Patent ID: 12225958

Elements and steps in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence. For example, steps that may be performed concurrently or in different order are illustrated in the figures to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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. Thus, the detailed description herein is presented for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation.

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. Furthermore, any reference to singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than one component or step may include a singular embodiment or step. 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. Additionally, any reference to without contact (or similar phrases) may also include reduced contact or minimal contact.

Systems, methods and apparatus are provided herein. 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. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment.

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

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 6/6, 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 0.005 in to 0.150 in (0.127 mm to 3.810 mm). An article of wear may comprise various materials, such as stiff materials, flexible materials, elastic materials, synthetic materials, natural materials, and combinations thereof.

A base plate may be configured to couple with a provided accessory. For example, a base plate may include a mount interface (e.g., a connector, a receiver, a coupler, etc.) configured to releasably receive an accessory. 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. A base plate may be positioned on a first side of the article of wear and engage a clip positioned on a second side of the article of wear. An article of wear may be disposed between the base plate and the clip. Engagement of the clip 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.

A base plate may be configured to releasably couple with a clip over a provided article of wear. A base plate may comprise structures (e.g., tabs, lips, ledges, blocks, steps, etc.) that are configured to engage (e.g., interlock, overlap, etc.) respective portions of a clip to limit movement of the clip relative to the base plate. The structures may be configured to engage respective portions of the clip in multiple directions, thereby limiting (e.g., obstructing, preventing, etc.) movement of the clip in the multiple directions.

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

A clip may engage a base plate in a series of actions. The series of actions may comprise engaging a portion of the clip with a structure of the base plate, rotating the clip relative to the base plate to interlock the clip with additional structures of the base plate, and sliding (e.g., translating) the clip relative to the base plate, such that each portion of the clip is engaged with (e.g., interlocked with) one or more structures of the base plate. The series of actions may be repeated in reverse to disengage the clip from the base plate. The series of actions for disengaging the clip from the base plate may improve the reliability of a coupler coupling to an article of wear. The series of actions for disengaging the clip from the base plate may reduce a likelihood of the clip being unintentionally removed from the base plate. The 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.1Ashows an exploded view of a coupler1, andFIG.1Bshows an assembled view of coupler1according to various embodiments disclosed herein. Coupler1may be configured to releasably couple to an article of wear, such as article of wear10. An accessory, such as camera3, may be configured to releasably (e.g., removably, etc.) attach (e.g., couple, etc.) to coupler1.

In various embodiments, coupler1may comprise two physically separate, but engageable parts. For example, coupler1may include a base plate, such as base plate20(e.g., first part, base, etc.) and a clip, such as clip60(e.g., loop, retainer, etc.). Each of base plate20and clip60may comprise one or more rigid materials as disclosed previously herein.

In various embodiments, a geometry of coupler1may enable clip60to releasably engage base plate20over a range of thin and deformable materials, such as a provided article of wear10. Base plate20may be configured to engage clip60over article of wear10, thereby providing a base with which a provided accessory, such as camera3, may attach. Article of wear10may comprise a variety of articles ranging in thickness and composition. For example, a thickness of article of wear10may include a range of thicknesses, such as between 0.005 in to 0.150 in (0.127 mm to 3.810 mm). Article of wear10may comprise a variety of materials, such as textiles, foams, elastomers, and the like. Article of wear10may include pants, jackets, shirts, hats, overalls etc. Article of wear10may 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 plate20may be disposed adjacent a first surface of article of wear10, and clip60may be disposed adjacent a second surface of article of wear10, opposite the first surface. The first surface may be an outer surface of article of wear10(e.g., a surface facing away from the wearer). The second surface may be an inner surface of article of wear10(e.g., a surface facing toward the wearer). Clip60may be configured to couple to base plate20over article of wear10without damaging article of wear10. Article of wear10may conform to a shape of base plate20and clip60.

In various embodiments, may couple with coupler1via a mount interface of base plate20, such as mount interface28. Camera3may be removably coupled to coupler1, while coupler1remains coupled to article of wear10. Camera3may be removably from coupler1, without decoupling coupler1from article of wear10. Coupling of camera3with coupler1may prevent clip60from separating from base plate20, thereby securing coupler1to article of wear10. Coupling of camera3with base plate20may prevent clip60from attaching to base plate20, thereby preventing coupler1from coupling with article of wear10.

FIGS.2A-2Bshow top and bottom views of base plate20, respectively. Base plate20may comprise a unitary part, or base plate20may be formed of one or more parts. In various embodiments, base plate20may comprise a center region29. Center region29may provide a surface on which mount interface28is disposed. Center region29may provide a rigid, fixed region about which clip60may be translated to transition coupler1between a locked state and an unlocked state. Center region29may extend between a first wall21(e.g., first center region surface21) and a second wall22(e.g., second center region surface22) that is opposite first wall21. First wall21and second wall22may be parallel with one another. Center region29may extend between a third wall23(e.g., third center region surface23) and a fourth wall24(e.g., fourth center region surface24) that is opposite third wall23. Third wall23and fourth wall24may be parallel with one another. Third wall23and a fourth wall24may connect first wall21and second wall22. First wall21, second wall22, third wall23, and fourth wall24may include a rectangular cross section. Third wall23may be perpendicular with first wall21. Third wall23may be perpendicular with second wall22. Fourth wall24may be perpendicular with first wall21. Fourth wall24may be perpendicular with second wall22. Base plate20may be symmetric about a plane of symmetry that bisects first wall21of base plate20and second wall22of base plate20.

In various embodiments, center region29may extend between a top surface26and a bottom surface27that is opposite top surface26. Top surface26may be parallel with bottom surface27. Top surface26may be smooth to facilitate coupling with camera3. Top surface26may be perpendicular with first wall21, second wall22, third wall23, and/or fourth wall24. Top surface26may join first wall21, second wall22, third wall23, and fourth wall24. In accordance with first wall21, second wall22, third wall23, fourth wall24, top surface26, and/or bottom surface27, center region29may comprise a three-dimensional portion of base plate20.

Top surface26may comprise a mount interface, such as mount interface28, that is configured to receive camera3. Mount interface28may include a connector, receiver, magnet, ferrous material, suction cup, smooth surface, or other interface configured to releasably couple with a complementary interface of camera3. For example, mount interface28may comprise a receiver for releasably coupling with a mating connector of an item. Mount interface28may include a connector for releasably coupling with a mating receiver of camera3. As a further example, mount interface28may comprise a ferrous material for coupling with a magnetic portion of camera3.

In various embodiments, base plate20may include one or more structures (e.g., tabs, ledges, lips, blocks, protrusions, wings, etc.) configured to engage one or more portions of clip60. The one or more structure may be configured to limit movement of clip60when clip60is coupled to base plate20. The one or more structures of base plate20may limit movement of clip60in multiple directions. The one or more structures may each extend from center region29of base plate20.

In various embodiments, a structure may be configured to limit translation of a clip in a first translational direction and not limit translation of the clip in a second translational direction. The structure may comprise a first surface configured to limit translation of the clip 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 clip. For example, the structure may comprise a concave portion (e.g., undercut, overhang, etc.) configured to receive the clip. The concave portion may comprise a surface configured to limit translation of the clip in a direction toward the surface and enable translation of the clip in one or more directions away from the concave portion. The concave portion may partially enclose (e.g., encircle) a portion of the clip and the portion of the clip may also be partially unobstructed by the structure.

In various embodiments, a structure may form a concave portion with center region29. The concave portion may comprise one of an overhang and an undercut. An overhang may comprise a surface oriented a direction opposite a direction in which a reference surface is oriented. An undercut may comprise a surface oriented in a same direction as the reference surface. For example, a first structure may comprise an undercut formed in part by first upper surface36oriented in a same direction as a reference surface comprising top surface26. A second structure may comprise an overhang formed in part by first lower surface37oriented in a direction opposite the reference surface comprising top surface26. The undercut and overhang may be respectively further defined relative to at least one respective wall of center region29. The undercut and overhang may be formed by at least one of a surface of a wall of center region29or a surface of step35as further discussed below.

In various embodiments, coupler1comprise one or more structures. The one or more structures may each extend from center region29. The one or more structures may each form an overhang or an undercut with center region29relative to a pull direction normal to top surface26. For example, base plate20may comprise one or more undercut structures, wherein each undercut structure of the one or more undercut structures forms a respective undercut with center region29. Alternately or additionally, base plate20may comprise one or more overhanging (e.g., overhang) structures, wherein each overhang structure of the one or more overhanging structures provides an overhang with center region29.

In various embodiments, an undercut structure may be configured to limit movement of clip60in a first direction, and an overhanging structure may be configured to limit movement of clip60in a second direction, that is opposite the first direction. The undercut structure may be configured to receive (e.g., not limit translation of) clip60in the second direction. The overhang structure may be configured to receive clip60in the first direction. In combination, a pair of structures comprising an undercut structure and an overhang structure may prevent movement along an axis determined in accordance with the first direction and the second direction. A single structure of the pair of structures alone may be insufficient to prevent translation of the clip in at least one direction along the axis. For example, base plate20may comprise a first undercut structure, such as first tab31, and a second undercut structure, such as second tab32. First tab31and second tab32may be configured to limit movement of clip60in a first direction. The first direction may be toward (e.g., into, in the direction of, etc.,) a respective surface of each of first tab31and second tab32. Base plate20may comprise a first overhanging structure, such as third tab33and a second overhanging structure, such as fourth tab34. Third tab33and fourth tab34may be configured to limit movement of clip60in a second direction that is opposite the first direction.

In various embodiments, first tab31may be positioned adjacent first wall21. First tab31may extend from first wall21and terminate in an end (e.g., wall, terminus, etc.) such as first end41. First end41may be parallel with first wall21. First tab31may include a first upper surface36. First upper surface36may be sub-flush with top surface26. First upper surface36may be parallel with top surface26. First upper surface36may form a right angle, acute angle, or obtuse angle with first end41. In various embodiments, first upper surface36may form a right angle, acute angle, or obtuse angle with first wall21. First tab31may comprise a first lower surface that is opposite first upper surface36. The first lower surface may be coplanar with bottom surface27of base plate20.

In various embodiments, second tab32may be positioned adjacent second wall22. Second tab32may extend from second wall22and terminate in an end, such as second end42. Second tab32may extend from central region29in a first direction opposite a second direction in which first tab31extends from central region29. Second end42may be parallel with second wall22. Second tab32may include an upper surface, such as second upper surface38. Second upper surface38may be sub-flush with top surface26of base plate20. Second upper surface38may be parallel with top surface26of base plate20. Second upper surface38may form a right angle, acute angle, or obtuse angle with second end42. Second upper surface38may form a right angle, acute angle, or obtuse angle with second wall22. Second upper surface38may be coplanar with first upper surface36of first tab31. Second upper surface38may be co-planar with first upper surface36. Second tab32may comprise a second lower surface that is opposite second upper surface38. The second lower surface may be flush with bottom surface27of base plate20.

In various embodiments, third tab33may be positioned adjacent third wall23. Third tab33may be oriented perpendicular to first tab31and second tab32. Third tab33may extend from third wall23and terminate in an end, such as third end43. Third end43may be parallel with third wall23. Third tab33may include a third upper surface that is coplanar with top surface26of base plate20. The third upper surface of third tab33may be smooth and flush with top surface26to facilitate coupling with camera3. Third tab33may include a lower surface, such as third lower surface37. Third lower surface37may be opposite top surface26. Third lower surface37may be sub-flush with bottom surface27. Third lower surface37may be parallel with bottom surface27. Third lower surface37may form a right angle, acute angle, or obtuse angle with third wall23. Third lower surface37may form a right angle, acute angle, or obtuse angle with third end43.

In various embodiments, fourth tab34may be positioned adjacent fourth wall24. Fourth tab34may be oriented perpendicular to first tab31and second tab32. Fourth tab34may be opposite third tab33. Fourth tab34may extend from fourth wall24and terminate in an end, such as fourth end44. Fourth tab34may extend from central region29in a third direction opposite a fourth direction in which third tab33extends from central region29. Fourth end44may be parallel with fourth wall24. Fourth tab34may include a fourth upper surface that is coplanar with top surface26. Fourth upper surface of fourth tab34may be smooth and coplanar with top surface26to facilitate coupling with camera3. Fourth tab34may include a lower surface, such as fourth lower surface39. Fourth lower surface39may be opposite the fourth upper surface. Fourth lower surface39may be sub-flush with bottom surface27of base plate20. Fourth lower surface39may be parallel with bottom surface27. Fourth lower surface39may form a right angle, acute angle, or obtuse angle with fourth wall24. Fourth lower surface39may for a right angle, acute angle, or obtuse angle with third end43. Fourth lower surface39may be co-planar with third lower surface37.

In various embodiments, surfaces of different structures may be co-planar. For example, third lower surface37may be co-planar with first upper surface36. Fourth lower surface38may alternately or additionally be co-planar with second upper surface38. In embodiments, the extent to which the structures are co-planar may be limited to such surfaces, such that one or more pairs of structures may be non-coplanar in a direction perpendicular to the surfaces, aside from the surfaces themselves.

In various embodiments, surfaces of different structures may be non-coplanar. For example, a pair of structures may provide a pair of surfaces oriented in different directions along a dimension (e.g., depth) of a coupler. A first plane in which a first surface of a first structure of the different structures is disposed may be offset along the dimension relative to a second plane in which a second surface of a second structure of the different structures may be disposed. The first surface and second surface may be disposed parallel to each other. The first surface may comprise one of a lower surface and an upper surface and the second surface may comprise the other of the lower surface and the upper surface, different from the first surface. In embodiments, the offset may be less than a thickness of the clip along the dimension in a locked state of a coupler comprising the clip and the first structure and the second structure. For example, third lower surface37may be non-coplanar with first upper surface36. An offset between third lower surface37and first upper surface36along a depth of base plate (e.g., in a direction perpendicular to the view provided inFIG.2A) may be less than a depth of clip60(e.g., in a direction perpendicular to the view provided inFIG.3A. The offset may be determined along a middle portion of clip60, such as middle portion61(with brief reference toFIG.3A). In accordance with an offset between non-coplanar position between the pair of surfaces, the surfaces may be configured to securely limit translation of clip60upon engagement of the pair of surfaces with different portions of clip60.

In various embodiments, a length of base plate20may comprise a distance between first end41and second end42. The length of base plate20may be between 2 inches and 2.5 inches (5.1 centimeters and 6.4 centimeters), between 2.5 inches and 3 inches (6.4 centimeters and 7.6 centimeters), between 3 inches and 3.5 inches (7.6 centimeters and 8.9 centimeters), 3.5 inches and 4 inches (8.9 centimeters and 10.2 centimeters), between 4 inches and 5 inches (10.2 centimeters and 12.7 centimeters), between 2 and 5 inches (5.1 centimeters and 12.7 centimeters), or any other suitable dimension.

In various embodiments, a width of base plate20may comprise a distance between third end43and fourth end44. The width of base plate20may be between 2 inches and 2.5 inches (5.1 centimeters and 6.4 centimeters), between 2.5 inches and 3 inches (6.4 centimeters and 7.6 centimeters), between 3 inches and 3.5 inches (7.6 centimeters and 8.9 centimeters), 3.5 inches and 4 inches (8.9 centimeters and 10.2 centimeters), between 4 inches and 5 inches (10.2 centimeters and 12.7 centimeters), between 2 and 5 inches (5.1 centimeters and 12.7 centimeters), or any other suitable dimension. The width of base plate20may be less than the length of base plate20.

In various embodiments, a thickness of base plate20may comprise a distance between top surface26and bottom surface27. The thickness of base plate20may be between 0.1 inches and 0.15 inches (0.25 centimeters and 0.38 centimeters), between 0.15 inches and 0.2 inches (0.38 centimeters and 0.51 centimeters), between 0.2 inches and 0.25 inches (0.51 centimeters and 0.64 centimeters), 0.25 inches and 0.3 inches (0.64 centimeters and 0.76 centimeters), between 0.3 inches and 0.5 inches (0.76 centimeters and 1.27 centimeters), between 0.1 inches and 0.5 inches (0.25 centimeters and 1.27 centimeters), or any other suitable dimension. The thickness of base plate20may be less than each of the length of base plate20and the width of base plate20.

In various embodiments, base plate20may include a fifth structure adjacent to the first undercut structure for limiting movement of clip60relative to base plate20when clip60is engaged with base plate20. For example, base plate20may include a step35adjacent to first wall21and first tab31. Step35may comprise a block physically integrated with one or more of first tab31or central region29. Step35may extend between first upper surface36of first tab31and top26of base plate20. An upper surface of step35may be coplanar with, sub-flush with, or extend beyond, top surface26. In various embodiments, an upper surface of step35may be smooth and flush with top surface26to facilitate coupling with a provided item. An upper surface of step35may be parallel with upper surface36of first tab31. Step35may terminate in an end, such as fifth end45(e.g., first step end). Fifth end45may be proximate first end41of first tab31. Fifth end45may be parallel with first end41. Fifth end45may form a right angle, acute angle, or obtuse angle with upper surface36of first tab21. Fifth end45may form a right angle, acute angle, or obtuse angle with an upper surface of step35.

In various embodiments, first upper surface36may be different from second upper surface38in accordance with step35. Second tab32may lack a step or other physical part equivalent to step35. Second tab32may comprise a concave portion and exclude a step. First tab31and second tab32may be otherwise symmetrical relative to center region29, aside from step35. For example, first tab31and second tab32may extend a same respective distance from center region. A width of first tab31may be equal to a width of second tab32. In accordance with the integration of step35with first tab31and a lack of such a step for second tab32, clip60may interlock with more of first tab31than second tab32, thereby enabling clip60to translate over more of first tab31than second tab32in a locked state and a transition state of coupler1.

In embodiments, a structure may define an undercut structure or an overhang structure relative to a common surface. For example, first tab31may correspond to the first undercut structure in accordance with first upper surface36being sub-flush with upper surface26. Second tab32may correspond to the second undercut structure in accordance with second upper surface37being sub-flush with upper surface26. Third tab33may correspond to the first overhang structure in accordance with the third upper surface of third tab33being flush with upper surface26. Fourth tab34may correspond to the second overhang structure in accordance with the fourth upper surface of fourth tab34being flush with upper surface26. Alternately or additionally, first tab31may correspond to the first undercut structure in accordance with the first lower surface being flush with lower surface27; second tab32may correspond to the second undercut structure in accordance with second lower surface being flush with lower surface27; third tab33may correspond to the first overhang structure in accordance with third lower surface37of third tab33being sub-flush with lower surface27; and/or fourth tab34may correspond to the second overhang structure in accordance with fourth lower surface39of fourth tab34being sub-flush with lower surface27.

FIGS.3A-3Billustrate a clip60that is configured to releasably engage base plate20. Clip60may comprise multiple portions that are each configured to engage respective structures of base plate20(e.g., first tab31, second tab32, third tab33, fourth tab34, fifth tab35, etc.) to releasably couple base plate20to article of wear10. A shape of clip60may complement a shape of base plate20, such that portions of clip60engage complementary structures of base plate20to limit movement of clip60relative to base plate20.

Clip60may comprise a unitary body or multiple components joined together. Clip60may 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. Clip60may be formed by forming (e.g., bending, etc.) a ductile material into a desired shape. For example, clip60may comprise a rod or tube that is 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.

In various embodiments, a shape of clip60may 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 diameter of the closed profile may be a range of diameters from 0.063 inches to 0.25 inches (1.59 mm to 6.35 mm). A height of the closed profiled may be a range of heights from 0.063 inches to 0.25 inches (1.59 mm to 6.35 mm). The section of the closed profile may vary about the sweep of the curve. For example, a portion of the curve may have a circular section while another portion of the curve may have a hexagonal 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.

In various embodiments, clip60may comprise multiple portions configured to engage base plate20. A region of each portion of clip60may be tangent with a discrete plane. For example, clip60may include a first portion61, a second portion62, and a middle portion63connecting first portion61and second portion62. First portion61, second portion62, and middle portion63may each be tangent with a discrete plane. An elongate region of portion61, an elongate region of second portion62, and an elongate region of middle portion63may each be tangent with a plane. First portion61, second portion62, and third portion63may each extend in different directions relative to one another. For example, a first elongate region of first portion61may be tangent with a first tangent plane P1, a second elongate region of second portion62may be tangent with a second tangent plane P2, and third elongate region of middle portion63may be tangent with a third tangent plane P3. The first tangent plane, the second tangent plane, and the third tangent plane may each be orthogonal to a fourth plane. For example, the fourth plane may comprise a plane from which the side view of clip60is illustrated inFIG.3B. 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.

Clip60may have a closed profile when viewed from the side (e.g., as shown inFIG.3B). Clip60may have an open profile when viewed from the top (e.g., as shown inFIG.3A). In various embodiments, clip60may include one or more planes of symmetry. For example, first portion61may be symmetric with second portion62over a first plane of symmetry, which bisects middle portion63. A second plane of symmetry may bisect first portion61, second portion62, and middle portion63.

In various embodiments, one or more dimensions of clip60may be sized to cooperate with base plate20. An internal dimension of clip60may be a dimension defined by a normal distance between two points each tangent with a surface of clip60, wherein a line between the two points does not intersect the body of clip60. For example, an internal length may be a length defined by a normal distance between two points each tangent with a surface of clip60, wherein a line between the two points does not intersect the body clip60. An internal length IL1from a first elongate region of first portion61to a second elongate region of second portion62may be less than a length L1from first end41to second end42. The internal length IL1may be equal to or greater than a second length L2from second wall22to fifth end45of step35. The internal length IL1may be less than a third length L3from second end42to fifth end45of step35. The internal length IL1may be equal to or greater than a fourth length L4from second end42to first wall21. An internal width IW1of first portion61, second portion62, and/or third portion63may be less than a width W1from third end43to fourth end44of base plate20. The internal width IW1of first portion61, second portion62, and/or third portion63may be less than a second width W2from third wall23to fourth wall24. Accordingly, and in embodiments according to various aspects of the present disclosure, the inner length IL1of clip60may be less than the length L1of base plate20and the inner width IW1of clip60may be less than the width W1of base plate20. Despite such relative dimensions, clip60may overlap one or more structures of base plate20in accordance with a respective geometry of clip60and base20. Clip60may be provided in a locked state of coupler1with base plate20in which the width is aligned with the inner width and the length is aligned with the inner length. Particularly and despite such relative dimensions, each portion of one or more portions of clip60(e.g., first portion61) may encircle a respective, corresponding structure of base plate20in accordance with a respective geometry of clip60and base20.

In various embodiments, clip60may comprise a loop thickness. A loop thickness may be a thickness defined by a height or diameter of the profile of the loop as discussed previously herein. A distance between top surface26of base plate20and first upper surface36of first tab31may be equal to or greater than a loop thickness of first portion61of clip60to facilitate coupling with camera3. A distance between top surface26of base plate20and second upper surface37of second tab32may be equal to or greater than a loop thickness of second portion62of clip60to facilitate coupling with camera3. A distance between bottom surface27of base plate20and third lower surface37of third tab33may be equal to or greater than a loop thickness of middle portion63. A distance between bottom surface27of base plate20and fourth lower surface39of fourth tab34may be equal to or greater than a loop thickness of middle portion63. A width between third end43and third wall33may be equal to, less than, or greater than a loop thickness of middle portion63. A width between fourth end44and fourth wall34may be equal to, less than, or greater than a loop thickness of middle portion63. A width between third end43and fourth end44may be equal to or greater than a width of middle portion63.

In various embodiments, a coupler may transition between multiple states (e.g., configurations). For example, a coupler may transition from a first state to a second state to a third state. The first state may comprise a first physical state, the second state may comprise a second physical state, and the third state may comprise a third physical state. The second state may be different from the first state and the third state. The third state may be different from the first state and the second state. One or more of a relative position and orientation of a same element or feature of the coupler may differ between the first state, the second state, and the third state.

For example, and in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure,FIG.4Ashows a coupler, such as coupler1a, in a locked (e.g., fully engaged, restricted, etc.) state,FIG.4Bshows a coupler, such as coupler1b, in a transition (e.g., partially engaged, partially disengaged, etc.) state, andFIG.4Cshows a coupler, such as coupler1c, in an unlocked (e.g., disengaged, free, etc.) state. In embodiments, coupler1amay correspond with coupler1bin a locked state or coupler1cin a locked state. Coupler1bmay correspond with coupler1ain a transition state or coupler1cin a transition state. Coupler1cmay correspond with coupler1ain an unlocked state or coupler1bin an unlocked state. One or more elements or features of coupler1amay correspond with one or more elements or features of coupler1bor coupler1c. For the coupler illustrated inFIG.4B, 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 ofFIG.4A, whereas for the coupler illustrated inFIG.4C, corresponding elements or features are referred to using similar reference numerals under the “xxc” series of reference numerals.

In various embodiments, a coupler may transition from an unlocked state to a locked state. For example, coupler1c, shown in an unlocked state, may transition to a locked state (e.g., as shown in coupler1a). In transitioning from an unlocked state to a locked state, a coupler may pass through a transition state. For example, coupler1cmay transition through a transition state (e.g., as shown in coupler1b) before reaching a locked state.

Referring toFIG.4A, first portion61a, second portion62a, and middle portion63aof clip60aare each configured to engage structures of base plate20ato releasably couple base plate20ato an article of wear. The geometry of clip60acomplements the geometry of base plate20a, such that the portions of clip60aengage complementary structures of base plate20ato limit movement of clip60arelative to base plate20a.

In various embodiments, in a locked state, middle portion63amay be adjacent third tab33aand fourth tab34a. Clip60amay be rotated and translated to disengage clip60afrom base plate20afrom the locked state. In a locked state, clip60amay be rotated relative to base plate20ato disengage clip60afrom base plate20a. In a locked state, a first portion of clip60amay engage one or more first structures of base plate20a, a second portion of clip60amay engage one or more second structures of base plate20a, and a third portion of clip60amay engage one or more third structures of base plate20a. Coupler1amay comprise (e.g., be disposed in, be provided in, etc.) a locked state when middle portion63aof clip60ais parallel with base plate20aand movement of each portion of clip60ais obstructed by structures of base plate20a(e.g., first tab31a, second tab32a, third tab33a, fourth tab34a, step35a, etc.). Coupler1amay comprise a locked state when first portion61aoverlaps first tab31a, second portion62aoverlaps second tab32a, and middle portion63aoverlaps each of third tab33aand fourth tab34a.

In various embodiments, in a locked state, first portion61amay overlap first tab31aand be disposed adjacent fifth end45aof step35a(e.g., fifth end45a). In a locked state, first tab31amay be configured to engage first portion61a, thereby limiting translation of first portion61ain a direction toward first tab31a. In a locked state, first tab31amay engage first portion61ain a first translational direction, thereby limiting translation of clip60ain the first translational direction. First portion61amay partially encircle first tab31ain the locked state of coupler1. For example, first portion61amay encircle first tab31ain at least three perpendicular directions about first tab31a. First tab31amay be received through first portion61ain the locked state.

In various embodiments, in a locked state, fifth end45aof step35amay be configured to engage first portion61a, thereby limiting translation of first portion61ain a direction toward fifth end45a. In a locked state, fifth end45aof step35may engage first portion61ain a second translational direction, thereby limiting translation of clip60ain the second translational direction. The second translational direction may be perpendicular to the first translational direction.

In various embodiments, in a locked state, second portion62amay overlap second tab32a, and be adjacent second wall22a. In a locked state, second tab32amay be configured engage second portion62a, thereby limiting translation of clip60ain a direction toward second tab32a. In a locked state, second tab32amay be configured to engage second portion62ain a third translational direction, thereby limiting translation of clip60ain the third translational direction. The third translational direction may be normal to second tab32. The third translational direction may be equal to the first translational direction. Second portion62amay partially encircle second tab32ain the locked state of coupler1. For example, second portion62amay encircle second tab32ain at least three perpendicular directions about second tab32a. Second tab32amay be received through second portion62ain the locked state.

In a locked state, second wall22aof base plate20amay be configured to engage second portion62ain a fourth translational direction, thereby preventing translation of clip60ain the fourth translational direction. The fourth translational direction may be perpendicular to the third translational direction and/or perpendicular to second wall22a.

In various embodiments, in a locked state, middle portion63amay be adjacent third tab33a, fourth tab34a, third wall23a, and/or fourth wall24a. In a locked state, middle portion63amay overlap third tab33a. Third tab33amay be configured to engage middle portion63a, thereby limiting translation of middle portion63ain a direction toward third tab33a. In a locked state, third tab33amay be configured to engage middle portion63ain a fifth translational direction, thereby limiting translation of clip60ain the fifth translational direction. The fifth translational direction may be normal to third tab33a. Third tab33amay be configured to engage clip60ain a direction opposite that of first tab31aand/or second tab32a.

In various embodiments, in a locked state, fourth tab34amay be configured to engage middle portion63a, thereby limiting translation of middle portion63ain a direction toward fourth tab34a. In a locked state, fourth tab34amay be configured to engage middle portion63ain a sixth translational direction, thereby limiting translation of clip60ain the sixth translational direction. The sixth translational direction may be normal to fourth tab34a. The sixth translational direction may be equal to the fifth translational direction. Fourth tab34amay be configured to engage clip60ain a direction opposite that of first tab31aand/or second tab32a.

In various embodiments, in a locked state, third wall23amay be configured to engage middle portion63a, thereby preventing translation of middle portion63abeyond third wall23a. In a locked state, third wall23aand fourth wall24amay each be configured to engage middle portion63ain opposite directions, thereby limiting translation of middle portion63arelative to third wall23aand fourth wall24a. Third wall23amay engage middle portion63ain a seventh translational direction, thereby preventing translation of clip60ain the seventh translational direction. The seventh translational direction may be perpendicular to third wall23a. In a locked state, fourth wall24amay be configured to engage middle portion63ain an eighth translational direction, thereby limiting translation of clip60ain the eighth translational direction relative to base plate20a. The eighth translational direction may be perpendicular to fourth wall24a. The eighth translational direction may be opposite the seventh translational direction.

In various embodiments, an accessory (e.g., camera3) engaged with mount interface28amay be configured to engage first portion61aand/or second portion62ato further limit movement of clip60a. An accessory engaged with coupler1amay secure clip60ato base plate20, such that clip60amay be unable to decouple from base20awithout first removing the accessory. When a provided accessory is coupled to a base plate, a surface of the accessory may be flush or close to flush with step35a, such that the provided accessory prevents first portion61afrom overlapping step35a. An item coupled with base plate20amay lock (e.g., secure) coupler1ato an article of wear by preventing first portion61afrom overlapping step35a. Clip60amay be prevented from being disengaged from base plate20aif first portion61acannot overlap step35a. Rotation of clip60arelative to base plate20amay be precluded in direction opposite an upper surface of first tab31a. An accessory coupled with coupler1avia base plate20amay prevent clip60afrom disengaging base plate20a. An accessory coupled with coupler1avia base plate20amay fully constrain clip60ato base plate20a.

Referring toFIG.4B, clip60bmay be configured to move about base plate20bto transition from the locked state (e.g., coupler1aofFIG.4A) to the unlocked state (e.g., coupler1cofFIG.4C). In the transition state, first portion61bmay be configured to overlap step35b, thereby freeing second portion62bfrom engagement with second tab32b. In accordance with first portion61boverlapping step35b, second portion62bmay no longer overlap second tab32b. In the transition state, first portion61bmay encircle both step35band first tab31b. Both step35band first tab31bmay be received through first portion61bof clip60bin the transition state. In contrast, and in a locked state of coupler1b(e.g., as shown for coupler1aofFIG.4A), an accessory coupled with base plate20b(e.g., via mount interface28b) may be configured to prevent first portion61bfrom overlapping step35b. Decoupling the accessory from base plate20bmay enable movement of clip60brelative to base plate20b.

In various embodiments, in a transition state, clip60bmay be less constrained relative to base plate20bcompared with clip60a. In the transition state, translation of clip60brelative to base plate20bmay be limited in fewer translational directions than a locked state (e.g., as illustrated with respect to coupler1a) but remain constrained in more translational directions than an unlocked state (e.g., as illustrated with respect to coupler1c). For example, first portion61bmay be rotated away from an upper surface of first tab31b. First portion61bmay also be further translated in a direction toward second tab32. In the transition state, and in accordance with a movement (e.g., rotation, translation, etc.) of clip60b, step35bmay be encircled by first portion61a. Clip60bmay be rotated and translated relative to base plate20bto free second portion62bfrom second tab32b. First portion61bmay overlap step35bto enable second portion62bto be freed from second tab32b. Once second portion62bis free of second tab32b, clip60bmay be able to be decoupled from base plate20bby translating clip60bin a direction toward first tab31b. In the transition state, clip60bmay overlap one or more structures of base plate20b, but not central a region of base plate20b. One or more structures of base plate20bmay prevent clip60bfrom encircling the central region of base plate20bin the transition state. One or more structures of base plate60bmay further physically prevent clip60bfrom encircling the central region in the locked state of coupler1b(e.g., as illustrated with respect to coupler1a).

Referring toFIG.4C, coupler1cis shown in an unlocked state. In the unlocked state, first portion61cmay be free of (e.g., not overlap) first tab31c, step35c, and second portion62cmay be free of second tab32c, thereby decoupling clip60cfrom base plate20c. In the unlocked state, clip60cmay no longer be constrained relative to base plate20c. In the unlocked state, translation of clip60crelative to base plate20cmay be limited in fewer translational directions than a locked state (e.g., as illustrated with respect to coupler1a) and fewer translational directions than a transition state (e.g., as illustrated with respect to coupler1b). Third portion63cmay no longer be interlocked with third tab33cand fourth tab34c, thereby enabling clip60cto be decoupled from base plate20c.

In various embodiments, a clip may engage a base plate in a series of actions. The series of actions may comprise overlapping a first portion of the clip with a first tab of the base plate, rotating the clip relative to the base plate to overlap a third portion of the clip with a third tab and/or fourth tab of the base plate, and sliding (e.g., translating) the clip relative to the base plate to overlap a second portion of the clip with a second tab of the base plate, such that each of the portions of the clip are engaged with (e.g., interlocked with) one or more respective tabs of the base plate. To further secure the clip to the base plate, an accessory may be coupled to the base plate to prevent the clip from decoupling with the base plate. The series of actions may be repeated in reverse to disengage the clip from the base plate. The series of actions for disengaging the clip from the base plate may improve the reliability of a coupler in reliably coupling to an article of wear. The series of actions for disengaging the clip from the base plate may reduce the likelihood of the clip in unintentionally being decoupled from the base plate. The series of actions for disengaging a coupler coupled to an article of wear may reduce the likelihood of the coupler in being unintentionally decoupled from the article of wear.

Aspects of this disclosure may relate to a coupler apparatus, methods, and systems thereof. A first example embodiment of a coupler for releasably coupling to an article of wear may comprise a base plate and a clip. The base plate may extend between a first wall and second wall opposite the first wall. The base plate may extend along a third wall and a fourth wall opposite the third wall. The base plate may include a first tab extending from the first wall to a first end, a second tab extending from the second wall to a second end, a third tab extending from the third wall, and a step. The step may be adjacent the first wall and the first tab. The clip may be formed of a loop and comprise a first portion, a second portion, and a middle portion connecting the first portion and the second portion. The clip may be configured to engage the base plate over a provided article of wear by: overlapping the first portion of the clip with the step, sliding the clip toward the first end of the first tab; and rotating the clip to overlap the first portion of the clip with the first tab, the second portion of the clip with the second tab, and the middle portion of the clip with the third tab to couple the clip with the base plate.

A second example embodiment of a coupler for releasably securing a provided accessory with a provided article of wear may comprise a base plate and a clip. The base plate may extend from a first wall to a second wall opposite the first wall, along a third wall and a fourth wall opposite the third wall and comprise a first structure extending from the first wall, a second structure extending from the second wall, and a surface coupled to the central region. The clip may be formed of a loop and comprise a first portion connected to a second portion by a middle portion. The clip may be configured to couple with the base plate over a provided article of wear. In a locked state of the coupler, the first portion of the clip may be configured to engage the first structure of the base plate in a first translational direction, thereby limiting translation of the clip in the first translational direction relative to the base plate; the second portion of the clip may be configured to engage the second structure of the base plate in the first translational direction, thereby limiting translation of the clip in the first translational direction relative to the base plate; and the middle portion of the clip may be configured to engage the surface in a second translational direction, the third wall in a third translational direction, and the fourth wall in a fourth translational direction, thereby limiting translation of the clip in the second translational direction, the third translational direction, and the fourth translational direction relative to the base plate.

A third example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the step comprises a first step end proximate the first end of the first tab; and a length from the second end of the second tab to the first step end of the step is less than an internal length between the first portion of the clip and the second portion of the clip.

A fourth example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where a length from the first wall of the base plate to the second wall of the base plate is less than an internal length between the first portion of the clip and the second portion of the clip.

A fifth example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the base plate comprises a fourth tab extending from the fourth wall of the base plate; and the middle portion of the clip is further configured to engage the base plate over the provided article of wear by rotating the clip to overlap the middle portion of the clip with the fourth tab to couple the clip to the base plate.

A sixth example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the third tab terminates in a third end; the fourth tab terminates in a fourth end; and a width of the base plate between the third end and the fourth end is greater than an internal width of the middle portion of the clip.

A seventh example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the first portion of the clip is tangent with a first plane; the second portion of the clip is tangent with a second plane; and the first plane and the second plane intersect.

An eighth example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the third portion of the clip is tangent with a third plane; and the first plane, the second plane, and the third plane are orthogonal to a fourth plane.

A ninth example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the clip comprises a closed loop.

A tenth example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the first structure comprises a first undercut structure; the second structure comprises a second undercut structure; and the base plate further comprises an overhanging structure extending from the third tab, and wherein the surface is disposed on the overhanging structure.

An eleventh example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the base plate further comprises a step adjacent to both the first structure and the first wall; the step terminates in a first step end; and a length from the first step end to the second wall of the base plate is less than an internal length from the first portion of the clip to the second portion of the clip.

A twelfth example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the first structure terminates in a first end; the second structure terminates in a second end; a length from the first end to the second end is greater than an internal length from the first portion of the clip to the second portion of the clip; and a width of the base plate is greater than a width of the third portion of the clip.

A thirteenth example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the second translational direction is opposite the first translational direction.

A fourteenth example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the base plate further comprises a third structure comprising the surface; and a fourth structure extending from the fourth wall of the base plate, and wherein the middle portion of the clip is configured to engage the fourth structure of the base plate in the second translational direction.

A fifteenth example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the base plate further comprises a mount interface configured to receive the provided accessory in direction parallel to the first translational direction.

A sixteenth example embodiment of a coupler may include the coupler as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the clip is geometrically formed by sweeping a closed profile about a curve.

A seventeenth example embodiment of a coupling system for releasably securing a body camera to a provided article of wear may comprise the body camera, a base plate, and a clip. The base plate may extend from a first wall to a second wall along a third wall and a fourth wall and include a first tab extending from the first wall to a first end; a second tab extending from the second wall to a second end; a third tab extending from the third wall; and a step, the step adjacent the first wall and the first tab. The clip may be formed of a loop and include a first portion, a second portion, and a middle portion connecting the first portion and the second portion. The clip may be configured to engage the base plate over the provided article of wear by: overlapping the first portion of the clip with the step; sliding the clip toward the first end of the first tab; and rotating the clip to overlap the first portion of the clip with the first tab, the second portion of the clip with the second tab, and the middle portion of the clip with the third tab. The body camera may be configured to prevent the clip from decoupling from the base plate upon attaching of the body camera to the base plate.

An eighteenth example embodiment of a coupling system may include the coupling system as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the base plate comprises a fourth tab extending from the fourth wall of the base plate, and the middle portion of the clip is engageable with the base plate by rotating the clip to overlap each of the third tab and the fourth tab.

A nineteenth example embodiment of a coupling system may include the coupling system as in any of the preceding example embodiments where the clip and the base plate are each formed of a rigid material.

A twentieth example embodiment of a coupling system may include the coupling system as in any of the preceding example embodiments where a length between the first wall of the base plate and the second end of the second tab is less than an internal length between the first portion of the clip and the second portion of the clip.

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.

The words “herein”, “hereunder”, “above”, “below”, and other word that refer to a location, whether specific or general, in the specification shall refer to any location in the specification.