  to facilitate installation on a hood  125  (FIG. 1), without the need to punch holes prior to installation.  
         [0111]    Upper flange  2530  of outer post  2535  contains a recess  2640  which will be described in detail below. Central column  2545  contains an inner ridge  2550 , which will also be described in detail below.  
         [0112]    Both inner post  2555  and outer post  2535  contain numerous projections  2560  to more firmly secure post assembly  2500  to hood  125  (FIG. 1). Inner post  2555  also contains a number of recesses  2565  along column  2567 . It also has cuts  2570  along column  2567  at several locations in order to facilitate assembly to outer post  2535 .  
         [0113]    Inner post  2555  and outer post  2535  are shown on either side of hood fabric  2572 . Hood fabric  2572  is typically neoprene layered with nylon or another strengthening material  
         [0114]    [0114]FIG. 25 shows a cross-sectional view of post assembly  2600  as assembled on a hood fabric of medium thickness. Hood fabric  2572  (FIG. 24) has been omitted from the drawing for clarity. Recesses  2565  in inner post  2555  mate with ridge  2550  on outer post  2535 . Outer post  2535  can be slid over inner post  2555  because cuts  2570  (FIG. 24) at locations permit radial flexing of column  2567  (FIG. 24). Recesses  2565  act like detents for ridge  2550 .  
         [0115]    In the absence of locking pin  2505 , outer post  2535  is able to slide on column  2567  (FIG. 24) with only the detent action supplied by recesses  2565  and ridge  2550 . With locking pin  2505  inserted, the slotted column  2567  can no longer bend as ridge  2550  is moved up and down. Thus inner post  2555  and outer post  2535  are secured together.  
         [0116]    Recess  2640  on upper flange  2530  of outer post  2535  has inward-sloping, tapered inner edge  2680 . These mate with inward sloping tapered outer edge  2685  on flange  2515  of locking pin  2505 . Thus once locking pin  2505  is filly inserted in outer post  2535 ; post assembly  2600  is firmly locked in place.  
         [0117]    [0117]FIG. 26 shows a latch assembly  2700  designed for use with post assembly  2500 . A strap  2705  is shown attached to latch  2720 . Latch  2720  contains a finger  2710  with a hook  2715 . Hook  2715  has a ramp  2820  (FIG. 27) on one side to facilitate mating latch  2720  with post assembly  2500 .  
         [0118]    [0118]FIG. 27 shows latch  2720  locked in place on post assembly  2500 . To assemble the two, latch  2720  is simply slid over post assembly  2500 . To separate the two, finger  2710  is lifted, removing hook  2715  from recess  2520  (FIG. 25) in locking pin  2505 , allowing latch  2720  to be slid off of post assembly  2500 .  
         [0119]    [0119]FIG. 27A shows a side view of strap  2705 . Strap  2705  is about 14 cm long, 20 mm wide and 2 mm thick. One end of strap  2705  has a short leg  2850  with a flange  2840  on top. The short leg  2850  extends 2.4 mm from strap  2705  to bottom of flange  2840 . Short leg  2850  is 20 mm wide and 3.8 mm thick. Flange  2840  is rectangular in shape with a length, width, and depth of 6.6, 22, and 2 mm respectively.  
         [0120]    Strap  2705  is inserted through slot  2830  in latch  2720  until the bottom of flange  2840  terminates in recess  2810 . In this position strap  2705  exits the latch  2720  away from post assembly  2500  and towards mask  100  (FIG. 1). Flange  2840  prevents strap  2705  from pulling through slot  2830  in latch  2720 . This allows tensioning of strap  2705  when attached to mask  100  (FIG. 1) and post assembly  2500 .  
       Operation—FIGS.  24 - 27 A  
       [0121]    When latch assembly  2700  and post assembly  2500  are fully engaged, hook  2715  enters recess  2520 , securely locking latch assembly  2700  and post assembly  2500  together. This assembly can be swiveled 360 degrees without becoming disengaged. The diver must deliberately lift finger  2710  to disengage latch assembly  2700  from post assembly  2500 .  
       Sixth Embodiment  
     Alternative Locking Pin Capture—FIGS.  28 - 29   
       [0122]    The embodiment in FIG. 28 is similar to the one described above, except that the flange on the locking pin has a different shape. Flange  2905  on locking pin  2900  has a convex, rounded outer edge  2910 .  
         [0123]    [0123]FIG. 29 shows post assembly  3000  assembled with locking pin  2900 . The top, inner edge of outer post  3015  contains an inner recess  3020  which mates with outer edge  2910  of locking pin  2900  to secure locking pin  2900 . When locking pin  2900  is fully inserted in outer post  3015 , post assembly  3000  is fully locked in place. Recess  2920  accepts hook  2715  (FIG. 27) of latch assembly  2700  (FIG. 26).  
       Operation—FIGS.  28 - 29   
       [0124]    Like all those described above, this assembly locks securely, can be rotated 360 degrees, and can be disengaged only through a deliberate action by the diver.  
       Seventh Embodiment —Alternate, Captive Mask Mountings—FIGS.  30 - 35   
       [0125]    In the above embodiments, the diver&#39;s mask is attached to posts that are secured to a hood that fits over and covers most of the diver&#39;s head. This hood is part of an exposure suit that keeps the diver warm in cold water. In warm-water diving, the exposure suit and hood are not always used. Therefore, another method is used to secure the mask to the diver.  
         [0126]    [0126]FIG. 30 shows an oblong head strap  3100 , preferably made of a neoprene. Strap  3100  is typically 30 cm long and 10 cm wide. Posts  3110  are secured to strap  3100  in the positions shown, typically 3 cm from each end.  
         [0127]    A retaining or neck strap  3120  is attached to strap  3100  by a second, small connecting strap  3125 . Neck strap  3120  is typically 40 cm long and 2.5 cm wide, and made of neoprene. Connecting strap  3125  is typically 2 cm long and 1 cm wide. A clasp, comprising male end of clasp  3130  and female end of clasp  3135  is fitted to the ends of neck strap  3120 . The clasp can also be replaced with mating parts of H&amp;L fastener, in well-known fashion to secure neck strap  3120 . The length of neck strap  3120  is adjusted by positioning an end  3140  of the neck strap along a region containing mating parts of H&amp;L fastener  3145 , in well-known fashion.  
         [0128]    One end of the connecting strap  3125 , which may also be of adjustable length, is attached to the outer edge, center of head strap  3100 . The other end of connecting strap  3125  is attached to neck strap  3120  near its center. Thus connecting strap  3125  locks head strap  3100  and neck strap  3120  together at their respective centers. Connecting strap  3125  can permanently connect head strap  3100  and neck trap  3120  together, or alternatively connecting strap  3125  can comprise a clamping arrangement that will release at a predetermined pulling stress. Releasing at a predetermined pulling stress is desirable in the event the mask gets entangled in seaweed, for example.  
         [0129]    [0129]FIG. 31 shows head strap  3100  and connecting strap  3125  in place on the diver&#39;s head and neck, respectively. Neck strap  3120  surrounds the diver&#39;s neck and is secured in place by male and female ends  3130  and  3135  of clasp components (FIG. 30), respectively.  
         [0130]    Straps  2705  from mask  100  terminate in latches  3210 . Latches  3210  are described in detail above.  
         [0131]    With this arrangement the diver is able to place mask  100  on top of his or her head with little fear that mask  100  will be lost. Even if mask  100  is displaced from the diver&#39;s eye area while diving or if it falls off the diver&#39;s head while floating or swimming at the surface, it will not be lost since it is securely attached to straps  2705 , latches  3210 , and posts  3110 . The latter are secured to the diver&#39;s neck by head strap  3100 , connecting strap  3125 , neck strap  3120 , and clasp sections  3130  and  3135  (FIG. 30).  
         [0132]    [0132]FIG. 32 shows an alternative to securing section  3100  to the diver&#39;s neck. A tether strap  3300  is firmly attached to head strap  3100 . This attachment is accomplished by sewing strap  3300  to head strap  3100  or other fastener (not shown). Tether  3300  is preferably made of nylon material. It is 20 cm long, and 4 mm in diameter. A C-shaped clip  3305  is fastened to the end of tether  3300 . C-shaped clip  3305  is preferably made of plastic, and is 12 mm in diameter and width. FIG. 32 shows tether  3300  as loose and untrained.  
         [0133]    Alternatively, tether  3300  can be replaced by a coiled or spring-like tether strap  3400  as shown in FIG. 33. Coil  3400  is also permanently attached to head strap  3100  and to a C-shaped clip  3305 .  
         [0134]    [0134]FIG. 34 shows this embodiment in place on a diver. Mask  100  is held in place by straps  2705 , latches  3210 , and head strap  3100 , as described above. C-shaped clip  3305  is attached to the diver&#39;s low-pressure inflator hose  3500 . It can also be attached to any other hose crossing the divers shoulder, such as the hose communicating between the air tank and the diver&#39;s mouthpiece (not shown). Even if mask  100  is dislodged from the diver&#39;s head, it will remain with the diver through the combined actions of straps  2705 , latches  3210 , posts  3110  (FIG. 33), head strap  3100 , tether  3300 , and C-shaped clip  3305 . If there is no hose  3500  available, then clip  3305  can be replaced with another type of clip or a H&amp;L fastener, in well-known fashion.  
         [0135]    As discussed above in connection with connection strap  3125  (FIGS. 30 and 31), clip  3305  can either attach to hose  3500  permanently, or a predetermined pull force on tether  3300  can dislodge it. In the latter case, a diver whose mask becomes entangled in seaweed (for example) can break free if necessary.  
         [0136]    [0136]FIG. 35 shows an alternative method for securing strap  3525  to head strap  3100  without latch  3210  and post  3110  (FIG. 31). Mask  100  is held in place by strap  3525  that is continuous and extends from one side of mask  100  around the diver&#39;s head  3520  to the other side of mask  100 . Head strap  3100  is comprised of two thin pieces of neoprene sandwiched together and sewn by stitching  3530  at the perimeter. Ends  3510  of head strap  3100  are not sewn so that strap  3525  can be fed through the head strap  3100  to securely connect strap  3525  to head strap  3100 . Conversely strap  3300  can be permanently attached to strap  3525 , eliminating head strap  3100  altogether.  
         [0137]    Even if mask  100  is dislodged from the diver&#39;s head  3520 , it will remain with the diver through the combined actions of strap  3525 , head strap  3100 , tether  3300 , and clip  3305 .  
       Operation—FIGS.  30 - 35   
       [0138]    Mask  100  is attached to posts  3110  on head strap  3100  by straps  2705  and latches  3210 . Alternatively, a continuous strap  3525  can be fed through head strap  3100  and can comprise two thin pieces of neoprene sandwiched together with stitching  3530  at the perimeter and open at the ends  3510 . Head strap  3100  is held against the back of the wearer&#39;s head while mask  100  is either placed on top of the wearer&#39;s head or over the eyes. Connecting strap  3125  connects head strap  3100  to neck strap  3120 , which is around the wearer&#39;s neck so as to prevent loss of mask  100 . Alternatively, coil  3400  can connects head strap  3100  to clip  3305 , which is in turn secured to hose  3500  or another anchor point to prevent loss of mask  100 .  
       Eight Embodiment  
     Alternative Cold-Water Mask Retention Method—FIG.  36   
       [0139]    A hood is generally used in cold-water diving. FIG. 36 shows another alternative method for securing strap  3525  to hood  125  to prevent loss of mask  100 . A small strap  3600  is sewn to one or both sides of hood  125 . Strap  3600  loops around mask strap  3525  and is fed through a plastic loop  3610  attached to one end of strap  3600 . Strap  3600  is secured with mating parts of H&amp;L fastener, in well-known fashion. Alternatively, one end of strap  3600  is sewn to hood  125  above strap  3525  and the free end has one half of a hook-and-loop fastener attached. The free end of strap  3600  crosses over mask strap  3525  and mates with the other half of the H&amp;L sewn to the hood. Thus mask strap  3525  is held captive by strap  3600 , preventing loss of mask  100  in any position.  
       Operation—FIG.  36   
       [0140]    The diver places mask  100  on the as shown Strap  3600  is then wrapped around mask strap  3525 . The ends of strap  3600  are secured, thus ensuring that mask  100  will not leave the head. This attachment method is very secure and will release only through deliberate action on the diver&#39;s part.  
       Ninth Embodiment  
     Second Alternative Cold-Water Mask Retention Method—FIG.  37   
       [0141]    [0141]FIG. 37 is the rear side view of a diver wearing a hood and mask in the closed position. One half of a H&amp;L fastener  3700  is attached (sewn or otherwise bonded) to the inside of strap  3525 . The other half  3710  of H&amp;L fastener  3700 - 3710  is attached (sewn or otherwise bonded) to the backside of hood  125  at the position shown Alternatively, one half of a H&amp;L fastener  3700  is attached (sewn or otherwise bonded) to the inside of head strap  3100  (FIG. 35). The other half  3710  of H&amp;L fastener  3700 - 3710  is attached to the backside of hood  125  at the position shown.  
       Operation—FIG.  37   
       [0142]    To use this system, the diver merely places mask  100  over the, then stretches strap  3525  over hood  125 , joining H&amp;L fastener halves  3700  and  3710 . This attachment is not permanent. It will release if the diver pulls as mask  100  becomes entangled in seaweed or other debris.  
       Conclusions, Ramifications, and Scope  
       [0143]    The present system provides a post-and-latch fastener that is secure, which can be rotated, and which can be detached only through a deliberate action. In a typical application, a pair of posts is affixed to the diver&#39;s hood. Two latches attach the straps that connect to the diver&#39;s mask. These latches are easily slid over the posts even though the diver is wearing gloves. In all but one embodiment of the present system, the latches can be rotated 360° on the posts without becoming detached. In one embodiment, the latch can be separated from its post only by being rotated approximately 180° and then slidably removed. In all embodiments of the present system, a deliberate action is required to disengage the latch from its post. When not in the water, or on the surface of the water, the diver can move the mask to the top of his or her head without fear of having it fall off. When ready to descend below the surface of the water, the diver can effortlessly move the mask over her or his face, even though wearing gloves. While swimming below the surface of the water, the diver need have no fear of losing the mask due to being kicked in the mask by another diver, bumping into objects, and the like, since these actions are not the deliberate action necessary to separate the latch from the post.  
         [0144]    While the above description contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as examples of a presently preferred embodiment and variations. Many other ramifications are possible. For example the fastener system can be used to secure straps on backpacks, guitars, camping gear, dive computers, personal digital assistants, car seats for infants, and the like. Additional ramifications include using the present fastener for attaching cell phones to garments, as a D-ring swivel attachment for use with buoyancy compensating device, a leash connector for attaching a surfboard leash to a wetsuit, a flag connector for use when playing flag football, for mounting or securing lights directly or via a strap to a garment or wetsuit and any other application where two or more objects are tethered.  
         [0145]    While the present system employs elements that are well known to those skilled in the art of mechanical engineering, it combines elements in a novel way that produces a new result not heretofore discovered. Accordingly the scope of this invention should be determined, not by the embodiments illustrated, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.