Patent Description:
This disclosure relates to a strap adjustor for use in strap adjustment. The friction stop adjustor can be employed on straps in myriad applications, including wherever a conventional strap adjustor is used, such as for releasably attaching a protective helmet to a head of a user.

Strap adjustors are used for devices, products, and items that include straps for the adjustment of the straps. Devices using straps can include protective gear, such as helmets, or other articles and devices including straps that require adjustment. Straps can be adjusted to increase or decrease an effective length of the strap, to bring together more than one strap and to customize a fit of the strap to the device or the user. Adjusting a length of straps can allow for improved fit between the strap, protective gear, helmet, or other article and the user.

<FIG> shows a plan view of a conventional one-piece strap adjustor <NUM>, as known in the prior art. The conventional one-piece strap adjustor <NUM> has also been referred to as a strap slide, a adjustor <NUM>, a slide lock strap adjustor, a conventional strap adjustor, and a strap adjustor. The conventional one-piece strap adjustor <NUM> can include a first opening <NUM> and a second opening <NUM>, each of which are formed in and through the conventional one-piece strap adjustor and extend from a first surface to a second surface opposite the first surface. The first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM> can be integrally formed through a single material, thus making the conventional one-piece strap adjustor <NUM> a one-piece device. The first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM> can be thought of as being defined by an outer perimeter portion <NUM> and a center bar or middle bar <NUM>. The outer perimeter portion <NUM> can be thought of as being defined by side rails or side portions <NUM> that are perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the center bar <NUM>. The outer perimeter portion <NUM> can also be thought of as being defined by a top rail <NUM> and a bottom rail <NUM> that are perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the side rails <NUM>, or stated another way, the top rail <NUM> and the bottom rail <NUM> can be parallel or substantially parallel to the center bar <NUM>.

A width of the first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM> can comprise widths that are larger, or slightly larger than, widths of straps that will be disposed through the first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM>. Similarly, heights of the first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM> can comprise heights that are larger, or slightly larger, than thicknesses of the straps that will be disposed through the first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM>. <FIG> shows an example of how a first strap <NUM> and a second strap <NUM> can be threaded through the conventional one-piece strap adjustor <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a perspective side view of a conventional one-piece strap adjustor <NUM> with a first strap <NUM> and a second strap <NUM> being inserted through, and extending between, the first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> can come into, and then exit, the conventional one-piece strap adjustor <NUM>.

In addition to the conventional one-piece strap adjustor <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, other adjustors can also be used to receive and direct straps. These other adjustors include adjustors that have multiple pieces that can move with respect to each other, being pined, hinged, or moveably coupled together. An example of a multi-piece adjustor is a two-piece adjustor that allows two straps to pass from opposing first and second sides of the two-piece adjustor, wherein the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> would be held together by the two separate but attachable pieces of the adjustor being clamped together around the two straps to securely couple the straps to each other and to the two-piece adjustor.

International Patent Application <CIT> discloses a webbing adjuster for maintaining orderly, adjustable strap arrangement and secure connections in, e.g., a helmet, which allows for strap adjustment and, upon cinching, secures straps in place. Document <CIT> discloses the preamble of claim <NUM>.

Swiss Patent Application <CIT> discloses a device for suspending a garment and an adjustment piece comprising: - a strap whose ends have been connected to each other so as to form a loop, - at least one adjusting piece, said piece being able to divide the strap into two secondary loops, one of the secondary loops being intended to allow the suspension of the device to the shoulder of a user, the other secondary loop being intended to allow the insertion and maintenance of a garment.

United States Patent <CIT> discloses a binding device for rope such as a belt for hanging a bag or a leash for tugging a pet. The rope is passed through into the setting hole of the binding means with a wedge so that the rope is fixedly pressed in the said hole.

A need exists for a strap adjustor. The invention is defined by the features set forth in the appended independent claim. Particular embodiments of the claimed invention are defined by the dependent claims.

This disclosure, its aspects and implementations, are not limited to the specific helmet, strap or strap adjustor material types, or other system component examples, or methods disclosed herein. Many additional components, manufacturing and assembly procedures known in the art consistent with helmet manufacture are contemplated for use with particular implementations from this disclosure. Accordingly, for example, although particular implementations are disclosed, such implementations and implementing components may comprise any components, models, types, materials, versions, quantities, and/or the like as is known in the art for such systems and implementing components, consistent with the intended operation.

The word "exemplary," "example," or various forms thereof are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" or as an "example" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Furthermore, examples are provided solely for purposes of clarity and understanding and are not meant to limit or restrict the disclosed subject matter or relevant portions of this disclosure in any manner.

While this disclosure includes a number of embodiments in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail, particular embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the disclosed methods and systems, and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the disclosed concepts to the embodiments illustrated, wherein the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

This disclosure provides a system and method for adjusting one or more straps, including helmet straps or straps for protective gear, such as helmet straps for a cyclist, football player, hockey player, baseball player, lacrosse player, polo player, climber, auto racer, motorcycle rider, motocross racer, skier, snowboarder or other snow or water athlete, sky diver or any other athlete in a sport or other person who is in need of protective head gear. Strap adjustment for helmets can further include other industries that use protective headwear, such as a construction, soldier, fire fighter, pilot, or other worker in need of a safety helmet, where similar straps and methods of strap adjustment are needed. More broadly, strap adjustment of bags, backpacks, satchels, other protective equipment including goggles, glasses, slings, pads, shin guards, chest protectors, or other clothing, equipment, gear, or luggage is also contemplated. Similarly, other applications including marine applications, or any application with straps, rope, cords, webbing, or similar devices is also contemplated. While various embodiments are discussed below with respect to two straps, the adjustor can be configured to receive any number of straps, including one thicker strap, or more than two straps. As such, the term "straps" is used throughout the specification, for convenience, to denote embodiments in which one strap or a plurality of straps can be used.

Applicant has recognized that a difficulty of conventional strap adjustors, such as strap adjustor <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, is that the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> being fed through a first side of the conventional strap adjustor <NUM> have a tendency to loosen and move in relation to the conventional strap adjustor <NUM>, and also move in relation to other objects such as a user's ear, around which the first strap <NUM> an the second strap <NUM> can be disposed. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the two straps <NUM>, <NUM> can be fed over the center bar <NUM> of the conventional adjustor <NUM>, and a location of the conventional adjustor <NUM> relative to an object, such as a user's ear can be fixed or set. When the straps <NUM>, <NUM> are not in tension, such as when a helmet is not being worn or is in a bag, the straps <NUM>, <NUM> can bow around the center bar <NUM> of the conventional strap adjustor <NUM> so that the conventional strap adjustor <NUM> is no longer held in place by the interaction of the center bar <NUM> and the outside bars or perimeter portion <NUM> of the conventional strap adjustor <NUM>. In this condition, the conventional strap adjustor <NUM> will typically move relative to the one or more straps <NUM>, <NUM>, and relative to a location of the user, such as the ear of the user. Additionally, a conventional strap adjustor <NUM> can creep or move relative to the one or more straps <NUM>, <NUM> even when the straps <NUM>, <NUM> are in tension or under some loading, such as when straps from opposing sides of the helmet are buckled. External factors, such as sweat, rain, normal aging of the straps, and other outside elements can make the straps <NUM>,<NUM> more slippery, especially over time, and allow for creeping of conventional adjustors even when in use or on straps in tension.

<FIG> shows a side view of a user wearing a helmet <NUM> with first and second straps <NUM>, <NUM>, or pieces of webbing extending from the helmet <NUM> and then joined together using the conventional adjustor <NUM>. The conventional adjustor <NUM> is being used to hold the two straps <NUM>, <NUM> together, and to align the portions of the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM>, between the conventional adjustor <NUM> and the distal ends of the first and second straps <NUM>, <NUM>, which can extend below a user's chin as shown in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, the conventional adjustor <NUM> receives the first and second straps <NUM>, <NUM>, which extend from the helmet <NUM> at different angles (relative to the conventional adjustor <NUM>), and enter into the first opening <NUM> at a first end of the conventional adjuster <NUM>, by passing under the top rail <NUM>. The straps <NUM>, <NUM> then pass out of the conventional adjustor <NUM> at the second opening <NUM> located at a second end of the conventional adjustor <NUM>, opposite the first end, by passing under the bottom rail <NUM>. When the straps <NUM>, <NUM> pass out of the second opening <NUM> and under the bottom rail <NUM>, the first and second straps <NUM>, <NUM> can exit at a same angle relative to the conventional adjustor <NUM> and be stacked one on top of the other. Applicant has observed that by passing the first and second straps <NUM>, <NUM> in through the first opening <NUM> from different angles or orientations, aligning the first strap <NUM> and second strap <NUM> can cause one or more twists <NUM> to develop in the straps <NUM>, <NUM> outside, adjacent, or away from the conventional adjustor <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The twist(s) <NUM> can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and disruptive to moving the straps <NUM>, <NUM> through the conventional adjustor <NUM>. Furthermore, the twist(s) <NUM> in the straps <NUM>, <NUM> can also increase drag or a force applied to the straps <NUM>, <NUM> by wind loading, and can further create unwanted noise by magnifying a sound of the wind against the straps <NUM>, <NUM>, which can make a user's task of listening for cars or other moving objects more difficult because of increased ambient noise. As such, Applicant's new friction-stop adjustor (FSS adjustor), tri-glide friction strap adjustor, tri-rap strap adjustor, or "adjustor" <NUM> can reduce or alleviate unwanted twists <NUM> in straps <NUM>, <NUM>, in drag, and in noise.

<FIG> shows a side view of a user <NUM> wearing a helmet <NUM> and the adjustor <NUM> coupled to the helmet <NUM> with a first strap <NUM> and a second strap <NUM> to releasably couple the helmet <NUM> to a head of a user <NUM>, wherein the adjuster <NUM> can be disposed below an ear <NUM> of the user <NUM>. For convenience and ease of description, a number of relative positional descriptors, such as "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "top," and "bottom" are used.

With respect to the orientation descriptors for the adjustor <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the "upper" surface or end <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> is the surface or end that is closest to the upper edge of <FIG>, or the top of the head of the user <NUM>. The "lower" surface or end <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> is the surface or end that is closest to the lower edge of <FIG>, the chin, the neck, or the body of the user <NUM>, and is opposite the upper surface <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>. The "front," "frontside," "front surface," or sidewall <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> is the surface or edge that is closest to the front of the helmet <NUM>, or the closest the face of the user <NUM>. <FIG> shows the right side of the user <NUM>, and as such the front side <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> is shown at the right of the adjustor <NUM> in <FIG>. The "back," "backside," "back surface," or sidewall <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> is the surface or edge that is closest to the rear of the helmet <NUM>, or the occipital region of the head of the user <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the backside <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> is opposite the front side <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> such that the backside <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> is shown at the left of the adjustor <NUM> as pictured in <FIG>. The "top," "top side," or "top surface" <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> is the side of the adjustor <NUM> bordered by the upper surface <NUM>, the lower surface <NUM>, the front surface <NUM>, and back surface <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>, and can be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the upper surface <NUM>, the lower surface <NUM>, the front surface <NUM>, and back surface <NUM>. The top side <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, is the side that is disposed facing away from the user <NUM> when in normal use. For example, the top side <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> will be oriented facing away from the head of the user <NUM> when the adjustor <NUM> is worn in conjunction with the helmet <NUM> and the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM>. Conversely, as used herein, the "bottom," "bottom side," or "bottom surface" <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> is the side of the adjustor <NUM> that is opposite the top side <NUM>, and as such the back side <NUM> will be disposed towards the user <NUM> when in normal use. For example, the bottom <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> will be oriented towards, or may contact, the head of the user <NUM> head when the adjustor <NUM> is worn in conjunction with the helmet <NUM> and the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM>.

While the adjustor <NUM> can, for convenience, be referred to as a friction stop adjustor, some slippage or relative movement between the adjustor <NUM> and either or both of the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> is still possible with the stopping induced by the adjustor <NUM>. As used herein, the term friction stop as used with respect to the adjustor <NUM> can mean that slippage or relative movement between the adjustor <NUM> and the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM>, can be minimal, de minimis, negligible, or reduced with respect to the conventional one-piece strap adjustor <NUM> and the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM>. Due to particular features of the adjustor <NUM>, which are discussed in greater detail below, the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> do not have a tendency to loosen and move relative to each other or relative to the adjustor <NUM> as is the case with the conventional one-piece strap adjustor <NUM> and the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> if there is not constant tension applied to the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that the adjustor <NUM> can be used to hold one or more straps together, such as one strap, two straps, a plurality of straps, or any number of straps, and can additionally be used to align the straps in an arrangement, alignment, or position that is desirable or advantageous for the user <NUM>. While various embodiments are discussed herein with respect to the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM>, the adjustor <NUM> can also be configured to receive any number of straps, including one thick strap, or a plurality of straps. As such, the term "straps" is used throughout the specification, for convenience, to denote embodiments in which one strap or a plurality of straps can be used. Whatever the number of straps, the straps can be made of rope, cord, twine, webbing, fabric, or any other suitable braided, twisted, woven, pressed, planar, or laminar material comprising, fabric, plastic, resin, fiber, polymer, or other suitable material. As a non-limiting example, the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> can comprise nylon webbing.

As a non-limiting example, <FIG> shows an embodiment in which two different straps, the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM>, can be attached or coupled to the helmet <NUM>. The first strap <NUM> can be attached toward a rear portion of the helmet <NUM> on a rear or first side of an ear opening <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> can be attached toward a front of the helmet <NUM> on a second side of the ear opening <NUM> so that the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> can be separated by the ear opening <NUM>. The adjustor <NUM> is configured to receive the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> at different relative angles. For example, the adjustor <NUM> can comprise a centerline <NUM> extending through a first through opening <NUM>, through a second through opening <NUM>, and through a separator or bar <NUM> at, or as part of, the upper surface <NUM> between a first end opening <NUM> and a second end opening <NUM>. The centerline <NUM> can also extend through a middle of the upper end <NUM> and a middle of the lower end <NUM>. The front surface <NUM> can extend from the upper surface <NUM> to the end <NUM> at an average angle θ<NUM> in a range of -<NUM>° to -<NUM>° with respect to the centerline <NUM>, and the back surface <NUM> opposite the front surface and extending from the upper surface <NUM> to the end <NUM> at an average angle θ<NUM> in a range of -<NUM>° to - <NUM>° with respect to the centerline <NUM>, as shown, e.g., in <FIG>, where angles measured in a counterclockwise direction with respect to the centerline <NUM> are positive, and angles measured clockwise with respect to the centerline <NUM> are negative. Alternatively, and absolute value of the angles θ<NUM> and θ<NUM> can be in a range of <NUM>° to <NUM>°. The first strap <NUM> can enter the first end opening <NUM> at an angle substantially equal to the average angle θ<NUM> of the front surface <NUM>. Similarly, the second strap <NUM> can enter the second end opening <NUM> at an angle substantially equal to the average angle θ<NUM> of the back surface <NUM>.

After entering the adjustor <NUM>, the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> can pass out of the adjustor <NUM> at the lower surface or end <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> opposite the upper surface or end <NUM>. When the straps <NUM>, <NUM> pass out of the adjustor <NUM> near lower surface or end <NUM>, the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> can exit at a same angle or substantially same angle relative to the adjustor <NUM> and be stacked on top of each other. The first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> can exit the adjustor <NUM> at an angle substantially equal to the centerline <NUM>, such as within plus or minus <NUM>-<NUM>° or <NUM>-<NUM>°. As such, the adjustor <NUM> can receive straps from different portions of the helmet <NUM> and align the straps into a single direction for a safe and comfortable fit with the head of the user <NUM>. Additionally, the strap adjustor <NUM> can be used to adjust one or more of a length, position, or orientation of helmet straps to suitably position and couple the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> into place below a chin or jaw of the user <NUM> to keep the helmet <NUM> secured to the head of the user <NUM> while wearing the helmet <NUM>.

The first strap <NUM> is disposed through the first end opening <NUM>, through the first through opening <NUM>, and over a bar <NUM>. The bar <NUM> separates the first through opening <NUM> and the second through opening <NUM>, as well as extend between the front <NUM> and the back <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>. The second strap <NUM> is disposed through the second end opening <NUM>, through the first through opening <NUM>, and over the bar <NUM>.

Additional detail of the adjustor <NUM> is now discussed below with respect to the various views of the adjustor <NUM> shown in <FIG>. <FIG> shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the adjustor <NUM>, with the top surface <NUM> being most prominently displayed, the upper surface <NUM> positioned at the upper portion of the page, the front <NUM> positioned at the right of the page, and the back <NUM> positioned at the left of the page. The length L of the adjustor <NUM> is shown as a distance between the upper surface <NUM> and the lower surface <NUM>, and corresponds to a y-direction in a conventional Cartesian coordinate system. Similarly, a width W corresponds to a distance between the front surface <NUM> and the back surface <NUM>, and corresponds to an x-direction in a conventional Cartesian coordinate system. A height H, which can also be considered a thickness or depth of the adjustor <NUM>, is shown as the distance between top surface <NUM> and the bottom surface <NUM>, and corresponds to a z-direction in a conventional Cartesian coordinate system. As shown, the x-direction, y-direction, and z-direction are all perpendicular or orthogonal to each other.

The adjustor <NUM> can be manufactured using a desired manufacturing process, such as through molding, injecting molding, or other molding process to form the adjustor <NUM> as a single integrally formed piece or body to be a one-piece adjustor <NUM>. The adjustor <NUM> can be made of any suitable material or combination of materials, including metal, plastic, resin, polymer, acrylic, or fiber, including polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), vinyl nitrile (VN), or other suitable or similar material.

In some instances, the adjustor <NUM> can comprise one or more portions with a roughened or textured surface, such as the bar <NUM>, that can include raised portions, ribs, ridges, teeth, grooves, channels, bumps, divots, or other feature that can be added to adjust or control the friction, coefficient of friction, or resistance between the bar <NUM> and the first strap <NUM>, or the second strap <NUM>, as well as an ease of adjustment or an amount of force that is applied by the user <NUM> to move the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> through the adjustor <NUM>. A height, area, size, or amount of the textured surface can be directly proportional to an amount of force needed to move or adjust the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM>. For example, an larger size or amount of the textured surface can require a larger amount of force to move or adjust the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> through the adjustor <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a <NUM>-dimensional schematic plan view of the top side <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>. The thickness T of the adjustor <NUM>, when used in connection with helmets and helmet straps, can be in a range of <NUM>-<NUM> millimeters (mm), or <NUM>-<NUM>, or about <NUM>. As used herein, a dimension that is "about" is a value less than +/- <NUM>% of the dimension, +/- <NUM>% of the dimension, or +/- <NUM>% of the dimension, as well as less than +/- <NUM>, or less than +/-<NUM> of the dimension.

<FIG> also shows the first through opening <NUM> that extends completely through the strap adjustor <NUM> between the top surface <NUM>, which can be referred to as a first surface, and the bottom surface <NUM>, which can also be referred to a second surface. The first through opening <NUM> extends from the top surface <NUM> towards the bottom surface <NUM> and in some instance can do so without arriving at, or passing through, the second surface so that the first through opening passes partially, but not completely, through the adjustor <NUM>. Similarly, the second through opening <NUM> can extend completely through the strap adjustor <NUM> between the top surface <NUM> and the bottom surface <NUM>. The second through opening <NUM> extends through the strap adjustor <NUM> from the top surface <NUM> toward the bottom surface <NUM> and in some instance can do so without arriving at, or passing through, the second surface so that the first through opening passes partially, but not completely, through the adjustor <NUM>.

<FIG>, like <FIG>, also shows the additional detail of the first end opening <NUM> that extends from the upper (or third) surface <NUM> to the first through opening <NUM>. Similarly, the second end opening <NUM> is also shown extending from the upper surface <NUM> to the first through opening <NUM>. The first end opening <NUM> is offset and separate from the second end opening <NUM>. In some instances, the separation between the first end opening <NUM> and the second end opening <NUM> can be by a bar, strip, or connecting portion of material of the adjustor <NUM> that is aligned with the centerline <NUM>. In some instances, the first end opening <NUM> and the second end opening <NUM> can extend to, and be substantially perpendicular with respect to, the first through opening <NUM>. The first end opening <NUM> and the second end opening <NUM> are aligned with the angles of the frontside <NUM> and the backside <NUM> to accommodate a desired angle of entry of the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> into the adjustor <NUM>.

<FIG> also shows a section line 4C-4C, which discloses the line along which the view of <FIG> is shown. <FIG> shows a cross-sectional profile view of the adjustor <NUM> taken along a section line A-A from <FIG>. The overall thickness, or depth T of the adjustor <NUM>, as measured between the top side <NUM> and the bottom side <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>, can be in a range of <NUM>-<NUM>, or about <NUM>-<NUM>. Alternatively, the overall thickness T of the adjustor <NUM> can be a function of strap thickness, and can comprise a thickness <NUM>-<NUM> or <NUM>-<NUM> times a thickness of the straps passing through the adjustor <NUM>.

<FIG> also shows the lower end <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>, which can also be referred to as a second end, comprising a channel, cutout, trough, trench, lane, or track <NUM>, through which one or more straps, such as the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM>, can pass and exit the adjustor <NUM>. The channel <NUM> can comprise a width of channel Wc, which can be measured as a distance between the opposing sidewalls <NUM>. The straps can be similarly, identically, or substantially identically aligned with each other and with the centerline <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> at least in part by the sidewalls <NUM> of the channel <NUM> that constrain and direct the straps out of the adjustor.

<FIG> shows a profile view of the upper surface or end <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>. The first end opening <NUM> and the second end opening <NUM> are also shown extending into the adjustor <NUM>, the first end opening <NUM> and the second end opening <NUM> being separated by the centerline <NUM> and the separator <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a profile view of the lower edge or surface <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>, opposite the view shown in <FIG>. An overall width W of the adjustor <NUM>, as measured between the front side <NUM> and the backside <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>, can be in a range of <NUM>-<NUM>, or in a range of <NUM>-<NUM>, or about <NUM>. <FIG> also shows a section line 4F-4F, which discloses the line along which the view of <FIG> is shown.

<FIG> shows a cross-sectional plan view of the adjustor <NUM> taken along the section line 4F-4F shown in <FIG>. As such the view presented in <FIG> is similar to the view shown in <FIG>. <FIG> further shows the first end opening <NUM> and the second end opening <NUM> formed along the upper surface <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>. Furthermore, the upper surface <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> can be of an area, size, length, or distance that is greater than an area, size, length, or distance of the lower surface <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>. Accordingly, a cumulative or collective size or area of the first end opening <NUM> and the second end opening <NUM> can be greater than a cumulative or collective size or area of the channel <NUM> or of one or more openings formed along the lower surface <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>.

As shown in the non-limiting example of the adjustor <NUM> of <FIG>, the adjustor <NUM> is formed with first end opening <NUM> and second end opening <NUM>. A width Wo of the first end opening <NUM> and the second end opening <NUM> can correspond to, and be slightly larger than, a width of the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM>, respectively, that will be inserted through the first end opening <NUM> and the second end opening <NUM>. An overall width Wo of each of the first end opening <NUM> and second end opening <NUM>, as measured along the upper surface <NUM>, can be in a range of <NUM>-<NUM>, or in a range of <NUM>-<NUM>, or about <NUM>.

To accommodate the first strap <NUM> entering the first end opening <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> entering the second end opening <NUM> from different angles, the adjustor <NUM> can differ from conventional adjustors <NUM> by including a curved, angled, or arced shape along the upper surface <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>, including the first end opening <NUM> and the second end opening <NUM> comprising a curved, angled, or arced shape. The curved, angled, or arced shape of the upper surface <NUM> can allow for the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> to enter the adjustor <NUM> from different angles to enter the adjustor <NUM> without twisting, or with reduced twisting, outside, adjacent, or near the adjustor <NUM> when compared with conventional adjustors <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. Instead, the pucker or twist of the first strap <NUM> or the second strap <NUM> can occur within the adjustor <NUM>, which can eliminate twisting outside, adjacent, or near the adjustor <NUM>. Thus, in some instances the adjustor <NUM> can work in a way that is similar to how a dart works in sewing, in that the adjustor <NUM> can create a triangular area within the adjustor <NUM> that allows the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> to curve to a desired shape, and eliminate the twist(s) <NUM> outside the adjustor <NUM>. Additionally, by including the twist or pucker <NUM> of the straps within the adjustor <NUM>, the adjustor <NUM> can be prevented from "creeping," "wandering" or sliding with respect to the straps. The lower edge <NUM> and the channel <NUM> can be formed with a straight or level edge that is not curved, angled, or arced shaped. The opening or channel <NUM> that is formed in the lower edge or surface <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> can also be straight or level and not curved, angled, or arced shaped. As such, the lower strap opening or channel <NUM> can cause or facilitate the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> being aligned together to exit the adjustor <NUM> in a same or substantially the same direction from the adjustor <NUM>, which can be desirable for user fit and comfort. In some instances the first strap <NUM> and the second strap <NUM> will exit at an angle equal or substantially equal to the centerline <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a plan view of an embodiment of the adjustor <NUM> that shows the bottom surface <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> opposite the top surface <NUM>, and opposite the view shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> and <FIG> provide cross-sectional views of the adjustor <NUM> that can be views taken along a section line similar to section line 4C-4C shown in <FIG>. Applicant has recognized that the frictional forces acting on the straps or webbing under normal conditions of being threaded through the adjustor <NUM>, could depend on an interaction of three variables, as set forth in the Capstan Equation. The Capstan equation is set forth below as equation one (EQ.

Thus, the three variables presented in EQ. <NUM> are, first a force or amount of tension in the straps, which is represented by tension <NUM> (T1) and tension <NUM> (T2), as shown in <FIG>. Tension T1 can be directed away from the lower edge <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> and toward a chin of the user <NUM>. Tension T2 can be directed away from the upper edge <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> and toward the helmet <NUM>. Second, another variable or a coefficient of friction, µ, between the strap, such as first strap <NUM> or second strap <NUM>, and the adjustor <NUM> in included in EQ. Third, a total angle of contact, β, between the straps, such as first strap <NUM> or second strap <NUM>, and the adjustor <NUM>, in another variable included in the EQ. An example of the total angle of contact β between the straps <NUM>, <NUM> and the adjustor <NUM> is shown in <FIG>, and can include a value greater than <NUM>°, or a value in a range of <NUM>°-<NUM>°, in specific embodiments <NUM>°-<NUM>°, in more specific embodiments <NUM>°-<NUM>°, or, in particular embodiments, about <NUM>°. However, any desirable value can be used as friction, material choice, geometry, aesthetics, and other factors are considered and selected for the adjustor <NUM> and the straps <NUM>, <NUM>.

The amount of force needed to adjust Applicant's adjustor <NUM> was made to be greater than the amount of force needed to adjust a conventional adjustor <NUM>. Stated another way, the friction of Applicant's adjustor <NUM> was made to be greater than the friction a conventional adjustor <NUM>. The amount of friction or force needed to adjust Applicant's adjustor <NUM> was increased by adding sharper angles of contact to increase the total angle of contact, β, and by increasing the surface area of the straps in contact with the adjustor <NUM>. The amount of friction, and the force needed to adjust Applicant's adjustor <NUM>, was also increased by decreasing the length or distance of spaces L1 and L2. As shown in <FIG>, the length L1 of the first through opening <NUM> is between the upper surface <NUM> and the bar <NUM>. Similarly, the length L2 of the second through opening <NUM> is between the bar <NUM> and the channel <NUM> or the bottom lower edge <NUM>. The changes to the spacing as well as the sharper angles serve to exponentially increase friction and to prevent "creep" of Applicant's adjustor <NUM> as compared to conventional adjustors <NUM>, wherein creep occurs with respect to both first and second straps <NUM>, <NUM> as well as the head or face of the user <NUM>.

As understood with respect to the capstan equation, EQ. <NUM>, pulling the adjustor <NUM> down with a force of T1 would create a large tensional force, T2, acting opposite T1, or on the upper part of the straps, <NUM>, <NUM> thereby slowing a speed at which the straps <NUM>, <NUM> would slide or move through the adjustor <NUM>, as the adjustor <NUM> is being adjusted by the user. Thus, the adjustor <NUM> can stay in place without slipping or "creeping" by keeping the weight of the adjustor <NUM> below the sum of the normal and frictional forces of the adjustor <NUM> on the straps <NUM>, <NUM> while the device is stationary, and maintaining reasonable tensional force when the adjustor <NUM> is being moved or repositioned. Furthermore, the adjustor <NUM> can be moved or repositioned along the straps with reasonable amounts of force from the user, and without undue difficulty, when formed as described herein.

In addition to accounting for size, weight, and an amount of force and friction applied to move or slide the adjustor <NUM>, additional consideration was also given to an aerodynamic shape and a low profile fit of the adjustor <NUM> on the user <NUM>. An aerodynamic, low profile design, including tapered leading and lagging edges can reduce drag, as well as reduce undesired noise resulting from the shape and position of the adjustor <NUM> with respect to the position and interaction of the adjustor <NUM> with the straps <NUM>, <NUM>.

Accordingly, the adjustor <NUM> provides a number of advantages with respect to conventional adjustors <NUM>. By forming the adjustor <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, a problem of a "creeping" adjustors <NUM> that shift position over time with respect to the straps <NUM>, <NUM> that pass through the adjustor <NUM>, will be reduced or even eliminated because of the improved geometry of the adjustor <NUM> in accommodating straps <NUM>, <NUM>. Specifically, by including the twist or pucker of the straps <NUM>, <NUM> within the adjustor <NUM> (as apposed to outside, adjacent, or near the adjustor <NUM>), the adjustor <NUM> can be prevented from creeping because of a force applied to the adjustor <NUM> from the strap, or a force applied to the strap from the adjustor <NUM>. Additionally, with the strap pucker or twist contained within the adjustor <NUM>, the adjustor <NUM> can reduce or prevent the webbing from twisting along the rider's face. In fact, twisting of the straps higher than the upper edge and lower than the lower edge can be reduced or eliminated. In some embodiments, twisting located higher than the upper edge of the adjustor <NUM> can be controlled by the first end opening <NUM> and the second end opening <NUM> being formed along the upper surface or edge <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> by keeping the straps <NUM>, <NUM> neatly separated and lying flat along the face of the user <NUM>. Similarly, twisting located lower than the lower edge <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> can be controlled by the channel <NUM> formed along the lower surface or edge <NUM> of the adjustor <NUM> by keeping the plurality of straps <NUM>, <NUM> neatly aligned and lying flat along the face of the user <NUM>.

While the advantages have been discussed with respect to conventional adjustors <NUM>, or adjustors comprising three bars, similar advantages can also be achieved by including multiple upper openings or an upper edge that is curved, angled, or arced for other adjustors, including <NUM> bar adjustors, ladder lock adjustors, connectors, buckles, or other similar devices.

Claim 1:
A strap adjustor (<NUM>) for a helmet (<NUM>), comprising:
a top surface ( <NUM>);
a bottom surface (<NUM>) opposite the top surface (<NUM>) in a thickness direction (z) of the strap adjustor;
an upper surface (<NUM>) that extends between the top surface (<NUM>) and the bottom surface (<NUM>);
a lower surface (<NUM>) opposite the upper surface (<NUM>) in a length direction (y) of the strap adjustor;
a front surface (<NUM>);
a back surface (<NUM>) opposite the front surface (<NUM>) in a width direction (x) of the strap adjustor, the top surface (<NUM>) being bordered by the upper surface (<NUM>), the lower surface (<NUM>), the front surface (<NUM>), and the back surface (<NUM>);
a first through opening (<NUM>) that extends from the top surface (<NUM>) towards the bottom surface (<NUM>);
a first end opening (<NUM>) that extends from the upper surface (<NUM>) to the first through opening (<NUM>);
characterized in that :
the strap adjustor comprises a second through opening (<NUM>) that extends through the strap adjustor (<NUM>) from the top surface ( <NUM>) toward the bottom surface (<NUM>);
the strap adjustor comprises a bar (<NUM>) separating the first through opening (<NUM>) and the second through opening (<NUM>), the bar (<NUM>) extending between the front surface (<NUM>) and the back surface (<NUM>); and
the strap adjustor comprises a second end opening (<NUM>) offset and separate from the first end opening (<NUM>) in the width direction (x), the second end opening extending from the upper surface (<NUM>) to the first through opening (<NUM>), the first end opening (<NUM>) and the second end opening (<NUM>) being aligned with angles of the front surface (<NUM>) and the back surface (<NUM>)
the strap adjustor (<NUM>) is configured to receive a first strap (<NUM>) and a second strap (<NUM>) at different relative angles with the first strap (<NUM>) being disposed through the first end opening (<NUM>), through the first through opening (<NUM>), and over the bar (<NUM>), and the second strap (<NUM>) being disposed through the second end opening (<NUM>), through the first through opening (<NUM>) and over the bar (<NUM>).