Patent Description:
Public safety personnel, such as police officers and firefighters, use cameras to capture events, so that a video and/or audio record exist of what happened in an incident. These cameras may be mounted on vehicles such as cars and drones, and they may also be worn on the body as body worn cameras. Numerous mounting systems exist to mount cameras to personnel.

It is often useful or necessary to secure an item onto a sheet of material, such as a fabric or item of clothing (see for example <CIT>).

As one example, it can be useful or necessary for a law enforcement officer to secure a body camera to the officer's uniform shirt. Such a connection is preferably made without damaging or altering the shirt. To that end, connection mechanisms are sold that incorporate one or more magnets, and including a part that is placed inside the shirt. The parts of this mechanism are arranged in a manner so that magnetic attraction through the sheet material of the shirt holds the camera in place on the shirt.

One drawback of this mechanism is that the magnets must be very strong to hold a heavy camera in place. The magnetic flux may interfere with circuitry of an electronic device, including circuitry associated with transmitting and/or receiving radio frequency signals. Also, lateral movement of the camera (sliding it along the surface of the shirt) can possibly dislodge the camera from the interior magnet. Finally, a magnetic mechanism can be painful if it closes on the user's finger.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawing, wherein like designations denote like elements, and:.

The detailed description of exemplary embodiments herein refers to the accompanying drawings, which show exemplary embodiments by way of illustration. While these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosures, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that logical changes and adaptations in design and construction may be made in accordance with this disclosure and the teachings herein, as long as they fall within the scope of the appended claims.

The scope of the disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents rather than by merely the examples described. For example, the steps recited in any of the method or process descriptions may be executed in any order and are not necessarily limited to the order presented. Also, any reference to attached, fixed, coupled, connected, or the like may include permanent, removable, temporary, partial, full, and/or any other possible attachment option.

In the detailed description herein, references to "various embodiments," "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.

A coupler (e.g., mount, clothing mount, etc.) according to various aspects of the present disclosure, includes a base plate and a buckle. Each component may include physically separate, but engageable, structures and/or portions. The engageable structures and portions may be configured to engage one another to couple the base plate with the buckle. The base plate may releasably engage the buckle over an article of wear, thereby coupling the base plate and the buckle to the article of wear.

Each component of one or more components of a coupler may comprise one or more rigid, plastic materials, metal materials, and/or composite materials. A rigid material may include materials resistant to deformation under typical usage loads. The one or more rigid materials may include corrosion-resistant materials, UV resistant materials, and/or materials configured to withstand environmental factors. Rigid materials may include metals and metallic alloys (e.g., aluminum, steel, titanium, etc.), composites (e.g., fiberglass, carbon fiber, etc.), and plastics (e.g., polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polyether ether ketone, Nylon <NUM>/<NUM>, etc.). The rigid materials may also be treated (e.g., heat-treated, galvanized, anodized) and/or painted (e.g., powder-coated, e-coated, etc.).

An article of wear may include articles configured to be worn by a person or animal. For example, an article of wear may include a shirt, a jacket, a hat, a vest, a uniform, pants, gloves, shoes, etc. An article of wear may comprise a range of thicknesses, such as between <NUM>. 005in to <NUM>. 150in (<NUM> to <NUM>). An article of wear may comprise various materials, such as stiff materials, flexible materials, elastic materials, synthetic materials, natural materials, and combinations thereof.

The base plate may be configured to releasably couple with a buckle over a provided article of wear. The base plate may be positioned on a first side of the article of wear and engage a buckle positioned on a second side of the article of wear. An article of wear may be disposed between the base plate and the buckle. Engagement of the buckle with the base plate over the article of wear may couple the base plate to the article of wear. Thus, an accessory may be coupled to an article of wear via the base plate without a need to alter (e.g., cut, sew, modify, etc.) the article of wear.

The base plate comprises a center region including a mount interface (e.g., a connector, a receiver, a coupler, etc.) configured to receive a provided accessory. The accessory comprises a portable device. For example, an accessory may include a body worn camera, a radio, a flashlight, an ammunition magazine, or any other item desired to be mounted to an article of wear. The mount interface may releasably receive the provided accessory. An accessory may provide a second mount interface to which the mount interface of the base plate may releasably couple.

The base plate may comprise one or more portions that are configured to engage (e.g., interlock, overlap, etc.) one or more respective structures (e.g., tabs, lips, ledges, etc.) of a buckle to limit movement of the buckle relative to the base plate. The portions may be configured to engage respective structures of the buckle in multiple directions, thereby limiting (e.g., obstructing, etc.) movement of the buckle in the multiple directions. In embodiments, a base plate may comprise a fixed (e.g., nonadjustable, inflexible, etc.) shape.

The buckle may be configured to releasably couple with the base plate over an article of wear. A buckle may be positioned on a second side of an article of wear and engage a buckle positioned on a first side of the article of wear. Engagement of the buckle with the base plate over the article of wear may couple the base plate to the article of wear. Engagement of the buckle with the base plate may compress the article of wear between the base plate and the buckle.

The buckle may comprise structures that are configured to engage respective portions of a base plate to limit movement of the base plate relative to the buckle. The structures may be configured to engage respective portions of the base plate in multiple directions, thereby limiting movement of the base plate in the multiple directions. The structures may be configured to cooperate with respective portions to couple the base plate to the buckle over an article of wear.

The buckle comprises parts configured to engage the base plate to releasably couple the buckle to the base plate. A part may provide a body from which a structure may extend. A part may comprise a structure configured to engage a respective portion of a base plate. The parts may be movably coupled to one another. The buckle comprises a first part and a second part. The first part is movably connected to the second part. The parts may be configured to articulate relative to one another to secure the buckle to the base plate and to release the buckle from the base plate. A buckle may comprise an adjustable shape in accordance with two or more parts of the buckle being movably connected.

The buckle comprises one or more joints configured to movably couple one or more parts of a buckle. A joint may enable articulation of a first part relative to a second part in one or more directions. A joint may comprise a revolute joint (e.g., pin joint, hinge, etc.), a prismatic joint (e.g., telescoping joint), a cylindrical joint, or any other coupling configured to constrain (e.g., restrict, limit, prevent, etc.) motion of one part relative to another part. Each joint may comprise one or more degrees of freedom. For example, a joint may comprise one degree of freedom, two degrees of freedom, three degrees of freedom, or any required number of degrees of freedom.

In various embodiments, the buckle may be configured to articulate between an unlocked state and a locked state in order to couple with and decouple from a base plate. Articulation of the buckle may comprise movement of one or more parts of the buckle relative to one another. In a locked state, one or more of a position and an orientation of a first part relative to a second part may be fixed. In a locked state, a first part may be fixed relative to a second part. In a locked state, the buckle may be inseparable from a base plate. In an unlocked state, a first part may be free to move relative to a second part. In an unlocked state, a buckle may be separable from a base plate.

The buckle comprises a lock physically adjustable to dispose the buckle in an unlocked state and a locked state. The lock may be configured to control articulation of one or more parts of the buckle relative to one another. The lock may selectively apply a physical contact force (e.g., applied force, normal force, friction force, tension force, etc.) to the one or more parts to control the articulation. Alternately or additionally, the lock may selectively apply a distant force (e.g., magnetic force) to the one or more parts to control the articulation. Controlling articulation of the buckle may comprise enabling (e.g., allowing) movement of one or more parts of the buckle relative to one another and disabling (e.g., preventing) movement of one or more parts of the buckle relative to one another. The lock may enable and prevent movement of one or more parts of the buckle relative to one another in order to secure and release the buckle from a base plate. Engagement of the lock may be configured to retain (e.g., secure, lock, etc.) a buckle in a locked state. Disengagement of the lock may be configured to dispose (e.g., provide, place, etc.) a buckle in an unlocked state. An unlocked state and the locked state may be dependent on whether the lock is engaged or disengaged. Engagement of the lock may prevent movement of one or more parts of the buckle relative to one another. Disengagement of the lock may permit (e.g., enable, allow, etc.) movement of one or more parts of the buckle relative to one another. When engaged, the lock may be configured to secure the buckle to the base plate. When engaged, the lock may be configured to prevent the buckle from releasing from the base plate. When disengaged, the lock may be configured to enable the buckle to release from the base plate.

One or more forces may be applied to the lock to engage or disengage the lock. For example, a first force may be applied (e.g., by a user) to a first area of the buckle to engage the lock. A second force may be applied to a second area of the buckle to disengage the lock. The first force may result in internal compressive forces in the buckle. The internal compressive forces may cause the buckle to remain in a locked state, until acted on by the second force. The second force may relieve the internal compressive force, enabling the buckle to transition from a locked state to an unlocked state.

The buckle may engage the base plate in a first series of actions. The first series of actions may comprise aligning the buckle in an unlocked state with the base plate, applying a first force to a first area of the buckle to cause the buckle to transition to a locked state in which one or more structures of the buckle are engaged with one or more portions of the base plate. The first series of actions may be repeated in reverse to disengage the buckle from the base plate. The buckle may disengage the base plate in a second series of actions. The second series of actions may comprise applying a second force to a second area of the buckle to transition the buckle from a locked state to an unlocked state in which one or more structures of the buckle may be disengaged from one or more portions of the base plate to release the buckle from the base plate. The second series of actions for disengaging the buckle from the base plate may improve the reliability of a coupler in coupling to an article of wear. The second series of actions for disengaging the buckle from the base plate may reduce a likelihood of the buckle being unintentionally removed from the base plate leading to the coupler decoupling from the article of wear. The second series of actions for disengaging a coupler coupled to an article of wear may reduce a likelihood of the coupler being unintentionally decoupled from the article of wear.

<FIG> shows an exploded view of a coupler <NUM>, and <FIG> shows an assembled view of coupler <NUM> according to various embodiments disclosed herein. Coupler <NUM> may be configured to releasably couple to an article of wear, such as article of wear <NUM>. An accessory may be configured to releasably (e.g., removably, etc.) attach (e.g., couple, etc.) to coupler <NUM>. For example, coupler <NUM> may be configured to releasably attach to camera <NUM>.

Coupler <NUM> comprises two physically separate, but engageable components. Coupler <NUM> includes a base plate, such as base plate <NUM> (e.g., first part, base, front plate, etc.) and a buckle, such as buckle <NUM> (e.g., second part, locking lever, retainer, etc.). Each of base plate <NUM> and buckle <NUM> may comprise one or more rigid materials as described previously herein.

In various embodiments, a geometry of coupler <NUM> may enable buckle <NUM> to releasably engage base plate <NUM> over a range of thin and deformable materials. For example, a geometry of coupler <NUM> may enable buckle <NUM> to releasably engage base plate <NUM> over a provided article of wear <NUM>. Base plate <NUM> may be configured to engage buckle <NUM> over article of wear <NUM>, thereby providing a base to which a provided accessory may mount. Article of wear <NUM> may comprise a variety of articles ranging in thickness and composition. For example, a thickness of article of wear <NUM> may include a range of thicknesses, such as between <NUM>. 005in to <NUM>. 150in (<NUM> to <NUM>). Article of wear <NUM> may comprise a variety of materials, such as textiles, foams, elastomers, and the like. Article of wear <NUM> may include pants, jackets, shirts, hats, overalls etc. Article of wear <NUM> may also include soft goods that are not worn on a person, such as fabric of a tent, parachute cloth, and other similar soft goods.

In various embodiments, base plate <NUM> may be disposed adjacent a first surface of article of wear <NUM>, and buckle <NUM> may be disposed adjacent a second surface of article of wear <NUM>, opposite the first surface. The first surface may be an outer surface of article of wear <NUM> (e.g., a surface facing away from the wearer). The second surface may be an inner surface of article of wear <NUM> (e.g., a surface facing toward the wearer). Buckle <NUM> may be configured to couple to base plate <NUM> over article of wear <NUM> without damaging article of wear <NUM>. Article of wear <NUM> may conform to a shape of base plate <NUM> and buckle <NUM>.

In various embodiments, an accessory may couple with coupler <NUM> via a mount interface of base plate <NUM>, such as mount interface <NUM>. Camera <NUM> may be removably coupled to coupler <NUM>, while coupler <NUM> remains coupled to article of wear <NUM>. Camera <NUM> may be removed from coupler <NUM>, without decoupling coupler <NUM> from article of wear <NUM>. Mount interface <NUM> may enable an accessory to be attached to base plate <NUM> separately from (e.g., independent of) whether buckle <NUM> is engaged or disengaged with base plate <NUM>.

<FIG> show rear and side views of base plate <NUM>, respectively. Base plate <NUM> may comprise a unitary part. Base plate <NUM> may be formed of one or more parts. Base plate <NUM> may comprise a rigid material as discussed previously herein. The material may be hardened via methods such as heat treatment. The rigid material may be treated to resist oxidation and/or include a composition that resists oxidation, such as a stainless steel. One or more portions of base plate <NUM> may be formed by forming (e.g., bending, etc.) a ductile material into a desired shape. For example, one or more portions of base plate <NUM> may comprise a rod or tube formed into the desired shape. The ends of the rod or tube may be joined (e.g., welded, etc.) together to close the desired shape. A center region of base plate <NUM> may be over molded over the formed rod or tube.

The base plate <NUM> comprises a center region. For example, base plate <NUM> may comprise a center region <NUM>. Center region <NUM> may provide a surface on which mount interface <NUM> is disposed. Center region <NUM> may be formed of a rigid material. Center region <NUM> may be resistant to deformation, such as bending. One or more surfaces of center region <NUM> may be textured or otherwise modified to improve grip between a user and base plate <NUM> and/or grip between base plate <NUM> and article of wear <NUM>. For example, one or more surfaces of center region <NUM> may comprise knurling, stipples, striations, grooves, or other features to improve grip.

In various embodiments, center region <NUM> may extend between a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. First end <NUM> may be opposite second end <NUM>. First end <NUM> and second end <NUM> may be parallel with one another. Center region <NUM> may be symmetric about a plane of symmetry that bisects first end <NUM> and second end <NUM>. Base plate <NUM> may be symmetric about a plane of symmetry that bisects first end <NUM> and second end <NUM>. First end <NUM> and second end <NUM> may each include a rectangular cross section. A maximum distance between first end <NUM> and second end <NUM> may comprise a length, such as first length L1.

In various embodiments, center region <NUM> may extend between a third end <NUM> and a fourth end <NUM>. Third end <NUM> may be opposite third end <NUM>. Third end <NUM> and fourth end <NUM> may be parallel with one another. Center region <NUM> may be symmetric about a plane of symmetry that bisects third end <NUM> and fourth end <NUM>. Base plate <NUM> may be symmetric about a plane of symmetry that bisects third end <NUM> and fourth end <NUM>. Third end <NUM> and a fourth end <NUM> may connect first end <NUM> and second end <NUM>. Third end <NUM> and fourth end <NUM> may include a rectangular cross section. Third end <NUM> may be perpendicular with first end <NUM>. Third end <NUM> may be perpendicular with second end <NUM>. Fourth end <NUM> may be perpendicular with first end <NUM>. Fourth end <NUM> may be perpendicular with second end <NUM>. A maximum distance between third end <NUM> and fourth end <NUM> may comprise a width, such as first width W1.

In various embodiments, center region <NUM> may extend between a top surface <NUM> and a bottom surface <NUM>. Top surface <NUM> may be opposite bottom surface <NUM>. Top surface <NUM> may be parallel with bottom surface <NUM>. Top surface <NUM> may be smooth to facilitate coupling with camera <NUM>. Top surface <NUM> may be perpendicular with first end <NUM>, second end <NUM>, third end <NUM>, and/or fourth end <NUM>. Top surface <NUM> may join first end <NUM>, second end <NUM>, third end <NUM>, and fourth end <NUM>. In accordance with first end <NUM>, second end <NUM>, third end <NUM>, fourth end <NUM>, top surface <NUM>, and/or bottom surface <NUM>, center region <NUM> may comprise a three-dimensional portion of base plate <NUM>.

Top surface <NUM> may comprise a mount interface configured to receive an accessory. For example, top surface <NUM> may comprise a mount interface <NUM>, configured to receive camera <NUM>. Mount interface <NUM> may include a connector, receiver, magnet, ferrous material, suction cup, smooth surface, or other interface configured to releasably couple with a complementary interface of camera <NUM>. For example, mount interface <NUM> may comprise a receiver for releasably coupling with a mating connector of an item. Mount interface <NUM> may include a connector for releasably coupling with a mating receiver of camera <NUM>. As a further example, mount interface <NUM> may comprise a ferrous material for coupling with a magnetic portion of camera <NUM>.

In various embodiments, bottom surface <NUM> may comprise a recess configured to receive a portion of a buckle. For example, bottom surface <NUM> may comprise a recess <NUM>. A first distance between recess <NUM> and top surface <NUM> may be less than a second distance between bottom surface <NUM> and top surface <NUM>. Recess <NUM> may be configured to receive a portion of one or more parts of buckle <NUM>. Recess <NUM> may provide space for one or more parts of buckle <NUM> to articulate within as described further herein.

The base plate comprises multiple portions that are each configured to engage respective structures of the buckle to releasably couple the base plate to an article of wear. The multiple portions may extend from the center region of the base plate. The multiple portions may be configured to engage complementary structures of the buckle. A shape of the base plate may complement a shape of the buckle, such that the multiple portions of the base plate engage complementary structures of the buckle to limit movement of the base plate relative to the buckle. Each portion of the multiple portions may provide a surface upon which the buckle may engage to secure the buckle to the base plate.

In embodiments, each portion of the multiple portions may comprise a respective receiver portion configured to at least partially receive a respective complementary structure of a buckle between two or more surfaces of the respective receiver portion. A respective complementary structure of a buckle may be inserted between two or more surfaces of a respective receiver portion of the base plate to selectively limit movement of a buckle relative to a base plate. A receiver portion may define a channel through which a complementary structure may be received. The complementary structure may be received through the receiver portion via the channel. In embodiments, the channel may comprise an open channel that partially surrounds a complementary structure received into the channel. Alternately, the channel may comprise a closed channel that encircles a complementary structure inserted into the channel. In various embodiments, each portion of the base plate may comprise a loop. A loop may be a shape that is geometrically produced by sweeping a closed profile about a curve. The closed profile of the loop may be round, square, hexagonal or any other closed shape. A cross-section of the closed profile may vary about the sweep of the curve. For example, a portion of the curve may have a circular cross-section while another portion of the curve may have a hexagonal cross-section. The curve may have a discrete start point and a discreet end point, such that the loop forms an open loop. As another example, the curve may have a start point coincident with an end point, such that the loop forms a closed loop. The loop may be formed of a rigid material as described previously herein.

Base plate <NUM> comprises a first portion and a second portion. For example, base plate <NUM> may comprise a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>. First portion <NUM> may extend from first end <NUM>. Second portion <NUM> may extend from second end <NUM>. First portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may be symmetric about a plane that bisects first end <NUM> and second end <NUM> of center portion <NUM>. First portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may be symmetric about a plane that bisects third end <NUM> and fourth end <NUM>. First portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may each have a closed profile when viewed from the side (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). First portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may each have an open profile when viewed from the rear (e.g., as shown in <FIG>).

In various embodiments, each of first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may comprise a loop. First portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may comprise the same loop. For example, first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may comprise a loop <NUM>. During manufacturing, center portion <NUM> may be over molded over one or more loops to form first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM>. For example, center portion <NUM> may be molded over loop <NUM> such that first portion <NUM> extends from first end <NUM> of center portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> extends from second end <NUM> of center portion <NUM>. A closed profile of loop <NUM> may comprise a circular cross section having a diameter. A diameter of the cross section of the closed profile of loop <NUM> may be between <NUM> inches and <NUM> inches (<NUM> millimeters and <NUM> millimeters), between <NUM> inches and <NUM> inches (<NUM> millimeters and <NUM> millimeters), between <NUM> inches and <NUM> inches (<NUM> millimeters and <NUM> millimeters), between <NUM> inches and <NUM> inches (<NUM> millimeters and <NUM> millimeters), between <NUM> inches and <NUM> inches (<NUM> millimeters and <NUM> millimeters), or any other suitable diameter.

In various embodiments, and with reference to <FIG>, a region of first portion <NUM> and a region of second portion <NUM> may each be tangent with a discrete plane. First portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may each extend in different directions relative to one another. For example, a region of first portion <NUM> may be tangent with a first tangent plane P1 and a second region of second portion <NUM> may be tangent with a second tangent plane P2. The first tangent plane and the second tangent plane may each be orthogonal to a third plane. For example, the third plane may comprise a plane from which the side view of base plate <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>. The first tangent plane and the second tangent plane may each intersect the third tangent plane at equal and opposite angles with one another. In embodiments, the first tangent plane may be parallel with the second tangent plane. In embodiments, and in accordance with being respectively tangent with a discrete plane, each of one or more of first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may comprise an angled cross-section parallel to the third plane.

In embodiments, first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may each extend beyond base plate <NUM> in at least two directions. For example, first portion <NUM> may extend in a first direction beyond first end <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may extend in a second direction beyond second end <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The first direction may be opposite the second direction. Each of the first direction and the second direction may comprise a respective direction away from center region <NUM> of base plate <NUM>. First portion <NUM> may further extend in a third direction beyond base plate <NUM> and second portion may further extend in a fourth direction beyond base plate <NUM>. The third direction may be different from the first direction. The fourth direction may be different from the second direction. The third direction may be disposed in a same plane as the first direction. The fourth direction may be disposed in a same plane as the second direction.

In various embodiments, a length of a portion of base plate <NUM> in a direction may be greater than a length of a center region of base <NUM> in a same direction. For example, a length of first portion <NUM> in a third direction parallel to first tangent plane P1 may be greater than a length of center region <NUM> in a same direction. First portion <NUM> may extend beyond (e.g., protrude from, etc.) center region <NUM> in the third direction. Further, a length of second portion <NUM> in a fourth direction parallel to second tangent plane P2 may be greater than a length of center region <NUM> in a same direction. Second portion <NUM> may extend beyond (e.g., protrude from, etc.) center region <NUM> in the fourth direction. A distal end of first portion <NUM> may extend beyond center region <NUM> such that the distal end of first portion <NUM> is non-coplanar with center region <NUM> in a plane parallel to top surface <NUM> of center region <NUM>. A distal end of second portion <NUM> may extend beyond center region <NUM> such that the distal end of second portion <NUM> is non-coplanar with center region <NUM> in a plane parallel to top surface <NUM> of center region <NUM>. In accordance with first portion <NUM> extending beyond base plate <NUM> in at least two directions, a first complementary structure of buckle <NUM> may be received between first portion <NUM> and buckle <NUM>. The first complementary structure may be received by base plate <NUM> such that the first complementary structure does not intersect a plane in which mount interface <NUM> may be disposed. In accordance with second portion <NUM> extending beyond center region <NUM> in at least two directions, a second complementary structure of buckle <NUM> may be received between second portion <NUM> and buckle <NUM>. The second complementary structure may be received by base plate <NUM> such that second complementary structure does not intersect a plane in which mount interface <NUM> may be disposed. Accordingly, one or more of first portion <NUM> and <NUM> may enable a respective complementary structure of buckle to be received, while access to top surface <NUM> and mount interface <NUM> of base plate <NUM> remain physically unimpeded by the one or more received respective complementary structures. Base plate <NUM> may be unobstructed by the one or more of first portion <NUM> or second portion <NUM> in a plane parallel to top surface <NUM>.

In various embodiments, one or more dimensions of each of first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM> may be sized to cooperate with a buckle (e.g., buckle <NUM> with brief reference to <FIG>). An internal dimension of base plate <NUM> may be a dimension defined by a minimum distance between a first point tangent with first portion <NUM> and a second point tangent with first portion <NUM> or second portion <NUM>. For example, an internal length L2 (e.g., second length, etc.) of base plate <NUM> may be a length defined by a minimum distance between a first point tangent with first portion <NUM> and a second point tangent with second portion <NUM> along the direction of L1. An internal width W2 (e.g., second width, etc.) of base plate <NUM> may be the lesser of a width defined by a minimum distance between a first point tangent with first portion <NUM> and a second point tangent with first portion <NUM> that does not pass through first portion <NUM> and a width defined by a minimum distance between a first point tangent with second portion <NUM> and a second point tangent with second portion <NUM> that does not pass through second portion <NUM>.

<FIG> show side and rear views of buckle <NUM>, respectively. Buckle <NUM> may comprise rigid materials as discussed previously herein. The rigid materials may be hardened via methods such as heat treatment. The rigid materials may be treated to resist oxidation and/or include a composition that resists oxidation, such as a stainless steel. In various embodiments, the rigid materials may comprise plastics such as polycarbonate-acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC-ABS), metals such as stainless steel, and combinations thereof.

In various embodiments, buckle <NUM> may include one or more structures (e.g., tabs, ledges, lips, protrusions, etc.) configured to engage one or more portions of base plate <NUM>. The one or more structure may be configured to limit movement of buckle <NUM> relative to base plate <NUM>. The one or more structures of buckle <NUM> may limit movement of buckle <NUM> in multiple directions. The one or more structures may each extend from one or more parts of buckle <NUM>.

In various embodiments, a structure may be configured to limit translation of a base plate in a first translational direction and not limit translation of the buckle in a second translational direction. The structure may comprise a first surface configured to limit translation of the base plate in the first translational direction. The structure may lack another surface to prevent translation in the second translational direction. The structure may be open in the second translational direction. The second translational direction may be one or more of opposite the first translational direction and a direction in which the structure is configured to receive the base plate. For example, the structure may be configured to receive the base plate. The structure may comprise a surface configured to limit translation of the base plate in a direction toward the surface and enable translation of the base plate in one or more directions away from the structure. The structure may partially enclose (e.g., encircle) a portion of the base plate and the portion of the base plate may also be partially unobstructed by the structure. A surface of the structure in combination with another surface of the buckle may define a notch (e.g., indentation, concave region, etc.) in which the base plate may be received. For example, a portion of a base plate may be at least partially received in a notch defined along the structure by a surface of the structure and another surface of the buckle adjacent the surface of the structure. A first translational direction limited by the structure may comprise a direction toward the surface of the structure.

In various embodiments, the buckle comprises a pair of structures (a first structure and a second structure). The pair of structures may be diametrically opposing one another. The first structure may extend from a first part of the buckle and the second structure may be extend from a second part of the buckle. The first structure may be movable relative to the second structure. In a first state, one or more of a relative position and orientation of the pair of structures may be different than in a second state. The pair of structures may be configured to receive the base plate in the first state, but not in the second state. The pair of structures may be configured to limit translation of the base plate in the second state, but not in the first state.

In various embodiments, the buckle may comprise two or more parts each configured to articulate relative to one another. The parts may be movably coupled to one another via one or more joints. Articulating the two or more parts may enable the buckle to be releasably secured to a base plate. Each part of at least two parts of the two or more parts may comprise a respective structure. Each structure may be disposed on a separate part. Articulating the parts relative to one another may alter one or more of a relative position and orientation between the structures, enabling the buckle to releasably engage a base plate. For example, buckle <NUM> may comprise a first part <NUM> movably coupled to a second part <NUM>.

In various embodiments, first part <NUM> may comprise a shape having a rectangular cross-section. First part <NUM> may comprise a first plate (e.g., first bar, first beam, etc.). First part <NUM> may comprise an elongated shape. First part <NUM> may extend between a first end, such as first part first end <NUM> (e.g., first end) and a second end, such as first part second end <NUM> (e.g., second end). First part first end <NUM> may be opposite first part second end <NUM>. First part first end <NUM> may be parallel with first part second end <NUM>. First part second end <NUM> may comprise a curved surface configured to cooperate with a curved surface of a lock as described further herein. A third end, such as first part third end <NUM> (e.g., third end) and a fourth end opposite the third end, such as first part fourth end <NUM> (e.g., fourth end) may connect first part first end <NUM> and first part second end <NUM>. First part third end <NUM> may be parallel with first part fourth end <NUM>. First part first end <NUM>, first part second end <NUM>, first part third end <NUM>, and first part fourth end <NUM> may include a rectangular cross section. First part third end <NUM> may be perpendicular with first part first end <NUM>. First part third end <NUM> may be perpendicular with first part second end <NUM>. First part fourth end <NUM> may be perpendicular with first part first end <NUM>. First part fourth end <NUM> may be perpendicular with first part second end <NUM>. First part <NUM> may be symmetric about a plane of symmetry that bisects first part first end <NUM> and first part second end <NUM>.

In various embodiments, first part <NUM> may extend between a first part upper surface <NUM> and a first part lower surface <NUM> that is opposite first part upper surface <NUM>. First part upper surface <NUM> may be parallel with first part lower surface <NUM>. First part upper surface <NUM> may be perpendicular with first part first end <NUM>, first part second end <NUM>, first part third end <NUM>, and/or first part fourth end <NUM>. First part upper surface <NUM> may join first part first end <NUM>, first part second end <NUM>, first part third end <NUM>, and first part fourth end <NUM>. In accordance with first part first end <NUM>, first part second end <NUM>, first part third end <NUM>, first part fourth end <NUM>, first part upper surface <NUM>, and/or first part lower surface <NUM>, first part <NUM> may comprise a three-dimensional portion of buckle <NUM>.

In various embodiments, a structure, such as first tab <NUM>, may extend from first part first end <NUM>. First tab <NUM> may be positioned adjacent first part first end <NUM>. First tab <NUM> may extend from first part first end <NUM> and terminate in an end such as first buckle end <NUM> (e.g., first tab end). A thickness of first tab <NUM> may be less than a thickness of first part <NUM> between first part upper surface <NUM> and first part lower surface <NUM>. First tab <NUM> may be sub-flush with first part upper surface <NUM>. First tab <NUM> may be flush with first part lower surface <NUM>. Coupler <NUM> may be reversible in nature, such that first tab <NUM> may be configured to engage first portion <NUM> in a first state and second portion <NUM> in a second state. For example, first tab <NUM> may engage first portion <NUM> in a first locked state of buckle <NUM> in which first part <NUM> is disposed proximate first portion <NUM> and first tab <NUM> may engage second portion <NUM> in a second locked state of buckle <NUM> in which first part <NUM> is disposed proximate second portion <NUM>.

A first joint, such as first joint <NUM> movably couples first part <NUM> to second part <NUM>. First joint <NUM> may be disposed proximate first part second end <NUM>. First joint <NUM> may comprise a revolute joint. First joint <NUM> may comprise one or more colinear pins and one or more colinear holes movably coupling first part <NUM> to second part <NUM>. One or more pins or one or more holes may be disposed proximate first part second end <NUM>. For example, first part <NUM> may comprise a thru hole. The thru hole may be perpendicular to first part third end <NUM> and first part fourth end <NUM>. The thru hole may comprise a first opening disposed on first part third end <NUM> and a second opening disposed on first part fourth end <NUM>. An oversized pin may be friction-fit with the thru hole to couple first part <NUM> with second part <NUM>.

In various embodiments, second part <NUM> may comprise a shape having a rectangular cross-section. Second part <NUM> may comprise a second plate (e.g., second bar, second beam, etc.) Second part <NUM> may comprise an elongated shape. Second part <NUM> may extend between a first end, such as second part first end <NUM> (e.g., first end) and a second end, such as second part second end <NUM> (e.g., second end). Second part first end <NUM> may be opposite second part second end <NUM>. Second part first end <NUM> may be parallel with second part second end <NUM>. A third end, such as second part third end <NUM> (e.g., third end) and a fourth end opposite the third end, such as second part fourth end <NUM> (e.g., fourth end) may connect second part first end <NUM> and second part second end <NUM>. Second part third end <NUM> may be parallel with second part fourth end <NUM>. Second part first end <NUM>, second part second end <NUM>, second part third end <NUM>, and second part fourth end <NUM> may include a rectangular cross section. Second part third end <NUM> may be perpendicular with second part first end <NUM>. Second part third end <NUM> may be perpendicular with second part second end <NUM>. Second part fourth end <NUM> may be perpendicular with second part first end <NUM>. Second part fourth end <NUM> may be perpendicular with second part second end <NUM>. Second part <NUM> may be symmetric about a plane of symmetry that bisects second part first end <NUM> and second part second end <NUM>.

In various embodiments, second part <NUM> may extend between a second part upper surface <NUM> and a second part lower surface <NUM> that is opposite second part upper surface <NUM>. Second part upper surface <NUM> may be parallel with second part lower surface <NUM>. Second part upper surface <NUM> may be perpendicular with second part first end <NUM>, second part second end <NUM>, second part third end <NUM>, and/or second part fourth end <NUM>. Second part upper surface <NUM> may join second part first end <NUM>, second part second end <NUM>, second part third end <NUM>, and second part fourth end <NUM>. In accordance with second part first end <NUM>, second part second end <NUM>, second part third end <NUM>, second part fourth end <NUM>, second part upper surface <NUM>, and/or second part lower surface <NUM>, second part <NUM> may comprise a three-dimensional portion of buckle <NUM>.

In various embodiments, a structure, such as second tab <NUM>, may extend from second part first end <NUM>. Second tab <NUM> may be positioned adjacent second part first end <NUM>. Second tab <NUM> may extend from second part first end <NUM> and terminate in an end such as second buckle end <NUM>(e.g., first tab end). A thickness of second tab <NUM> may be less than a thickness of second part <NUM> between second part upper surface <NUM> and second part lower surface <NUM>. Second tab <NUM> may be sub-flush with second part upper surface <NUM>. Second tab <NUM> may be flush with second part lower surface <NUM>. Second tab <NUM> may be configured to engage second portion <NUM>. Coupler <NUM> may be reversible in nature, such that second tab <NUM> may be configured to engage first portion <NUM> in a first state and second portion <NUM> in a second state. For example, second tab <NUM> may engage first portion <NUM> in a first locked state of buckle <NUM> in which second part <NUM> is disposed proximate first portion <NUM> and second tab <NUM> may engage second portion <NUM> in a second locked state of buckle <NUM> in which second part <NUM> is disposed proximate second portion <NUM>.

In various embodiments, first joint <NUM> may movably couple second part <NUM> to first part <NUM>. First joint <NUM> may be disposed proximate second part second end <NUM>. First joint <NUM> may comprise one or more colinear pins and one or more colinear holes movably coupling second part <NUM> to first part <NUM>. One or more pins or one or more holes may be disposed proximate second part second end <NUM>. For example, second part <NUM> may comprise a thru hole. The thru hole may be perpendicular to second part third end <NUM> and second part fourth end <NUM>. The thru hole may comprise a first opening disposed on second part third end <NUM> and a second opening disposed on second part fourth end <NUM>. An oversized pin may be friction-fit with the thru hole to couple second part <NUM> with first part <NUM>.

In embodiments, first part <NUM> and second part <NUM> may both be disposed along an axis of rotation defined by first joint <NUM>. For example, first part <NUM> and second part <NUM> may be disposed adjacent to each other along a center axis of one or more pins included in first joint <NUM>. First part <NUM> and second part <NUM> may be disposed in an alternating manner along the axis of rotation of first joint <NUM>. For example, first part <NUM> may be partially received between second part <NUM> along first joint <NUM>. Such an arrangement may dispose first part <NUM> immediately adjacent second part <NUM> along first joint <NUM>, thereby enabling a lock integrated with one of first part <NUM> and second part <NUM> to directly contact the other of the second part <NUM> and first part <NUM> along the first joint <NUM>, including as further discussed below.

In various embodiments second part <NUM> may comprise a void configured to receive a third part, such as third part <NUM>. The void may enable third part <NUM> to be disposed between second part third wall <NUM> and second part fourth wall <NUM>. The void may provide a space in which third part <NUM> may articulate. A shape of the void may correspond with a shape of third part <NUM>. For example, second part <NUM> may comprise a void, such as void <NUM> (with brief reference to <FIG>). Void <NUM> may be disposed between second part third wall <NUM> and second part fourth wall <NUM>. Void <NUM> may be contiguous with a portion of second part upper surface <NUM> and a portion of second part lower surface <NUM>, such that second part <NUM> comprises an opening on second part upper surface <NUM> and second part lower surface <NUM>. In various embodiments, in accordance with void <NUM>, second part <NUM> may comprise a U-shape or a C-shape.

In various embodiments, first part <NUM> may be disposed adjacent void <NUM>. First part <NUM> may be coupled via first joint <NUM> to second part <NUM> at an end of void <NUM>. First part <NUM> and second part <NUM> may encircle void <NUM>. Void <NUM> may be disposed within second part <NUM> and further enclosed by first part <NUM>. First part <NUM> may both be integrated with first joint <NUM> at first part second end <NUM> and partially surround void <NUM> at first part second end <NUM>. Accordingly, a part of buckle <NUM> further disposed within void <NUM> may be provided in fluid communication with first part <NUM>, including as further discussed below.

Buckle <NUM> comprises a lock configured to lock (e.g., secure, maintain, etc.) one or more parts of buckle <NUM> in a particular orientation relative to one another. Disengagement of the lock may correspond with buckle <NUM> in a first state (e.g., an unlocked state). In an unlocked state, movement of one or more structures relative to one another (e.g., first tab <NUM> and second tab <NUM>) is enabled. An orientation and a position of parts of buckle <NUM> may be variable in an unlocked state. Engagement of the lock may correspond with buckle <NUM> in a second state (e.g., a locked state). In a locked state, movement of the one or more structures relative to one another is prevented. An orientation and a position of parts of buckle <NUM> may be fixed relative to one another in a locked state.

In various embodiments, a lock may comprise a mechanism configured to selectively control articulation of buckle <NUM>. A lock may enable (e.g., allow) and disable (e.g., prevent) articulation of buckle <NUM>. A lock may comprise mechanisms that selectively control articulation. For example, a lock, may comprise one or more of a button lock, a lever lock, a compression lock, a frame lock, or a liner lock. In embodiments, a lock may comprise an arm and a joint.

In various embodiments, a lock may comprise a cam and a cam follower. A cam and a cam follower may be configured to translate a first applied force to an internal compressive force that maintains buckle <NUM> in a locked state. A cam and a cam follower may be configured to enable a second applied force to overcome the internal compressive force, thereby disengaging the lock. A cam and a cam follower may be configured to translate rotational motion to linear motion. In accordance with a particular state of a buckle, a cam may function as a cam follower and a cam follower may function as cam.

In various embodiments, a lock of buckle <NUM> may comprise third part <NUM>. Third part <NUM> may be configured cooperate with first part <NUM> and second part <NUM> to prevent and enable articulation of buckle <NUM>. Third part <NUM> may comprise an arm. Third part <NUM> may comprise an elongated shape in a direction between first joint <NUM> and an end of second part <NUM> opposite first joint <NUM>. The arm may pivotably couple to another part (e.g., second part <NUM>) of buckle <NUM> at a first end of the arm. The arm may rotate toward and away from the other part of buckle <NUM> at a second end of the arm opposite the first end of the arm.

In various embodiments, third part <NUM> may comprise a shape having a rectangular cross-section. Third part <NUM> may extend between a first end, such as third part first end <NUM> (e.g., first end) and a second end, such as third part second end <NUM> (e.g., second end). Third part first end <NUM> may be opposite third part second end <NUM>. Third part first end <NUM> may be parallel with third part second end <NUM>. Third part second end <NUM> may comprise a curved surface configured to cooperate with first part second end similar a way in which a cam cooperates with a cam follower. A third end, such as third part third end <NUM> (e.g., third end) and a fourth end opposite the third end, such as third part fourth end <NUM> (e.g., fourth end) may connect third part first end <NUM> and third part second end <NUM>. Third part third end <NUM> may be parallel with third part fourth end <NUM>. Third part first end <NUM>, third part second end <NUM>, third part third end <NUM>, and third part fourth end <NUM> may include a rectangular cross section. Third part third end <NUM> may be perpendicular with third part first end <NUM>. Third part third end <NUM> may be perpendicular with third part second end <NUM>. Third part fourth end <NUM> may be perpendicular with third part first end <NUM>. Third part fourth end <NUM> may be perpendicular with third part second end <NUM>. Third part <NUM> may be symmetric about a plane of symmetry that bisects third part first end <NUM> and third part second end <NUM>.

In various embodiments, third part <NUM> may extend between a third part upper surface <NUM> and a third part lower surface <NUM> that is opposite third part upper surface <NUM>. Third part upper surface <NUM> may be parallel with third part lower surface <NUM>. Third part upper surface <NUM> may be perpendicular with third part first end <NUM>, third part second end <NUM>, third part third end <NUM>, and/or third part fourth end <NUM>. Third part upper surface <NUM> may join third part first end <NUM>, third part second end <NUM>, third part third end <NUM>, and third part fourth end <NUM>. In accordance with third part first end <NUM>, third part second end <NUM>, third part third end <NUM>, third part fourth end <NUM>, third part upper surface <NUM>, and/or third part lower surface <NUM>, third part <NUM> may comprise a three-dimensional portion of buckle <NUM>.

In various embodiments, a lock of buckle <NUM> may comprise a joint. For example, a lock of buckle <NUM> may include second joint <NUM>. Second joint <NUM> may movably couple third part <NUM> to second part <NUM>. Second joint <NUM> may be disposed proximate third part first end <NUM> and second part first end <NUM>. Third part second end <NUM> may be disposed between second joint <NUM> and first joint <NUM> along a length of second part <NUM>. Second joint <NUM> may enable third part <NUM> to rotate toward second part <NUM> to place buckle <NUM> in a locked state from an unlocked state. Second joint <NUM> may enable third part <NUM> to rotate in a direction away from second part <NUM> to place buckle <NUM> in an unlocked state from a locked state. Second joint <NUM> may prevent third part <NUM> from rotating through and/or beyond second part <NUM> when buckle <NUM> is placed in a locked state from an unlocked state. Second joint <NUM> may comprise a revolute joint. Second joint <NUM> may be similar to first joint <NUM>. Second joint <NUM> may comprise one or more colinear pins and one or more colinear holes movably coupling third part <NUM> to second part <NUM>. One or more pins or one or more holes may be disposed proximate third part first end <NUM>. For example, third part <NUM> may comprise a thru hole. The thru hole may be perpendicular to third part third end <NUM> and third part fourth end <NUM>. The thru hole may comprise a first opening disposed on third part third end <NUM> and a second opening disposed on third part fourth end <NUM>. An oversized pin may be friction-fit with the thru hole to couple third part <NUM> with second part <NUM>.

In various embodiments, third part <NUM> may be configured to rotate about second joint <NUM>. At least a portion of third part <NUM> may be disposed within void <NUM> of second part <NUM>. For example, third part first end <NUM> may be coupled to second part <NUM> within void <NUM>. Second part second end <NUM> may be selectively disposed within void <NUM>. A width of third part <NUM> may comprise a distance between third part third end <NUM> and third part fourth end <NUM>. The width may be less than a width of second part <NUM> (e.g., the distance between second part third end <NUM> and second part fourth end <NUM>, such that second part <NUM> may encircle (e.g., surround) a portion of third part <NUM>.

In various embodiments, a length of buckle <NUM>, such as third length L3, may comprise a maximum distance between first buckle end <NUM> and second buckle end <NUM>. A fourth length L4 of buckle <NUM> may comprise a maximum distance between first part first end <NUM> and second part second end <NUM>. In a locked state, third length L3 may be greater than second length L2 of base plate <NUM>. In an unlocked state, third length L3 may be less than second length L2. Fourth length L4 may be less than second length L2 in an unlocked state and in a locked state. A width of buckle <NUM>, such as third width W3, may comprise a maximum distance in a direction perpendicular to a length of buckle <NUM>. For example, third width W3 may comprise the greater of a distance between first part third end <NUM> and first part fourth end <NUM> and a distance between second part third end <NUM> and second part fourth end <NUM>. Third width W3 may be less than second width W2 of base plate <NUM>. Accordingly, and in embodiments according to various aspects of the present disclosure, fourth length L4 of buckle <NUM> may be less than first length L1 of base plate <NUM>, and third width W3 of buckle <NUM> may be less than second width W2 of base plate <NUM>. Despite such relative dimensions, buckle <NUM> may overlap one or more structures of base plate <NUM> in accordance with a respective geometry of buckle <NUM> and base plate <NUM>. Buckle <NUM> may be provided in a locked state of coupler <NUM> with base plate <NUM> in which third width W3 is aligned with second width W2 and third length L3 is aligned with second length L2. Particularly and despite such relative dimensions, each portion of one or more portions of base plate <NUM> (e.g., first portion <NUM>) may encircle a respective, corresponding structure of buckle <NUM> in accordance with a respective geometry of buckle <NUM> and base plate <NUM>.

In accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure, <FIG> shows a coupler, such as coupler 1a, in a first unlocked state, <FIG> shows a coupler, such as coupler 1b, in a locked state, and <FIG> shows a coupler, such as coupler 1c, in a second unlocked state. In embodiments, coupler 1a may correspond with coupler 1b in a first unlocked state or coupler 1c in a first unlocked state. Coupler 1b may correspond with coupler 1a in a locked state or coupler 1c in a locked state. Coupler 1c may correspond with coupler 1a in a second unlocked state or coupler 1b in a second unlocked state. One or more elements or features of coupler 1a may correspond with one or more elements or features of coupler 1b or coupler 1c. For the coupler illustrated in <FIG>, corresponding elements or features are referred to using similar reference numerals under the "xxb" series of reference numerals, rather than the "xxa" as used in the embodiment of <FIG>, whereas for the coupler illustrated in <FIG>, corresponding elements or features are referred to using similar reference numerals under the "xxc" series of reference numerals.

Referring to <FIG>, first tab 65a and second tab 75a are each configured to engage respective structures of base plate 20a (e.g., first portion 41a and second portion 42a) to releasably couple base plate 20a to an article of wear. In various embodiments, in a first unlocked state, buckle 50a and base plate 20a may be apart, or portions of buckle 50a may contact portions of base plate 20a (e.g., via an article of wear). For example, a portion of first part lower surface 67a may contact a portion of bottom surface <NUM>. A portion of second part lower surface 77a may contact a portion of bottom surface <NUM>. A portion of third part lower surface 87a may contact a portion of bottom surface <NUM>.

In various embodiments, in a first unlocked state, buckle 50a may be partially collapsed (e.g., buckled, folded, etc.). A length of buckle 50a between first buckle end 51a and second buckle end 52a may be less than a length of buckle 50a in a locked state. A length of buckle 50a may be less than or equal to a length of buckle 50a in a second unlocked state. A length of buckle 50a may be less than a minimum normal distance between a first point tangent with a surface of a first portion of a base plate and a second point tangent with a surface of second portion of a base plate (e.g., second length L1 with brief reference to <FIG>). In accordance with a length of buckle 50a, buckle 50a may manipulated to enable one or more structures to engage with one or more portions of base plate <NUM>. For example, one or more parts of buckle 50a may be positioned by a user to enable one or more structures to engage with one or more portions of base plate <NUM>. First part 60a may form an angle with second part 70a about first joint 91a. To enable buckle 50a to engage base plate <NUM>, the angle with second part <NUM> may comprise an angle of less than <NUM> degrees and the angle with second part <NUM> may be provided on a side of buckle 50a facing base plate <NUM>. Additionally, second part 70a may form an angle with third part 80a about second joint 92a. To enable buckle 50a to engage base plate <NUM>, the angle with third part 80a may be less than <NUM> degrees and the angle with third part 80a may be disposed on a side of buckle 50a facing base plate <NUM>. In embodiments, the angle with second part 70a and the angle with third part <NUM> may each comprise a respective non-straight (e.g., non-linear) angle.

For example, and in accordance with embodiments, one or more surfaces of one or more components of buckle 50a may be non-parallel. First part upper surface 66a may be non-parallel with second part upper surface 76a and/or second part lower surface 77a. First part lower surface 67a may be non-parallel with second part upper surface 76a and/or second part lower surface 77a. First part upper surface 66a may be non-parallel with third part upper surface 86a and/or third part lower surface 87a. First part lower surface 67a may be non-parallel with third part upper surface 86a and/or third part lower surface 87a. Third part upper surface 86a may be non-parallel with second part upper surface 76a and/or second part lower surface 77a. Third part lower surface 87a may be non-parallel with second part upper surface 76a and/or second part lower surface 77a. First part first end 61a may be non-parallel with second part first end 71a and/or second part second end 72a. First part second end 62a may be non-parallel with second part first end 71a and/or second part second end 72a. First part first end 61a may be non-parallel with third part first end 81a and/or third part second end 82a. First part second end 62a may be non-parallel with third part first end 81a and/or third part second end 82a. Third part first end 81a may be non-parallel with second part first end 71a and/or second part second end 72a. Third part second end 82a may be non-parallel with second part first end 71a and/or second part second end 72a.

In various embodiments, buckle 50a may be configured to transition from a first unlocked state to a locked state (with brief reference to <FIG>) responsive to receiving a first provided force, such as force Fa. Force Fa may be applied to buckle 50a to engage the lock (e.g., third part 80a). Force Fa may be applied to buckle 50a to cause buckle 50a to transition from a first unlocked state to a locked state. Force Fa may be applied proximate first joint 91a (e.g., first part second end 62a, second part second end 72a, etc.). Force Fa may be applied to either first part 60a or second part 70a to transition buckle 50a from an unlocked state to a locked state. Responsive to receiving force Fa proximate first joint 91a, first part lower surface 67a, second part lower surface 77a, and third part lower surface 87a may each contact bottom surface 27a of center region 25a. As force Fa is applied, a length between first buckle end 51a and second buckle end 52a may increase.

In various embodiments, Force Fa may be applied to a third part 80a to cause buckle 50a to transition to a locked state. Third part second end 82a may comprise a curved surface. Third part second end 82a may cooperate with first part second end 62a to secure buckle 50a in a locked state. A respective shape of each of third part second end 82a and first part second end 62a may be configured to translate force Fa to an internal compressive force that maintains buckle <NUM> in a locked state. For example, first part second end 62a and/or third part second end 82a may comprise an arcuate shape, such as a fillet. Responsive to receiving force Fa, first part second end 62a may rotate about first joint 91a and contact third part second end 82a. As Fa is applied and first part 60a rotates, contact between first part second end 62a and third part second end 82a may increase. As Fa is applied, rotation of first part second end 62a may cause third part second end 82a to translate, however translation may be prevented due to engagement of third part 80a with second part 70a via second joint <NUM>. As Fa is applied, rotation of first part second end 62a may create an internal compressive force between first part second end 62a and third part second end 82a. The internal compressive force may be configured to maintain buckle 50a in a locked state.

Referring to <FIG>, first tab 65b and second tab 75b are each configured to engage respective structures of buckle 50b (e.g., first portion 41b and second portion 42b) to releasably couple base plate 20b to an article of wear. In various embodiments, in a locked state, one or more structures of buckle 50b may be engaged with one or more portions with base plate 20b to prevent decoupling of buckle 50b from base plate 20b.

In various embodiments, in a locked state, buckle 50b may be fully extended (e.g., expanded, etc.). A first length of buckle 50b between first buckle end 51b and second buckle end 52b (e.g., third length L3 with brief reference to <FIG>) may be greater than a length of buckle 50b in a first unlocked state. The first length of buckle 50b between may be greater than a second length between a first point tangent with a surface of a first portion of a base plate and a second point tangent with a surface of second portion of a base plate (e.g., second length L1 with brief reference to <FIG>). A third length of buckle 50b defined between first part first end 61b and second part first end 71b (e.g., length L4 with brief reference to <FIG>) may be less than or equal to the second length of base plate 20b.

In various embodiments, in a locked state one or more surfaces of one or more parts of buckle 50b may be parallel and/or coplanar. For example, first part upper surface 66b may be parallel with second part upper surface 76b and/or second part lower surface 77b. First part lower surface 67b may be parallel with second part upper surface 76b and/or second part lower surface 77b. First part upper surface 66b may be parallel with third part upper surface (third part upper surface <NUM>) and/or third part lower surface (e.g., third part lower surface <NUM>). First part lower surface 67b may be parallel with third part upper surface and/or third part lower surface. Third part upper surface may be parallel with second part upper surface 76b and/or second part lower surface 77b. Third part lower surface may be parallel with second part upper surface 76b and/or second part lower surface 77b. First part first end 61b may be parallel with second part first end 71b and/or second part second end 72b. First part second end 62b may be parallel with second part first end 71b and/or second part second end 72b. First part first end 61b may be parallel with third part first end 81b and/or third part second end 82b. First part second end 62b may be parallel with third part first end 81b and/or third part second end 82b. Third part first end 81b may be parallel with second part first end 71b and/or second part second end 72b. Third part second end 82b may be parallel with second part first end 71b and/or second part second end 72b.

In various embodiments, third part 80b may contact first part second end 62b in a locked state of buckle 50b. Third part 80b may contact first part second end 62b in a direction from second joint 92b toward first joint 91b. Third part 80b may contact first part second end 62b along an axis between second joint 92b and first joint 91b. Third part second end 82b may be aligned along an axis between first joint 91b and second joint 92b in the locked state and disposed off-axis relative to the axis between first joint 91b and second joint 92b in the unlocked state. Third part second end 82b may be aligned along an axis between first buckle end 51b and second joint 92b in the locked state and disposed off-axis relative to the axis between first buckle end 51b and second joint 92b in the unlocked state. Third part second end 82b may be disposed within a void of second part 70b in the locked state and disposed outside the void in the unlocked state. Third part second end 82b may contact first part second end 62b within the void in the locked state. Third part second end 82b may separate from first part second end 62b in an unlocked state of buckle 50b.

In various embodiments, in a locked state, one or more surfaces and one or more structures of buckle 50b may be configured to engage base plate 20b to limit movement of buckle 50b relative to base plate 20b. For example, first part lower surface 67b, second part lower surface 77b, and/or a third part lower surface (e.g., third part lower surface <NUM>, third part lower surface 87a, etc.) may be configured to engage bottom surface 27b to limit movement of buckle 50b in a first direction. The first direction may be perpendicular to bottom surface 27b. The first direction may include a direction in which first joint 91b may move toward base plate <NUM> when buckle 50b is placed in the locked state from the unlocked state (e.g., as shown by buckle 50a with brief reference to <FIG>). First tab 65b may be configured to engage first portion 41b to limit movement of buckle 50b in a second direction. Second tab 75b may be configured to engage second portion 42b to limit movement of buckle 50b in the second direction. The second direction may be opposite the first direction. The second direction may comprise a direction in which first joint 91b may move away from base plate <NUM> when buckle 50b is placed in an unlocked state from the locked state. First part first end 61b may be configured to engage first portion 41b in a third direction. The third direction may be perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction. Second part first end 71b may be configured to engage second portion 42b in a fourth direction. The fourth direction may be perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction. The fourth direction may be opposite the third direction. First part third end 63b may be configured to engage first portion 41b in a fifth direction. Second part third end 73b may be configured to engage second portion 42b in the fifth direction. The fifth direction may be perpendicular to the first direction, the second direction, the third direction, and/or the fourth direction. First part fourth end 64b may be configured to engage first portion 41b in a sixth direction. Second part fourth end 74b may be configured to engage second portion 42b in the sixth direction. The sixth direction may be perpendicular to the first direction, the second direction, the third direction, and/or the fourth direction. The sixth direction may be opposite the fifth direction.

In various embodiments, buckle 50b may be configured to transition from a locked state to an unlocked state, such as a second unlocked state (with brief reference to <FIG>) responsive to receiving a second provided force, such as force Fb. Force Fb may be applied to buckle 50b to cause buckle 50b to transition from a first locked state to a second unlocked state. Force Fb may be applied to third part 80b (e.g., proximate third part second end 82b) to disengage the lock (e.g., third part 80b). Responsive to receiving force Fb third part 80b may disengage first part 60b. As Fb is applied, third part 80b may rotate about second joint 92b and contact between first part second end 62b and third part second end 82b may decrease. As Fb is applied, rotation of third part 80b may relieve an internal compressive force between first part second end 62b and third part second end 82b, until third part 80b is disengaged from first part 60b.

Referring to <FIG>, third part 80c is disengaged from first part 60c (e.g., no contact exists between third part second end 82c and first part second end 62c). In a second unlocked state, a first tab (e.g., first tab <NUM>, first tab 65a, first tab 65b, etc.) may still be engaged with a first portion (e.g., first portion <NUM>, first portion 41a, first portion 41b, etc.) and a second tab (e.g., second tab <NUM>, second tab 75a, second tab 75b, etc.) may still be engaged with a second portion (e.g., second portion <NUM>, second portion 42a, second portion 42b, etc.) However, first part 60c may be free to rotate about first joint 91c relative to second part 70c to enable buckle 50c to separate from base plate 20c. In the second unlocked state, a second part second end (e.g., second part second end <NUM>, second part second end 72a, second part second end 72b, etc.) may be non-parallel with third part second end 82c.

In various embodiments, in a second locked state one or more surfaces of one or more parts of buckle 50c may be parallel and/or coplanar. For example, a first part upper surface (e.g., first upper surface <NUM>, first upper surface 66a, first upper surface 66b, etc.) with a second part upper surface (e.g., second part upper surface <NUM>, second part upper surface 76a, second part upper surface76b) and/or a second part lower surface (e.g., second part lower surface <NUM>, second part lower surface 77a, second part lower surface 77b). First part lower surface 67c may be parallel with second part upper surface 76c and/or second part lower surface 77c. First part first end 61c may be parallel with second part first end 71c and/or a second part second end (e.g., second part second end <NUM>, second part second end 72a, second part second end 72b, etc.). First part second end 62c may be parallel with second part first end 71c and/or the second part second end.

In various embodiments, in a second unlocked state, one or more surfaces of one or more parts of buckle 50c may be non-parallel. For example, first part upper surface 66c may be non- parallel with third part upper surface 86c and/or third part lower surface 87c. First part lower surface 67c may be non-parallel with third part upper surface 86c and/or third part lower surface 87c. Third part upper surface 86c may be non-parallel with second part upper surface 76c and/or second part lower surface 77c. Third part lower surface 87c may be non-parallel with second part upper surface 76c and/or second part lower surface 77c. First part first end 61c may be non-parallel with third part first end 81b and/or third part second end 82c. First part second end 62c may be non-parallel with third part first end 81c and/or third part second end 82c. Third part first end 81c may be non-parallel with second part first end 71c and/or a second part second end. Third part second end 82c may be non-parallel with second part first end 71c and/or the second part second end 72c.

In accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure, <FIG> shows a buckle, such as buckle 500a, in an unlocked state (e.g., lock disengaged) fit within a first bounding box and <FIG> shows a buckle, such as buckle 500b, in a locked state (e.g., lock engaged) fit withing a second bounding box. Buckles 500a/500b may share similar aspects or parts with the buckles described previously herein (e.g., buckle <NUM>, buckle 50a, buckle 50b, buckle 50c, etc.) In embodiments, buckle 500a may correspond with buckle 500b in an unlocked state. Buckle 500b may correspond with buckle 500a in a locked state.

In various embodiments, a bounding box may comprise a set of dimensions along three orthogonal axes. The set of dimensions may define a three-dimensional volume configured to surround (e.g., envelop, contain, etc.) an object. Each dimension in the set of dimensions may comprise a maximum dimension of the object along a corresponding axis of the three orthogonal axes. A bounding box may comprise a cuboid (e.g., rectangular cuboid, right rectangular prism, etc.). A bounding box may be sized such that each face of the bounding box touches at least one point of the object.

In various embodiments, buckle 500a, which is depicted in an unlocked state, may fit within a first bounding box 510a. A first axis associated with bunding box 510a may be oriented in a first direction between a first structure and a second structure of buckle 500a. The first axis may be disposed along a length of buckle 500a. A second axis of bounding box 510a may be oriented in a second direction perpendicular to the first axis. The second axis may be oriented parallel to a respective width of one or more of the first structure or the second structure. The second axis may be disposed along a width of buckle 500a. A third axis of the of the bounding box 510a may be perpendicular to the first axis and the second axis. The third axis may be disposed along a depth of buckle 500a. The third axis may be disposed parallel to a plane in which one degree of freedom is provided to buckle 500a by a first joint of buckle 500a. First bounding box 510a may comprise a first bounding box volume, such as first bounding volume 520a. Upon application of one or more forces to buckle 500a, a shape of buckle 500a may change. Relative positions of multiple parts of buckle 500a may change based on the application of one or more forces. For example, a first part of buckle 500a may move relative to a second part of buckle 500a. Buckle 500a may be placed in a locked state from an unlocked state. Accordingly, bounding box 510a may change as well.

Buckle 500b, which is depicted in a locked state, may fit within a second bounding box 510b. Second bounding box 510b may comprise a second bounding box volume, such as second bounding volume 520b. Second bounding box 510b may include one or more same axes as first bounding box 510a. One or more dimensions of second bounding box 510b may be different relative to corresponding measurements of first bounding box 510a. For example, a second length of second bounding box 510b may be greater than a first length of first bounding box 510a. A second depth of second bounding box 510b may be less than a first depth of first bounding box 510a. A second width of second bounding box 510b may be equal to a first width of first bounding box 510a. In accordance with the difference in lengths, buckle 500a in the unlocked state may be received within one or more portions of a base plate of a coupler while buckle 500b in the locked state may be prevented from being separated from the base plate. First bounding box 510a may be larger than second bounding box 510b. For example, first bounding volume 520a may be larger than second bounding volume 520b.

The foregoing description discusses preferred embodiments of the present invention, which may be changed or modified without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims. Examples listed in parentheses may be used in the alternative or in any practical combination. As used in the specification and claims, the words 'comprising', 'comprises', 'including', 'includes', 'having', and 'has' introduce an open-ended statement of component structures and/or functions. In the specification and claims, the words 'a' and 'an' are used as indefinite articles meaning 'one or more'. While for the sake of clarity of description, several specific embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the invention is intended to be measured by the claims as set forth below. In the claims, the term "provided" is used to definitively identify an object that not a claimed element of the invention but an object that performs the function of a workpiece that cooperates with the claimed invention. For example, in the claim "an apparatus for aiming a provided barrel, the apparatus comprising: a housing, the barrel positioned in the housing", the barrel is not a claimed element of the apparatus, but an object that cooperates with the "housing" of the "apparatus" by being positioned in the "housing". A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that this disclosure includes any practical combination of the structures and methods disclosed. While for the sake of clarity of description several specifics embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the invention is intended to be measured by the claims as set forth below.

Claim 1:
A coupler (<NUM>) for releasably coupling to a provided article of wear (<NUM>), the coupler (<NUM>) comprising:
a base plate (<NUM>), the base plate (<NUM>) comprising a center region (<NUM>), a first portion (<NUM>), and a second portion (<NUM>), the center region (<NUM>) includes a mount interface (<NUM>) couplable with a provided portable device; characterized in that the coupler further comprises
a buckle (<NUM>), the buckle (<NUM>) comprising a first part (<NUM>), a second part (<NUM>), a first joint (<NUM>), and a lock, the first part (<NUM>) comprises a first structure, the second part (<NUM>) comprises a second structure, the first joint (<NUM>) movably couples the first part (<NUM>) with the second part (<NUM>);
wherein:
in an unlocked state, the lock enables movement of the first part (<NUM>) relative to the second part (<NUM>); and
in a locked state, the first structure engages the first portion (<NUM>) of the base plate (<NUM>), the second structure engages the second portion (<NUM>) of the base plate (<NUM>), and the lock prevents the first structure from moving relative to the second structure to secure the buckle (<NUM>) to the base plate (<NUM>) over the provided article of wear (<NUM>).