Abstract:
Running-end spool containment devices and systems are described herein that allow a user to secure a running-end of a strap within a lockable device to anchor the running-end of the strap at a selectable length when the device is in a locked mode, and to enable the running-end of the strap be lengthened or shortened when the device is in an unlocked mode. In an embodiment, the device includes an axel about which the running-end of a strap can be wound and unwound, a lock case that can engage the axel to prevent axel rotation in the locked mode and that can be disengaged from the axel to allow the axel to rotate freely in the unlocked mode, and a spring case that causes the axel to rotate and the running-end of the strap to wind around the axel when the lock cases is in the unlocked mode.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/262,584, filed on Dec. 3, 2015 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/375,242, filed on Aug. 15, 2016, each of which is entitled “Running-End Spool Containment Device” and each of which is incorporated by reference herein. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The present invention relates to strap containment. More particularly, the present invention relates to a running-end spool containment device and system used to contain the running-end of a strap. 
         [0004]    Background Art 
         [0005]    Some conventional resistance training systems rely on a user&#39;s bodyweight to supply the main force of resistance via the user suspending from a strap, cable or cord. Conventional suspension training systems that allow a user to perform exercises using a strap, cable or cord do not allow for the length of the strap, cable or cord to be adjusted. For example, when a strap in these systems is anchored, the strap is then fixed in position and the length(s) of the free end(s) (hereinafter, “running-ends”) of the strap cannot be changed. Moreover, these running ends are free to become entangled with one another and or the user. A similar situation may occur with the running-ends of tie-down straps, such as straps used to constrain cargo for transportation or storage, for example. These free running-ends of various types of straps for various uses can create an annoying and sometimes dangerous situation if they become entangled with themselves, a user, or any other object. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0006]    Running-end spool containment devices and systems are described herein that allow a user to secure a running-end of a strap within a lockable device to anchor the running-end of the strap at a selectable length when the device is in a locked mode, and to enable the running-end of the strap be lengthened or shortened when the device is in an unlocked mode. In an embodiment, the device includes an axel about which the running-end of a strap can be wound and unwound, a lock case that can engage the axel to prevent axel rotation in the locked mode and that can be disengaged from the axel to allow the axel to rotate freely in the unlocked mode, and a spring case that causes the axel to rotate and the running-end of the strap to wind around the axel when the lock cases is in the unlocked mode. 
         [0007]    In another aspect, a running end spool containment system may comprise a device that includes a spool bracket having a spool bracket base, a first spool bracket arm that extends from a first side of the spool bracket base, and a second spool bracket arm that extends from a second side of the spool bracket base and is substantially parallel to the first spool bracket arm, the first spool bracket arm having a first spool bracket aperture defined therein, and the second spool bracket arm having a second spool bracket aperture defined therein. The device may further include a spring case attached to the first spool bracket arm, a lock case attached to the second spool bracket arm, and an axel having a first end that extends through the first spool bracket aperture into the spring case, a second end that extends through the second spool bracket aperture into the lock case, and a central portion that is disposed between the first and the second spool bracket arms. The device may further include a constant force spring disposed within the spring case, the constant force spring having a first end connected to the first end of the axel. A user-manipulable locking plate may be disposed within the lock case, the user-manipulable locking plate being manipulable by a user to selectively cause the axel to engage with or disengage from the user-manipulable locking plate, the user-manipulable locking plate being configured to prevent the axel from rotating when the axel is engaged with the user-manipulable locking plate, and the axel may be able to rotate freely when the axel is not engaged with the user-manipulable locking plate. The constant force spring may be configured to wind around the first end of the axel when the axel rotates in a first direction, the constant force spring placing the axel under tension when wound around the first end of the axel causing the axel to rotate in a second direction opposite the first direction when no other force is applied to the axel, the constant force spring being further configured to unwind from around the first end of the axel when the axel rotates in the second direction. The device may further include an accessory bracket removably mounted to the spool bracket base, the accessory bracket configured to allow a user to engage an accessory with the spool bracket base and to disengage the accessory from the spool bracket base. The device may be configured to accept a strap that has a first running end that extends between the first spool bracket arm and the second spool bracket arm, the first running end being connected to the central portion of the axel, the first running end winding around the axel when the axel rotates in the first direction and unwinding from around the axel when the axel rotates in the second direction. 
         [0008]    In another aspect, a running end spool containment system may comprise a device including a spool bracket having a spool bracket base, a first spool bracket arm that extends from a first side of the spool bracket base, and a second spool bracket arm that extends from a second side of the spool bracket base and is substantially parallel to the first spool bracket arm, the first spool bracket arm having a first spool bracket aperture defined therein, and the second spool bracket arm having a second spool bracket aperture defined therein. The device may further include a spring case attached to the first spool bracket arm, a lock case attached to the second spool bracket arm, and an axel, the axel having a first end that extends through the first spool bracket aperture into the spring case, a second end that extends through the second spool bracket aperture into the lock case, and a central portion that is disposed between the first and second spool bracket arms. A constant force spring may be disposed within the spring case, the constant force spring having a first end connected to the first end of the axel. The device may further include a user-manipulable locking plate disposed within the lock case, the user-manipulable locking plate being manipulable by a user to selectively cause the axel to engage with or disengage from the user manipulable locking plate, the user manipulable locking plate being configured to prevent the axel from rotating when the axel is engaged with the user-manipulable locking plate, the axel able to rotate freely when the axel is not engaged with the user-manipulable locking plate. The constant force spring may be configured to wind around the first end of the axel when the axel rotates in a first direction, the constant force spring placing the axel under tension when wound around the first end of the axel causing the axel to rotate in a second direction opposite the first direction when no other force is applied to the axel, the constant force spring being further configured to unwind from around the first end of the axel when the axel rotates in the second direction. The device may further include an accessory bracket removably mounted to the spool bracket base, the accessory bracket configured to allow a user to engage an accessory with the spool bracket base and to disengage the accessory from the spool bracket base. The device may further include a strap that has a first running end that extends between the first spool bracket arm and the second spool bracket arm, the first running end being connected to the central portion of the axel, the first running end winding around the axel when the axel rotates in the first direction and unwinding from around the axel when the axel rotates in the second direction. 
         [0009]    In another aspect, a running end spool containment system may comprise a device including a spool bracket having a spool bracket base, a first spool bracket arm that extends from a first side of the spool bracket base, and a second spool bracket arm that extends from a second side of the spool bracket base and is substantially parallel to the first spool bracket arm, the first spool bracket arm having a first spool bracket aperture defined therein, and the second spool bracket arm having a second spool bracket aperture defined therein. The device may further include a spring case, the spring case being connected to the first spool bracket arm, a sliding lock case, the sliding lock case being movably connected to the second spool bracket arm, and an axel, the axel comprising a first end that extends through the first spool bracket aperture into the spring case, a second end that extends through the second spool bracket aperture into the sliding lock case, and a central portion that is disposed between the first and second spool bracket arms. The device may further include a constant force spring disposed within the spring case, the constant force spring having a first end connected to the first end of the axel, the sliding lock case being manipulable by a user to selectively cause the axel to engage with or disengage from the sliding lock case, the sliding lock case being configured to prevent the axel from rotating when the axel is engaged with the sliding lock case, the axel able to rotate freely when the axel is not engaged with the sliding lock case. The constant force spring being may be configured to wind around the first end of the axel when the axel rotates in a first direction, the constant force spring placing the axel under tension when wound around the first end of the axel causing the axel to rotate in a second direction opposite the first direction when no other force is applied to the axel, the constant force spring being further configured to unwind from around the first end of the axel when the axel rotates in the second direction. The device may further include an accessory bracket removably mounted to the spool bracket base, the accessory bracket configured to allow a user to engage an accessory with the spool bracket base and to disengage the accessory from the spool bracket base. The device may further include a strap having a first running end that extends between the first spool bracket arm and the second spool bracket arm, the first running end being connected to the central portion of the axel, the first running end winding around the axel when the axel rotates in the first direction and unwinding from around the axel when the axel rotates in the second direction. 
         [0010]    These and other objects, advantages and features will become readily apparent in view of the following detailed description of the invention. Note that the Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or more, but not all exemplary embodiments of the present invention as contemplated by the inventor(s). 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS/FIGURES 
         [0011]    The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate the present invention and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles of the invention and to enable a person skilled in the pertinent art to make and use the invention. 
           [0012]      FIG. 1  shows a front isometric view of a running-end spool containment device in accordance with an embodiment. 
           [0013]      FIG. 2  shows an exploded front view of a portion of the running-end spool containment device of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0014]      FIG. 3  shows an exploded front view of the running-end spool containment device of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0015]      FIG. 4  shows an exploded front isometric view of the running-end spool containment device of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0016]      FIG. 5  shows an exploded side view of a portion of the running-end spool containment device of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0017]      FIG. 6  shows an exploded front view of a portion of the running-end spool containment device of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0018]      FIG. 7  shows a front isometric view of a running-end spool containment device in accordance with another embodiment. 
           [0019]      FIG. 8  shows an exploded side cut-away view of a portion of the running-end spool containment device of  FIG. 7 . 
           [0020]      FIG. 9  shows an exploded front isometric view of a portion of the running-end spool containment device of  FIG. 7 . 
           [0021]      FIG. 10  shows a front isometric view of a running-end spool containment system in accordance with an embodiment. 
       
    
    
       [0022]    The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate identical or functionally similar elements. Additionally, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the drawing in which the reference number first appears. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Introduction 
       [0023]    The present specification discloses one or more embodiments that incorporate the features of the invention. The disclosed embodiment(s) merely exemplify the invention. The scope of the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiment(s). The invention is defined by the claims appended hereto. 
         [0024]    References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. 
         [0025]    In the discussion, unless otherwise stated, adjectives such as “substantially,” “approximately,” and “about” modifying a condition or relationship characteristic of a feature or features of an embodiment of the disclosure are understood to mean that the condition or characteristic is defined to be within tolerances that are acceptable for operation of the embodiment for an application for which it is intended. 
         [0026]    Furthermore, it should be understood that spatial descriptions (e.g., “above,” “below,” “up,” “left,” “right,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” etc.) used herein are for purposes of illustration only, and that practical implementations of the structures described herein can be spatially arranged in any orientation or manner. 
         [0027]    Still further, it should be noted that the drawings/figures are not drawn to scale unless otherwise noted herein. 
         [0028]    Numerous exemplary embodiments are now described. Any section/subsection headings provided herein are not intended to be limiting. Embodiments are described throughout this document, and any type of embodiment may be included under any section/subsection. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the disclosed embodiments may be combined with each other in any manner. That is, the embodiments described herein are not mutually exclusive of each other and may be practiced and/or implemented alone, or in any combination. 
       Example Embodiments 
       [0029]    The example embodiments described herein are provided for illustrative purposes only, and are not limiting. The examples described herein may be adapted to any type of running-end spool containment system or running-end spool containment device. Further structural and operational embodiments, including modifications/alterations, will become apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) from the teachings herein. 
         [0030]    A running-end spool containment system according to various embodiments will now be described. First, components and configuration of a first example running-end spool containment device are described. Next, components and configuration of a first example running-end spool containment system are described. Next, operation of the running-end spool containment system is described including a description of the running-end spool containment device in a locked mode, in an unlocked mode, and while transitioning between a locked mode and an unlocked mode. Next, components and configuration of a second example running-end spool containment device are described. Thereafter, exemplary materials of components of the first example running-end spool containment system, first example running-end spool containment device, and second example running-end spool containment device are described. Next, a third example running-end spool containment system is incorporated by reference. Finally, closing remarks are made. 
       A. Components and Configuration of a First Example Running-End Spool Containment Device 
       [0031]      FIG. 1  shows a front isometric view of a first example running-end spool containment device  100 . Running-end spool containment device  100  may comprise a part of a running-end spool containment system. As shown in  FIG. 1 , running-end spool containment device  100  includes a spool bracket  102 , a spring case  106 , a lock case  108 , an axel  116 , a first strap guide  118   a , a second strap guide  118   b , an accessory bracket  120 , an accessory tab  122 , and an accessory pin channel  126 . Spool bracket  102  comprises a spool bracket base  104   a , a first spool bracket arm  104   b  that extends from a first side  124   a  of spool bracket base  104   a , and a second spool bracket arm  104   c  that extends from a second side  124   b  of spool bracket base  104   a  and is substantially parallel to first spool bracket arm  104   b . First spool bracket arm  104   b  has a first spool bracket aperture  510  (as shown in  FIG. 5 ) defined therein, and second spool bracket arm  104   c  has a second spool bracket aperture (not shown) defined therein. As shown in  FIG. 2 , axel  116  has a first end  218   a  that extends through first spool bracket aperture  510  into spring case  106 , a second end  218   b  that extends through the second spool bracket aperture (not shown) into lock case  108 , and a central portion  218   c  that is disposed between first spool bracket arm  104   b  and second spool bracket arm  104   c.    
         [0032]    Spring case  106  is connected to first spool bracket arm  104   b . Lock case  108  is connected to second spool bracket arm  104   c . Lock case  108  has a lock case aperture  112  defined therein. Lock case  108  further includes a lock tab arm  114  that extends through lock case aperture  112 . Spring case  106  and lock case  108  will be described more fully below with respect to  FIGS. 2-4 . 
         [0033]    As shown in  FIG. 1 , accessory tab  122  has an accessory tab aperture  126  defined therein. Accessory bracket  120  and accessory tab  122  will be described more fully below with respect to  FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 . 
         [0034]      FIG. 2  shows an exploded front view of a portion of running-end spool containment device  100  of  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 2  shows spool bracket  102 , spring case  106 , and axel  116  of running-end spool containment device  100 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , running-end spool containment device  100  further includes a flange  202 , a constant force spring  204 , a spring collar  208 , an axel pin  210  and an axel nut  228 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , second spool bracket arm  104   c  includes flange  202 . Flange  202  may be formed from a piece of first spool bracket arm  104   b  that is “punched out” of first spool bracket arm  104   b . Alternately, flange  202  may be a separate component and may be screwed, glued, welded, or attached by any other means known now or in the future to second spool bracket arm  104   c . Flange  202  will be described more fully with respect to  FIG. 3 . 
         [0035]    As further shown in  FIG. 2 , spring case  106  has a front face  220  and a protruding lip  222  that surrounds an outer edge  226  of front face  220  and that protrudes toward lock case  108 . Spring case  106  further includes a base plate  212 . Spring case  106  may be contoured in a shape of constant force spring  204  disposed therein so that spring case  106  conforms to constant force spring  204 . However, persons skilled in the relevant art(s) will understand that a shape of spring case  106  is arbitrary and that any shape may be used. Base plate  212  may be contoured in a same shape as spring case  106 . Base plate  212  may be connected to spring case  106  by a first screw  216  and a second screw (not shown) positioned opposite first screw  216 . Further, spring case  106  and base plate  212  may be connected to first spool bracket arm  104   b  by a third screw  214  and a fourth screw (not shown) opposite third screw  214 . In the present embodiment, screws are used to connect spring case  106  to base plate  212  and spring case  106  and base plate  212  to first spool bracket arm  104   b . However, persons skilled in the relevant art(s) will readily appreciate that any number of connecting mechanisms may be used to join spring case  106  to base plate  212  and spring case  106  and base plate  212  to first spool bracket arm  104   b  including but not limited to adhesive attachment, soldering, or a combination thereof. 
         [0036]    Although not shown in  FIG. 2 , base plate  212  has defined therein a base plate aperture through which second end  218   b  and central portion  218   c  of axel  116  extend. Disposed between spring case  106  and base plate  212  are first end  218   a  of axel  116 , constant force spring  204 , spring collar  208 , and axel pin  210 . Constant force spring  204  may comprise a rolled ribbon of spring metal (e.g., steel) such that the spring is relaxed when it is fully rolled up and such that, as it is unrolled, a restoring force is generated. It is noted that other types of springs other than constant-force springs may be used. Although not shown, there may be a peg in the center of constant force spring  204 . A first end  206  of constant force spring  204  is engaged with first end  218   a  of axel  116 . For example, first end  206  of constant force spring  204  may be screwed, riveted, welded, glued, or attached by any other means, to first end  218   a  of axel  116 . Spring collar  208  is also connected to first end  218   a  of axel  216  within spring case  106 . Spring collar  208  may be formed in two pieces and may be secured to first end  218   a  of axel  116  using screws, bolts, rivets, adhesive, or by any other means of attachment known now or in the future. First end  206  of constant force spring  204  extends through a slit (not shown) in spring collar  208 . Spring collar  208  provides a surface around which constant force spring  204  may coil. It should be noted that spring collar  208  is not essential to operation of running-end spool containment device  100 . In an alternate embodiment, spring collar is not present and constant force spring  204  coils around and uncoils from around first end  218   a  of axel  116  directly. 
         [0037]    Also shown in  FIG. 2  is an axel nut  228  disposed on second end  218   b  of axel  116 . Axel nut  228  may extend into lock case  108  instead of, or in addition to, second end  218   b  of axel  116 . 
         [0038]      FIG. 3  shows an exploded front view of running-end spool containment device  100  of  FIG. 1 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , lock case  108  is connected to second spool bracket arm  104   c . Lock case  108  may be connected to second spool bracket arm  104   c  by a fifth screw  320  and a corresponding nut  324 . Lock case  108  may also be connected to second spool bracket arm  104   c  by a sixth screw (not shown) disposed opposite fifth screw  320  and a corresponding nut (not shown). Lock case  108  may further be connected to first strap guide  118   a  and second strap guide  118   b , respectively, through second spool bracket arm  104   c  by a seventh screw  322  and an eighth screw (not shown) disposed opposite seventh screw  322 . In the present embodiment, screws are used to connect lock case  108  to second spool bracket arm  104   c  and lock case  108  to first and second strap guides  118   a  and  118   b . However, persons skilled in the relevant art(s) will readily appreciate that any number of connecting mechanisms may be used to join lock case  108  to second spool bracket arm  104   c  and lock case  108  to first and second strap guides  118   a  and  118   b  including but not limited to adhesive attachment, soldering, or a combination thereof. Moreover, as a non-limiting example, first and second strap guides  118   a  and  118   b  may not be connected to lock case  108  at all and may instead be connected to first and second spool bracket arms  104   b  and  104   c , such as by a screw  326 , for example. Lock case  108  is a mechanism for holding axel  116  in place and holding a first strap  1002  shown in  FIG. 10  at a certain length. Disposed between lock case  108  and second spool bracket arm  104   c  are a user-manipulable locking plate  302 , a spring  308 , and a lock tab  312 . User-manipulable locking plate  302  has a locking plate face  304  and a locking plate arm  316 . Locking plate arm  316  extends from a first end  306  of locking plate face  304 . User-manipulable locking plate  302  is movably attached to second spool bracket arm  104   c  as explained more fully with respect to  FIG. 4 . 
         [0039]    As shown in  FIG. 3 , running-end spool containment device  100  further includes lock tab  312 . Lock tab  312  includes a lock tab plate  314  and lock tab arm  114  extending from substantially a center of lock tab plate  314 . Lock tab arm  114  is substantially perpendicular to lock tab plate  314 . Lock tab arm  114  may extend through lock tab aperture  112  in an outer face  110  of lock case  108 . Lock tab arm  114  is configured to be moved between a first position and a second position within lock tab aperture  112  in outer face  110  of lock case  108 . Lock tab  312  moves with lock tab arm  114 . Further, in some embodiments, lock tab arm  114  may be a hollow rigid bar into which locking plate arm  316  extends, such that user-manipulable locking plate  302  moves with lock tab  312 . It should be noted however, that lock tab  312  is not essential to operation of running-end spool containment device  100  and that, in an alternate embodiment, lock tab  312  is not present and instead, locking plate arm  316  extends through lock tab aperture  112  in outer face  110  of lock case  108  and is configured to be moved between a first position and a second position within lock tab aperture  112  in outer face  110  of lock case  108 . 
         [0040]      FIG. 4  shows an exploded front isometric view of running-end spool containment device  100  of  FIG. 1 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , locking plate face  304  has a locking plate channel  402  defined therein and a first elongated screw channel  406  defined therein. Locking plate face  304  has a second elongated screw channel (not shown) defined therein opposite first screw channel  406 . A first screw  318 , shown in  FIG. 3 , and a second screw (not shown) moveably connect user-manipulable locking plate  302  to second spool bracket arm  104   c  via first elongated screw channel  406  and second elongated screw channel (not shown). First elongated screw channel  406  and second elongated screw channel (not shown) allow user-manipulable locking plate  302  to slide between a first position and a second position along second spool bracket arm  104   c . Locking plate channel  402  has a narrow end  404   a  and a wide end  404   b . Narrow end  404   a  of locking plate channel  402  is configured to engage with second end  218   b  of axel  116  to prevent axel  116  from rotating when locking plate arm  316  is in the second position within lock case aperture  112 . Axel  116  is allowed to rotate freely when second end  218   b  of axel  116  is engaged with wide end  404   b  of locking plate channel  402  when lock tab arm  114  and, by extension, locking plate arm  316  are held in the first position within lock case aperture  112 . For example, with cardinality as shown in  FIG. 4 , when a user pushes lock tab arm  114  in a downward direction (toward accessory bracket  120 ), user-manipulable locking plate  302  also moves in the downward direction such that narrow end  404   a  of locking plate channel  402  moves down away from second end  218   b  of axel  116  and wide end  404   b  of locking plate channel  402  surrounds second end  218   b  of axel  116 , allowing axel  116  to rotate freely. When lock tab arm  114  is released, lock tab arm  114  moves in an upward direction (away from accessory bracket  120 ) causing locking plate channel  402  to move in the upward direction further causing narrow end  404   a  of locking plate channel  402  to engage with second end  218   b  of axel  116 , preventing axel  116  from rotating. 
         [0041]      FIG. 4  also shows a first accessory strap slot  408   a  and a second accessory strap slot  408   b , which are described below with respect to  FIG. 10 . 
         [0042]    Returning now to the description of  FIG. 3 , spring  308  has a first end  310   a  attached to locking plate arm  316  within lock case  108  and a second end  310   b  connected to flange  202  extending from second bracket arm  104   c . For example, first end  310   a  of spring  308  may have a hook (not shown) formed thereon, which may hook onto an opening (not shown) in locking plate arm  316  and second end  310   b  of spring  308  may have a hook  328  formed thereon, which may hook onto an opening (not shown) in flange  202 . Persons skilled in the relevant art(s) will readily appreciate that other methods of joining first end  310   a  of spring  308  to locking plate arm  316  and second end  310   b  of spring  308  to flange  202  may be used. 
         [0043]    Accessory mounting features of running-end spool containment device  100  will now be described with respect to  FIGS. 5 and 6 .  FIG. 5  shows an exploded side view of a portion of running-end spool containment device  100  of  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 6  shows an exploded front view of a portion of running-end spool containment device  100  of  FIG. 1 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , running-end spool containment device  100  further includes an accessory plate  504 , a washer  506 , and a cap  508 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , running-end spool containment device  100  further includes an accessory guide  606  and an accessory pin  612 . Accessory bracket  120  is configured to accept a removable accessory (not shown). A removable accessory such as hand holds or foot holds, as non-limiting examples, may be attached to accessory bracket  120  by a second strap  1004  shown in  FIG. 10 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , accessory bracket  120  comprises an accessory bracket base  602   a , a first accessory bracket arm  602   b  that extends from a first side  604   a  of accessory bracket base  602   a , and a second accessory bracket arm  602   c  that extends from a second side  604   b  of accessory bracket base  602   a  and is substantially parallel to first accessory bracket arm  602   b . Accessory guide  606  is disposed between first accessory bracket arm  602   b  and second accessory bracket arm  602   c . Accessory guide has a smaller framework than accessory bracket  120  and allows accessory bracket to be slid onto accessory tab  122  at a correct attitude. 
         [0044]    Accessory guide  606  comprises an accessory guide base  608   a , a first accessory guide arm  608   b  that extends from a first side  610   a  of accessory guide base  608   a  and a second accessory guide arm  608   c  that extends from a second side  610   b  of accessory guide base  608   a  and is substantially parallel to first accessory guide arm  608   b . It should be noted that accessory guide  606  is not essential to operation of running-end spool containment device  100 . In an alternate, non-limiting embodiment, accessory guide  606  is not present and accessory bracket  120  attaches to accessory tab  122  directly. 
         [0045]    Accessory tab  122  is disposed between first accessory guide arm  608   b  and second accessory guide arm  608   c . Accessory tab  122  comprises an accessory tab base  502   a , a first accessory tab arm  502   b  that extends from a first side  512   a  of accessory tab base  502   a , a second accessory tab arm  502   c  that extends from a second side  512   b  of accessory tab base  502   a  and is substantially parallel to first accessory tab arm  502   b , and an accessory tab top  502   d  that extends from a first end  514  of second accessory tab arm  502   c  and is substantially parallel to accessory tab base  504   a . First accessory tab arm  502   b  has a height that is greater than a height of second accessory tab arm  502   c  and accessory tab top  502   d  forming a ledge  516 . 
         [0046]    Accessory tab  122  is configured to accept accessory bracket  120 . First accessory tab arm  502   b  holds accessory bracket  120  in place and first accessory tab arm  502   b  is configured to bend when ledge  516  is pressed by a user to allow accessory bracket  120  to slide off of accessory guide  606  and be removed. In this embodiment, accessory bracket  120  and accessory tab  122  are independently swivelable about accessory pin  612 . Accessory plate  504  is disposed between spool bracket base  104   a  and accessory bracket  120  allowing accessory bracket  120  to swivel. Washer  506  is disposed between accessory tab top  502   d  and accessory guide base  608   a  allowing accessory tab  122  to swivel. Persons skilled in the relevant art(s) will readily appreciate that it is not necessary for operation of running-end spool containment device  100  for accessory bracket  120  and accessory tab  122  to swivel. Accessory pin  612  extends through a corresponding accessory pin channel  126  in each of accessory plate  504 , accessory bracket base  602   a , accessory guide base  608   a , washer  506 , accessory tab top  502   d  and into cap  508 . Accessory pin channel  126  is wide enough to allow accessory bracket  120  and accessory tab  122  to swivel. Further, accessory pin channel  126  in accessory bracket base  602   a  extends from a central portion  512  of accessory bracket base  602   a  all the remaining way through accessory bracket base  602   a  so that accessory bracket  120  can be slid from between accessory plate  504  and accessory guide base  608   a  to be removed. 
       B. Components and Configuration of a First Example Running-End Spool Containment System 
       [0047]      FIG. 10  shows a front isometric view of a running-end spool containment system  1000  according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 10 , running-end spool containment system  1000  includes running-end spool containment device  100  of  FIG. 1 , a first strap  1002  and a second strap  1004 . 
         [0048]    A first end  1006  of first strap  1002  is fed into spool bracket  102  (i.e., between first spool bracket arm  104   b  and second spool bracket arm  104   c ) between first strap guide  118   a  and second strap guide  118   b , which help to keep first strap  1002  from twisting, and keep first end  1006  of first strap  1002  going in a fixed direction toward or away from central portion of axel  118   c  at a correct attitude. It should be noted that first strap guide  118   a  and second strap guide  118   b  are not essential to operation of running-end spool containment system  1000  or running-end spool containment device  100 . In an alternate, non-limiting embodiment, first strap guide  118   a  and second strap guide  118   b  are not present and first end  1006  of first strap  1002  is fed directly into spool bracket  102 . First end  1006  of first strap  1002  may be attached to central portion  218   c  of axel  116 . As non-limiting examples, first end  1006  of first strap  1002  may be connected to central portion  218   c  of axel  116  by adhesive, by a rivet, or by a screw, etc. Alternately, first end  1006  of first strap  1002  may be fed into a slit (not shown) formed in central portion  218   c  of axel  116 . In alternate embodiments first end  1006  of first strap  1002  may be sewn in a loop around central portion  218   c  of axel  116  or not attached at all and then wrapped around central portion  218   c  of axel  116  a number of times such that first end  1006  of first strap  1002  is pinned against itself and compression due to the wrapping keeps first end  1006  of strap  1002  in place. In such a case, first strap  1002  may include a marking indicating a point at which first strap  1002  should not be lengthened further to avoid disengagement of first end  1006  of first strap  1002  from central portion  218   c  of axel  116 . 
         [0049]    Second strap  1004  is for an accessory (not shown) such as a handle, as a non-limiting example. Second strap  1004  extends through first accessory strap slot  408   a  and second accessory strap slot  408   b  of accessory bracket  120 . Second strap  1004  may be in the form of a loop, as shown in  FIG. 10 , however, second strap  1004  is not limited to being in the form of a loop. As a non-limiting example, accessory strap may have two ends to which are attached two accessories such as two hand grips. Alternately, as a non-limiting example, accessory strap may have two ends which are attached together by a carabiner or using some other form of attachment. 
       C. Operation of First Example Running-End Spool Containment System 
       [0050]    Operation of first example running-end spool containment system  1000  and first example running-end spool containment device  100  will now be described with continued respect to  FIGS. 1-6 and 10 . First example running-end spool containment system  1000  and first example running-end spool containment device  100  have two modes of operation, an unlocked mode and a locked mode. First, an unlocked mode will be described, and then a locked mode will be described. Finally, transitioning between the locked mode and the unlocked mode will be described. 
         [0051]    1. Unlocked Mode 
         [0052]    A configuration and operation of first example running-end spool containment system  1000  and first example running-end spool containment device  100  in an unlocked mode will now be described. 
         [0053]    Lock tab arm  114  and, by extension, locking plate arm  316  are held in the first position to place running-end spool containment system  1000  and first example running-end spool containment device  100  in an unlocked mode. In the unlocked mode, axel  116  is engaged with wide end  404   b  of locking plate channel  402  thereby enabling axel  116  to rotate freely. When axel  116  is enabled to rotate freely, constant force spring  204  is enabled to spool around and unspool from around spring collar  208 . Spooling and unspooling of constant force spring  204  around itself causes first strap  1002  to spool around and unspool, respectively, from around central portion  218   c  of axel  116 , thereby decreasing and increasing, respectively, a running-end length of first strap  1002 . 
         [0054]    In the unlocked mode, axel  116  rotates based on a condition of constant force spring  204 . When running-end spool containment system  1000  and running-end spool containment device  100  are in the unlocked mode and constant force spring  204  is at rest, constant force spring  204  is coiled around itself within spring case  106 . When axel  116  and spring collar  208  are rotated in a first direction, constant force spring  204  uncoils from around itself and coils around spring collar  208 . At the same time, first strap  1002 , which is attached to central portion  218   c  of axel  116 , uncoils from around central portion  218   c  of axel  116 , thereby increasing a length of first strap  1002 . Uncoiling of constant force spring  204  from itself places constant force spring  204  under tension, and constant force spring  204  will naturally tend to uncoil from spring collar  208  and coil back around itself. When constant force spring  204  uncoils from spring collar  208  and coils back around itself, axel  116  rotates in a second direction coiling first strap  1002  around axel  116 , thereby decreasing a length of first strap  1002 . 
         [0055]    2. Locked Mode 
         [0056]    In a locked mode, first end  218   a  of axel  116  is engaged with narrow end  404   a  of locking plate channel  402  thereby locking axel  116 . For example, narrow end  404   a  of locking plate channel  402  may have similar dimensions to axel nut  228 , which is attached to second end  218   b  of axel  116 , and when lock tab arm  114 , and by extension, locking plate arm  316  are in the second position, user-manipulable locking plate is positioned such that axel nut  228  is fitted snugly within narrow end  404   a  of locking plate channel  402  thereby preventing axel  116  from rotating. Although in this embodiment axel nut  228  and narrow end  404   a  of locking plate channel  402  having similar dimensions to axel nut  228  are used, persons skilled in the relevant art(s) will appreciate that other shapes of axel ends and channels may be used. Furthermore, in an alternate embodiment, axel nut  228  is not present, and first end  218   a  of axel  116  engages directly with narrow end of channel  404   a  of locking plate channel  402  thereby locking axel  116 , constant force spring  308 , and first strap  1002  in place in a same manner as described above with respect to axel nut  228 . In the locked mode, when axel  116  is prevented from rotating, constant force spring  308  and first strap  1002 , which both wind around and unwind from around portions of axel  116 , are also locked in place. Therefore, first strap  1002  can be locked at any length. 
         [0057]    3. Transitioning Between Locked Mode and Unlocked Mode 
         [0058]    Axel  116  is locked or unlocked based on a condition of spring  308  and lock tab arm  114  and, by extension, locking plate arm  316  and user-manipulable locking plate  302 . Spring  308  is configured to be stretched when lock tab arm  114  and, by extension, locking plate arm  316  are held in the first position within lock case aperture  112  and to pull user-manipulable locking plate  302  toward flange  202  when lock tab arm  114 , and by extension, locking plate arm  316  are released and move to the second position. Wide end  404   b  of locking plate channel  402  is configured to engage with second end  218   b  of axel  116  and/or axel nut  228  when lock tab arm  114 , and by extension, locking plate arm  316  are held in the first position, thereby allowing axel  116  to rotate freely (unlocked mode). Narrow end  404   a  of locking plate channel  402  is configured to engage with second end  218   b  of axel  116  and/or axel nut  228  preventing axel  116  from rotating (locked mode) when lock tab arm  114 , and by extension, locking plate arm  316  are released and move into the second position and user-manipulable locking plate  302  is pulled toward flange  202  by spring  308 . In this embodiment, it is movement of locking plate channel  402  in user manipulable locking plate  304  that locks and unlocks axel  116 . Locking plate channel is moved by virtue of manipulating lock tab arm  114  and, by extension, locking plate arm  316  between the first and second positions. 
       D. Components and Configuration of a Second Example Running-End Spool Containment Device 
       [0059]    A second example running-end spool containment device will now be described with respect to  FIGS. 7-9 .  FIG. 7  shows a front isometric view of a second example running-end spool containment device  700 . Some elements of running-end spool containment device  700  are the same as those of running-end spool containment device  100  of  FIGS. 1-6  and descriptions thereof are not included in this section for reasons of brevity. As shown in  FIG. 7 , second example running-end spool containment device  700  includes a spool bracket  702 , spring case  106 , a locking slider  708 , an axel  710 , accessory bracket  120  and accessory tab  122 . Spring case  106 , accessory bracket  120 , and accessory tab  122  include the same elements and perform the same functions as in  FIGS. 1-6 and 10  and the descriptions thereof are not included in this section for reasons of brevity. Spool bracket  702  comprises a spool bracket base  704   a , a first spool bracket arm  704   b  that extends from a first side  706   a  of spool bracket base  704   a , and a second spool bracket arm  704   c  that extends from a second side  706   b  of spool bracket base  704   a  and is substantially parallel to first spool bracket arm  704   b . Locking slider  708  includes at least a base  712 . Axel  710  includes a central portion  714  disposed between first spool bracket arm  704   b  and second spool bracket arm  704   c.    
         [0060]      FIG. 8  shows an exploded side cut-away view of a portion of running-end spool containment device  700  of  FIG. 7 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , running-end spool containment device  700  further includes a locking pin  802 . 
         [0061]      FIG. 9  shows an exploded front isometric view of a portion of running-end spool containment device  700  of  FIG. 7 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , first spool bracket arm  704   b  has a first spool bracket aperture  902  defined therein and second spool bracket arm  704   c  has a second spool bracket aperture  904  defined therein. Second spool bracket arm further includes a first tab  906  at a first end  910  of second spool bracket aperture  904  and a second tab  908  at a second end  912  of second spool bracket aperture  904 . First tab  906  has a first locking pin channel  922  defined therein and second tab  908  has a second locking pin channel  924  defined therein. Axel  710  has a first axel end  914  that extends through first spool bracket aperture  902  into spring case  106  and a second axel end  916  that extends through second spool bracket aperture  904  into locking slider  708 . Second axel end  916  has a third locking pin channel  918  defined therein and a fourth locking pin channel (not shown) positioned opposite the third locking pin channel  918  defined therein. 
         [0062]    Although not explicitly shown, locking pin  802  is connected by any suitable connecting means to an inside face (not shown) of base  712  of locking slider  708 . When locking slider  708  is disposed in a first position and running-end spool containment device  700  is in a locked mode, locking pin  802  extends through second locking pin channel  924  third locking pin channel  918 , first locking pin channel  922 , and fourth locking pin channel (not shown) locking axel  710  in place, which causes the constant force spring (not shown) in spring case  106  and a first strap (not shown) to be locked in place. 
         [0063]    When locking slider  708  is moved to and held in a second position and running-end spool containment device  700  is in an unlocked mode, locking pin  802  slides out of fourth locking pin channel (not shown), first locking pin channel  922 , third locking pin channel  918 , and first locking pin channel  924 , freeing axel  710  to rotate freely, allowing the constant force spring (not shown) to spool around and unspool from around first end of axel  914  and the first strap (not shown) to spool around and unspool from around central portion  714  of axel  710 , thereby allowing a length of the strap to be selectively increased and decreased. 
         [0064]    Although not shown, a second example running-end spool containment system may include running-end spool containment device  700  and first and second straps  1002  and  1004  similar to those shown in  FIG. 10 . 
       E. Third Example Running-End Spool Containment System 
       [0065]    A third example running-end spool containment system and device are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/375,242 filed on Aug. 15, 2016 and entitled RUNNING-END SPOOL CONTAINMENT, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
       F. Materials 
       [0066]    All components of first example running-end spool containment device  100 , first example running-end spool containment system  1000  and second example running-end spool containment device  700  may be formed of a metal, a plastic, a polymer, or a combination thereof. In a non-limiting embodiment, spring case  106 , lock case  108 , and lock case  708  may be formed of a metal, plastic, or polymer. Constant force spring  204  may be formed of a thin metal coil. In a non-limiting embodiment, lock tab  312  may be formed of a metal, plastic or polymer; locking plate  302  may be formed of a metal or a robust plastic or nylon; and spring  308  may be formed of a metal or polymer. Base plate  212  may be formed of metal and may be contoured in a same shape as spring case  1006 . First and second strap guides  118   a  and  118   b  may be formed of any metal, plastic, or hard rubber. A coefficient of friction of a material of first and second strap guides  118   a  and  118   b  may be higher if constant force spring  204  is strong enough and a space between first and second strap guides  118   a  and  118   b  is large enough. In a non-limiting embodiment, all accessory components with the exception of the accessory tab  122 , i.e., accessory bracket  120 , accessory guide  606 , accessory plate  504 , washer  506 , accessory pin  612 , and cap  508  may be formed of a metal such as steel or aluminum with a low enough coefficient of friction to allow accessory bracket  120  to slide from accessory guide  606  and to allow accessory bracket  120  and accessory tab  122  to swivel. Axel  116  and axel  710  may be formed of any metal or hard polymer, and may be solid or hollow. 
         [0067]    All components of first example running-end spool containment device  100 , first example running-end spool containment system  1000  and second example running-end spool containment device  700  may be 3D printed, carved using computer numerical control, injection molded, or machined. This list is not exhaustive, however, and persons skilled in the relevant art(s) will understand that other methods of manufacturing the components of first example running-end spool containment device  100 , first example running-end spool containment system  1000  and second example running-end spool containment device  700  may be used. 
       G. Closing Remarks 
       [0068]    First example running-end spool containment device  100 , first example running-end spool containment system  1000  and second example running-end spool containment device  700  advantageously provide for the containment of the running-end(s) of a strap while providing a convenient way to increase and decrease a length of the strap. First example running-end spool containment device  100 , first example running-end spool containment system  1000  and second example running-end spool containment device  700  further provide for an easy and convenient way to change accessories to tailor a strap to a specific use. 
       CONCLUSION 
       [0069]    While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.