Patent Publication Number: US-2021169206-A1

Title: Buckle with removable multi-tool

Description:
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/440,841, filed Jun. 13, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/471,437, filed Mar. 28, 2017, issued on Jun. 18, 2019, as U.S. Pat. No. 10,321,752, which claims benefit of provisional U.S. application Ser. No. 62/314,289, filed Mar. 28, 2016, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety and should be considered a part of this specification. Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Field 
     Certain embodiments discussed herein relate to a buckle assembly, and more particularly, to belt buckle that houses a multi-tool. 
     Description of the Related Art 
     A multi tool is a tool that includes a variety of different tools. Multi tools can include a group of tools that are useful for certain sports (e.g., cycling, camping). For example, a multi tool for cycling can include a group of wrenches that have different sizes and configurations (e.g., flathead, hex) to match the differently sized bolts on a bike. A camping pocketknife can include a folding blade as well as other tools that can be handy for camping (e.g., a screwdriver, a can opener, a pair of tweezers). Foldable multi tools are known to provide compact storage for a group of tools. In a foldable multi tool, the individual tools of the multi tool can pivot between a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration. An individual tool of the multi tool can be used in the unfolded configuration and then moved to the folded configuration for storage. 
     A problem with multi tools is that they are often carried loose, which can result in loss of the multi tool. Multi tools can be stored at the hip of a user in a case that is threaded onto a belt. A problem with this style of multi tool is that it protrudes from the belt, making the multi tool susceptible to becoming entangled on items that brush past the user&#39;s body. What is needed is a multi-tool that can be stored in a secure and convenient way. 
     SUMMARY 
     The systems, methods and devices described herein have innovative aspects, no single one of which is indispensable or solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of the claims, some of the advantageous features will now be summarized. 
     In some embodiments, a multi tool buckle assembly is disclosed. The buckle assembly includes a buckle and a multi tool insert. The buckle includes a receptacle. The multi tool insert is removably securable within the receptacle. The multi tool insert includes a tool body that has at least one articulating tool element. 
     The buckle assembly of the preceding paragraph can further include one or more of the following features: The multi tool insert further includes a tool sleeve that is removably securable to the tool body. The tool sleeve includes one or more tool features. The tool sleeve and the tool body include a detent arrangement that inhibits unintentional separation of the tool sleeve and the tool body. The tool sleeve and the tool body include at least one pair of cooperating magnetic elements that inhibit unintentional separation of the tool sleeve and the tool body. The tool sleeve includes a plate portion that extends along one side of the tool body. The tool sleeve further includes a hook portion that extends around an end portion of the tool body. The buckle includes a biasing element that engages the multi tool insert to inhibit unintentional separation of the multi tool insert from the buckle. The buckle includes a base and a cover that are coupled to one another by one or more fasteners, with the fasteners also coupling the biasing element to the buckle. The buckle includes a base and a cover that are coupled to one another. The buckle operates on a cam lock principle. The multi tool insert includes tool elements and tool features adapted for use in one or more of the following applications: snowboarding, skateboarding and bicycling. 
     In some embodiments, a multi tool buckle assembly is disclosed. The buckle assembly includes a buckle and a multi tool insert. The buckle defines an envelope sized to receive the multi tool insert. The multi tool insert is removably securable within the envelope. The multi tool insert includes a tool body and a tool sleeve that is removably securable to the tool body. Each of the tool body and the tool sleeve includes a tool element or tool feature. 
     The buckle assembly of the preceding paragraph can further include one or more of the following features: The tool sleeve and the tool body include a detent arrangement that inhibits unintentional separation of the tool sleeve and the tool body. The tool sleeve and the tool body include at least one pair of cooperating magnetic elements adapted to inhibit unintentional separation of the tool sleeve and the tool body. The tool sleeve includes a plate portion that extends along one side of the tool body. The tool sleeve further includes a hook portion that extends around an end portion of the tool body. The buckle includes a biasing element that engages the multi tool insert to inhibit unintentional separation of the multi tool insert from the buckle. The buckle comprises a base and a cover that are coupled to one another by one or more fasteners, with the fasteners also coupling the biasing element to the buckle. The buckle includes a base and a cover that are coupled to one another. The buckle operates on a cam lock principle. The multi tool insert includes tool elements and tool features adapted for use in one or more of the following applications: snowboarding, skateboarding and bicycling. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings. 
         FIG. 1A  is a front perspective view of a multi tool buckle assembly. 
         FIG. 1B  is the multi tool buckle assembly of  FIG. 1A  with the multi tool insert removed from the buckle. 
         FIG. 2A  is a top perspective view of a buckle of a multi tool buckle assembly. 
         FIG. 2B  is an exploded view of the buckle of  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 2C  is a top view of the buckle of  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 2D  is a side view of the buckle of  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 3A  is a side view of a multi tool insert. 
         FIG. 3B  is a rear view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 3A . 
         FIG. 4A  is a rear perspective view of a multi tool insert. 
         FIG. 4B  is a front exploded view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 4A , showing the multi tool body removed from the sleeve. 
         FIG. 4C  is a side view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 4B . 
         FIG. 4D  is a rear view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 4C . 
         FIG. 4E  is a front view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 4C . 
         FIG. 4F  is a side view of the body of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 4B , showing the articulating tools of the multi tool insert. 
         FIG. 5A  is a rear perspective view of a multi tool insert. 
         FIG. 5B  is a front exploded view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 5A , showing the multi tool body removed from the sleeve. 
         FIG. 5C  is a side view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 5B . 
         FIG. 5D  is a rear view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 5C . 
         FIG. 5E  is a front view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 5C . 
         FIG. 5F  is a side view of the body of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 5B , showing the articulating tools of the multi tool insert. 
         FIG. 6A  is a rear perspective view of a multi tool insert. 
         FIG. 6B  is a front exploded view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 6A , showing the multi tool body removed from the sleeve. 
         FIG. 6C  is a side view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 6B . 
         FIG. 6D  is a rear view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 6C . 
         FIG. 7A  is a rear perspective view of a multi tool insert. 
         FIG. 7B  is a front exploded view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 7A , showing the multi tool body removed from the sleeve. 
         FIG. 7C  is a side view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 7B . 
         FIG. 7D  is a rear view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 7C . 
         FIG. 7E  is a front view of the multi tool insert of  FIG. 7C . 
         FIG. 8A  is a front perspective view of a multi tool buckle assembly. 
         FIG. 8B  is the multi tool buckle assembly of  FIG. 8A  with the multi tool insert removed from the buckle. 
         FIG. 8C  is a rear view of the buckle of  FIG. 8B . 
         FIG. 8D  is a front perspective view of the multi tool buckle assembly of  FIG. 8A , showing the shield removed from the cover of the buckle. 
         FIG. 8E  is a rear perspective view of the cover of  FIG. 8B . 
         FIG. 9  is a front perspective view of a multi tool buckle assembly having a strap mount. 
         FIG. 10  is a front perspective view of a multi tool buckle assembly having a wall mount. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Embodiments of systems, components and methods of assembly and manufacture will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like numerals refer to like or similar elements throughout. Although several embodiments, examples and illustrations are disclosed below, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the inventions described herein extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments, examples and illustrations, and can include other uses of the inventions and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. The terminology used in the description presented herein is not intended to be interpreted in any limited or restrictive manner simply because it is being used in conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific embodiments of the inventions. In addition, embodiments of the inventions can comprise several novel features and no single feature is solely responsible for its desirable attributes or is essential to practicing the inventions herein described. 
     Certain terminology may be used in the following description for the purpose of reference only, and thus are not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “above” and “below” refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as “front,” “back,” “left,” “right,” “rear,” and “side” describe the orientation and/or location of portions of the components or elements within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear by reference to the text and the associated drawings describing the components or elements under discussion. Moreover, terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” and so on may be used to describe separate components. Such terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. 
     Overview 
       FIGS. 1A and 1B  show a perspective view showing a front, top and side of a non-limiting, illustrative embodiment of a multi tool buckle assembly  100 . As described in more detail below, embodiments of the multi tool buckle assembly  100  disclosed herein relate to a strap or belt buckle  200  that houses a compact multi tool insert  300 .  FIG. 1A  shows the multi tool buckle assembly  100  with the multi tool insert  300  seated in the buckle  200 .  FIG. 1B  shows the multi tool buckle assembly  100  with the multi tool insert  300  removed from the buckle  200 . As shown in  FIG. 1B , a user can slide the multi tool insert  300  along a longitudinal axis  10  to remove the multi tool insert  300  from the buckle  200 . 
     The multi tool insert  300  is removable and, in at least some configurations, can be easily accessible at the waist of the user or at another location. As discussed below, the multi tool buckle assembly  100  can include a retention mechanism that is adapted so that the removable multi tool insert  300  stays secure inside the buckle  200  even with excessive body motion. The multi tool insert  300  can include one or more tools. A user can remove the multi tool insert  300  from the buckle  200  to allow the user to use the tools of the multi tool insert  300 . The multi tool insert  300  can be stored in the buckle  200 . A user can store the multi tool insert  300  in the buckle  200  when the user does not need to use the tools of the multi tool insert  300 . 
     The buckle  200  can be any type of buckle for a belt or other type of strap. The buckle  200  can couple a belt or strap to itself to create a loop or can couple strap portions to one another. The buckle  200  functionality can be provided by any suitable arrangement, such as a cam lock mechanism, a pin or post-in-hole arrangement or a snap-fit arrangement, for example and without limitation. The multi-tool insert  300  can include one or more articulating (e.g., foldable) tool elements. In some configurations, the multi-tool insert  300  comprises a sleeve that receives a body of the multi-tool. The sleeve can include tool features, as discussed in more detail below. 
     Buckle 
       FIGS. 2A-2D  show the buckle  200  of the buckle assembly  100  shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2D , the buckle  200  is a 2-piece cam style design. However, as described above, other buckle types can be used. A conventional woven or leather strap can pass over itself and clamp securely shut.  FIG. 2A  is a perspective view showing a front, top and side of the buckle  200 .  FIG. 2B  shows an exploded view of the buckle  200  shown in  FIG. 2A .  FIG. 2C  illustrates a top view of the buckle  200  shown in  FIG. 2A .  FIG. 2D  illustrates a side view of the buckle  200  shown in  FIG. 2A . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2B , the buckle  200  can include a base plate  202  that is adjacent to the user&#39;s body and contains a common tri-glide pass through  204  (e.g., three openings) for the strap to accommodate different waist sizing. The buckle  200  can include a pivoting tool base  206  and a tool cover  208 . The tool base  206  can be connected to the tool cover  208 , as shown in  FIG. 2A . The pivoting tool base  206  can serve as the cam mechanism to clamp the strap. The tool base  206 , when connected to the tool cover  208 , can house the multi tool insert  300 , as described below. The cam action of the tool base  206  can be achieved by pivoting the tool base  206  relative to the base plate  202 . The tool base  206  can pivot by way of a bushing  210  and a dowel pin  212  that rotatably couple the tool base  206  to the base plate  202 . 
     The tool base  206  and the tool cover  208  can be held together by rivets  214 . As described below, the tool base  206  and the tool cover  208  can form an envelope that stores the multi tool insert  300 . As shown in  FIG. 1A , the multi tool insert  300  can be stored in the space between the tool base  206  and the tool cover  208 . In at least some configurations, the multi tool insert  300  can only be inserted into the buckle  200  in one direction. As shown in  FIG. 2B , the tool base  206  can include a hard stop  216  (e.g., tab) that prohibits the multi tool insert  300  from exiting the end of the tool base  206  that has the hard stop  216 . In the illustrated embodiment, the hard stop  216  is at the end opposite of the pivot formed by the bushing  210  and the dowel pin  212 , with the multi tool insert  300  being removed from the buckle  200  by sliding the multi tool insert  300  away from the hard stop  216 . In some embodiments, the hard stop  216  is at the same end as the pivot formed by the bushing  210  and the dowel pin  212 , with the multi tool insert  300  being removed from the buckle  200  by sliding the multi tool insert  300  away from the pivot formed by the bushing  210  and the dowel pin  212 . 
     The buckle  200  can include a spring clip  218  that inhibits or prevents the multi tool insert  300  from disengaging from the buckle  200  as a result of normal forces encountered during sport applications, or other intended applications. However, the user can manually overcome the spring clip  218  tension with finger pressure applied to the multi tool insert  300  opposite where the tool  300  enters the tool cover  208 , such as beside the hard stop  216 . The tool cover  208  can include a lever  220  opposite the pivot end for opening and closing of the cam mechanism. The buckle  200  can be sized to accommodate, for example, a  1 . 5 ″ wide belt that is substantial enough to handle the weight of the multi tool buckle assembly  100  but narrow enough to fit thru standard apparel belt loops. 
     Multi Tool Insert and Mounting Platform 
     Several example tool combinations are illustrated herein for different sport applications. However, the multi tool insert  300  can be designed for other sports, activities or uses, as well. A generic multi tool insert  300  (or a dimensional envelope thereof) is illustrated in  FIGS. 3A and 3B .  FIG. 3A  is a side view of the multi tool insert  300 .  FIG. 3B  is a rear view of the multi tool insert shown in  FIG. 3A . For the purposes of describing the tool insert  300 , the front face of the multi tool insert  300  is taken to be the face of the tool  300  that faces away from the base plate  202  when the multi tool insert  300  is seated in the buckle  200 . In other words, the rear face of the multi tool insert  300  is interposed between the base plate  202  and the front face of the multi tool insert  300  when the multi tool insert  300  is seated in the buckle  200 . 
     The multi tool insert  300  can include a tool body  302  and a tool sleeve  304 . As described in more detail below, the tool body  302  can be inserted into the tool sleeve  304 , as shown in  FIG. 3A . The tool sleeve  304  can cover at least a portion of the tool body  302 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3A , the tool sleeve  304  covers the rear face of the tool body  302  to a greater extent than it does the front face of the tool body  302 . In some configurations, the multi tool insert  300  has allowable dimensions of 57 mm×34.2 mm×9 mm to fit into the buckle  200 . The thickness of the multi tool insert  300  does not have to be uniform because in certain arrangements only about 75% of the outside face (e.g., the front face) of the multi tool insert  300  is inserted into the buckle  200 , as shown in the illustrated arrangement of  FIG. 1A . The exposed thickness of the multi tool insert  300  can be thicker (e.g., 11.2 mm). 
       FIGS. 4A-4F  illustrate one example of a multi tool insert  300 A designed for snowboarding. The multi tool insert  300 A is similar to the multi tool insert  300  except as described differently below. The features of the multi tool insert  300 A can be combined or included with the multi tool insert  300  or any other embodiment discussed herein. In some configurations, the multi tool insert  300 A includes a tool body  302 A and a tool sleeve  304 A similar to the tool body  302  and the tool sleeve  304  except as described differently below. The tool body  302 A can include one or more tools  306 A. The tools  306 A can pivot on one of two available axes. The tools  306 A can be attached to the tool body  302 A by a tool pivot  310 A. In the illustrated embodiment, only one tool pivot  310 A is used to secure tools  306 A to the tool body  302 A. In some configurations, two tool pivots  310 A are used to secure tools  306 A to the tool body  302 A (see, e.g.,  FIG. 6B ). The tool sleeve  304 A can be removable from the tool body  302 A. The tool sleeve  304 A can include one or more through holes  308 A. The through hole  308 A can be sized to serve as a wrench. The tool sleeve  304 A can be used separate or in conjunction with the tool body  302 A, such as in a nut and bolt tightening situation. 
     Referring to  FIG. 4B , the tool body  302  can include a pair of spaced apart retention plates  312 A. The tools  306 A can be sandwiched and secured between the retention plates  312 A. The retention plates  312 A can include a retention feature that engages with the spring clip  218  of the buckle  200  (shown in  FIG. 2B ) so that the multi tool insert  300 A does not disengage during sport applications but can be manually removed with finger pressure. For example, the unique geometry of the face on the retention plates  312 A can be configured to interlock with the spring clip  218  of  FIG. 2B . In the illustrated arrangement, each of the retention plates  312 A defines a recessed portion that forms a shoulder  314 A near the pivot  310 A, as shown in  FIG. 4B . The spring clip  218  can extend into the recessed portion and resist the shoulder  314 A moving past the spring clip  218 . The shoulder  314 A can be forced past the spring clip  218  when a user applies finger pressure to the multi tool insert  300 A, as described previously. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 4B , the tool sleeve  304 A can include a post  316 A and magnets  317 A to properly index with the tool body  302 A. The post  316 A can engage a slot  318 A in the retention plate  312 A to function as a detent arrangement and secure the tool body  302 A to the tool sleeve  304 A against unintentional separation. The detent arrangement can resist or prohibit shear forces from separating the tool body  302 A from the tool sleeve  304 A when the tool insert  300 A is slid into or out of the buckle  200 . In the illustrated arrangement, each retention plate  312 A includes a pair of slots  318 A such that the tool body  302 A can be assembled to the tool sleeve  304 A in four different orientations. The tool body  302 A and the tool sleeve  304 A can interlock in any possible combination or orientation so long as the long axis of tool body  302 A and the tool sleeve  304 A are aligned with one another. However, in the illustrated arrangement, the multi tool insert  300 A and the buckle  200  can only interlock in one possible combination with the thickest end of the multi tool insert  300 A positioned outside of the tool cover  208 , as shown in  FIG. 1A . 
     As mentioned,  FIGS. 4A-4F  illustrate one example of a multi tool insert  300 A that is designed for skiing or snowboarding. This tool  300 A can include a #3 Phillips screwdriver  31  to secure binding/board interface bolts. The #3 Phillips screwdriver  31  can be used to tighten a ski binding release or to tighten retention bolts. In some variants, the #3 Phillips screwdriver  31  can be used to fix bindings of a snowboard. When used in conjunction with the tool sleeve  304 A, the #3 Phillips  31  can be locked at 90 degrees. As shown in  FIG. 4E , the tool sleeve  304 A can have a stop  320 A that limits the rotation of the #3 Phillips  31 . The tool sleeve  304 A can include a sharp edge cutting tool  319 A. The multi tool insert  300 A can include other tools useful for servicing binding components common in snowboarding and skiing. For example, the multi tool insert  300 A can include a #2 Phillips  32 , a 4 mm hex bit  33 , a slotted screwdriver  34 , an 8 mm box wrench  35 , and a 10 mm box wrench  36 . The multi tool insert  300 A can include a flat file  37  that can be used to sharpen edges when used in conjunction with the locking tool sleeve  304 A. 
       FIGS. 5A-5F  illustrate one example of a multi tool insert  300 B that is designed for skateboarding. The multi tool insert  300 B is similar to the multi tool insert  300 A except as described differently below. The features of the multi tool insert  300 B can be combined or included with the multi tool insert  300 A or any other embodiment discussed herein. The multi tool insert  300 B can include a #2 Phillips screwdriver  32 , a slotted screwdriver  34 , and a  4 mm hex bit  33 , which are commonly used for deck mounting hardware. The tool sleeve  304 B can include a 9/16″ open end wrench  38 , a ½″ open end wrench  39 , and a ⅜″ open end wrench  40  for truck, wheel, and truck mounting nuts. The multi tool insert  300 B can include a round file  41 , which can be used for revealing the deck edge when new grip tape is applied. When used in conjunction with the recessed sleeve blade  42  of the tool sleeve  304 B, grip tape can be applied to a new board in the field with the same quality as from a shop. 
       FIGS. 6A-6D  illustrate one example of a multi tool insert  300 C that is designed for cycling. The multi tool insert  300 C is similar to the multi tool insert  300 B except as described differently below. The features of the multi tool insert  300 C can be combined or included with the multi tool insert  300 B or any other embodiment discussed herein. As shown in  FIG. 6B , the multi tool insert  300 C can include two pivots  310 C at opposing ends of the tool body  302 C. Each of the two pivots  310 C can support a set of the articulating tools  306 C of the multi tool insert  300 C. The multi tool insert  300 C can include hex bits  44  that cover the range of 2 mm thru 6mm (e.g., 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm and 6 mm) that will fit most bike components. The multi tool insert  300 C can include a #2 Phillips  32  and a slotted screwdriver  34  for common derailleur adjustments. The multi tool insert  300 C can include Torx T10 and T25 bits,  36  and  38 , respectively, for clamp type shifters, levers, and braking components that require higher tension. The multi tool insert  300 C can include box wrenches  45  (e.g., 8 mm, 10 mm and 15 mm) that are commonly sized for some BMX axles and seat/reflector clamps and collars. The multi tool insert  300 C can include a tire lever  48  for removing stubborn tires. The multi tool insert  300 C can include several sizes (e.g., two) of spoke wrenches  49 . In some configurations, the multi tool insert  300 C includes a bottle opener  50 . 
       FIGS. 7A-7D  illustrate a multi tool insert  300 D that is similar to the multi tool insert  300 A except as described differently below. The features of the multi tool insert  300 D can be combined or included with the multi tool insert  300 A or any other embodiment discussed herein. As shown in  FIG. 7B , the tool body  302 D can include articulating tools  306 A that are secured by a pivot  310 D at an end of the tool body  302 D. The tool sleeve  304 D can slide onto the opposing end of the tool body  302 D so that the tool sleeve  304 D wraps around the end of the tool body  302 D that is opposite of the pivot  310 D that secures the articulating tools  306 D. 
       FIGS. 8A and 8B  show a top view of a non-limiting, illustrative embodiment of a multi tool buckle assembly  100 A that is similar to the multi tool buckle assembly  100  except as described differently below. The features of the multi tool buckle assembly  100 A can be combined or included with the multi tool buckle assembly  100  or any other embodiment discussed herein. The multi tool buckle assembly  100 A can include a buckle  200 A that is similar to the buckle  200  except as described differently below. As shown in  FIG. 8A , the buckle  200 A can receive the multi tool insert  300  or any other embodiment of the multi tool insert  300  discussed herein. 
     The buckle  200 A can include a base plate  202 A and a cover  208 A that define a receptacle sized to receive the multi tool insert  300 , as described previously. The buckle  200 A can include a hard stop  216 A that prevents or inhibits the multi tool insert  300  from exiting the buckle  200 A at the end having the hard stop  216 A. As shown in  FIG. 8A , the buckle  200 A can include features for attaching the buckle  200 A to a belt or a strap. In the illustrated embodiment, one end of the base plate  202 A includes a pass through  204 A and the other end includes a clasp  205 A. The clasp  205 A can be hook-shaped and define an elongated slot configured to receive a corresponding attachment feature (e.g., a loop of material). In other configurations, the clasp  205 A can be configured to deflect to mate the clasp  205 A to a corresponding attachment feature (e.g., a bar or post). Other suitable releasable connection arrangements can also be used, such as a snap-fit arrangement, for example. 
       FIG. 8C  shows a bottom view of the buckle  200 A with the base plate  202 A illustrated as being transparent in order to more clearly show the spring clip  218 A that extends medially inward from a lateral side of the cover  208 A. The spring clip  218 A can be similar to the spring clip  218  except as described differently below. The spring clip  218 A can form a unitary structure with the cover  208 A. For example, in the illustrated embodiment the spring clip  218 A has a base portion that extends from, and is unitary with, a side wall of the cover  208 A, with the other three sides of the spring clip  218 A being surrounded by a U-shaped slot. The spring clip  218 A can be flexible, allowing the spring clip  218 A to bend at the base portion and deflect toward or away from the opposing lateral side of the cover  208 A. The inside surface of the lateral side of the cover  208 A can have a groove  209 A. The groove  209 A can be sized to receive the edge of the base plate  202 A, allowing the cover  208 A to be attached to the base plate  202 A as shown in  FIG. 8C . 
     The spring clip  218 A can have a leading face  222 A that faces toward the hard stop  216 A. The spring clip  218 A can have a trailing face  224 A that faces away from the hard stop  216 A. When the multi tool insert  300  is secured inside the buckle  200 A, the spring clip  218 A can rest against the recessed portion of the retention plates  312  (shown in  FIG. 8B  and described above). The leading face  222 A can prevent or inhibit the shoulder region  314  of the retention plate  312  from moving past the spring clip  218 A, thereby preventing or inhibiting the multi tool insert  300  from dislodging from the buckle  200 A during sport applications. As mentioned, the spring clip  218 A can be flexible, allowing the shoulder region  314  to force past the spring clip  218 A by deflecting the spring clip  218 A away from the sagittal plane of the buckle  200 A. The shoulder region  314  can be forced past the spring clip  218 A by manually applying finger pressure to the multi tool insert  300 , as described previously. 
       FIG. 8D  illustrates that the buckle  200 A can include a shield  226 A. The shield  226 A can fit onto the cover  208 A and cover the spring clip  218 A. The shield  226 A can be removable. In some embodiments, the shield  226 A can provide an exchangeable cosmetic feature that allows a user to change the appearance of the multi tool buckle assembly  100 A. 
       FIG. 8E  illustrates a bottom view of the cover  208 A. As shown in  FIG. 8E , the cover  208 A can include a pair of spring clips  218 A, with each spring clip  218 A of the pair disposed on a lateral wall opposite of the other spring clip  218 A. The spring clips  218 A can be biased to extend toward one another, as shown in  FIG. 8E . Advantageously, the illustrated buckle assembly  100 A of  FIGS. 8A-8E  is of a relatively simple construction that can be manufactured in a cost-effective manner. The components of the buckle assembly  100 A can be made from any suitable material or combination of materials, such as metal or plastic, by any suitable process or processes, such as machining, stamping, forging, molding, etc. The assembly of the cover  208 A to the base plate  202 A is also simple and, in at least some embodiments, can be accomplished without the use of tools. The assembly of the cover  208 A to the base  202 A can be a one-time (permanent) attachment or to the cover  208 A can be removable. 
       FIG. 9  shows a top view of a non-limiting, illustrative embodiment of a multi tool buckle assembly  100 B that is similar to the multi tool buckle assembly  100 A except as described differently below. The features of the multi tool buckle assembly  100 B can be combined or included with the multi tool buckle assembly  100 A or any other embodiment discussed herein. The multi tool buckle assembly  100 B can include a buckle  200 B that is similar to the buckle  200 A except as described differently below. As shown in  FIG. 9 , the buckle  200 B can receive the multi tool insert  300  or any other embodiment of the multi tool insert  300  discussed herein. The multi tool buckle assembly  100 B can include a tool base  202 B that is adapted to be mounted on a strap. For example, the tool base  202 B can include a clasp  205 B disposed on either end of the tool base  202 B. In some arrangements, the clasps  205 B can be adapted to allow a strap to be attached to each clasp  205 B. The multi tool buckle assembly  100 B can include a tool cover  208 B and a hard stop  216 B, as described above. 
       FIG. 10  shows a top view of a non-limiting, illustrative embodiment of a multi tool buckle assembly  100 C that is similar to the multi tool buckle assembly  100 B except as described differently below. The features of the multi tool buckle assembly  100 C can be combined or included with the multi tool buckle assembly  100 B or any other embodiment discussed herein. The multi tool buckle assembly  100 C can include a buckle  200 C that is similar to the buckle  200 B except as described differently below. As shown in  FIG. 10 , the buckle  200 C can receive the multi tool insert  300  or any other embodiment of the multi tool insert  300  discussed herein. The multi tool buckle assembly  100 C can include a tool base  202 C that is adapted to be mounted on a wall or other substantially flat surface (e.g., skateboard, surfboard). The tool base  202 C can include mounting holes  207 . A fastener (e.g., screw) can be passed through each of the mounting holes  207  to secure the tool base  202 C to a wall or other substantially flat surface. The mounting holes  207  can be disposed on either end of the tool base  202 B, as shown in  FIG. 10 . In some arrangements, the tool base  202 B can include a bottle opener  50 . The multi tool buckle assembly  100 C can include a tool cover  208 C and a hard stop  216 C, as described previously. 
     Other Features of Some Embodiments 
     The buckle  200  and the multi tool insert  300  combination can be arranged such that the wearer will remove the multi tool insert  300  from the buckle  200  with the right hand, given that the majority of the population is right handed. However, in other arrangements, the combination can be designed or otherwise configured to allow removal with the left hand. 
     The multi tool insert  300  can be removed along the axis of the waist line to prevent having to lift a shirt or jacket above the waistline and expose bare skin when removing the multi tool insert  300  from the multi tool buckle assembly  100  in public. The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be arranged so that a user can access the multi tool insert  300  from a standing or sitting position. The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be arranged so that when the buckle  200  is open, in the event that the user needs to use the restroom, the multi tool insert  300  will not fall out of the buckle  200 . In certain arrangements, the multi tool insert  300  can be removed from the buckle  200  without having direct line of sight. For example, the multi tool buckle assembly  100  can include clear tactile cues for removal and insertion of the multi tool insert  300 . The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be arranged so that the multi tool insert  300  does not need to be removed from the buckle  200  to secure the belt around the waist. Normal use of the belt and use of the multi tool insert  300  are completely unrelated and do not interfere with each other. The combination of the multi tool insert  300  and the tool housing (in the form of the buckle  200 ) with specific size requirements creates opportunities to express attachment outside of the size constraints, such as other buckle types and other placements and locations for use. 
     Alternative Mounting Platform 
     The primary carrying mode for the multi tool buckle assembly  100  is the belt buckle. However, given the unique interface of the multi tool insert  300  and the buckle  200 , the multi tool buckle assembly  100  can easily be mounted on other hard and soft surfaces. For example, the tool base  202  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) can be configured for mounting to another object, which can include but is not limited to clothing (e.g., a jacket), to sporting equipment (e.g., skateboard), to gear (e.g., backpack), and to a vehicle (e.g., motorcycle). 
     The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be mounted onto a backpack. Several holes (e.g., 4) can be provided in the tool base  202  (e.g., one at each corner). In certain arrangements, the tool base  202  can be modified to extend beyond the illustrated footprint. A portion of the backpack (e.g., the shoulder strap) can be sandwiched between the tool base  202  and another metal plate that has corresponding holes adapted to align with the holes of the base  202 . Rivets can pass through the shoulder strap of a backpack and secure the metal plate to the base  202 , thereby securing the multi tool buckle assembly  100  to the backpack. 
     The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be mounted onto a jacket. Several holes (e.g., 4) can be provided in the tool base  202  (e.g., one at each corner). In certain arrangements, the tool base  202  can be modified to extend beyond the illustrated footprint. A portion of the jacket (e.g., the fabric near the chest) can be sandwiched between the tool base  202  and another metal plate that has corresponding holes adapted to align with the holes of the base  202 . Rivets can pass through the jacket and secure the metal plate to the base  202 , thereby securing the multi tool buckle assembly  100  to the jacket. The same construction could also be applied to secure the multi tool buckle assembly  100  on locations at the wrist, forearm, bicep, abdomen, or shoulder portion of the jacket. 
     The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be mounted onto cycling shorts. Several holes (e.g.,  4 ) can be provided in the tool base  202  (e.g., one at each corner). In certain arrangements, the tool base  202  can be modified to extend beyond the illustrated footprint. As described above, rivets can sandwich fabric on the hip, just below the hip joint, and be secured with another metal plate that matches the same footprint and attachment holes of the base  202 . The same construction could also be applied for locations on the back of the waistline, top of the thigh, or back of the thigh. Any location that avoids joint motion during cycling would be suitable. 
     The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be mounted onto snowboard pants. As described above, a number (e.g., 4) of holes can be provided in the tool base  202  (e.g., one at each corner), which can extend beyond the current footprint. Rivets could sandwich the fabric and be secured with another metal plate that matches the same footprint and 4 attachment holes. Optimal locations would be on the thigh or as low as the calf/shin area. Because snowboard bindings do not release in the event of a crash, the hips, rear, or knees would not be favorable as those are usually the first to impact the ground. 
     The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be mounted onto a skateboard. A number (e.g., 4) of holes can be provided in the tool base  202  (e.g., one at each corner), which can extend beyond the current footprint. Screws could anchor the tool base  202  to the skateboard. Favorable locations would be clear of the nose, tail, or wheels and on the bottom side of the board as to not interfere with foot locations. The structure of the skateboard would likely not be compromised given the historical use of rails, nose guards, and skid plates. Those are attached similarly with no issues. 
     The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be mounted onto a bicycle. For any flat surfaces that are available on a bike frame, the backside of the tool base  202  could be bonded using double sided foam adhesive tape. This would avoid any holes in the frame which could compromise frame integrity. For original equipment manufacturer (OEM) solutions, rivets or screws could be incorporated into the frame design similar to the other mounting solutions. 
     The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be mounted onto a snowboard. Any flat surface on the top of the board, clear of the bindings, would be ideal to mount the multi tool buckle assembly  100 . The tool base  202  could be bonded using double sided foam adhesive tape. Screws or rivets are not recommended as snowboards rely on a great deal of flex to perform properly and any interruption in flex could result in poor performance or a stress riser. 
     The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be mounted onto a motorcycle. For any flat surfaces that are available on the motorcycle, the backside of the tool base  202  could be bonded using double sided foam adhesive tape. This would avoid any holes in the frame which could compromise frame integrity. For OEM solutions, rivets or screws could be incorporated into the frame design similar to the other mounting solutions. 
     The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be mounted onto a surfboard. Any flat surface near the rear of the board where the leash is mounted would be ideal. For aftermarket solutions, the tool base  202  can be bonded using double sided foam adhesive tape. The tool base  202  can also be embedded into traction pads. For OEM solutions, a plate can be adapted to match the footprint of the tool base  202  as mentioned for soft goods (e.g., backpacks, jackets). The plate could be glassed in and then the tool base  202  can be attached to the plate as described above. 
     The multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be mounted onto a helmet. The backside of the tool base  202  could have a shallow curve similar to point of view (POV) camera mounts to allow the multi tool buckle assembly  100  to be mounted to almost any mounting location. In some variants, the multi tool buckle assembly  100  can be mounted onto a helmet via double sided foam adhesive tape. 
     Conclusion 
     It should be emphasized that many variations and modifications may be made to the herein-described embodiments, the elements of which are to be understood as being among other acceptable examples. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims. Moreover, any of the steps described herein can be performed simultaneously or in an order different from the steps as ordered herein. Moreover, as should be apparent, the features and attributes of the specific embodiments disclosed herein may be combined in different ways to form additional embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or states. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or states are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or states are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment. 
     Moreover, the following terminology may have been used herein. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to an item includes reference to one or more items. The term “ones” refers to one, two, or more, and generally applies to the selection of some or all of a quantity. The term “plurality” refers to two or more of an item. The term “about” or “approximately” means that quantities, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes and other characteristics need not be exact, but may be approximated and/or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting acceptable tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like and other factors known to those of skill in the art. The term “substantially” means that the recited characteristic, parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations or variations, including for example, tolerances, measurement error, measurement accuracy limitations and other factors known to those of skill in the art, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect the characteristic was intended to provide. 
     Numerical data may be expressed or presented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such a range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and thus should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also interpreted to include all of the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. As an illustration, a numerical range of “about 1 to 5” should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited values of about 1 to about 5, but should also be interpreted to also include individual values and sub-ranges within the indicated range. Thus, included in this numerical range are individual values such as 2, 3 and 4 and sub-ranges such as “about 1 to about 3,” “about 2 to about 4” and “about 3 to about 5,” “1 to 3,” “2 to 4,” “3 to 5,” etc. This same principle applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value (e.g., “greater than about 1”) and should apply regardless of the breadth of the range or the characteristics being described. A plurality of items may be presented in a common list for convenience. However, these lists should be construed as though each member of the list is individually identified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual member of such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based on their presentation in a common group without indications to the contrary. Furthermore, where the terms “and” and “or” are used in conjunction with a list of items, they are to be interpreted broadly, in that any one or more of the listed items may be used alone or in combination with other listed items. The term “alternatively” refers to selection of one of two or more alternatives, and is not intended to limit the selection to only those listed alternatives or to only one of the listed alternatives at a time, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.