Patent Publication Number: US-10765176-B2

Title: Personal protective device strap connecting buckle assembly

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a national stage filing under 35 U.S.C. 371 of PCT/US2015/030240, filed May 12, 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 62/001,859, filed May 22, 2014, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its/their entirety herein. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to buckles for selectively connecting straps. More particularly, it relates to buckle assemblies for selectively connecting strap segments of a personal protection device, for example strap segments located behind a user&#39;s head when worn. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Personal protective devices often include one or more straps to secure the device in an appropriate position about a user. A particular format and construction of the strap(s) (as well as other securement devices) provided with a personal protective device are oftentimes a function of the device itself and the manner in which the device is intended to be arranged on the user and secured in place. Many personal protective devices that provide a primary body intended to be located on the user&#39;s face will include one or more straps intended to be extended or worn about the head and/or neck of the user. For example, respiratory protection devices that cover a user&#39;s nose and mouth often include one or more straps extending around the head of the user. In order to maintain a desired fit, the straps may be elastic or adjustable to a suitable length for a particular user. Various strap retaining devices and buckles have been provided that may allow for the length or tension of the strap to be manually adjusted. 
     Regardless of whether provisions are made for adjusting a length or tension of the strap, users can find the process of properly locating a strap about his or her head/neck to be quite frustrating. For example, some personal protective devices incorporate a continuous, elastic strap attached at either end to a primary body intended to located on the user&#39;s face (e.g., covering the user&#39;s mouth, nose, etc.); the elastic strap is simply stretch about the user&#39;s head. Unfortunately, the single elastic strap may “catch” on the user&#39;s hair or elsewhere as the user attempts to stretch the strap about the head (as well as when attempting to remove the personal protective device). Further, the continuous, elastic strap may not provide sufficient, robust support for the personal protective device as worn (e.g., where the personal protective device is relatively heavy). 
     With other devices providing a primary body intended to be located on the user&#39;s face (e.g., respiratory protection devices), straps extend from opposing sides of the primary body. To wear the device, the user must connect the loose ends of these straps to one another behind the user&#39;s head. In a most basic form, the user may be asked to tie the straps to one another. 
     Alternatively, a mechanical connection mechanism can be provided with the strap segments, such as a mechanical fastener. Typically, the mechanical connection mechanism is reversible, and entails a male member carried by one strap along with a corresponding female member carried by the second strap. The straps are connected to one another by attaching the male member to the female member. Examples of conventional mechanical connection mechanisms include metal snaps, hook and loop, etc. 
     Regardless of the connection mechanism format, in many instances, the user is required to complete the attachment by handling and manipulating the strap segments relative to one another while they are located behind the user&#39;s head and/or neck. This can be a difficult task as the user is required to effectuate a blind connection in a somewhat awkward position. The user cannot visually confirm whether the male and female members are correctly aligned, and thus may be unsure if an appropriate attachment has been achieved. Further, the user will be unaware of hair or skin inadvertently located between the male and female member, leading to painful pinching when the male and female members are forced together. Also, when attempting to disconnect the straps from one another, the user is once again required to blindly manipulate the connection mechanism; while a connection mechanism configured to provide a robust connection is no doubt beneficial in firmly securing the personal protective device in place, this same robust connection can render the task of disconnecting the male and female members from behind the user&#39;s head or neck quite difficult. Moreover, while efforts have been made to provide a connection mechanism formatted for ease of use when located behind the neck, significant portions of the straps are often left exposed and directly contact the user&#39;s neck and/or head. Where the strap segments are formed of an elastic material, the exposed material can cause skin irritation, especially where the user is operating in a gritty or wet environment. 
     In light of the above, a need exists for a strap connection assembly useful with personal protective devices that facilitates simple, behind-the-neck or behind-the-neck strap connection. 
     SUMMARY 
     Some aspects of the present disclosure relate to a buckle assembly for selectively connecting first and second straps of a personal protective device. The buckle assembly includes a receiver member and a latch member. The receiver member is configured for coupling to the first strap and includes a platform, a head, and a release arm. The platform defines a receiving surface and opposing, first and second ends. The head is disposed over the receiving surface and defines a capture surface facing the second end. In this regard, the head is spaced from the receiving surface such that the head and the receiving surface collectively define at least a portion of a slot. The release arm is pivotally connected to the head adjacent the second end. The release arm extends above the receiving surface and terminates at an actuator surface that is spaced from the capture surface. The latch member is configured for coupling to the second strap and includes a base and a latch tab. The base defines a leading end opposite a trailing end, and further defines an aperture. The latch tab is pivotally connected to the base adjacent the leading end, with the latch tab extending within the aperture and terminating at a latch face. The buckle assembly is configured to provide a latched state in which the latch member is disposed within the slot and the latch face is engaged with the capture surface. The latched state further includes the release arm disposed over a portion of the latch tab. The buckle assembly is further configured to be transitioned by a user from the latched state to a released state in which the latch face is disengaged from the capture surface in response to an actuation force applied to the actuator surface. With this construction, a user can easily and quickly release the buckle assembly by simply pressing on the actuator surface of the release arm, causing the latch tab to disengage. In some embodiments, the receiver member and the latch member incorporate various, complimentary guide surfaces that promote easy insertion of the latch member into the receiver member. In other embodiments, the receiver member and the latch member are relatively large and provide smooth interior surface that come into contact with a user&#39;s skin when worn, thereby limiting the level of strap-to-skin interface. 
     Other aspects of the present disclosure relate to a personal protective device including a mask body, first and second straps, and a buckle assembly. The mask body is adapted to be worn on a face of a user. The first and second straps extend from opposite sides of the mask body. The buckle assembly includes the receiver member and the latch member as described above, and are coupled to the first and second straps, respectively. With this configuration, straps can extend about a user&#39;s neck, with the buckle assembly being easily latched/unlatched while located behind the user&#39;s neck. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a simplified side view of a personal protective device as worn by a user and including a buckle assembly in accordance with principles of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of a buckle assembly in accordance with principles of the present disclosure and useful with the personal protective device of  FIG. 1 , along with portions of two straps; 
         FIG. 3A  is a perspective view of a receiver member of the buckle assembly of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 3B  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the receiver member of  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIG. 3C  is a cross-sectional view of the receiver member of  FIG. 3B , taken along the line  3 C- 3 C; 
         FIG. 4A  is a perspective view of a latch member of the buckle assembly of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4B  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the latch member of  FIG. 4A ; 
         FIG. 4C  is a top plan view of the latch member of  FIG. 4A ; 
         FIG. 4D  is a side view of the latch member of  FIG. 4A ; 
         FIGS. 5A and 5B  are longitudinal cross-sectional views of portions of the buckle assembly of  FIG. 2  and illustrating an initial stage of insertion process of the latch member relative to the receiver member; 
         FIGS. 6A and 6B  are transverse cross-sectional views of portions of the buckle assembly of  FIG. 2  and illustrating stages of an insertion process of the latch member relative to the receiver member; 
         FIG. 7  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the buckle assembly of  FIG. 2  in a latched state; 
         FIGS. 8A-8C  are cross-sectional views of the buckle assembly of  FIG. 2  in the latched state and taken along differing planes; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the buckle assembly of  FIG. 2  in the latched state; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of another buckle assembly in accordance with principles of the present disclosure and useful with the personal protective device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a side view of the buckle assembly of  FIG. 10  in a latched state; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of another buckle assembly in accordance with principles of the present disclosure and useful with the personal protective device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a receiver element of the buckle assembly of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 14  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a latch element of the buckle assembly of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 15A  is a perspective view of the buckle assembly of  FIG. 12  in a latched state; and 
         FIG. 15B  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the buckle assembly of  FIG. 15A . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present disclosure provides a buckle assembly for selectively connecting straps of a personal protective device. The buckle assembly includes a receiver member and a latch member configured to selectively engage one another in a latched state. The receiver member and the latch member are each configured for coupling to a separate strap included with the personal protective device, and serve to selectively connect the straps to one another. An exemplary buckle assembly of the present disclosure is easy to connect and release by a user otherwise manipulating the members “blind” behind the user&#39;s head or neck. An exemplary buckle assembly of the present disclosure promotes a user&#39;s hands remaining in continuous contact with the receiver and latch members throughout the connect/release process. 
     The buckle assemblies of the present disclosure are useful with a number of different personal protective device formats.  FIG. 1  illustrates one non-limiting example of a personal protective device  10  incorporating a buckle assembly  12  in accordance with principles of the present disclosure. With the embodiment of  FIG. 1 , the personal protective device  10  is a respiratory protection device including a mask body  20 , straps  22  and an optional harness assembly  24 . The mask body  20  can include a rigid or semi-rigid portion  26  and a face contacting portion  28 . The face contacting portion  28  can be formed of a soft or compliant material that provides a comfortable fit and is able to seal against the face of a wearer  30  to prevent ingress of external air. The straps  22  (along with the harness assembly  24 ) assist in securing the respiratory protection device  10  in a position of use over the nose and mouth of the wearer  30 .  FIG. 1  reflects that the buckle assembly  12  is associated with the strap  22 . It will be understood that the straps  22  include two discrete, individual straps (one of which is visible in  FIG. 1 ) that are each attached to opposite sides of the mask body  20 . The buckle assembly  12  selectively connects the straps  22  to one another at a rear or back region  32  (referenced generally) of the head or neck of the wearer  30  as described in greater detail below. 
     The exemplary buckle assembly  12  of the present disclosure is equally useful with personal protective devices that are secured to the wearer  30  only by the straps  22 . With the non-limiting embodiment of  FIG. 1 , however, the harness assembly  24  is also provided and can include one or more straps, such as harness straps  34 , to secure the respiratory protection device  10  in a position of use over the nose and mouth of the wearer  30 . Each of the harness straps  34  may combine with a respective one of the straps  22  to be portions of a single continuous integral strap that passes through a loop or attachment element of the mask body  20 , or may be discrete individual straps that are each attached to the mask body  20 . In an exemplary embodiment, the harness assembly  22  further includes a strap support  36  configured to fit generally about the crown of a head of the wearer  30 . The strap support  36  may be made of any suitable material, and in some embodiments may be a head covering such as a cap, hard hat, hood, beanie, netting, or other suitable strap support. The harness straps  34  (one of which is visible in  FIG. 1 ) are each connected to the strap support  36  by a strap retaining device  38  that, in some embodiments, can be akin to the buckle assembly  12 . Regardless, the straps  22  and/or the harness straps  34  may be appropriately tensioned such that the face contacting portion  28  of the mask body  20  is adequately positioned and/or sealed against the face of the wearer  30 . 
       FIG. 2  illustrates one exemplary embodiment of a buckle assembly  50  in accordance with principles of the present disclosure and useful as the buckle assembly  12  ( FIG. 1 ), in conjunction with portions of two straps  22   a ,  22   b . The buckle assembly  50  includes a receiver member  52  and a latch member  54 . Details on the various components are provided below. In general terms, however, the receiver member  52  and the latch member  54  are each configured for coupling to a respective one of the straps  22   a ,  22   b . Further, the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  incorporate complimentary features that facilitate transitioning of the buckle assembly  50  by a user from the detached state of  FIG. 2  (in which the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  are separated from one another) to a latched state in which the latch member  54  is locked or latched to the receiver member  52 , thus connecting the first and second straps  22   a ,  22   b . Further, the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  incorporate complimentary features that facilitate transitioning of the buckle assembly  50  from the latched state to a released state in which the latch member  54  can be removed or withdrawn from the receiver member  52  (and/or vice-versa), thus disconnecting the straps  22   a ,  22   b.    
     The receiver member  52  is shown in greater detail in  FIGS. 3A and 3B . In an exemplary embodiment, the receiver member  52  is an integrally formed, homogenous body defining or forming a platform  60 , a head  62 , a release arm  64 , an optional frame  66  (referenced generally), and a strap retaining device  68 . As described in greater detail below, a guide slot  70  is defined between the platform  60 , the head  62  and optionally the frame  66  for receiving a corresponding component of the latch member  54  ( FIG. 2 ). The release arm  64  is located and configured to interface with latch member  54  upon insertion into the guide slot  70 . Finally, the strap retaining device  68  can assume a wide variety of forms generally configured to selectively retain a strap (such as the strap  22   a  of  FIG. 2 ). 
     The platform  60  defines opposing first and second ends  80 ,  82 , and a receiving surface  84  opposite a contact surface  86 . As a point of reference, the first end  80  serves as an entrance side of the receiver member  52  at which the latch member  54  is inserted into the receiver member  52  as reflected by  FIG. 2 . The strap retaining device  68  is connected to the second end  82 , for example at an optional living hinge  88 . The receiving surface  84  is substantially planar (e.g., within 10% of a truly planar surface) in some embodiments, and is configured to slidably receive the latch member  54  as described below. The contact surface  86  can also be substantially planar, and in some exemplary embodiments, is substantially smooth for contacting a wearer&#39;s skin with minimal irritation. 
     The platform  60  can have a variety of shapes, and in some embodiments defines a nose region  90  adjacent the first end  80 . A perimeter edge  92  of the nose region  90  at the first end  80  can have the curved shape as shown for reasons made clear below. With this exemplary construction, the nose region  90  expands in width in extension form the first end  80  in a direction of the second end  82 . The platform  60  further defines an intermediate region  94  extending from the nose region  90  to the second end  82 . In some embodiments, the platform  60  is shaped such that the intermediate region  94  tapers in width from the nose region  90  to the second end  82 . 
     The head  62  is disposed over, and is spaced from, the receiving surface  84 . The head  62  includes or defines opposing support segments  100 ,  102  and a guide segment  104 . The support segments  100 ,  102  are directly connected to the platform  60  by the frame  66  as described below, and generally support the guide segment  104  relative to the platform  60 . The support segments  100 ,  102  generally extend from a location aligned with or adjacent the second end  82  in a direction of the first end  80 . The support segments  100 ,  102  can be identical or substantially identical in size and shape, and are laterally separated from one another by a notch  106 . A size and shape of the notch  106  generally corresponds with features of the latch member  54  ( FIG. 2 ) as described below. Further, an interior surface  108  (that otherwise faces the receiving surface  84 ) of each of the support members  100 ,  102  can be substantially planar (e.g., within 10% of a truly planar surface) as generally reflected by  FIG. 3B . 
     The guide segment  104  is not directly connected to the platform  60  in some embodiments, and defines a guide surface  110  and a capture surface  112 . As best shown in  FIG. 3B , the guide surface  110  faces the receiving surface  84  and extends in an angular fashion relative to the receiving surface  84  from the support members  100 ,  102  (one of which is visible in  FIG. 3B ) to a tip end  114  in defining a portion of the slot guide  70 . In this regard, the angular arrangement of the guide surface  110  relative to the receiving surface  84  is such that in some embodiments, a height of the guide slot  70  (i.e., distance between the receiving and guide surfaces  84 ,  110 ) tapers from the tip end  114  in a direction of the capture surface  112 . This optional tapering height promotes ease of insertion of the latch member  54  ( FIG. 2 ) into the guide slot  70 . In some embodiments, the tapering height of the guide slot  70  can be established by the guide surface  110  being substantially planar (e.g., within 10% of a truly planar surface), with a major plane of the guide surface  110  and a major plane of the receiving surface  84  combining to define an included angle in the range of 5°-45°, alternatively in the range of 10°-30°. Other geometries are also acceptable, and in other embodiments, the receiving surface  84  and the guide surface  110  being substantially parallel. Regardless, the guide segment  104  can be arranged related to the platform  60  such that the tip end  114  of the head  62  is longitudinally offset from the first end  80  of the platform  60  in a direction of the second end  82 . With this optional construction, the nose region  90  of the platform  60  is “exposed” relative to the head  62  and provides an easily located surface for initial placement of the latch member  52 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 3A and 3B , the capture surface  112  is generally configured to selectively engage a corresponding feature of the latch member  54  ( FIG. 2 ) as described below, and in some embodiments, serves as a terminal edge of the notch  106 . The capture surface  112  is located opposite the tip end  114 , and faces the second end  84  of the platform  60 . A size and shape of the capture surface  112  can vary as a function of a size and shape of the complimentary component(s) of the latch member  54 , and in some embodiments is substantially planar (e.g., within 10% of a truly planar surface). Further, and as best reflected by  FIG. 3B , in some embodiments a major plane of the capture surface  112  is substantially perpendicular to the major plane of the receiving surface  84  (e.g., within 10 degrees of a truly perpendicular relationship), at least in a region at which capture surface  112  overlies the receiving surface  84 . 
     The release arm  64  is generally located between the support segments  100 ,  102 , and defines a pivot end  120  and a free end  122 . The pivot end  120  is pivotally connected relative to the head  62  (e.g., is pivotally connected to the frame  66 ) adjacent the second end  82 . The release arm  64  extends from the second end  82  in a direction of the first end  80 , terminating at the free end  122 . At least a portion of the release arm  64  is disposed within the notch  106  (e.g., a width of the release arm  64  is less than a width of the notch  106 ), and the free end  122  is longitudinally spaced from the capture surface  112  by a gap  124 . A size of the gap  124  (e.g., longitudinal distance between the free end  122  and the capture surface  112 ) corresponds with features of the latch member  54  ( FIG. 2 ) for reasons made clear below. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the release arm  64  further forms or defines an engagement surface  130 . As best reflected by  FIG. 3B , the release arm  64  is arranged such that the engagement surface  130  faces, but is laterally spaced from, the receiving surface  84  of the platform  60  to define an engagement slot  132 . The engagement surface  130  is generally configured to interface with corresponding features of the latch member  54  ( FIG. 2 ) as described below, and in some embodiments is substantially planar (e.g., within 10% of a truly planar surface). As indicated above, while the release arm  64  can pivot relative to the platform  60  and the head  62  (e.g., pivoting about the pivot end  120 ), in some embodiments, the receiver member  52  is configured to provide a neutral or normal condition illustrated in the views of the release arm  64  relative to the platform  60  and the head  62 . The release arm  64  can be manipulated from the neutral condition in response to a user-applied actuation force as described below, but upon removal of the actuation force, will naturally self-return or self-revert to the neutral condition. With this in mind, in some embodiments the receiver member  52  is configured such that in the neutral condition, the engagement surface  130  is arranged at an angle (e.g., non-parallel) relative to the receiving surface  84  such that the engagement slot  132  tapers in height from the free end  122  to the pivot end  120 . For example, a major plane of the engagement surface  130  and a major plane of the receiving surface  84  can combine to define an included angle in the range of 5°-25°. A tapered shape of the engagement slot  132  can correspond with geometries of the latch member  54  for reasons made clear below. Regardless, in exemplary embodiments, a height of the engagement slot  130  is less than that of the guide slot  70  (i.e., a distance between the engagement surface  130  and the receiving surface  84  is less than a distance between the interior surface  108  of the guide segments  104  and the receiving surface  84 ). The engagement slot  132  is open at the pivot end  120  as well as the free end  122  in some embodiments. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the release arm  64  incorporates one or more features that assist a user in applying an actuating force. For example, the release arm  64  can form or define an actuator surface  134 . The actuator surface  134  is located opposite the pivot end  120  (i.e., adjacent the free end  122 ) and thus represents an appropriate location for a user-applied force to effectuate pivoting movement of the release arm  64 . The actuator surface  134  is defined opposite the engagement surface  130 , and can include one more features that promote tactile recognition thereof. For example, the actuator surface  134  can include opposing ribs that are separated by a groove. The ribs represent outward projections in the actuator surface  134 , and the groove is generally sized and shaped to ergonomically receive an adult fingertip or thumb. With this exemplary construction then, a user is provided with a tactile confirmation that his or her finger/thumb is located at the actuator surface  134  when “feeling” the ribs and the groove. The actuator surface  134  can assume other forms, and in other embodiments, tactile-related features are omitted. 
     The frame  66  can assume a variety of forms appropriate for supporting one or both of the head  62  and the release arm  54  relative to the platform  60 . In some embodiments, the frame  66  can include opposing walls  150 ,  152  that project from the receiving surface  84  of the platform. The cross-sectional view of  FIG. 3C  illustrates one embodiment of the walls  150 ,  152  in greater detail, and reflects that the walls  150 ,  152  can be substantially identical in some embodiments. Each of the walls  150 ,  152  forms or defines an entrance end  154  opposite an exit end  156 , along with an inner surface  158 . The exit end  156  is located adjacent the second end  82  of the platform  60 , with the walls  150 ,  152  extending in a direction of the first end  80 . In some embodiments, the terminal entrance end  154  is longitudinally offset from the first end  80  (in a direction of the second end  82 ), approximately spatially aligned with the capture surface  112  ( FIG. 3B ). A spacing between the inner surface  158  of the walls  150 ,  152  defines a width of the guide slot  70  (with  FIG. 3B  reflecting that the guide slot  70  is further bounded by the head  62  beyond the entrance end  154 ). In some embodiments, the walls  150 ,  152  are arranged such that the guide slot  70  tapers in width from the entrance end  154  to the exit end  156 , with a size and shape of the guide slot  70  (in the width direction) corresponding with features of the latch member  54  ( FIG. 2 ). As described below, coupling of the latch member  54  with the receiver member  52  includes the latch member  54  being inserted at the entrance end  154  of the walls  150 ,  152  and sliding along the inner surface  158  of one or both of the walls  150 ,  152 . With this in mind, exemplary embodiments optionally include the inner surface  158  of each wall  150 ,  152  defining a recess  160  at the corresponding entrance end  154 . The recess  160 , where provided, can assist in self-guiding the latch member  54  into the guide slot  70  as it is inserted between the walls  150 ,  152 . Regardless, in some embodiments, the inner surface  158  of each of the walls  150 ,  152  can be substantially flat or smooth (e.g., within 10% of a truly flat surface) to better promote a sliding interface with the latch member  54 . 
     Returning to  FIGS. 3A and 3B , the strap retaining device  68  can assume a number of different forms that may or may not be implicated by the FIGURES and appropriate for coupling with the strap  22   a  ( FIG. 2 ). In one non-limiting embodiment, the strap retaining device  68  can include or define framework  170  and a tongue  172 . The framework  170  generally defines an aperture  174  sized to receive the strap  22   a . The tongue  172  projects from the framework  170 , and is configured to selectively secure the strap  22   a  within the aperture  174 . For example, the tongue  172  can be pivotally connected to the framework  170 , and forms teeth  176  that selectively interface with channels  178  in the framework  170 . A plethora of other strap retaining device constructions are equally acceptable. 
     The latch member  54  is shown in greater detail in  FIGS. 4A and 4B . In an exemplary embodiment, the latch member  54  is an integrally formed, homogenous body defining or forming a base  200 , a latch tab  202 , and a strap retaining device  204 . As described in greater detail below, the base  200  is configured for insertion into the receiver member  52  ( FIG. 2 ). The latch tab  202  is pivotally connected to the base  200 , and is configured to selectively engage a corresponding feature(s) of the receiver member  52 . Finally, the strap retaining device  204  can assume any of the forms described above with respect to the strap retaining device  68  ( FIG. 3A ), and is generally configured to selectively retain a strap (such as the strap  22   b  of  FIG. 2 ). 
     The base  200  defines a leading end  210  opposite a trailing end  212 . As a point of reference, the leading end  210  serves as an insertion side of the latch member  54  at which the latch member  54  is initially inserted into the receiver member  52  (as reflected by  FIG. 2 ). The strap retaining device  204  is connected to the trailing end  212 , for example at an optional living hinge  214 . An overall size and shape of the base  200  corresponds with various geometries of the receiver member  52 , and can be collectively defined by a shoulder  220 , opposing arms  222 ,  224 , and a foot  226 . The arms  222 ,  224  extend between the shoulder  220  and the foot  226 , optionally defining an aperture  228 . 
     The shoulder  220  defines the leading end  210 , and in some embodiments provides a curved leading edge  240 . The shoulder  220  is configured to promote easy insertion into the guide and engagement slots  70 ,  132  ( FIG. 3B ) of the receiver member  52  ( FIG. 3B ), including having a width that is less than a minimum width of either of the guide or engagement slots  70 ,  132 . Further, in some embodiments, the shoulder  220  slightly tapers in height in extension from the arms  222 ,  224  to the leading edge  240  as best reflected by  FIG. 4B . For example, the shoulder  220  defines opposing, upper and lower faces  242 ,  244  that can converge toward one another in a direction of the leading edge  240 . While the lower face  244  is optionally substantially planar (e.g., within in 10% of a truly planar surface), in some embodiments the lower face  244  is non-planar relative to other lower faces of the base  200  for reasons made clear below. 
     The arms  222 ,  224  can, in some embodiments, be identical, and collectively define the base  200  to have an increasing width in a direction of the trailing end  212 . Each of the arms  222 ,  224  defines an interior side  250  and an exterior side  252 . The arms  222 ,  224  are arranged such that the interior sides  250  face one another to define a width of the aperture  228 . One or both of the arms  222 ,  224  optionally incorporate features that promote user handling of the latch member  54  along the exterior sides  252 . For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the arms  222 ,  224  each include a serrated grip region  254  along the corresponding exterior side  252  at or adjacent the trailing end  212  (e.g., longitudinally spaced from the latch tab  202 ). The serrated grip region  254  can assume a variety of forms conducive to ergonomic gripping thereof by a user&#39;s finger(s) and/or thumb, such as the spaced ridges shown. In other embodiments, a discernable grip feature can be omitted from one or both of the arms  222 ,  224 . 
     A width of the base  200  as collectively defined by the arms  222 ,  224  is further illustrated in the view of  FIG. 4C , and in some embodiments is selected to correspond with geometries of the receiver member guide slot  70  ( FIG. 3B ). In this regard, the width of the base  200  can be described with reference to a leading region  260  and a trailing region  262 . The leading region  260  is defined by an extension of the arms  222 ,  224  from the shoulder  220  in a direction of the trailing end  212 , and generally follows the expanding width defined along the shoulder  220 . A width along the leading region  260  is less than the corresponding maximum width of the receiver member guide slot  70  ( FIG. 3C ). The trailing region  262  extends from the leading region  260 , and also has an increasing width in a direction of the trailing end  212 . However, in some embodiments, the increasing width is less pronounced along the trailing region  262  as compared to the leading region  260 . For example, an included angle defined by the exterior sides  252  of the arms  222 ,  224  along the trailing region  262  being less than an included angle defined by the exterior sides  252  along the leading region  260 . Other geometries are also acceptable. In some embodiments, the base  200  is configured such that at or about the point of transition from the leading region  260  to the trailing region  262 , the width of the base  200  becomes greater than a maximum width of the guide slot  70 . With this construction, and as made clear below, the latch member  54  can be appropriately engaged to the receiver member  52  ( FIG. 2 ) and the increased-width trailing region  262  projects beyond the receiver member  52  to provide enhanced or enlarged surface areas (e.g., the serrated grip regions  254 ) that can be readily grasped and manipulated by a user. 
     Returning to  FIGS. 4A and 4B , the arms  222 ,  224  each further define an upper face  270  opposite a lower face  272 , with a height of each of the arms  222 ,  224  being defined between the two faces. Optional geometries provided by the upper and lower faces  270 ,  272  are identified for the first arm  222  in  FIG. 4D . The upper face  270  can include or define an insertion region  274 , a stepped region  276 , a transition region  278  and a stop region  280 . The lower face  272  can include or define a guide region  282  and a bearing region  284 . In general terms, the insertion region  274  of the upper face  270  and the guide region  282  of the lower face  272  continue the spatial orientation of the upper and lower faces  242 ,  244 , respectively, of the shoulder  220 . The stepped region  276  extends upwardly (relative to the orientation of  FIG. 4D ) from the insertion region  274  in a non-parallel fashion, defining a more pronounced angular orientation relative to the lower face  272  (e.g., an increase in a height of the arm  222  is more pronounced along the stepped region  276  as compared to that of the shoulder  220  and the insertion region  274 ). The transition region  278  extends from the stepped region  276  in a non-parallel fashion (relative to a plane of the stepped region  276 ), for example defining a plane that is substantially parallel with a plane of the corresponding bearing region  284  of the lower surface  272  (e.g., a plane the upper surface  270  along the transition region  278  and a plane of the lower surface  272  along the bearing region  284  are within 10 degrees of truly parallel relationship). Finally, the stop region  280  extends upwardly (relative to the orientation of  FIG. 4D ) from the transition region  278 , combining with the lower surface  272  to define an increasing height in a direction of the trailing end  212 . As described below, the stop region  280  can be substantially flat or planar in some embodiments (e.g., within 10% of a truly flat surface), and is configured for abutting interface with a corresponding surface of the receiving member  52 . 
     As reflected by  FIG. 4D , a plane of the lower face  272  along the guide region  282  is non-parallel with a plane of the lower face  272  along the bearing region  284  in some embodiments. Relative to the upright orientation of  FIG. 4D  in which the bearing region  284  is horizontal, the guide region  282  can have an upward angular arrangement. In some embodiments, this optional angular relationship between the guide region  282  and the bearing region  284  promotes simplified initial insertion of the latch member  54  into the receiving member  52  ( FIG. 2 ), with the bearing surface  284  dictating a desired location of the corresponding arm  222 ,  224  relative to the receiving member  52  upon final or complete insertion. 
     Returning to  FIGS. 4A and 4B , the foot  226  extends between and interconnects the arms  222 ,  224 . In an exemplary embodiment, the foot  226  defines a receiving edge  290  opposite the trailing end  212 . The receiving edge  290  can have a concave or curved shape (best shown in  FIG. 4C ), and defines an end of the aperture  228 . A shape of the receiving edge  290  can mimic or match a shape of a corresponding feature of the receiver member  52  ( FIG. 2 ), with the foot  226  being laterally offset from the lower face  272  of the arms  222 ,  224  for reasons made clear below (e.g., relative to the upright orientation of  FIG. 4B , a lower face  292  of the foot  226  is located “below” a plane of the lower face  272  of the arm  224 ). 
     The latch tab  202  defines and extends between a fixed end  300  and a free end  302 . The fixed end  300  is connected to the shoulder  220 , with the latch tab  202  arranged to extend from the shoulder  220  within the aperture  228  in a direction of the trailing end  222 . In some embodiments, the latch tab  202  can pivot relative to the shoulder  220  (and thus relative to the base  200 ) at the fixed end  300 , for example in response to a force applied along a length of the latch tab  202  adjacent the free end  302 . With these and other, related embodiments, the latch member  54  is configured such that the latch tab  202  naturally assumes spatial orientation reflected in the views in a neutral or normal condition; upon removal of a force otherwise causing the latch tab  202  to articulate or pivot relative to the base  200 , the latch tab  202  will naturally self-revert or self-transition back to the neutral condition shown. 
     The latch tab  202  optionally forms a latching body  310  at or adjacent the free end  302 . The latching body  310  can represent an increased size or height of the latch tab  202  relative to a remainder thereof, and defines a latch face  312 . In some embodiments, the latch tab  202  terminates at the latch face  312 , with the latch face  312  configured to engage a corresponding surface of the receiver member  52  ( FIG. 2 ) as described below. The latch face  312  is located between the leading and trailing ends  210 ,  212 , and is longitudinally spaced from the receiving edge  290  of the foot  226  in a direction of the leading end  210 . In related embodiments, the enlarged latching body  310  defines opposing, upper and lower faces  314 ,  316 . The upper face  314  can be substantially planar (e.g., within 10% of a truly planar surface), and is spatially arranged in the normal condition to be non-parallel with the bearing region  284  of the lower face  272  of the arms  222 ,  224  for reasons made clear below (e.g., in the neutral condition, a plane of the latching body upper face  314  projects away from a plane of the bearing region  284  in a direction of the trailing end  212 ). The lower face  316  of the latching body  310  can also be substantially planar in some embodiments. Other geometries for the latch tab  202  are also envisioned. 
     Returning to  FIG. 2 , one or both of the receiver member  52  and the latch member  54  may be formed from a material having suitable properties to allow for elastic deformation over a range of normal bending and flexing while exhibiting the ability of the release arm  64  and the latch tab  202 , respectively, to naturally return to the neutral conditions described above. In an exemplary embodiment, the receiver member  52  and the latch member  54  are made from polypropylene such as a material having the trade name P5M4K-046 available from Flint Hills Resources of Wichita, Kans. Other suitable materials include plastics, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), metals, spring steel, other suitable materials as known in the art, and suitable combinations of such materials. 
     Use or operation of the buckle assembly  50  in selectively connecting the straps  22   a ,  22   b  can initially be described with reference to the detached state of  FIG. 2  that otherwise reflects the receiver member  52  poised to receive the latch member  54  (it being understood that during use, the first strap  22   a  is engaged with the strap retaining device  68  of the receiver member  52 , and the second strap  22   b  is engaged with the strap retaining device  204  of the latch member  54 ). A user grasps the receiver member  52  in one hand, and the latch member  54  in the other hand. It will be recalled that in many end-use applications, the user is manipulating the receiver member  52  and the latch member  54  at a location behind the user&#39;s head or neck; under these circumstances, the user is unlikely to see the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54 . However, the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  provide enlarged, ergonomically convenient surfaces for handing, with the latch member  54  optionally providing the serrated grip regions  254  that facilitate gripping by the user. 
     The latch member  54  is directed by the user toward the receiver member  52  (and/or vice-versa), with the receiver member  52  configured to guide the leading end  210  of the latch member base  200  into desired alignment in some embodiments. For example, the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 5A  illustrates the leading end  210  of the latch member  54  partially inserted into the guide slot  70  of the receiver member  52 . As shown, a height of the guide slot  70  along the guide segment  104  of the head  62  is substantially greater than a height of the shoulder  220 , allowing the leading end  210  to easily be inserted into the guide slot  70 . Notably, the platform  60  projects beyond the guide segment  64  with the receiving surface  84  providing an ample, readily discernable landing surface for the leading end  210  (e.g., a user can readily “feel” the leading end  210  being placed into contact with the receiving surface  84 , and is provided with positive tactile feedback that the latch member  54  is generally, correctly aligned with receiver member  52 ). As the receiver member  52  and the latch member  54  are directed into further engagement (e.g., the guide member  52  is moved rightward and/or the latch member  54  is moved leftward relative to the orientation of  FIG. 5A ), various possible interfaces between surfaces of the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  naturally direct the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  into correct alignment without requiring any visual confirmation by the user. For example, if the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  become horizontally tilted and/or laterally offset relative to one another from the orientation of  FIG. 5A , one or more surfaces of the latch member  54  (e.g., the upper face of the shoulder  220  and/or arms  222 ,  224  as described above) may be brought into contact with the guide surface  110  of the receiver member  52  as shown in  FIG. 5B . Under these circumstances, the angled orientation of the guide surface  110  relative to the receiving surface  84  interfaces with the latch member  54  to naturally guide or direct the latch member  54  within the guide slot  70 . A similar, natural guidance or direction is provided upon contact between the latch member  54  and the receiving surface  84 . 
     Interface between other surfaces of the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  during the insertion process can also naturally affect desired, lateral alignment. For example, the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 6A  reflects the latch member  54  laterally misaligned with the guide slot  70  as the leading end  210  is initially directed toward the receiver member  52 . As described above, a width of the guide slot  70  at the entrance end  154  of the walls  150 ,  152  is substantively larger than a width of the latch member  54  at the leading end  210  such that the latch member  54  is readily inserted into the guide slot  70 . The latch member  54  need only be grossly aligned by the user relative to the receiver member  52 ; under the circumstances of  FIG. 6A , the leading end  210  contacts the inclined recess  160  along the inner surface  158  of the second wall  152 . With further movement of the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  toward one another (i.e., the receiver member  52  moving rightward and/or the latch member  54  moving leftward relative to the orientation of  FIG. 6A ), surfaces of the latch member  54  (e.g., the exterior side  252  of the second arm  224 ) slidably interface with the inclined recess  160  (and/or other portions of the inner surface  158  of the second wall  152 ), with the second wall  152  thus naturally guiding or directing the latch member  54  into lateral alignment with the guide slot  70 .  FIG. 6B  illustrates this same guided interface at a later stage of insertion, showing the latch member  54  slidably interfacing with the inner surface  158  of the first wall  150  and thus being naturally guided or directed into alignment with the guide slot  70 . 
     The above-described sliding interfaces between the receiver member  52  and the latch member  54  render the buckle assembly  50  highly conducive to behind the head or neck operation. A user can easily achieve general, correct alignment between the members  52 ,  54  during the initial stages of insertion without directly viewing buckle assembly  50 . 
     With further, guided insertion of the latch member  54  into the guide slot  70 , the leading end  210  enters the engagement slot  132  as shown by the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 7 . As mentioned above, a height of the engagement slot  132  at the free end  302  of the latch tab  202  is substantively larger than a height of the latch member  54  at the leading end  210 , such that the latch member  54  readily enters the engagement slot  132 . At the stage of insertion of  FIG. 7 , the lower face  272  of the latch member arms  222 ,  224  (one of visible in  FIG. 7 ) can be slidably interfacing with the receiving surface  84  of the receiver member  52 , for example along the bearing region  284 . Regardless, the latch member  54  is spatially arranged such that with further movement of the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  toward one another (i.e., movement of the receiver member  52  rightward and/or movement of the latch member  54  leftward relative to the orientation of  FIG. 7 ), the upper face  314  of the latching body  310  will begin to bear against the guide surface  110  of the receiver member guide segment  64 . When the receiver and latch member  52 ,  54  have been sufficiently manipulated to bring latching body upper face  314  and the latch member lower face  272  into simultaneous contact with the receiver member guide and receiving surfaces  110 ,  84 , respectively, the receiver member  52  exerts a compressive force on to the latch tab  202  (e.g., at the latching body upper face  314 ), causing the latch tab  202  to deflect, effectively pivoting at the fixed end  300 . 
     Increased deflection of the latch tab  202  occurs as the latch member  54  is further inserted into the guide slot  70  (from the arrangement of  FIG. 7 ) as the latching body upper face  314  slides along the tapering guide surface  110 . Once the latch member  54  has been sufficiently inserted to bring the latch tab  202  beyond the capture surface  112  of the head  62 , the compressive force exerted by the receiver member  52  on to the latch tab  202  is removed, and the latch tab  202  naturally reverts back to the neutral condition. Stated otherwise, once the latch face  312  is beyond the capture surface  110 , the latch tab  202  freely self-reverts back to the neutral condition. The cross-sectional view of  FIG. 8A  illustrates the latch tab  202  in the neutral condition, and reflects the locked state of the buckle assembly  50 . In some embodiments, the buckle assembly  50  is configured such that an audible noise or “click” is generated as the latch tab  202  self-reverts to the neutral condition (e.g., as stored energy in the latch tab  202  is released when reverting to the neutral condition, a noise is generated; the latching body  310  frictionally interfaces with a surface of the head  62  when self-reverting to the neutral condition and generates a noise; etc.). In addition or alternatively, a user otherwise holding the latch member  54  can “feel” the latch tab  202  self-revert to the neutral condition. With these optional embodiments, then, the user is provided with an audible and/or tactile confirmation that the locked state has been successfully achieved. Further, the locked state can be achieved by a user while at all times maintaining contact with both the receiver and latch member  52 ,  54 ; the user simply grasps the receiver member  52  with one hand and the latch member  54  at the optional serrated grip regions  254  ( FIG. 2 ), and directs the latch member  54  into the receiver member  52  in a single motion. 
     In the locked state, the latch face  312  is engaged with, or only slightly spaced from, the capture surface  112 . Thus, an abutting interface between the latch face  312  and the capture surface  112  prevents the latch body  54  from being inadvertently pulled from receiver member  52  (e.g., relative to the orientation of  FIG. 8A , interface between the latch face  312  and the capture surface  112  prevents the latch member  54  being overtly moved rightward relative to the receiver member  52 ). The lower face  272  of the latch member arms  222 ,  224  (one of which is visible in  FIG. 8A ), and in particular the bearing region  284 , abuts or bears against the receiver member receiving surface  84 . In an exemplary embodiment, corresponding geometries of the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  locates the upper face  270  of the latch member arms  222 ,  224 , and in particular the stop region  280 , flush with the guide surface  110  of the receiver member  52 , with this interface impeding or preventing further forward movement of the latch member  54  relative to the receiver member  52  (i.e., leftward relative to the orientation of  FIG. 8A ).  FIG. 8A  further reflects that in the locked state of the buckle assembly  50  (including the latch tab  202  in the neutral condition), the gap  124  between the free end  122  of the release arm  64  and the capture surface  112  is sufficiently sized to freely receive the latching body  310 . Further, the release arm  64  of the receiver member  52  extends over the latch tab  202 , with the engagement surface  130  being slightly spaced above the corresponding portions of the latch tab  202 . This relationship is further illustrated in the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 8B . As shown, in the locked state, the latch tab  202  resides within the engagement slot  132 , whereas the opposing arms  222 ,  224  of the latch member  52  are located outside of the engagement slot  132  and are within the guide slot  70  as defined between the receiver member support segments  100 ,  102  and the platform  60 . 
     In exemplary embodiments, additional complimentary features of the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  promote ease of complete insertion to the locked state. For example,  FIG. 8A  shows that with the lower face bearing region  284  of the latch member  54  abutting the receiving surface  84  of the receiver member  52 , the leading end  210  of the latch member  54  is lifted away from the receiving surface  84  (due, for example, to the angled relationship of the guide and bearing regions  282 ,  284  of the lower face  272 ), thereby preventing inadvertent “catching” of the leading end  210  against the receiver member  52 . Further, the leading end  210  is sized and shaped to readily extend through or beyond the engagement slot  132 . Additionally, the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 8C  illustrates that in the locked state, the tapered width of the latch member  54  generally corresponds with the width of the guide slot  70 , allowing the arms  222 ,  224  to readily slide along/relative to the corresponding receiver member walls  150 ,  152 . In some embodiments, geometries of the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  is such that in the locked state, the trailing region  262  of each of the arms  222 ,  224  can contact or bear against an inner surface of the corresponding wall  150 ,  152 , further impeding over-insertion of the latch member  54 .  FIG. 8C  further reflects that in an exemplary embodiment, a convex shape of the receiver member perimeter edge  92  substantially matches a concave shape of the latch member receiving edge  290 , providing a substantially smooth or continuous surface between the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54 . This optional relationship is further clarified by  FIG. 8A  in which due to the offset arrangement of the foot  226  relative to the arms  222 ,  224 , the lower face  292  of the foot  226  is substantially aligned or contiguous with the contact surface  86  of the receiver member platform  60 . When worn by a user, then, the smooth, continuous surface effectuated by a combination of the lower face  292  and the contact surface  86  can comfortably contact, and is unlikely to irritate, the user&#39;s skin. 
     The perspective view of  FIG. 9  provides a more complete illustration of the buckle device  50  in the locked state (for ease of illustration, the straps  22   a ,  22   b  ( FIG. 2 ) are omitted from the view). When a user desires to detach the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54 , the user once again grasps the latch member  54  with one hand. In this regard, and recalling that the buckle assembly  50  may oftentimes be located behind the user&#39;s head or neck, the optional serrated grip regions  254  (that are otherwise located well beyond the receiver member  52 ) provide a readily-identifiable surface for a user to inherently “know” where to grasp the latch member  54  without visual confirmation. The receiver member  52  is grasped by the user&#39;s other hand, and the release arm  64  is actuated to transition the buckle assembly  50  to a released state. More particularly, and with additional reference to  FIG. 8A , a tactile feel provided by the actuator surface  134  of the release arm  64  naturally guides a user to place his or her finger (or thumb) on to the actuator surface  134  without visual confirmation. The user then applies an actuation (e.g., pressing) force on to the actuator surface  134 , causing the release arm  64  to deflect toward the latch tab  202  (with the release arm  64  pivoting at the pivot end  120  in some embodiments). As the release arm  64  is brought into contact with the latch tab  202 , continued application of the actuation force on to the release arm  64  is transferred to the latch tab  202 , causing the latch tab  202  to deflect as described above. With further deflection of the latch tab  202 , the latch face  312  is eventually maneuvered beyond the capture surface  112  such that the latching body  310  is now “clear” of the capture surface  112 . In this released state, the latch face  312  no longer engages the capture surface  112 , allowing the latch member  54  to be pulled away from the receiver member  52  (and/or vice-versa) and back to the detached state of  FIG. 2 . With exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, then, a user is naturally encouraged to quickly and correctly perform a release operation without having to view the buckle assembly  50 , and without having to manipulate or articulate any components of the latch member  54 . 
     Another embodiment buckle assembly  400  in accordance with principles of the present disclosure is shown in  FIG. 10 . The buckle assembly  400  can be highly akin to the buckle assembly  50  ( FIG. 2 ) described above, and includes a receiver member  402  and a latch member  404 . In many respects, the receiver member  402  can be identical to the receiver member  52  ( FIG. 2 ) and the latch member  404  can be identical to the latch member  54  ( FIG. 2 ), incorporating any or all of the features described above as useful for simple, user-prompted connection from the detached state of  FIG. 10  to the locked state of  FIG. 11  (and vice-versa). In additional, the exemplary receiver and latch members  402 ,  404  optionally provide enhanced surface area (as compared to the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54 , respectively) for interfacing with a user&#39;s skin (when the buckle assembly  400  is worn or disposed, for example, along a back of the user&#39;s neck). 
     The receiver member  402  includes one or more of the platform  60 , the head  62 , the release arm  64 , the frame  66  and the strap retaining device  68  as described above. In addition, the receiver member  402  forms or provides an extension body  410  between the platform  60  and the strap retaining device  68 . For example, and as compared to the receiver member  52  ( FIG. 2 ) described above, the extension body  410  provides an enhanced or enlarged surface area between the platform  60  and the living hinge  88 . As best shown in  FIG. 11 , a bottom surface  412  of the extension body  410  is continuous with the contact surface  86  of the platform  60 , but defines a curvature or bend relative to a plane of the contact surface  86 . 
     The latch member  404  similarly differs from the latch member  54  ( FIG. 2 ), and includes one or more of the base  200 , the latch tab  202  and the strap retaining device  204  as described above. In addition, the latch member  404  forms or provides an extension body  420  between the base  200  and the strap retaining device  204 . For example, and as compared to the latch body  54  described above, the extension body  420  provides an enhanced or enlarged surface area between the base  200  and the living hinge  214 . As best shown in  FIG. 11 , a lower face  422  of the extension body  420  is continuous with the lower face  292  of the base  200 , but defines a curvature or bend relative to a plane of the lower face  292 . 
     With the above construction and in the locked state of  FIG. 11 , the extension bodies  410 ,  420  provide an enhanced area of contact with the user&#39;s skin as compared to the buckle assembly  50  ( FIG. 2 ), with the straps (not shown, but akin to the straps  22   a ,  22   b  of  FIG. 2 ) being shorter and thus contacting less of the user&#39;s skin when worn. By forming the receiver and latch members  402 ,  404  from a plastic material, the bottom surface  412  and the lower face  422  can be rendered highly smooth, and thus can be less irritating to a user&#39;s skin than the elastic (or other material) straps. Further, the curvature of the extension bodies  410 ,  420  relative to the corresponding platform  60  and base  200  more readily conforms to the natural shape of the user&#39;s neck, thus also possibly improving comfort when worn. 
     Another embodiment of a buckle assembly  500  of the present disclosure is shown in  FIG. 12  (in a detached state). The buckle assembly  500  is configured for selective connecting straps provided with a personal protective device (such as the straps  22   a ,  22   b  of  FIG. 2 ), and includes a receiver member  502  and a latch member  504 . Details on the various components are provided below. In general terms, however, the receiver member  502  and the latch member  504  are each configured for coupling to a respective one of the straps. Further, the receiver and latch members  502 ,  504  incorporate complimentary features that facilitate transitioning of the buckle assembly  500  by a user from the detached state of  FIG. 12  (in which the receiver and latch members  502 ,  504  are separated from one another) to a latched state in which the latch member  504  is locked or latched to the receiver member  502 , thus connecting the corresponding straps. Further, the receiver and latch members  502 ,  504  incorporate complimentary features that facilitate transitioning of the buckle assembly  500  from the latched state to a released state in which the latch member  504  can be removed or withdrawn from the receiver member  502  (and/or vice-versa). 
     With additional reference to the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 13 , the receiver member  502  can be an integral, homogenous body that forms or defines a platform  510 , a head  512 , a frame  514 , and a strap retaining device  516 . The platform  510 , the head  512 , and optionally the frame  514  combine to define a slot  518  sized to receive the latch member  504 . 
     The platform  510  defines opposing, first and second ends  530 ,  532 , and a receiving surface  534  that in some embodiments can be substantially flat or planar (e.g., within 10% of a truly planar surface). The head  512  is spaced above the receiving surface  534  by the frame  514 , and includes or defines opposing support segments  540 ,  542  and a guide segment  544 . The support segments  540 ,  542  extend in a spaced apart fashion from the second end  532  to define a notch  546 . The guide segment  544  extends between the support segments  540 ,  542 , and defines a guide surface  548  and a capture surface  550 . The guide surface  548  can be spatially arranged relative to a plane of the receiving surface  534  as shown, defining the slot  518  to have a tapering height in a direction of the second end  532 . The capture surface  550  is arranged to face in a direction of the second end  532 . As shown, the platform  510  can project beyond the guide segment  544  in extension to the first end  530 . 
     The strap retaining device  516  can assume a variety forms appropriate for connection to a strap. With the non-limiting example of  FIGS. 12 and 13 , the strap retaining device  516  includes or provides posts  560  configured to maintain an attachment apparatus (not shown) otherwise useful for connection to a strap. 
     With reference to  FIG. 12  and the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 14 , the latch member  504  can be an integral, homogenous body that forms or defines a base  570 , a latch tab  572  and a strap retaining device  574 . The base  570  defines opposing, leading and trailing ends  580 ,  582 , and includes or forms a shoulder  584 , opposing arms  586 ,  588  and a foot  590 . The arms  586 ,  588  extend between the shoulder  584  and the foot  590  to in a spaced apart fashion to define an aperture  592 . 
     The latch tab  572  is connected to the shoulder  584  at a fixed end  600 , and extends in a direction of the trailing end  582  to a free end  602 . Extension of the latch tab  572  from the shoulder  584  can include an upward component (relative to the orientation of  FIG. 14 ) such that the latch tab  572  optionally projects above the arms  586 ,  588 . The latch member  504  is configured such that the latch tab  572  can be selectively deflected or articulated from the neutral condition of  FIGS. 12 and 14 , effectively pivoting at the fixed end  600 . Finally, the latch tab  572  forms or defines a latch face  604  arranged to face the trailing end  582  (e.g., the latch face  604  is formed at the free end  602 ). 
     The strap retaining device  574  can assume any form appropriate for connection to a strap, including any of the configurations described above. 
     With cross reference between  FIGS. 12-14 , various geometries of the receiver member  502  and the latch member  504  can be akin to those described above with respect to the receiver and latch members  52 ,  54  ( FIG. 2 ) and otherwise conducive to simplified, guided insertion of the latch member  504  into the slot  518  of the receiver member  502 . For example, the leading end  580  of the latch member  504  is easily inserted into the enlarged slot  518  at the guide segment  544 , with the guide surface  548  and other surfaces of the receiver member  502  naturally guiding or directing the latch member  504  into alignment with the receiver member  502  as described above. At a stage of insertion whereby the latch tab  572  slidably contacts the guide surface  544  (and the base  570  is simultaneously in sliding contact with the receiving surface  534 ), the receiver member  502  exerts a compressive force on to the latch tab  572 , causing the latch tab  572  to deflect with continued insertion. Forced deflection of the latch tab  572  continues until the latch face  604  is clear of the guide segment  544 , and in particular has progressed beyond the capture surface  550 . At this point, the latch tab  572  naturally self-reverts back to the neutral condition, transitioning the buckle assembly  500  to the locked state of  FIGS. 15A and 15B . In the locked state, the latch face  604  engages or can engage the capture surface  550  in the event latch member  504  is inadvertently pulled relative to the receiver member  502  (and/or vice-versa). Lower surfaces  610 ,  612  of the receiver and latch members  502 ,  504 , respectively, are optionally substantially contiguous at the point of connection, providing a relatively continuous, smooth surface for contacting the user&#39;s skin. 
     To detach the latch member  504  from the receiver member  502 , the buckle assembly  500  is transition to a released state by a user-applied actuating (e.g., pressing) at the latch tab  572 . The latch tab  572  deflects in response to this force, pivoting at the fixed end  600 . Once the latch tab  572  has sufficiently deflected to manipulate the latch face  604  away from or clear of the capture surface  550  (i.e., the released state), the latch member  502  can be pulled or withdrawn from the receiver member  502 . 
     The buckle assemblies of the present disclosure provide a marked improvement over previous designs. Corresponding geometries of the receiver and latch members are provided with large features that are easy to find when working blind (e.g., behind the head or neck), making the buckle assembly easy to connect. There optionally are significant lead-in angles in both the height and width (X and Y) dimensions to “help” the latch member find the receiver member easily, guide the latch member into place. In some embodiments, the receiver member includes a release arm with features that create good tactile feedback that make it easy to locate when working blind. Pressing the release arm pushes on the latch tab of the latch member, causing the latch tab to release. Further, the latch member optionally includes serrated grip features on each side to improve grip in a logical position when latch or unlatching the buckle assembly. The receiver and latch members are optionally designed so that the user&#39;s hands stay with each component throughout the latching/unlatching process. This makes the buckle assembly easier to use as compared to conventional designs as the user does not lose contact with the active parts at any time, rendering the buckle assembly easier to locate and use behind the head. As a point of reference, when parts of a latch mechanism slide over or past the user&#39;s finger(s) during operation, it creates some confusion as to whether the latching/unlatching process has been done correctly and/or loss of contact with the initial landing surfaces by the user&#39;s fingers interrupts the flow of movement. 
     The foregoing detailed description and examples have been given for clarity of understanding only. No unnecessary limitations are to be understood there from. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changes can be made in the embodiments described without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Any feature or characteristic described with respect to any of the above embodiments can be incorporated individually or in combination with any other feature or characteristic, and are presented in the above order and combinations for clarity only. Thus, the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited to the exact details and structures described herein, but rather by the structures described by the language of the claims, and the equivalents of those structures.