Buckles – buttons – clasps – etc. – Separable-fastener or required component thereof – With third detached member completing interlock
Reexamination Certificate
1998-10-15
2001-01-16
Brittain, James R. (Department: 3626)
Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
Separable-fastener or required component thereof
With third detached member completing interlock
Reexamination Certificate
active
06173479
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to button-snap flap closures.
2. Description of Relevant Art
Button-snap pocket flap closures now in widespread use have several serious limitations when used in military applications. They are difficult to close with one hand. They are difficult to close in an environment where it is not possible to visually align the snap's circular top and bottom halves; the mating halves must be precisely aligned on both the x and y axes to lock. The attachment points are not adjustable. The flap cannot be secured tightly over the pocket's contents if the volume in the pocket changes. For example, a pocket flap designed to carry three ammunition clips will allow two clips to bounce and rattle as the soldier moves. The present invention is directed towards eliminating the aforementioned limitations of the prior art button snap flap closures.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention provides a pocket flap closure that can be easily opened and closed with one hand, can be used without looking and allows the flap to be tightened as needed to minimize noise and movement of various pocket contents.
Broadly the invention comprises a button snap flap closure for a pocket having a flap, which flap overlies a surface of the pocket. The closure comprises an elongated keeper which keeper has a ridge characterized by longitudinal ribs formed on its sides and locking teeth on its upper surface.
A block-like clip is secured to the underside of the flap. The clip has a top portion and depending sides with inwardly extending locking teeth. The underside of the clip has a locating recess formed therein. The flap is pulled taught, the clip is pushed into the keeper, the locking teeth of the clip snap over the ribs of the keeper and lock the clip to the keeper. A locking tooth on keeper engages the recess in the clip to prevent movement of the clip along the longitudinal axis of the keeper.
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Brittain James R.
Down East, Inc.
Samuels Gauthier & Stevens
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