Abstract:
A tool tethering method includes the steps of providing a tool with a longitudinal portion, installing a base layer on the longitudinal portion, and providing a connector strap assembly. The connector strap assembly includes a closed-loop connector, a length of tubing, and a length of stretchable webbing secured to a connector and extending through the shrink tubing. A base layer is installed on the longitudinal portion of the tool. The length of stretchable webbing is aligned to extend along the base layer and the longitudinal portion is inserted into the tubing and substantially centered on the base layer. The tubing is caused to assume the reduced state to provide a snug fit on the hand tool, stretchable webbing, and base layer.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0002]    The present invention relates generally to drop-prevention equipment. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method of tethering a hand tool using a connector strap. 
         [0003]    2. Description of the Prior Art 
         [0004]    Lanyards, tethers, hooks, and similar restraints are used to prevent the accidental dropping of tools. These restraints are particularly useful for workers at height and in environments where a tool drop can cause substantial damage or harm to equipment, to workers, or to objects below a worker who accidentally drops a tool. 
         [0005]    One method of tethering a tool includes clipping one end of a tether to an opening in the handle of a tool (e.g., an adjustable wrench) and to clip the other end of the tether to the worker&#39;s belt or to a nearby structure. When workers properly tether a tool in this way, accidental drops can be eliminated or substantially reduced. 
         [0006]    Some tools and equipment lack an opening, hook, or other feature that enables the user to securely attach a tether. Attempts have been made to tether wrenches, pliers, hammers and other tools by securing a connector to the tool with a leader looped through the connector and around the handle. Tools such as, for example, tubing tongs, valve wheel wrenches, spud wrenches, pipe wrenches, hammers, alignment bars and the like used in construction have posed a particular challenge since these tools often have a smooth handle, two working ends, or a handle that tapers towards one end. Such features render these tools particularly difficult for attaching and securely maintaining a tether connection on the tool. 
         [0007]    To address this situation, one tethering method uses heat-shrink tubing to connect a connector strap to the tool, where the connector strap includes a D-ring connector. One connector strap known to some as a “web tail” is a length of nylon webbing with a first end looped through the connector and then secured to itself to attach the connector loop to the length of webbing. The first end of the webbing provides a first catch where the end of the webbing is doubled on itself. A second end of the webbing is folded or double folded on itself and then stitched together or otherwise secured in this position to define a second catch where the webbing is doubled or tripled on itself. The web tail is attached to the tool handle by using heat-shrink tubing positioned around the tool handle with the web tail between the heat-shrink tubing and the tool handle, where the first catch and the second catch are positioned outside and beyond the ends of the heat-shrink tubing. After positioning the heat-shrink tubing, the tubing is heated to constrict its size to the tool handle and web tail, thereby fixing the web tail to the tool handle. 
         [0008]    In another approach, the user places the web tail along the handle of a tool with the catch of the doubled-over webbing facing away from the tool handle. A self-fusing silicone rubber tape is then wrapped tightly around the tool and over the web tail while also slightly stretching the tape. The tape adheres to itself to secure the web tail to the tool, thereby attaching the web tail to the tool and providing a connection point for a spring clip or other connector. This approach has been found to be satisfactory for tools having a weight below five pounds. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    The above-described methods of tethering a tool using a nylon web tail-type connector strap and heat-shrink tubing or tape has been found unsatisfactory for tools weighing more than five pounds. Using tape or shrink tubing alone with a web tail has been found to have a break-away or tear-away force sufficient only for tools weighing up to five pounds. Thus, an improved method and tethering apparatus is needed with an increased weight capacity. 
         [0010]    Another deficiency of prior-art tethering methods occurs when attaching web tails to specialty tools, such as spud wrenches. Since these tools often have a handle with a smooth and/or tapered geometry, the heat-shrink tubing can slide off the end of the handle. Thus, existing tethering methods that use tape or heat-shrink tubing alone to secure a web tail to the tool render these methods unreliable for tools having a tapered end that allows the web tail to slide off of the end of the tool. The tethering is especially unreliable for tools weighing more than five pounds. Therefore, what is also needed is an improved method of tethering rod-like objects, specialty wrenches, pipes, and other tools that lack the geometry necessary to secure a connector strap, such as an opening, protrusion, ridge, flange, or increase in size. 
         [0011]    Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method of tethering tools using a web tail or other connector strap. It is another object of the present invention to provide a method of tethering a tool that has increased load capacity compared to prior art tethering methods involving only heat-shrink tubing or self-amalgamating tape applied over a connector strap where the connector strap is positioned in direct contact against the tool. The present invention achieves these and other objectives by providing apparatuses and methods of tethering a tool using a connector strap. 
         [0012]    In one aspect of the invention, a tool-tethering method includes providing a tool to be tethered, where the tool has a longitudinal portion with a substantially consistent cross-sectional size or geometry along its length. For example, a tool with a smooth and straight or gradually tapering handle is one with substantially consistent geometry along the longitudinal portion. A base layer is installed along the longitudinal portion of the tool to be tethered. A connector strap is provided and includes a length of flexible webbing secured to a closed-loop connector. The flexible webbing has a body portion, a front surface, a back surface, a first catch, and a second catch. The connector strap is positioned with the body portion axially aligned with the longitudinal portion of the tool, with the back surface disposed in direct contact with the base layer, and with the first catch and the second catch facing away from the longitudinal portion. An overwrap layer is installed over the body portion of the connector strap and a corresponding region of the longitudinal portion of the tool with the base layer. 
         [0013]    In another embodiment of the method, the connector strap defines a closed webbing loop, and wherein the first catch is a curve of the closed webbing loop and the second catch is a second curve of the closed webbing loop. 
         [0014]    In another embodiment in which the base layer is self-amalgamating tape, the step of installing the base layer includes wrapping the longitudinal portion of the tool with the self-amalgamating tape. In another embodiment, installing the base layer includes forming a first built-up region by wrapping the self-amalgamating tape a plurality of overlapping wraps adjacent the first catch and wrapping the self-amalgamating silicone rubber tape in a spiral from the first built-up region along the longitudinal portion of the tool a predefined distance. In some embodiments, a second built-up region is formed adjacent the second catch. 
         [0015]    In another embodiment of the method, the connector strap has a length of flexible webbing with a first end looped through the closed-loop connector and secured to the front surface of the length of webbing, thereby securing the closed-loop connector to the length of webbing and defining the first catch adjacent the body portion. A second end is folded on itself and secured to the front surface of the length of webbing, thereby defining the second catch adjacent the body portion and spaced apart from the first catch. 
         [0016]    In another embodiment of the method, the length of flexible webbing has a backing layer on the back surface. 
         [0017]    In another embodiment of the method, the overwrap layer is non-reinforced self-amalgamating tape, reinforced self-amalgamating tape, adhesive tape, a length of heat-shrink tubing, a length of rubber tubing, or a length of cold-shrink tubing in a radially expanded state supported by a removable hollow core. 
         [0018]    In another embodiment of the method in which the overwrap layer is tape, installing the overwrap layer includes forming a first built-up region by wrapping the tape a plurality of overlapping wraps adjacent the first catch and wrapping the tape in a spiral from the first built-up region along the longitudinal portion of the tool a predefined distance. In some embodiments, an additional built-up region is formed adjacent the second catch. 
         [0019]    In another embodiment of the method, a second or additional overwrap layer is installed over the overwrap layer. In some embodiments, the additional overwrap layer is shrink tubing or rubber tubing. 
         [0020]    In another embodiment of the method, the overwrap member is a length of cold-shrink tubing in the radially expanded state supported by the removable hollow core. Securing the overwrap member includes inserting the longitudinal portion of the tool and the connector strap into the removable hollow core, positioning the cold-shrink tubing to align with the body portion and a corresponding region of the longitudinal portion, and removing the removable hollow core to allow the cold-shrink tubing to collapse around and snugly grip the body portion of the connector strap and the longitudinal portion of the tool without overlapping the first catch or the second catch. 
         [0021]    In another embodiment, a tethering method includes the steps of providing a tool to be tethered, where the tool having a longitudinal portion with a substantially consistent geometry along its length; providing a connector strap comprising a length of flexible webbing secured to a closed-loop connector, the flexible webbing having a body portion, a front surface, a back surface, a first catch, a second catch; positioning the connector strap with the body portion axially aligned with the longitudinal portion of the tool, with the backing layer disposed in direct contact with the longitudinal portion, and with the first catch and the second catch facing away from the longitudinal portion; and installing an overwrap layer over the body portion of the connector strap and a corresponding region of the longitudinal portion of the tool. In some embodiments, the length of flexible webbing includes a backing layer on the back surface. 
         [0022]    In another embodiment of a tethering method, the method includes the steps of providing a tool to be tethered, where the tool has a longitudinal portion; providing tape; providing an overwrap member; and providing a connector strap. In one embodiment, the connector strap has a closed-loop connector and a length of webbing with a first end, a second end, and a body portion, where the first end is looped through the closed-loop connector and secured to the length of webbing thereby securing the closed-loop connector to the length of webbing and defining a first catch adjacent the body portion. The second end is folded on itself and secured to the length of webbing thereby defining a second catch adjacent the body portion and spaced apart from the first catch. The method also includes wrapping the tape around the longitudinal portion of the tool to form a taped tool region; positioning the connector strap with the body portion axially aligned with the taped tool region and with the first catch and the second catch facing away from the taped tool region; and installing the overwrap member over the body portion of the connector strap and the corresponding taped tool region. In some embodiments, the overwrap member is self-amalgamating tape, a length of heat-shrink tubing, a length of rubber tubing, or a length of cold-shrink tubing in a radially expanded state supported by a removable hollow core. 
         [0023]    In some embodiments where the overwrap member is self-amalgamating tape, it is installed by wrapping the self-amalgamating tape around the middle portion of the connector strap and a corresponding region of the longitudinal portion of the tool. 
         [0024]    In some embodiments in which the overwrap member is heat-shrink tubing, it is installed by inserting the taped tool region and the connector tab into the heat-shrink tubing, positioning the heat-shrink tubing along the majority of the middle portion and a corresponding region of the longitudinal portion without covering the first catch or the second catch, and heating the length of heat-shrink tubing, to cause the heat-shrink tubing to constrict around to the middle portion of the connector strap and the longitudinal portion of the tool. 
         [0025]    In some embodiments in which the overwrap member is cold-shrink tubing in a radially expanded state and supported by the removable hollow core, it is installed by inserting the longitudinal portion of the tool and the connector strap into the removable hollow core, positioning the cold-shrink tubing to align with the middle portion and a corresponding region of the longitudinal portion, and removing the removable hollow core to allow the cold-shrink tubing to collapse around and snugly grip the middle portion of the connector strap and the longitudinal portion of the tool without overlapping the first catch or the second catch. 
         [0026]    In some embodiments, the webbing of the connector strap is made of stretchable webbing, such as rubber, elastic webbing, or flat bungee cord. For example, In another embodiment, a tool-tethering method includes the steps of providing a tool to be tethered, where the tool has a longitudinal portion with a substantially consistent cross-sectional size along its length; installing a base layer along the longitudinal portion of the tool to be tethered; providing a connector strap assembly comprising a closed-loop connector, a length of shrink tubing in an expanded state and capable of assuming a reduced state, and a length of stretchable webbing secured to the closed-loop connector and defining a closed loop extending through the length of shrink tubing; installing the longitudinal portion of the tool into the length of shrink tubing with the length of shrink tubing substantially centered axially along the base layer; and causing the shrink tubing to assume the reduced state to provide a snug fit on the tool and base layer. 
         [0027]    In yet another embodiment, a tethering method comprising the steps of providing a tool to be tethered, the tool having a longitudinal portion; providing a quantity of tape; providing an overwrap member; providing a connector strap assembly that includes a closed-loop connector and a length of stretchable webbing with a first end, a second end, and a body portion, where the first end is looped through the closed-loop connector and secured to the body portion adjacent the closed-loop connector to secure the closed-loop connector to the length of stretchable webbing and defining a first catch adjacent the body portion, and where the second end is folded on itself and secured to the body portion to define a second catch adjacent the body portion and spaced apart from the first catch; wrapping the tape around the longitudinal portion of the tool to a taped tool region; positioning the connector strap with the body portion axially aligned with the taped tool region and with the first catch and the second catch facing out from the taped tool region; and installing the overwrap member around the body portion of the connector strap and the corresponding taped tool region. 
         [0028]    In other embodiments, the method optionally includes the steps of providing a tether having a first tether end and a second tether end, attaching the first tether end to the closed-loop connector, and attaching the second tether end to the user. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0029]      FIG. 1  illustrates a front perspective view of one embodiment of a connector strap of the present invention. 
           [0030]      FIG. 2A  illustrates a rear perspective view of an embodiment of a connector strap showing a backing layer on the back surface of the webbing. 
           [0031]      FIG. 2B  illustrates a rear perspective view of another embodiment of a connector strap showing a backing layer comprising rubber material woven into the webbing&#39;s back surface. 
           [0032]      FIG. 3  illustrates a side perspective view of another embodiment of a connector strap of the present invention showing the first and second ends of the webbing secured to each other and defining a closed webbing loop. 
           [0033]      FIG. 4  illustrates a side perspective view of the connector strap of  FIG. 3  shown with a length of shrink tubing installed over a portion of the closed webbing loop. 
           [0034]      FIG. 5  illustrates a perspective view of a longitudinal end portion of an implement to be tethered, where the longitudinal end portion has a cylindrical shape and consistent cross-sectional size and geometry along its length. 
           [0035]      FIG. 6  illustrates a perspective view of the implement in  FIG. 5  showing a base layer of a tape wrapped onto the end portion. 
           [0036]      FIG. 7  illustrates a perspective view of the implement in  FIG. 5  showing another embodiment of a base layer of tape applied around the cylindrical end portion, where a plurality of lengths of tape are placed axially along the cylindrical end portion and adjacent to each other circumferentially. 
           [0037]      FIG. 8  illustrates a perspective of the implement of  FIG. 5  showing a base layer installed with built-up regions formed with a plurality of overlapping tape layers. 
           [0038]      FIG. 9  illustrates a perspective view of the implement in  FIG. 6  showing one embodiment of a connector strap positioned with its back surface in contact with the base layer. 
           [0039]      FIG. 10  illustrates a perspective view of the connector strap of  FIG. 1  axially aligned on the implement with an overwrap member installed over the body portion of the connector strap and corresponding longitudinal portion of the implement. 
           [0040]      FIG. 11  illustrates a perspective view of the implement in  FIG. 6  showing a connector strap positioned against the base layer and an overwrap member wrapped around the connector strap and corresponding portion of the implement and base layer. 
           [0041]      FIG. 12  illustrates a perspective view of the implement in  FIG. 6  showing a connector strap positioned against the base layer and another embodiment of an overwrap member installed over the connector strap and corresponding portion of the implement and base layer where the overwrap member is shrink tubing. 
           [0042]      FIG. 13  illustrates test configuration 1 for one embodiment of a connector strap installed on an implement in a vertical position with the connector positioned towards the end of the implement. 
           [0043]      FIG. 14  illustrates test configuration 2 for one embodiment of a connector strap installed on an implement in a vertical position with the connector positioned away from the end of the implement. 
           [0044]      FIG. 15  illustrates test configuration 3 for one embodiment of a connector strap installed on an implement maintained in a horizontal position. 
           [0045]      FIG. 16  illustrates test configuration 1 for a connector strap installed on an implement using a base layer, overwrap layer, and a second overwrap layer. 
           [0046]      FIG. 17  illustrates test configuration 2 for a connector strap installed on an implement using a base layer, overwrap layer, and a second overwrap layer. 
           [0047]      FIG. 18  illustrates test configuration 3 for a connector strap installed on an implement using a base layer, overwrap layer, and a second overwrap layer. 
           [0048]      FIG. 19  illustrates test configuration 1 for a connector strap installed on an implement using a base layer of tape and overwrap layer of shrink tubing. 
           [0049]      FIG. 20  illustrates test configuration 2 for the connector strap installed on an implement using a base layer of tape and overwrap layer of shrink tubing. 
           [0050]      FIG. 21  illustrates test configuration 3 for the connector strap installed on an implement using a base layer of tape and overwrap layer of shrink tubing. 
           [0051]      FIG. 22  illustrates test configuration 1 for a connector strap installed on an implement using a base layer of tape, an overwrap layer with geometry, and a second overwrap layer of shrink tubing. 
           [0052]      FIG. 23  illustrates test configuration 2 for the connector strap installed on an implement using a base layer of tape, an overwrap layer with geometry, and a second overwrap layer of shrink tubing. 
           [0053]      FIG. 24  illustrates test configuration 3 for the connector strap installed on an implement using a base layer of tape, an overwrap layer with geometry, and a second overwrap layer of shrink tubing. 
           [0054]      FIG. 25  illustrates test configuration 1 for a connector strap installed on an implement using a base layer of tape and an overwrap layer with geometry. 
           [0055]      FIG. 26  illustrates test configuration 2 for the connector strap installed on an implement using a base layer of tape and an overwrap layer with geometry. 
           [0056]      FIG. 27  illustrates test configuration 3 for the connector strap installed on an implement using a base layer of tape and an overwrap layer with geometry. 
           [0057]      FIG. 28  illustrates test configuration 4 in which another embodiment of a connector strap is installed on an implement using a base layer without geometry and an overwrap layer of shrink tubing. 
           [0058]      FIG. 29  illustrates test configuration 5 for the connector strap of  FIG. 28  installed on the implement using a base layer with geometry and an overwrap layer of shrink tubing. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
       [0059]    Embodiments of the present invention are illustrated in  FIGS. 1-29 .  FIG. 1  illustrates a front perspective view of one embodiment of a connector strap  10  secured to a connector  15  suitable for attaching a tether (not shown). In the embodiment of  FIG. 1 , connector strap  10  includes a length of webbing  13  with a first end portion  13   a , a second end portion  13   b , a front surface  13   c , and a back surface  13   d . In one embodiment, first end portion  13   a  defines a first catch  12  and second end portion  13   b  defines a second catch  14 , where body portion  11  is between first catch  12  and second catch  14 . 
         [0060]    In one embodiment, connector  15  defines a closed-loop and connector  15  is secured to webbing  13  by looping first end portion  13   a  through the closed-loop and securing first end portion  13   a  to body portion  11 , such as by stitching, fasteners, adhesive or other means. Also, by attaching first end portion  13   a  to webbing  13  in this manner, first end portion  13   a  defines a first catch  12  on front surface  13   c  where first end portion  13   a  overlaps body portion  11 . Second end portion  13   b  is folded on itself and secured to body portion  11 , such as by stitching, to define a second catch  14  on front surface  13   c  that is spaced apart from first catch  12  by body portion  11 . 
         [0061]    In one embodiment, webbing  13  is made of woven nylon and has a width  13   w  of about ½ inch and an overall webbing length of about five inches. After folding and securing ends  13   a ,  13   b , connector strap  10  has an overall connector strap length  13 L of about three inches. Other types of webbing and different lengths, widths, and thicknesses are acceptable for connector strap  10 . It is also contemplated that connector  15  may be omitted, and instead first end portion  13   a  being secured to body portion  11  defines a closed loop to which a tether (not shown) may be connected. 
         [0062]    In another embodiment, webbing  13  is a length of flat bungee cord having a rubber core and a jacket made of polypropylene, nylon, or other materials. Examples of flat bungee cord are sold under the name Keeper® or Secure-Tite® (made by Hampton Products International of Foothill Ranch, Calif.) and CargoLoc® (made by Allied International of Sylmar, Calif.) and are available in ½-inch, ¾-inch, one-inch, and other widths. Flat bungee cord stretches to a stretched length that is 150% or more of the length of the cord in its unstretched, relaxed state. In yet other embodiments, webbing is made of natural or synthetic rubber with a width of one-half inch to one inch. 
         [0063]    Referring now to  FIG. 2A , a rear perspective view shows connector strap  10  of  FIG. 1 . Optionally, connector strap  10  includes a backing layer  16  on back surface  13   d  of webbing  13 . In one embodiment, backing layer  16  is silicone rubber applied in a heated, liquid form to back surface  13   d  of webbing  13 . In another embodiment, webbing  13  is provided with back surface  13   d  intermittently coated along its length with backing layer  16 . Webbing  13  is then cut between sections coated with backing layer  16 , and connector strap  10  is assembled, for example, to include first and second catches  12 ,  14  as discussed above. 
         [0064]    Molten polymers such as silicone rubber are believed to adhere to webbing  13  by occupying voids and depressions in webbing  13  and/or by surrounding fibers of webbing  13 . Backing layer  16  provides an improved frictional grip between connector strap  10  and an implement  5  (e.g., steel tool handle) compared to webbing  13  that has no backing layer  16 . Backing layer  16  may be secured to webbing  13  using other methods, such as stitching or adhesive. In one embodiment, backing layer  16  extends completely across the width  13   w  of back surface  13   d . In other embodiments, backing layer  16  extends partially across the width  13   w  of back surface  13   d.    
         [0065]    In other embodiments, webbing  13  is coated on a plurality of sides or encased with a polymer coating made of vinyl, rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane, or plastic. One example of polymer-coated webbing is polyethylene webbing encased in thermoplastic polyurethane, described as smooth-coated webbing and sold as Rubber Duc™ webbing. 
         [0066]    As shown in a rear perspective view of  FIG. 2B , other embodiments of connector strap  10  have slip-resistant webbing  13 , where backing layer  16  is rubber (e.g., rubber strands) woven into back surface  13   d  as parallel strips extending along back surface  13   d . One example of slip-resistant webbing  13  is polypropylene webbing with about 16% rubber by weight. Similar to the embodiment of  FIG. 2 , backing layer may also be applied to webbing  13  in parallel strips as shown in  FIG. 2B . 
         [0067]    In yet other embodiments, backing layer  16  is an adhesive applied to webbing  13 . To protect the adhesive backing layer  16 , a removable release sheet may be applied to backing layer  16  and removed prior to installation of connector strap  10 . In yet other embodiments, backing layer  16  is a pressure-sensitive adhesive (“PSA”) that forms a bond when pressure is applied. 
         [0068]    Referring now to  FIG. 3 , a perspective view shows another embodiment of connector strap  10  secured to connector  15 . In this embodiment, first end portion  13   a  of webbing  13  is looped through an opening  15   a  of connector  15  and secured (e.g., by stitching) to body portion  11 , where second end portion  13   b  is sandwiched between first end portion  13   a  and body portion  11 . In one embodiment, second end portion  13   b  extends in alignment with first end portion  13   a  and body portion  11 , where second end  13   b ′ is positioned closely adjacent connector  15 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , by overlapping first end portion  13   a  and second portion  13   b  and then securing them to body portion  11 , webbing  13  defines a closed webbing loop  17  with front surface  13   c  on the inside and back surface  13   d  on the outside. A portion  17   a  of closed webbing loop  17  may be positioned along an implement  5  to be tethered as is discussed in more detail below, where curves  17   c ,  17   d  along closed webbing loop  17  serve as first and second catches  12 ,  14 , respectively. In some embodiments, second end portion  13   b  extends transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to first end portion  13   a  and body portion  11 , such as may be desired to create a twist in closed webbing loop  17 . 
         [0069]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a perspective view illustrates another embodiment of connector strap  10 . As in the embodiment of  FIG. 3 , webbing  13  defines a closed webbing loop  17 . In this embodiment, portion  17   a  of closed webbing loop  17  extends through a length of shrink tubing  26  or other tubing made of an expandable material. Shrink tubing  26  may be, for example, heat shrink tubing, rubber tubing, or cold-shrink tubing supported in an expanded state, where shrink tubing  26  can change from an expanded size to a reduced size after being installed on implement  5 . For example, during formation and assembly of closed webbing loop  17 , webbing  13  is passed through shrink tubing  26  to link shrink tubing  26  to closed webbing loop  17 . Shrink tubing  26  is used as an overwrap layer  23  as is discussed in more detail below. 
         [0070]    In one embodiment, webbing  13  is stretchable. For example, webbing  13  is elastic webbing. In another embodiment, webbing  13  is a length of flat bungee cord having a rubber core and a jacket made of polypropylene or other materials. Examples of flat bungee cord are sold under the name Keeper® or Secure-Tite® (made by Hampton Products International of Foothill Ranch, Calif.) and CargoLoc® (made by Allied International of Sylmar, Calif.) and are sold in ¾-inch, one-inch, and other widths. Flat bungee cord stretches to a stretched length that is 150% or more of the length of the cord in its unstretched, relaxed state. In yet other embodiments, webbing is made of natural or synthetic rubber with a width of one-half inch to one inch. 
         [0071]    Referring now to  FIG. 5 , a perspective view illustrates part of an exemplary embodiment of an implement  5  to be tethered. Implement  5  may be any hand tool having a portion  6  along which connector strap  10  may be positioned. Typically, portion  6  has a substantially consistent cross-sectional size along portion  6  to one end  8  of implement  5  and/or lacks any protruding feature or recess between portion  6  and end  8  that is greater in size than the cross-sectional size of portion  6  and that ordinarily could be used to maintain a tether on the implement  5 . A hand tool such as, for example, mandrels, tubing tongs, valve wheel wrenches, spud wrenches, pipe wrenches, hammers, alignment bars and the like used in steel construction have posed a particular challenge since these tools often have a smooth, straight handle with a substantially consistent cross-section along the handle to a handle end  8 , two working ends, or a handle that tapers as it extends to handle end  8 . Such features render these tools particularly difficult for attaching and securely maintaining a tether connection on the tool for the purpose of preventing an accidental drop since they lack a protrusion or other feature that prevents a tether from slipping off of the tool end  8 . 
         [0072]      FIG. 6  illustrates a base layer  22  of tape  20  installed on a portion  6  of implement  5  by wrapping to provide a taped tool portion  5   a . Taped tool portion  5   a  may be a handle, a longitudinal portion of implement  5 , or another feature suitable in length for connector strap  10 . In one embodiment, tape  20  is self-amalgamating or self-fusing tape made of silicone rubber, EPDM, ethylene propylene rubber (EPR), amalgamating butyl rubber, or polyisobutylene (PIB) amalgamating tape. One example of self-amalgamating tape is a mil spec reinforced silicone rubber tape meeting MIL-I-22444 specification as available, for example, from AB Thermal Technologies. The mil spec reinforced silicone rubber tape has a sinusoidal reinforcement fiberglass substrate for added strength and a tape width of about one inch. Other embodiments of self-amalgamating silicone rubber tape are non-reinforced. Another example of self-amalgamating tape is made by Arlon Silicone Technologies of Baer, Del., who makes a fully cured fusible silicone rubber tape with a 25% sinusoidal fiberglass substrate, a width of one inch, a thickness of about 1/32 inch, a tensile strength of 70 PSI, an elongation of 38%, a durometer of 50, an adhesion strength of 6 lb/inch, and meeting MIL-I-22444-C. 
         [0073]    In other embodiments, tape  20  is any tape that increases the friction of taped tool region  5   a  compared to the bare surface of implement  5 . Acceptable varieties of tape  20  include duct tape, vinyl adhesive tape, polyurethane cushioned grip tape, cloth tape with tacky surfaces (a.k.a. hockey tape), cloth tape as used for sports training and medicine, strapping tape, electrical tape, polymer handlebar tape (e.g., Lizard Skins™ bicycle handlebar tape) and the like. In one embodiment, applying tape  20  to implement  5  is performed by wrapping a continuous length of tape  20  in a spiral along a longitudinal portion  6  of implement  5 . In some embodiments, each successive layer of tape  20  overlaps the previous layer by about 50% as it is wrapped in a spiral along implement  5 . More or less overlap is acceptable. In other embodiments, individual lengths of tape  20  about equal in length to the circumference of portion  6  are wrapped circumferentially around implement  5  and positioned substantially parallel to one another and in close proximity, in axial abutment, or overlapping one another. In the embodiments where self-amalgamating or self-fusing tape is used, tape  20  is stretched during application onto implement  5 , where stretching tape  20  activates the self-amalgamating properties of tape  20 . 
         [0074]    In one embodiment, taped tool portion  5   a  has a length approximately equal to or greater than the overall length  13 L of connector strap  10  (or portion  17   a  of closed webbing loop  17 ). In another embodiment, taped tool portion  5   a  has a length at least as great as body portion  11  of connector strap  10  or at least as great as portion  17   a  of closed webbing loop  17 . As an example, tape  20  is wrapped approximately 10-12 times around implement  5  in a single, overlapping spiral path to result in taped tool portion  5   a , where a base layer  22  substantially has a single thickness of tape  20  except where edges overlap, where its thickness is doubled. In another example, tape  20  is wrapped around implement  5  in a plurality of overlapping spiral paths along the same region of implement  5 , where taped tool portion  5   a  has base layer  22  with plurality of layers of tape  20 . In yet another embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 7 , a plurality of lengths of tape  20  are oriented axially along implement  5  adjacent to each other. The lengths of tape  20  are generally parallel to one another along portion  6 , where the plurality of lengths of tape  20  partially or completely cover portion  6  of implement  5 . In one embodiment, lengths of tape  20  are applied axially along portion  6  of implement  5  in a region where connector strap  10  is to be positioned, but not along other regions of portion  6 . 
         [0075]    Referring now to  FIG. 8 , another embodiment of base layer  22  is shown applied to implement  5  “with geometry.” Where implement  5  lacks a protruding feature or recess with which connector strap  10  may engage, base layer  22  optionally includes one or more built-up regions  22   a  that protrude from implement  5  to a greater extent than a middle region  22   b  of base layer  22 . For example, each built-up region  22   a  is formed by four overlapping and substantially aligned layers of tape  20 , where built-up region  22   a  defines a shoulder  22   c . Tape  20  then extends from built-up region  22   a  or starts anew as an overlapping spiral extending along middle region  22   b . Built-up region  22   b  and middle region  22   b  define a circuitous or non-linear path axially along taped tool region  5   a  of built-up region(s)  22   a  and middle region(s)  22   b . By creating geometry with one or more built-up region(s)  22   a , connector strap  10  extends along the non-linear path when aligned along taped tool region  5   a  and encounters further resistance against shoulder(s)  22   c  when a force is applied to connector strap  10  in an axial direction since connector strap  10  substantially takes the shape of the non-linear path. Thus, shoulder(s)  22   c  increase frictional engagement between connector strap  10  and base layer  22  and further reduce the ability of connector strap  10  being pulled axially along implement  5 . 
         [0076]    Referring now to  FIG. 9 , an embodiment of connector strap  10  is aligned with taped tool portion  5   a  and positioned with back surface  13   d  (not visible) in contact with base layer  22 . Similarly, portion  17   a  of closed webbing loop  17  (shown in  FIG. 3 ) may be positioned against taped tool portion  5   a . Optionally, when base layer  22  is not present, connector strap  10  is positioned in direct contact with portion  6  of implement  5 . In one embodiment, connector strap  10  is oriented axially along taped tool region  5   a . Body portion  11  of connector strap  10  is aligned with taped tool region  5   a  of implement  5 , where first catch  12  and second catch  14  face outwardly away from implement  5  to engage an overwrap layer  23 . Doing so provides additional assurance that connector strap  10  will not be pulled between overwrap layer  23  and base layer  22 . 
         [0077]    Turning now to  FIG. 10 , a perspective view shows an embodiment of connector strap  10  aligned with implement  5  with back surface  13   d  in direct contact with implement  5 . In embodiments where connector strap  10  includes backing layer  16 , base layer  22  is optional. Thus, connector strap  10  is positioned with back surface  13   d  (i.e., backing layer  16 , shown in  FIGS. 2A-2B ) in direct contact with portion  6  of implement  5 . An overwrap layer  23  is installed over body portion  11  of connector strap  10  and longitudinal portion  6  of implement  5  to secure connector strap  10  to implement  5 . 
         [0078]    Overwrap layer  23  is installed in one embodiment by wrapping tape  20  around body portion  11  of connector strap  10  (or portion  17   a  of closed webbing loop  17 ) and the corresponding region  6   a  of longitudinal portion  6  of implement  5 . For example, when body portion  11  is about three inches in length, overwrap layer  23  may be about six to ten overlapping layers of tape  20 , depending on the width of tape  20 . In other embodiments, such as when connector strap  10  defines closed webbing loop  17  and includes shrink tubing  26 , shrink tubing  26  is overwrap layer  23  where portion  17   a  of closed webbing loop  17  passes through shrink tubing  26 . 
         [0079]    Referring now to  FIG. 11 , overwrap layer  23  in one embodiment is tape  20  wrapped around body portion  11  of connector strap  10  and the corresponding portion of taped tool portion  5   a . In one embodiment, overwrap layer  23  is formed by wrapping tape  20  over body portion  11  of connector strap  10  and taped tool portion  5   a , where overwrap layer  23  overlaps and contacts base layer  22  along a major circumferential portion  24  (i.e., at least 180° around base layer  22 ). In one embodiment, overwrap layer  23  includes tape  20  wrapped in a spiral path having at least two overlapping revolutions around body portion  11  and taped tool portion  5   a . In another embodiment, tape  20  is wrapped in a plurality of overlapping spiral paths back and forth across body portion  11 , where overwrap layer  23  has at least two overlapping spiral layers of tape  20  along body portion  11 . Optionally, overwrap layer  23  extends over first catch  12  of connector strap  10 . In some embodiments, as with base layer  22 , overwrap layer  23  is installed “with geometry,” where overwrap layer has one or more built-up regions  23   b  (shown, e.g., in  FIGS. 25-27 ). 
         [0080]    In another embodiment shown in  FIG. 12 , overwrap layer  23  is a length of shrink tubing  26  installed over body portion  11  of connector strap and taped tool portion  5   a . Shrink tubing  26  may be heat-shrink tubing, cold-shrink tubing, rubber tubing, or the like and made of materials such as EPDM rubber, neoprene, synthetic rubber and fluoropolymer elastomers known as Viton®, or other materials known in the art for shrink tubing. When overwrap layer  23  is cold shrink tubing, the user provides cold shrink tubing supported in a radially stretched condition on an easily removable rigid spiral hollow core (not shown) having interconnected adjacent coils as is known in the art. After placing taped tool portion  5   a  (or portion  6 ) of implement  5  into the hollow core and aligning shrink tubing  26  with body portion  11  of connector strap  10 , the user then applies heat to shrink tubing in the case of a heat shrink tubing or uncoils the spiral hollow core to remove the core as a continuous narrow strip in the case of a cold shrink tubing. In either case, shrink tubing  26  collapses on and tightens around body portion  11  and taped tool portion  5   a  (or portion  6 ). In one embodiment, care is taken to avoid overlapping second catch  14  with shrink tubing overwrap layer  23 . Doing so enables second catch  14  to perform its function of engaging overwrap layer  23  to restrict connector strap  10  from passing under overwrap layer  23 . Accordingly, second catch  14  prevents connector strap  10  from being pulled loose through overwrap layer  23 . In some embodiments where overwrap layer  23  is tape  20 , shrink tubing  26  is applied over tape  20  of overwrap layer  23  as an additional overwrap layer  23   a  (shown, e.g., in  FIG. 16 ). 
         [0081]    In embodiments where a self-amalgamating or self-fusing tape is used for base layer  22  and/or overwrap layer(s)  23 , the user typically waits at least 24 hours for base layer  22  and overwrap layer  23  to fuse to itself and to each other before using implement  5 . 
         [0082]    The methods of the present invention substantially improve the capacity of connector strap  10  from tearing or being pulled off of implement  5 . Methods of attaching connector strap  10  to implement  5  discussed herein have shown to have increased strength compared with prior art methods of attaching connector strap  10  to implement  5 . This increased strength is believed to be a result of overwrap layer  23  fusing with base layer  22 , adhering to base layer  22 , and/or having increased friction between base layer  22  and overwrap layer  23  compared to the friction between overwrap layer  23  and the bare surface of implement  5 . When overwrap layer  23  fuses or adheres to base layer  22 , the strength of overwrap layer  23  is increased to resist failure of the tethering method when connector strap  10  is subjected to pulling forces transverse to the central longitudinal axis of implement  5 . Frictional and/or adhesive forces between base layer  22  and overwrap layer  23  resist failure of the tethering method when connector strap  10  is subjected to pulling forces along or parallel to the central longitudinal axis of implement  5 . In embodiments where connector strap  10  includes backing layer  16 , the frictional engagement between backing layer  16  and implement  5  is believed to complement the strength of overwrap layer  23  to provide a connector strap  10  secured to implement  5  in a way that sustains larger forces before failure occurs. 
         [0083]    Using methods of the present invention, experiments conducted at room temperature and 50% relative humidity have shown the increased strength of tethering methods of the present invention. In these experiments, connector strap  10  was attached using various test configurations to a cylindrical steel mandrel  5 ′ with an outer diameter of 1.05 inch. A load was attached to connector  15  and then the assembly was subjected to tensile forces in an axial direction or in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the mandrel. The experimental setups and results of the experiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 13-29 .  FIGS. 13-15  illustrate three test configurations as used for reference measurements.  FIGS. 16-29  illustrate variations on the three test configurations using tethering methods of the present invention. 
         [0084]      FIG. 13  illustrates test configuration 1. Test configuration 1 has connector strap  10  aligned axially with a cylindrical steel mandrel  5 ′. In this test configuration 1, cylindrical steel mandrel  5 ′ has a diameter of about one inch. Connector  15  is positioned towards end  8 ′ of mandrel  5 ′. For a reference measurement, no base layer  22  is used and back surface  13   d  is placed in direct contact with the surface of mandrel  5 ′. A first overwrap layer  23  of non-reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape is applied in a single overlapping spiral along body portion  11  and mandrel  5 ′ from a position adjacent first catch  12  to a position adjacent second catch  14 . Each wrap of the tape overlaps the previous wrap by about 50%. A second overwrap layer  23   a  is shrink tubing installed over overwrap layer  23  and the corresponding portion of body portion  11  and mandrel  5 ′. As part of the installation, the shrink tubing is heated to cause it to shrink and conform to connector strap  10  with first overwrap layer  23  and mandrel  5 ′. Connector strap  10  is configured as shown in  FIG. 1  with first and second catches  12 ,  14 , a metal D-ring connector  15 , and webbing  13  made of woven nylon without backing layer  16 . A tensile force connected to connector  15  is applied axially downward as shown by arrow  35  at three inches per minute using a calibrated Chatillon LR30K materials testing machine. Attachment of connector strap  10  to mandrel  5 ′ failed at 80 lbs. of force as noted by connector strap  10  with overwrap layers  23 ,  23   a  sliding downward along mandrel  5 ′. 
         [0085]      FIG. 14  illustrates test configuration 2 in which connector strap  10  is aligned axially with mandrel  5 ′ with connector  15  positioned away from end  8 ′ of mandrel  5 ′. For a reference measurement using test configuration 2, no base layer  22  is used and connector strap is attached to mandrel  5 ′ with back surface  13   d  in direct contact with the surface of mandrel  5 ′. Overwrap layer  23  and second overwrap layer  23   a  are the same as in test configuration 1. A tensile force connected to connector  15  was applied axially downward as shown by arrow  35  at three inches per minute using the calibrated Chatillon LR30K materials testing machine. Attachment of connector strap  10  to mandrel  5 ′ in test configuration 2 failed at 122 lbs. of force as noted by connector strap  10  with overwrap layers  23 ,  23   a  sliding downward along mandrel  5 ′. 
         [0086]      FIG. 15  illustrates test configuration 3 in which connector strap  10  is aligned axially with mandrel  5 ′ and positioned for a force transverse to mandrel  5 ′. For a reference measurement using test configuration 3, no base layer  22  is used and connector strap  10  is attached to mandrel  5 ′ with back surface  13   d  in direct contact with the surface of mandrel  5 ′. Overwrap layer  23  and second overwrap layer  23   a  are applied as in test configuration 1. Mandrel  5 ′ is maintained in a horizontal position and then a tensile force connected to connector  15  was applied upward from connector  15  in a direction substantially perpendicular to mandrel  5 ′ as shown by arrow  36  at three inches per minute using the calibrated Chatillon LR30K materials testing machine. Attachment of connector strap  10  to mandrel  5 ′ in test configuration 3 failed at 427 lbs. of force as noted by connector strap  10  being pulled between overwrap layer  23  and second overwrap layer  23   a.    
         [0087]    Reference measurements using test configurations 1-3 as illustrated in  FIGS. 13-15  (without base layer  22 ) are representative of tethering methods of the prior art. The results of the reference measurements for test configurations 1-3 of  FIGS. 13-15 , respectively, are summarized in Table 1 below. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Reference measurements for tethering methods shown in FIGS. 13-15. 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Second 
                 Failure 
               
               
                   
                 Base 
                   
                 overwrap 
                 force 
               
               
                 Configuration 
                 Layer 
                 Overwrap layer 
                 layer 
                 (lbs) 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Test 
                 None 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 80 
               
               
                 configuration 1 
                   
                 self-amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                   
                 silicone tape 
               
               
                 Test 
                 None 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 122 
               
               
                 configuration 2 
                   
                 self-amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                   
                 silicone tape 
               
               
                 Test 
                 None 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 427 
               
               
                 configuration 3 
                   
                 self-amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                   
                 silicone tape 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0088]    Referring now to  FIG. 16 , connector strap  10  is secured to mandrel  5 ′ as in test configuration 1. For this measurement, base layer  22  is installed along the longitudinal portion of mandrel  5 ′. Thus, instead of back surface  13   d  being in direct contact with the surface of mandrel  5 ′, back surface  13   d  is in direct contact with base layer  22 . Base layer  22  is non-reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped in a single spiral around mandrel  5 ′ using a 50% overlap between successive wraps of tape. As with the reference measurement discussed above, a tensile force connected to connector  15  was applied axially downward as shown by arrow  35  at three inches per minute using the calibrated Chatillon LR30K materials testing machine. Attachment of connector strap  10  to mandrel  5 ′ in test configuration 1 failed at 263 lbs. of force as noted by connector strap  10  with overwrap layers  23 ,  23   a  sliding downward along base layer  22 . 
         [0089]    Referring now to  FIG. 17 , connector strap  10  is secured to mandrel  5 ′ as in test configuration 2. For this measurement, base layer  22  is installed along the longitudinal portion of mandrel  5 ′. Thus, instead of back surface  13   d  being in direct contact with the surface of mandrel  5 ′, back surface  13   d  is in direct contact with base layer  22 . Base layer  22  is non-reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped in a single spiral around mandrel  5 ′ using a 50% overlap between successive wraps of the tape. As with test configuration 1, a first overwrap layer  23  (not visible) of non-reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape  20  was applied in a single overlapping spiral along body portion  11  and mandrel  5  from first catch  12  to second catch  14 , where each wrap of the tape overlaps the previous wrap by about 50%. Second overwrap layer  23   a  is heat shrink tubing  26  is applied over overwrap layer  23  and the corresponding portion of body portion  11  between first and second catches  12 ,  14 , base layer  22 , and mandrel  5 ′. A tensile force connected to connector  15  is applied axially downward as shown by arrow  35  at three inches per minute using the calibrated Chatillon LR30K materials testing machine. Attachment of connector strap  10  to mandrel  5 ′ in test configuration 2 failed at 231 lbs. of force as noted by connector strap  10  with overwrap layers  23 ,  23   a  sliding downward along base layer  22 . 
         [0090]    Referring now to  FIG. 18 , connector strap  10  is secured to mandrel  5 ′ as in test configuration 3, where connector strap is positioned for a force applied substantially perpendicularly to mandrel  5 ′. For this measurement, base layer  22  is installed along the longitudinal portion of mandrel  5 ′. Thus, back surface  13   d  is in direct contact with base layer  22 . Base layer  22  is non-reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped in a single spiral around mandrel  5 ′ using a 50% overlap between successive wraps of the tape. First overwrap layer  23  (not visible) of non-reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape is applied in a single overlapping spiral along body portion  11  and mandrel  5  from first catch  12  to second catch  14 , where each wrap of the tape overlaps the previous wrap by about 50%. Second overwrap layer  23   a  is heat shrink tubing  26  installed over overwrap layer  23  and the corresponding body portion  11 , base layer  22 , and mandrel  5 ′. Mandrel  5 ′ is held in a horizontal position and a tensile force connected to connector  15  is applied upward from connector  15  in a direction substantially perpendicular to mandrel  5 ′ as shown by arrow  36  at three inches per minute using the calibrated Chatillon LR30K materials testing machine. Attachment of connector strap  10  to mandrel  5 ′ in test configuration 3 failed at 429 lbs. of force as noted by connector strap  10  pulling through overwrap layer  23  and second overwrap layer  23   a.    
         [0091]    Test configurations 1-3 of  FIGS. 16-18 , respectively, are summarized in Table 2 below. Compared to reference measurements of  FIGS. 13-15  discussed above, test configuration 1 of  FIG. 16  increased from 80 lbs to 263 lbs; test configuration 2 of  FIG. 17  increased from 122 lbs to 231 lbs, and test configuration 3 of  FIG. 18  increased slightly from 427 lbs to 429 lbs. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 measurements for tethering methods shown in FIGS. 16-18. 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Second 
                 Failure 
               
               
                   
                 Base 
                   
                 overwrap 
                 force 
               
               
                 Configuration 
                 Layer 
                 Overwrap layer 
                 layer 
                 (lbs) 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Shrink 
                 263 
               
               
                 configuration 1 
                 self- 
                 self- 
                 tubing 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 silicone tape 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Shrink 
                 231 
               
               
                 configuration 2 
                 self- 
                 self- 
                 tubing 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 silicone tape 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Shrink 
                 429 
               
               
                 configuration 3 
                 self- 
                 self- 
                 tubing 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 silicone tape 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0092]    Referring now to  FIGS. 19-21 , test configurations 1-3 are repeated as above with additional variations in base layer  22 , overwrap layer  23 , and second overwrap layer  23   a  as noted. Base layer  22  is non-reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped in a single spiral around mandrel  5 ′ using a 50% overlap between successive wraps of the tape. Connector strap  10  is positioned with back surface  13   d  in direct contact with base layer  22 . Overwrap layer  23  is heat shrink tubing installed over body portion  11  between first and second catches  12 ,  14 . Tensile forces connected to connector  15  are applied as discussed above for reference measurements of  FIGS. 13-15 , respectively. As setup here, test configuration 1 ( FIG. 19 ) failed at 128 lbs., test configuration 2 ( FIG. 20 ) failed at 143 lbs., and test configuration 3 ( FIG. 21 ) failed at 264 lbs. 
         [0093]    Test configurations of  FIGS. 19-21  are summarized in Table 3 below. Compared to reference measurements of  FIGS. 13-15  discussed above, test configuration 1 of  FIG. 19  increased from 80 lbs. to 128 lbs.; test configuration 2 of FIG.  20  increased from 122 lbs. to 143 lbs., and test configuration 3 of  FIG. 15  decreased from 427 lbs. to 264 lbs. The decrease in failure force for test configuration 3 is likely due to the difference in materials for the overwrap layer  23  and that the tests of  FIG. 21  did not have a second overwrap layer as was the case for  FIG. 15 . 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 3 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 measurements for tethering methods shown in FIGS. 19-21. 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Second 
                 Failure 
               
               
                   
                 Base 
                   
                 overwrap 
                 force 
               
               
                 Configuration 
                 Layer 
                 Overwrap layer 
                 layer 
                 (lbs) 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 None 
                 128 
               
               
                 configuration 1 
                 self- 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 None 
                 143 
               
               
                 configuration 2 
                 self- 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 None 
                 264 
               
               
                 configuration 3 
                 self- 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0094]    Referring now to  FIGS. 22-24 , test configurations 1-3 are repeated as above with additional variations in base layer  22 , overwrap layer  23 , and second overwrap layer  23   a  as noted. Base layer  22  is non-reinforced or reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped in a single spiral around mandrel  5 ′ using a 50% overlap between successive wraps of the tape. Connector strap  10  is positioned with back surface  13   d  in direct contact with base layer  22 . Overwrap layer  23  is either non-reinforced or reinforced self-amalgamating tape wrapped with geometry. That is, overwrap layer  23  is wrapped with four 100% overlapping revolutions resulting in built-up region  22   a  adjacent first catch  12 , then in a spiral with 50% overlap towards second catch  14 , then wrapped four 100% overlapping revolutions that result in another built-up region  22   a  adjacent second catch  14 . Second overwrap layer  23   a  is heat shrink tubing applied over overwrap layer  23  and body portion  11  between first and second catches  12 ,  14 . Tensile forces connected to connector  15  are applied as discussed above for reference measurements of  FIGS. 13-15 , respectively. 
         [0095]    Test configurations of  FIGS. 22-24  are summarized in Table 4 below. Compared to reference measurements of  FIGS. 13-15  discussed above, test configuration 1 of  FIG. 22  increased from 80 lbs. to 140 lbs. or 263 lbs.; test configuration 2 of  FIG. 23  increased from 122 lbs. to 192 lbs. or 231 lbs., and test configuration 3 of  FIG. 24  decreased from 427 lbs. to 384 lbs. or increased slightly to 429 lbs. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 4 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 measurements for tethering methods shown in FIGS. 22-24. 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Second 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Base 
                   
                 overwrap 
               
               
                 Configuration 
                 Layer 
                 Overwrap layer 
                 layer 
                 Failure force (lbs) 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Test 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 140 
               
               
                 configuration 1 
                 amalgamating 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 263 
               
               
                 configuration 1 
                 self- 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 218 
               
               
                 configuration 1 
                 self- 
                 self- 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 192 
               
               
                 configuration 2 
                 amalgamating 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 231 
               
               
                 configuration 2 
                 self- 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 231 
               
               
                 configuration 2 
                 self- 
                 self- 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 384 
               
               
                 configuration 3 
                 amalgamating 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 429 
               
               
                 configuration 3 
                 self- 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Shrink tubing 
                 288 
               
               
                 configuration 3 
                 self- 
                 self- 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0096]    Referring now to  FIGS. 25-27  test configurations 1-3 as discussed above, respectively, are repeated with additional variations on base layer  22 , overwrap layer  23 , and second overwrap layer  23   a . In one variation, base layer  22  is non-reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped in a single spiral along mandrel  5 ′ using a 50% overlap between successive wraps of the tape. Connector strap  10  is positioned with back surface  13   d  in direct contact with base layer  22 . Overwrap layer  23  is reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped with geometry. That is, the tape of overwrap layer  23  is wrapped with four 100% overlapping revolutions, resulting in built-up region  23   b  adjacent first catch  12 . Then, the tape continues in a spiral with 50% overlap towards second catch  14 . Finally, the tape is wrapped in four 100% overlapping revolutions to result in another built-up region  23   b  adjacent second catch  14 . 
         [0097]    In a second variation, no base layer  22  is present on mandrel  5 ′. Connector strap  10  is positioned with back surface  13   d  in direct contact with mandrel  5 ′. Overwrap layer is reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped with geometry—four 100% overlapping revolutions adjacent first catch  12  with built-up region  23   b , then in a spiral with 50% overlap towards second catch  14 , then wrapped four 100% overlapping revolutions adjacent second catch  14  resulting in a second built-up region  23   b  adjacent second catch  14 . 
         [0098]    In a third variation, base layer  22  is reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped in a single spiral along mandrel  5 ′ using a 50% overlap between successive wraps of the tape. Connector strap  10  is positioned with back surface  13   d  in direct contact with base layer  22 . Overwrap layer is reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped with geometry—with four 100% overlapping revolutions adjacent first catch  12 , then in a spiral with 50% overlap towards second catch  14 , then four 100% overlapping revolutions adjacent second catch  14 . 
         [0099]    In a fourth variation of test configuration 1 only, base layer  22  is Renfew friction hockey tape wrapped in a single spiral along mandrel  5 ′ using a 50% overlap between successive wraps of the tape. Overwrap layer is reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped with geometry—with four 100% overlapping revolutions adjacent first catch  12 , then in a spiral with 50% overlap towards second catch  14 , then four 100% overlapping revolutions adjacent second catch  14 . 
         [0100]    In a fifth variation of test configuration 1 only, base layer  22  is Easton pro-tack polyurethane cushioned grip tape wrapped in a single spiral along mandrel  5 ′ using a 50% overlap between successive wraps of the tape. Overwrap layer is reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped with geometry—with four 100% overlapping revolutions adjacent first catch  12 , then in a spiral with 50% overlap towards second catch  14 , then four 100% overlapping revolutions adjacent second catch  14 . 
         [0101]    In a sixth variation of test configuration 1 only, base layer  22  is DSP Lizard Skins durasoft polymer bat tape wrapped in a single spiral along mandrel  5 ′ using a 50% overlap between successive wraps of the tape. Overwrap layer is reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape wrapped with geometry—with four 100% overlapping revolutions adjacent first catch  12 , then in a spiral with 50% overlap towards second catch  14 , then four 100% overlapping revolutions adjacent second catch  14 . 
         [0102]    For these measurements with test configurations shown in  FIGS. 27-29 , failure of the tethering method is noted by either the connector strap  10  sliding relative to mandrel  5 ′ (e.g., along mandrel  5 ′ or along base layer  22 ) or connector strap  10  tearing through overwrap layer  23 . Table 5 below summarizes the results of failure of the attachment method with various base layers  22  and overwrap layer  23  with geometry as discussed above for  FIGS. 25-27 . 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 5 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 measurements for tethering methods shown in FIGS. 25-27. 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Fail- 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Second 
                 ure 
               
               
                   
                 Base 
                   
                 overwrap 
                 force 
               
               
                 Configuration 
                 Layer 
                 Overwrap layer 
                 layer 
                 (lbs) 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 none 
                 319 
               
               
                 configuration 1 
                 self- 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 none 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 none 
                 166 
               
               
                 configuration 1 
                   
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                   
                 tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 none 
                 187 
               
               
                 configuration 1 
                 amalgamating 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Renfew friction 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 none 
                 151 
               
               
                 configuration 1 
                 hockey tape 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                   
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Easton ProTack 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 none 
                 229 
               
               
                 configuration 1 
                 polyurethane 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 cushioned grip 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                 tape 
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 DSP 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 none 
                 284 
               
               
                 configuration 1 
                 LizardSkins 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 durasoft 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                 polymer bat 
                 geometry 
               
               
                   
                 tape 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 none 
                 142 
               
               
                 configuration 2 
                 self- 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 none 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 none 
                 119 
               
               
                 configuration 2 
                   
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                   
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 none 
                 162 
               
               
                 configuration 2 
                 amalgamating 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 none 
                 294 
               
               
                 configuration 3 
                 self- 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 amalgamating 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 none 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 none 
                 274 
               
               
                 configuration 3 
                   
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                   
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 Reinforced self- 
                 none 
                 213 
               
               
                 configuration 3 
                 amalgamating 
                 amalgamating 
               
               
                   
                 silicone tape 
                 silicone tape with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 geometry 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0103]    Referring now to  FIGS. 28 and 29 , a connector strap  10  is made with webbing  13  forming a closed webbing loop  17  and including shrink tubing  26 , where shrink tubing  26  is heat shrink tubing. Base layer  22  is applied on mandrel  5 ′, which is a 1.05″ bare steel cylindrical mandrel. In  FIG. 28 , test configuration 4, base layer  22  is applied without geometry. That is, non-reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape is wrapped in a single spiral around mandrel  5 ′ using a 50% overlap between successive wraps of the tape. In  FIG. 29 , test configuration 5, base layer  22  is applied with geometry. That is, non-reinforced self-amalgamating silicone tape is wrapped with four 100% overlapping revolutions to result in built-up region  22   a , then in a spiral with 50% overlap along mandrel  5 ′ a predefined distance of about one inch, then wrapped four 100% overlapping revolutions adjacent second catch  14  to result in another built-up region  22   a . A portion  17   a  of closed webbing loop  17  is aligned with and positioned in direct contact with base layer  22 . Portion  17   a  of closed webbing loop  17  extends along a non-linear path over base layer  22  and substantially takes the shape of base layer  22  as overwrap layer  23  is installed. Overwrap layer  23  is heat shrink tubing  26  installed over portion  17   a  of closed webbing loop  17  and base layer  22 . Curves  17   c ,  17   d  of closed webbing loop  17  are catches of connector strap  10  that engage overwrap layer  23 . A tensile force connected to connector  15  is applied axially downward from connector  15  and mandrel  5 ′ as shown by arrow  37  at three inches per minute using the calibrated Chatillon LR30K materials testing machine. Failure of the tethering method is noted when connector strap  10  with shrink tubing  26  slides along base layer  22 . Table 6 below summarizes the results of failure of the attachment method for a base layer  22  with and without geometry as illustrated in  FIGS. 28-29 . 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 6 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 measurements for tethering methods shown in FIGS. 28-29. 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Second 
                 Failure 
               
               
                   
                 Base 
                 Overwrap 
                 overwrap 
                 force 
               
               
                 Configuration 
                 Layer 
                 layer 
                 layer 
                 (lbs) 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced self- 
                 Shrink 
                 none 
                 203 
               
               
                 configuration 4 
                 amalgamating tape 
                 tubing 
               
               
                   
                 without geometry 
               
               
                 Test 
                 Non-reinforced self- 
                 Shrink 
                 none 
                 247 
               
               
                 configuration 5 
                 amalgamating tape 
                 tubing 
               
               
                   
                 with geometry 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0104]    As noted by the experiments above for various test configurations, using a base layer  22  between connector strap  10  and implement  5  (e.g., mandrel  5 ′) significantly increases the force required to cause failure of the attachment method when a force is applied in the axial direction. The data above also indicate that installing base layer  22  or overwrap layer  23  with geometry increases the strength of the attachment of connector strap  10  to implement  5  before failure as compared to base layer  22  or overwrap layer  23  without geometry. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 7 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 drop tests with connector strap made of flat bungee cord or nylon webbing 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Weight of 
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Dropped 
                 Peak Force (lb f. ): 
                 Peak Force (lb f. ): 
               
               
                 Configuration 
                 Mandrel 
                 Nylon Webbing 
                 Flat Bungee 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Connector strap of 
                  8 lbs. 
                 387 
                 194 
                 (1 st  drop) 
               
               
                 FIG. 4 
                   
                   
                 228 
                 (2 nd  drop) 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 235 
                 (3 rd  drop) 
               
               
                 Connector strap of 
                 12 lbs. 
                 504 
                 289 
                 (1 st  drop) 
               
               
                 FIG. 4 
                   
                   
                 332 
                 (2 nd  drop) 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 358 
                 (3 rd  drop) 
               
               
                 Connector strap of 
                 15 lbs. 
                 611 
                 336 
                 (1 st  drop) 
               
               
                 FIG. 4 
                   
                   
                 383 
                 (2 nd  drop) 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 412 
                 (3 rd  drop) 
               
               
                 Connector strap of 
                 20 lbs. 
                 665 
                 411 
                 (1 st  drop) 
               
               
                 FIG. 4 
                   
                   
                 448 
                 (2 nd  drop) 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Fail 
                 (3 rd  drop) 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0105]    The data of Table 7 is from drop tests using a tapered mandrel with a weight from eight to twenty pounds for the purpose of evaluating the peak force of the drop when the connector strap is constructed with nylon webbing or with stretchable webbing, such as flat bungee cord. A connector strap as shown in  FIG. 4  is attached to the tapered end of the mandrel using heat shrink tubing. No base layer was installed on the mandrel. The connector strap is made with about six to nine inches of webbing. In the case of stretchable webbing, the webbing is ¾″ Secure-Tite flat bungee cord. For these drop tests, a 4-foot tether made of 1″-wide nylon webbing is connected to the connector strap at one end and connected to a load cell at the other end. The mandrel is dropped from 48 inches above the load cell for a total drop distance of 96 inches. The peak force of the dropped mandrel is measured by the load cell. 
         [0106]    The data show in all cases that the measured peak force is reduced when the connector strap is made of flat bungee cord instead of nylon webbing. For an 8 lb. mandrel, the peak force was reduced by about 50% from 387 lb f . to 194 lb f . when flat bungee cord is used to make the connector strap instead of nylon webbing. For a 12 lb. mandrel, the peak force was reduced by about 43% from 504 lb f . to 289 lb f . when flat bungee cord is used to make the connector strap instead of nylon webbing. For a 15 lb. mandrel, the peak force was reduced by about 45% from 611 lb f . to 336 lb f . when flat bungee cord is used to make the connector strap instead of nylon webbing. For a 20 lb. mandel, the peak force was reduced by about 41% from 665 lb f . to 411 lb f . when flat bungee cord is used to make the connector strap instead of nylon webbing. As such, when the hand tool is tethered to the user, the drop forces felt by the user are reduced. Also, failure may be reduced in other components of a tethering apparatus when the connector strap  10  is made of a stretchable webbing instead of a substantially inelastic webbing made of nylon or the like. The reduction in peak force allows the user in some cases to tether a heavier hand tool without exceeding a predetermined peak force if the hand tool is dropped. 
         [0107]    The data also show that repeated drops result in successively higher peak forces when connector strap  10  is made of flat bungee cord. This trend is believed to be due to partial failure or breakage of some elastic strands in the bungee cord on each drop, therefore resulting in the bungee cord connector strap having a reduced ability to counter and mitigate the drop forces. 
         [0108]    Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described herein, the above description is merely illustrative. Further modification of the invention herein disclosed will occur to those skilled in the respective arts and all such modifications are deemed to be within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.