[0001] The present invention concerns the field of jobs involving working at height and,
in particular, of the ascent on one or more ropes by means of a foot ascender.
[0002] In more detail, the present invention relates to the way of attaching a foot ascender
to a user and, in particular, to a shoe or a crampon, or other devices wearable and/or
constrainable to the user for carrying out jobs involving working at height, for climbing,
practicing arboriculture, etc.
[0003] In particular ascenders, known in the art as foot ascenders, are often used when
ascending ropes, to help a user of such devices to climb. In fact, foot ascenders
are devices able to facilitate the grip of the foot on the rope. In particular, the
ascenders allow the rope to slide therethrough in one way and prevent the rope from
sliding in the other way.
[0004] It should be noted that, hereinafter, the devices for ascending a rope (ascenders)
will be also called foot ascenders for ascending a rope, or simply foot ascenders.
[0005] Typically, the ascenders are constrained to a user foot by means of belts and/or
buckles, to be tightened around the user's shoe. Such a device is described, for example,
in the document
EP2103329.
[0006] The constraint of the ascender to the shoe is uncomfortable and complex and, if performed
incorrectly, may lead to safety problems.
[0007] Furthermore, due to the method of constraining the ascender by means of belts, there
can be some clearance between the shoe and the ascender resulting in uncomfortable
movements of a user during the ascent.
[0008] The use of additional aids to stabilize the position of the feet when ascending a
plant (or standing thereon), for example while practicing arboriculture or tree climbing,
is also known. For example some aids, such as crampons known in the art as "spikes"
or "tree spurs", provided with a tip protruding from a main body of the crampon and
adapted to be inserted in the bark of a plant, are known. Some of these crampons can
be provided with ascenders made integral with the body of the crampon.
[0009] Such integral ascender is bulky and, when not in use, for example when the user walks
to go from a plant to another, may cause an inadvertent collision with external elements
and so also the fall of the user. Moreover, the ascender can be damaged by banging
on rocks or other objects.
[0010] Document
US1505360 discloses a stirrup frame with a plate, that is in turn provided with two rotatable
clamping jaws. The stirrup frame is installed in a slot of the plate allowing an inclination
of the stirrup frame with respect to the plate during use.
[0011] Object of the present invention is to implement an attachment system for attaching
a foot ascender to a shoe or a crampon, which is able to solve the above mentioned
problems of the prior art.
[0012] In particular, it is an object of the present invention to implement an attachment
system for attaching a foot ascender to a shoe or a crampon, which is able, if needed,
to simply, quickly and effectively constrain the foot ascender to a user and in particular
to a shoe or a crampon.
[0013] Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an attachment system
for attaching a foot ascender to a shoe or a crampon, the attachment system allowing
to release the ascender from the shoe or the crampon when the ascender is no longer
needed.
[0014] These and other objects of the present invention are achieved by a reversible attachment
system for attaching a foot ascender, a method for reversibly attaching a foot ascender,
and a climb system according to the independent claims. Further aspects and features
are set forth in the dependent claims. As better described below, the present invention
also relates to a climb system for ascending along one or more ropes, comprising a
foot ascender and a shoe (or a crampon, or other device wearable and/or constrainable
to a user), according the invention, having characteristics and aspects described
and/or claimed herein. In particular, the foot ascender and the shoe (or the crampon)
of the climb system for ascending along one or more ropes, can be attached/detached
to/from each other by means of a reversible attachment system for attaching the foot
ascender to the shoe (or the crampon).
[0015] It should be immediately noted that although explicit reference will be made to the
attachment of the ascender for ascending a rope (called, as mentioned, foot ascender)
to shoes and crampons, the attachment system according to the present invention can
be used to reversibly attach the ascender to other devices that can be worn and/or
constrained to the user for working at height, climbing, practicing arboriculture,
etc. For example, the attachment system according to the present invention can be
used for reversibly attaching the ascender for ascending a rope to devices wearable
and/or constrainable to the user such as a harness, a belt, and similar wearable devices
for safety/protection. In other words, the device wearable/constrainable to a user
for working at height, climbing, practicing arboriculture, etc. can be not only a
shoe or a crampon, but also a harness or a belt, etc.
[0016] In particular, the ascender for ascending a rope and the device wearable and/or constrainable
to a user (for example a shoe, or crampon, or harness) of the climb system for ascending
along one or more ropes, can be attached/detached to/from each other by means of a
reversible attachment system for attaching the foot ascender to the device wearable
and/or constrainable to a user.
[0017] According to an aspect of the present invention, the reversible attachment system
for attaching a foot ascender for ascending a rope to a shoe or a crampon, or another
device wearable and/or constrainable to the user, comprises a first element and a
second element. The first and the second elements are separated one from another and
reversibly constrainable in at least one operative position of mutual attachment.
The first element is configured to be at least partially inserted in at least one
seat of the second element, furthermore, the first and second element are relatively
movable to reach the operative position of mutual attachment. The first element is
constrainable to the foot ascender, or made in one piece therewith, whereas the second
element is constrainable to, or made in one piece with, shoe or crampon or the device
wearable and/or constrainable to a user, or vice versa.
[0018] Thanks to the present invention, the reversible attachment system proves to be simple
and reliable and allows to selectively constrain and release the ascender to the respective
support (shoe or crampon, or other device wearable and/or constrainable to the user)
in a quick and safe way. In fact, a first element of the reversible attachment system
will be constrained to the foot ascender, or made in one piece therewith, whereas
the second element of the reversible attachment system will be constrained to, or
made in one piece with, the shoe, or the crampon, or a device wearable and/or constrainable
to the user.
[0019] Obviously, according to further possible embodiments of the present invention, it
is possible to reverse the positioning of the first element and the second element
on the foot ascender and the shoe (or the crampon).
[0020] According to a possible embodiment, the foot ascender is constrained at the lateral
portion of the shoe (or the crampon), preferably the lateral inner portion of the
shoe (or the crampon), i.e. the portion substantially facing the other shoe/crampon
when the user puts on/wears the latter.
[0021] According to an aspect of the present invention, the first element and the second
element are substantially rigid, and according to a possible embodiment are made of
metal. By using rigid elements as first and second elements of the attachment system,
the foot ascender can be attached in an effective and safe way to the shoe (or to
the crampon, or other device wearable and/or constrainable to the user).
[0022] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the shape of the first element
substantially corresponds to the shape of the second element such that said first
element and said second element slide and/or rotate relatively, in order to reach
the mentioned operative position of mutual attachment. The simple and precise actuation
of the attachment system is an advantage of this aspect.
[0023] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the shape of the first element
substantially corresponds to the shape of the second element such that the first element
and the second element relatively slide, substantially along a direction, for at least
part of the movement needed to reach the operative position of mutual attachment.
Advantageously, by sliding along a direction, the first and the second elements cooperate
through a coupling substantially corresponding to the guide-slider coupling. Therefore,
it is simple as well and safe and reliable to slide along a direction to reach the
operative position of mutual attachment between the first element and the second element
of the reversible attachment system, and thus of the foot ascender to the shoe or
the crampon.
[0024] According to an aspect of the present invention, the first element comprises at least
one head, or at least one flange, configured to substantially correspond to the mentioned
seat of the second element.
[0025] It is therefore possible to reliably couple the two elements to one another, by means
of embodiments ease to be implemented.
[0026] According to an aspect of the present invention, the first element comprises at least
one pivot, or stem, having the mentioned head arranged thereon. Generally, according
to an aspect of the present invention, the head of the first element is provided with
a small sized portion. Such implementation allows the first and second elements to
cooperate and, in particular, to be inserted into one another and relatively move,
thereby allowing the head of the first element to move with respect to the seat of
the second element in order to reach the position of mutual attachment.
[0027] According to an aspect of the present invention, the second element comprises at
least one plate on which the mentioned seat is obtained for the insertion of at least
part of the first element.
[0028] An advantage of this aspect is that the strength of the system ensures high safety,
while maintaining the small size of the same.
[0029] According to an aspect of the present invention, the seat of the second element comprises
at least one inlet portion for at least part of the first element and at least one
attachment portion for relatively attaching the mentioned portion of said first element
to the seat itself. The attachment portion is small-sized (provided with smaller dimension)
with respect to the inlet portion.
[0030] Advantageously, such possible embodiment has proven to be a simple and precise solution
in order to ensure the relative movement between the two elements of the attachment
system.
[0031] According to an aspect of the present invention, the reversible attachment system
comprises constraining means to constrain the first or the second element to the foot
ascender or the shoe, or the crampon, or another device wearable and/or constrainable
to the user. In other words, constraining means such as, for example, one or more
screws, bolts or belts, may allow to constrain the first or the second element to
the foot ascender, the shoe or the crampon, or another device wearable and/or constrainable
to the user.
[0032] According to a further aspect of the present invention reversible locking means,
to reversibly lock the two elements in said operative position of mutual attachment,
are provided. Thanks to this, it is possible to effectively ensure to stably hold
operative position of mutual attachment.
[0033] The locking means can move between a locked position, in which the first and the
second elements are held in the operative position of mutual attachment, and a disengaged
position to allow the first element and the second element to relatively move away
from the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0034] According to an aspect of the present invention the reversible locking means comprise
a movable lever, or a movable slider, which can move between a position engaged with
said second element to hold the first and the second elements in the operative position
of mutual attachment, and a position of disengagement from the second element to allow
the two elements to relatively move away from the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0035] In particular, according to an aspect of the invention, the lever comprises a selection
guide shaped to engage at least part of a projecting portion of the second element
in order to prevent the relative movement between the two same elements, when these
are in the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0036] Examples useful for understanding the present invention relate to a shoe, a crampon
(or a device wearable and/or constrainable to the user) and a foot ascender, the first
element or the second element of the reversible attachment system according to one
or more aspects herein described and/or claimed being constrainable thereto or made
in one piece therewith.
[0037] In more detail, such examples useful for understanding the invention relate to a
shoe (or a crampon, or a harness) in which the first element or the second element
of the reversible attachment system is constrainable to the shoe (or the crampon,
or a harness), or made in one piece therewith. Such examples relate to a shoe or a
crampon, or a device wearable and/or constrainable to the user, comprising the first
or the second element of a reversible attachment system according to one or more aspects
herein described and/or claimed, in which said first element or said second element
is constrained to, or is made in one piece with, said shoe or said crampon, or said
device wearable and/or constrainable to the user.
[0038] An example useful for understanding the invention relates to a foot ascender for
ascending a rope (or ascender for ascending a rope) comprising a main body having
at least one throat, for the sliding of at least one rope therein, and at least one
movable locking body, preferably movable in a rotatable way, for the switching between
a first position for locking the rope and a second position for releasing the rope.
The first element or the second element of the reversible attachment system is constrainable
to the foot ascender, or made in one piece therewith. According to an aspect of the
invention, the foot ascender comprises the first element or the second element of
the reversible attachment system according to one or more aspects herein described
and/or claimed, in which the first or second element is constrained to, or made in
one piece with, the foot ascender, preferably at an inner surface of the body of the
foot ascender.
[0039] The shoe (or the crampon) comprises at least one supporting element to support the
first or the second element of the reversible attachment system for the attachment
to the shoe or the crampon. The supporting element is constrained to at least one
portion of the shoe (or the crampon), or is made in one piece therewith, preferably
at the upper of the shoe.
[0040] The supporting element is arranged at the area of the shoe (or the crampon) and in
particular the upper of the shoe, at which the ascender is expected to be constrained,
for example the lateral inner area of the shoe and in particular of the upper.
[0041] The supporting element to support the first element or the second element of the
reversible attachment system for the attachment to the shoe (or the crampon, or another
device wearable and/or constrainable to a user) comprises a plate. The plate can be
advantageously arranged inside the shoe, preferably next to a layer of the upper,
in order to not ruin the appearance of the shoe.
[0042] The shoe comprises at least one hole, preferably a threaded hole, or similar elements.
The at least one hole advantageously allows to pass from the outside to the inside
of the shoe, preferably next to the upper. The at least one hole or similar elements
allows to connect constraining means (for example a screw) for the constraint of the
first and the second elements of the reversible attachment system to the shoe.
[0043] The at least one hole can be made on the supporting element of the shoe, for example
on a plate, and the first or second element of the reversible attachment system can
be constrainable thereto.
[0044] As mentioned, an example useful for understanding the invention relates to a crampon,
preferably for practicing arboriculture (tree climbing), comprising a preferably elongated
body, at least one supporting element to support the user (such as for example one
or more belts, or the like) and at least one tip, or the like, protruding from the
main body and to be inserted in the trunk of a plant. The first element or the second
element of the reversible attachment system is constrainable to the crampon, or made
in one piece therewith, preferably at the main body thereof. The crampon is characterized
by comprising the first element or the second element of the reversible attachment
system according to one or more aspects herein described and/or claimed and the first
or second element is constrained to the crampon, or made in one piece therewith, preferably
with the main body of the crampon.
[0045] Advantageously, because the first or the second element of the attachment system
can be constrained to (or made in one piece with) the foot ascender and the shoe (or
the crampon), or vice versa, this allows the foot ascender to be quickly and easily
attached to and detached from the shoe or the crampon.
[0046] The present invention also relates to a climb system to ascend along one or more
ropes, comprising a foot ascender for ascending a rope and a shoe or a crampon, or
a device wearable and/or constrainable to the user, as well as a reversible attachment
system according to the present invention which advantageously allows the foot ascender
to be attached/detached to/from the shoe, or to/from the crampon or to/from the device
wearable and/or constrainable to the user. The foot ascender and the shoe or the crampon,
or the device wearable and/or constrainable to the user of the climb system, have
one or more characteristics/aspects described and/or claimed herein.
[0047] The present invention relates also to a method for reversibly attaching a foot ascender
to a shoe or a crampon or a device wearable and/or constrainable to the user, by means
of a reversible attaching system according to the present invention and comprising
a first element constrainable to the foot ascender, or made in one piece therewith,
and a second element constrainable to, or made in one piece with, the shoe or the
crampon or the device wearable and/or constrainable to the user, or vice versa.
[0048] According to an aspect of the present invention, the method comprises the step of
inserting at least part of the first element into at least one seat of the second
element and relatively moving the first element and the second element, in order to
reach the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0049] It should be noted that aspects and characteristics herein described and/or claimed
referring to the reversible attachment system for the attachment to the foot ascender,
the shoe or the crampon can be applied not only to the climb system to ascend along
one or more ropes according to the invention but also to the method according to the
invention. Referring to the appended figures, some exemplary and non-limiting embodiments
of the present invention will be described, in which:
- Figure 1 is a perspective view of a possible embodiment of the reversible attachment
system according to the present invention in a position of mutual attachment, wherein
the foot ascender can also be seen;
- Figure 2 is a perspective exploded view of a possible embodiment of the reversible
attachment system according to the present invention, wherein the foot ascender can
also be seen;
- Figure 3 is a plan view of a possible embodiment of the reversible attachment system
according to figure 1 in a position of mutual attachment, wherein the foot ascender
can also be seen;
- Figure 3a is a sectional view taken along the plane A-A of figure 3.
- Figure 4 is a perspective view of a foot ascender constrained (attached) to a shoe
by a reversible attachment system according to the present invention;
- Figure 4a is a perspective view of a foot ascender in a position separated (detached)
from the shoe before being constrained to the latter by a reversible attachment system
according to the present invention;
- Figure 5 is a view of the shoe according to figure 4, wherein the exploded detail
of the layers of the upper of the shoe and the components of the reversible attachment
system can be seen;
- Figure 6 is a perspective view of a foot ascender constrained (attached) to a crampon
(only partially shown) by a reversible attachment system according to a possible embodiment
of the invention;
- Figure 6a is a perspective view of a foot ascender in a position separated (detached)
from the crampon before being constrained to the latter by a reversible attachment
system according to a possible embodiment of the invention;
- Figure 6b is a plan view of a foot ascender constrained to a crampon (only partially
shown), according to figure 6, by a reversible attachment system according to a possible
embodiment of the invention;
- Figure 6c is a sectional view taken along the plane B-B of figure 6b.
- Figure 7 is a perspective view of a foot ascender constrained to a crampon (only partially
shown) by a reversible attachment system according to a further possible embodiment
of the invention, in which the second element of the reversible attachment system
is configured in a different way with respect to the embodiment of figures 6 - 6c;
- Figure 7a is a perspective view of a foot ascender in a position separated (detached)
from the crampon before being constrained to the latter by a reversible attachment
system according to a further possible embodiment of the invention, in which the second
element of the reversible attachment system is configured in a different way with
respect to the embodiment of figures 6 - 6c;
- Figure 7b is a plan view of a foot ascender constrained to a crampon (only partially
shown), according to figure 7, by a reversible attachment system according to a further
possible embodiment of the invention, in which the second element of the reversible
attachment system is configured in a different way with respect to the embodiment
of figures 6 - 6c;
- Figure 7c is a sectional view taken along the plane C-C of figure 7b.
- Figure 8 is a front perspective view of crampons which the foot ascender can be attached
to by the reversible attachment system according to the present invention;
- Figure 9a is a plan view (according to figure 3) of a possible embodiment of the reversible
attachment system in an operative position of mutual attachment, wherein the locking
means are shown in the locked position to hold the first and second elements in the
operative position of mutual attachment;
- Figure 9b is a plan view (according to figure 3) of a possible embodiment of the reversible
attachment system in an operative position of mutual attachment, wherein the locking
means are shown in the disengaged position to allow the first and the second elements
to relatively move away from the operative position of mutual attachment;
- Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a foot ascender constrained to a shoe by means
of a further possible embodiment of the reversible attachment system according to
the present invention, in which the second element is constrainable to the shoe by
one or more belts;
- Figures 11a and 11b schematically show two possible embodiments of the relative movement
between the first element (not shown) and the second element which move along a direction
(straight line) or rotate, respectively;
- Figure 12 schematically shows three steps of reversible constraint (A, B, C) of an
example not covered by the invention as defined by the appended set of claims, in
which the first element comprises a flange (or lip), furthermore such figure schematically
shows a possible embodiment of the locking means to lock by a snap-fit movable slider.
[0050] Referring to the attached figures, some possible embodiments of the reversible attachment
system 1 for attaching a foot ascender 50 for ascending a rope (hereinafter also called
foot ascender) to a shoe 60 or a crampon 70 according to the present invention will
be described hereinafter. In particular, figures 4, 4a and 5 relate to the attachment
of the foot ascender 50 to a shoe 60, whereas figures 6, 6a, 6b, 6c, 7, 7a, 7b and
7c relate to the attachment of the foot ascender 50 to a crampon 70.
[0051] As mentioned, the ascender or foot ascender 50 is a device used for working at height,
for example for ascending one or more ropes. As shown for example in figure 2, the
foot ascender 50 comprises a main body 51 having at least one throat 51a for allowing
the slide of at least one rope 55 therein (shown for the sake of simplicity only in
figure 2), and at least one locking body 52. The locking body 52 is movable, preferably
in a rotatable way (for example around the pivot 56), for the switching between a
first position for locking the rope and a second position for releasing the rope.
[0052] It should be immediately noted that "shoe" means a footwear, a boot and similar accessories
to be worn by a user or constrained thereto. The shoe can be made of various materials
preferably suitable for working at height, for example for practicing mountain-climbing,
arboriculture, tree climbing, etc.
[0053] It should also be noted that "crampon" is referred herein to an aid device for a
user, suitable for stabilizing the feet during the ascent.
[0054] In particular, as shown for example in figure 8 the crampon 70, to which the foot
ascender 50 can be attached by the reversible attachment system 1 according to the
present invention, is used in ascending a plant, for example in tree climbing.
[0055] This type of crampons, as can be seen for example in Figure 8, comprises a main elongated
body 71 preferably shaped so as to adapt to a user's leg, and at least one connecting
element 73 for the connection to the user, comprising one or more slings, belts and
the like.
[0056] The crampon further comprises at least one tip 72, or a similar element protruding
from the main body 71 to be inserted in the trunk of a plant in order to facilitate
the user in ascending the plant and/or standing thereon.
[0057] It should be noted that, for ease of illustration, in figures 6 - 6c and 7 - 7c appended
herein, only part of the main body 71 of the crampon 70 can be seen. Although reference
has been explicitly made to the attachment for attaching the foot ascender 50 to shoes
60 and crampons 70, the attachment system 1 according to the present invention can
be used for reversibly attaching the foot ascender 50 to other devices wearable and/or
constrainable to the user in order to work at height, climb, practice arboriculture,
etc. For example, the attachment system 1 according to the present invention can be
used for reversibly attaching the foot ascender 50 to devices wearable and/or constrainable
to the user such as a harness, a belt, etc.
[0058] The reversible attachment system 1 for attaching a foot ascender 50 to a shoe 60
or a crampon 70, according to the present invention, comprises a first element 10
and a second element 11. The first element 10 is constrainable to the foot ascender
50 or made in one piece therewith. The second element 11 is constrainable to, or made
in one piece with, the shoe 60 or the crampon 70.
[0059] It should be understood that the arrangement of the first element 10 and second element
11 of the reversible attachment system on the foot ascender 50 and the shoe 60 (or
the crampon 70) can be reversed.
[0060] In particular, even if not illustrated in the appended figures, according to a possible
embodiment the first element 10 of the attachment system 1 according to the invention
is constrainable to the shoe 60 (or the crampon 70), or made in one piece therewith,
whereas the second element 11 is constrainable to the foot ascender 50 or made in
one piece therewith.
[0061] According to an aspect of the present invention, the first element 10 and the second
element 11 of the attachment system 1 are separated one from another and reversibly
constrainable in at least one operative position of mutual attachment. By so doing,
when needed, the foot ascender 50 and the shoe 60 (or the crampon 70) can be usually
separated and constrained (attached) to one another, by the cooperation of the first
and the second elements 10, 11 of the reversible attachment system 1. In fact, as
mentioned, such elements 10, 11 are arranged on (and in particular constrained or
made in one piece with) the shoe 60 (or the crampon 70) and the foot ascender 50.
[0062] In other words, by the reversible attachment system 1 according to the present invention,
the foot ascender 50 can be quickly and easily attached and detached to/from the shoe
60 (or to/from the crampon 70).
[0063] According to an aspect of the present invention, the first element 10 is configured
to be at least partially inserted in at least one seat 11a of the second element 11,
and the first element 10 and second element 11 are relatively movable to reach the
at least one operative position of mutual attachment.
[0064] It should be noted that the first element 10 of the reversible attachment system
substantially can function as a male element able to cooperate with the second element
11 and, in particular, with the at least one seat 11a, the latter substantially being
able to fulfill the function of a female element. In fact, the shape of first element
10 substantially corresponds to the shape of the second element 11 so as to cooperate
with each other in order to reach an operative position of mutual attachment. In particular,
as already mentioned, the first element 10 is configured to be at least partially
inserted in at least one seat 11a of the second element 11.
[0065] It should be noted that "relatively movable" is used to mean that the first element
10 and the second element 11 can move to allow to reach the operative position of
mutual attachment in which the foot ascender is attached to the shoe (or the crampon).
It should be noted that, according to possible embodiments, the first element 10 can
be movable with respect to the second element 11, or vice versa.
[0066] According to a possible embodiment, shown for example in figures 1 - 7, 9a, 9b, 10,
11a, 11b, the first element 10 of the reversible attachment system 1 comprises at
least one head 10a shaped to substantially correspond to at least one seat 11a of
the second element 11 of the reversible attachment system. Preferably, the head 10a
is shaped according to a shape known in the art as "mushroom".
[0067] It should be noted that the substantially "mushroom-like" shape shown in figures
1 - 7, 9a, 9b, 10, 11a, 11b is not to be considered as restrictive. In fact, the at
least one head 10a can also have an elongated shape, for example such as to form a
projecting guide configured to be at least partially inserted in a seat 11a also having
an elongated shape. For example, an elongated head forming a projecting guide (for
example having a substantially "T-shaped" section) can be used in place of the two
heads 10a of the embodiment shown in figures 1 - 7, 9a, 9b, 10, 11a, 11b.
[0068] Moreover, according to a possible further embodiment (for example schematically shown
in figure 12), the first element 10 can comprise a flange (or lip) 10a' intended to
cooperate with at least one seat 11a of the second element 11. According to this possible
embodiment, the flange 10a' is at least partially inserted inside of the seat 11a,
the latter being shaped for example as a groove, or slot, of the second element 11.
[0069] The head 10a, or the flange 10a', is intended to be at least partially inserted into
a corresponding seat 11a of the second element 11 so that they are relatively movable
to reach a position of mutual attachment, in which the first and second element 10,
11, and therefore the foot ascender and the shoe (or the crampon), are fixedly attached
to each other and cannot be separated without moving (away) from the operative position
of attachment.
[0070] Turning back to the possible embodiment in which the first element comprises at least
one head 10a, the latter is preferably arranged at the outer surface of the foot ascender
50 and, in general, the at least one head 10a of the first element 10 is constrained
to, or made in one piece with, the main body 51 of the foot ascender 50.
[0071] Otherwise, according to a possible embodiment not shown in the figures, the at least
one head 10a is constrained to the shoe 60, or the crampon 70, or made in one piece
therewith (as mentioned, according to this embodiment, the second element 11 of the
reversible attachment system is arranged on the foot ascender 50).
[0072] According to a possible embodiment, the first element 10 comprises at least one pivot
10b, or stem, having the head 10a arranged thereon. It should be noted that, in general,
the head 10a can be configured to have a small sized portion, in order to form the
pivot, or stem, 10b.
[0073] According to a possible embodiment, the mutual attachment system comprises two heads
10a intended to cooperate with two corresponding seats 11a of the second element 11.
[0074] In detail, the first element 10 of the reversible attachment system 1 can comprise
two heads 10a, for example formed on two pivots 10b jutting from a surface, preferably
an outer surface, of the body 51 of the foot ascender 50.
[0075] As mentioned, the head 10a can be made in one piece with the foot ascender or can
be constrained thereto. It should be noted that, according to a possible embodiment
shown for example in the appended figures, the head 10a is an element separated from
the pivot 10b, and these two elements are then constrained to one another. For example,
the head can be screwed at the end of the pivot 10b and/or the head 10a can be welded
on the pivot 10b, and/or pivot 10b can be riveted on the head 10a.
[0076] However, possible embodiments in which the head 10a is made in one piece with the
pivot 10b should be considered. Furthermore, also the pivot 10b can be made in one
piece with the foot ascender or can be constrained thereto. For example, according
to a possible embodiment, the pivot can pass through a hole made on the surface of
the body 51 of the foot ascender 50, as shown for example in the sectional views of
figures 3a, 5, 6c, 7c.
[0077] It should also be noted that the first element 10 can comprise a plate constrainable
to the foot ascender 50 or to the shoe 60, or the crampon 70. For example, according
to a possible embodiment, the at least one head 10a can be made on a plate that, in
turn, is constrainable to the foot ascender, the shoe, or the crampon.
[0078] In the embodiment schematically shown in figure 12, the first element 10 comprises
a plate constrainable to the foot ascender 50, or the shoe 60, or the crampon 70.
As mentioned, according to such embodiment, the first element comprises a flange 10a'.
It should be noted that the at least one flange 10a', according to possible embodiments
not shown in the appended figures, can be made in one piece with the foot ascender
50 (and in particular with the main body 51 of the foot ascender) or with the shoe
60, or the crampon 70.
[0079] According to a possible embodiment, the at least one seat 11a of the second element
11 comprises at least one inlet portion 11a for at least part of the first element
10 and in particular the head 10a, and at least one attachment portion 11c for attaching
the first element 10, and in particular the head 10a, to the second element 11.
[0080] The attachment portion 11c has small size compared to the inlet portion 11b so as
to allow the first element 10 to engage the second element 11, thereby achieving the
mutual attachment in the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0081] The inserting portion 11b allows the insertion of the head 10a of the first element
10 and the displacement, at the attachment portion 11c, allows to reach the operative
position of attachment, in which the first and second elements 10, 11 are prevented
from separating one from another.
[0082] In fact, as it can be seen for example in the sectional figures 3a, 6c, 7c, the head
10a remains engaged in the attachment portion 11c of the seat 11a.
[0083] According to an aspect of the present invention, the second element 11 comprises
at least one plate on which the at least one seat 11a is arranged for the insertion
of said first element 10.
[0084] The seat 11a can be made on the plate 11, thus being shaped substantially as a hole
(such as, for example, the upper seat shown in figures 1 - 7, 9a, 9b, 10, 11a, 11b),
or can be made at a plate end (such as, for example, the lower seat shown in figures
1 - 7, 9a, 9b, 10). According to this possible embodiment, as shown for example in
figure 12, the seat 11a can be shaped substantially as a groove, or slot, of the second
element 11.
[0085] The plate of the second element 11 can be constrained to, or made in one piece with,
the shoe 60 or the crampon 70, (as in the embodiment shown in figures 6 and 7), or
the foot ascender according to a possible embodiment not shown in the appended figures.
[0086] According to a possible embodiment, as shown for example in figures, the second element
11, and thus at least one seat 11a, is constrained, preferably so as to be removable,
to the shoe 60 (see for example figures 4, 4a, 5), or to the crampon 70 (see for example
figures 6 - 6c and 7 - 7c).
[0087] Clearly, the following description can be applied to the constraint of the second
element 11 to the foot ascender 50 in the possible embodiment, not shown, in which
the first element 10 is constrained to the shoe 60, or the crampon 70, or made in
one piece therewith.
[0088] The second element 11, and in particular the plate, can be constrained to the shoe
60, or the crampon 70, by constraining means 12, 12a. The constraining means 12 may
comprise threaded elements, such as one or more screws, or bolts (screw and nut).
According to a possible embodiment, shown for example in the appended figures (except
figure 10), the constraining means 12 comprise one or more screws (for example three
screws in the embodiment depicted in figures 1 - 7, 9a, 9b, 10) passing through at
least one corresponding hole 13 of the second element 11 and in particular of the
plate. Even if not shown, the constraining means 12, 12a can be used also in the embodiment
shown in figure 12.
[0089] However, further embodiments of the constraining means 12, 12a allowing the second
element 11, and in particular the plate, to be constrained to the shoe 60, or the
crampon 70, should be considered. In fact, according to a possible embodiment (see
for example figure 10), the constraining means 12a to constrain the second element
11 to the shoe 12 or the crampon 70, may comprise one or more belts, possibly adjustable
by suitable buckles or other adjusting elements.
[0090] For example there can be two belts, one of which is constrained substantially at
the user's ankle, whereas the other belt is passed under the sole of the user's foot.
[0091] The second element 11, and in particular the plate, can be suitably provided with
proper seats 14 for connecting the belt or the belts.
[0092] The constraining means 12 directly, or indirectly, cooperate with the shoe 60 or
the crampon 70. In particular, the shoe 60 and the crampon 70 can be provided with
at least one supporting element 62, 75 to allow the second element 11 to be constrained
thereto. The shoe 60 may comprise at least one supporting element 62 to support the
second element 11 of the reversible attachment system 1 for the attachment to the
shoe 60. The supporting element 62 is constrained to at least one portion of the shoe,
or is made in one piece therewith, preferably at the upper 61 of the shoe 60.
[0093] The supporting element 62 may comprise at least one plate, for example made of nylon
or another resistant and light material, and is preferably constrained to the upper
61 and in particular to one of the layers 61a, 61b, 61c making up the upper (see for
example the detail of figure 5). Such constraint can be made, for example, by gluing.
[0094] The plate 62 (schematically shown also in figure 4a) can be shaped according to different
shapes, for example it can take a shape substantially semicircular, substantially
circular, substantially trapezoidal, substantially triangular, etc. These shapes are
not to be considered as exhaustive, in fact generally the plate 62 can be suitably
shaped in order to allow to support an element 10, 11 of the reversible attachment
system 1.
[0095] The function of the supporting element 62 is to support the shoe and therefore provide
it with greater rigidity at the area where the second element 11, and particularly
the plate, is constrained to the shoe. Preferably, the supporting element 62 is positioned
inside the shoe so that it cannot be seen from outside and the appearance of the shoe
is not ruined. The shoe 60 comprises at least one hole 63, preferably a threaded hole,
in order to allow the constraining means 12 of the second element 11 to be connected
to the shoe. The at least one hole 63, preferably threaded, is constrained to, or
is made in one piece with, at least one portion of the shoe, preferably at the upper
61 of the shoe 60.
[0096] As shown for example in figure 5, the holes 63 extend outside the upper or, anyway,
can be accessed from the outside of the upper so that the constraining means 12, for
example one or more screws, can be constrained from the outside.
[0097] It should also be noted that the supporting element 62 can be provided with one or
more holes 63, preferably threaded holes, in order to ensure the second element 11
to be connected to the shoe 60 by constraining means 12, for example one or more screws
12. In other words, one or more holes 63 can be formed on the supporting element 62
and, in particular, on the plate of the shoe or they can be formed separately therefrom.
According to a possible embodiment one or more threaded holes 63, formed for example
as bodies provided with a nut screw (for example a screw provided with a female thread)
can be arranged (and possibly constrained) inside the upper 61 and in particular inside
one of the layers 61a, 62b, 61c making up the upper (see for example the detail of
figure 5).
[0098] Clearly, other constraining means 12 to constrain the second element 11 to the shoe
or the crampon, can be used instead of the screws 12 above described and intended
to cooperate with respective threaded holes 63.
[0099] According to a possible embodiment shown for example in figure 5 and, in particular,
in detail in the sectional view of such figure, the upper 61 of the shoe 60 comprises
an outer layer 61a, a padding layer 61b and an inner coating layer 61c. Preferably,
the supporting element 62 is arranged internally with respect to the outer layer 61a,
preferably between the outer layer 61a and the padding 61b. The supporting element
62 and/or the at least one hole 63 can be at least partially arranged inside the shoe,
for example in the space designed to accommodate the padding, or can be at least partially
sunk in the padding 61b.
[0100] It should be noted that different configurations of the upper 61 of the shoe 60 can
be contemplated, and in general only one outer layer 61a can be provided.
[0101] It should be noted that the second element 11 and, in particular, the plate can be
shaped in accordance with the shoe 60 or the crampon 70, to which has to be constrained.
[0102] The embodiment depicted in figures 6 - 6c and 7 - 7c shows two possible embodiments
of the second element 11 that is constrained, preferably in a reversible way, to the
crampon 70 and in particular to the elongated body 71 of the crampon 70 (only partially
shown in figures 6 - 6c and 7 - 7c for ease of illustration).
[0103] The second element 11 can be shaped so as to cooperate with a supporting element
75 and, in general, with a further plate (shown for example in the embodiment depicted
in figures 6 - 6c). The second element 11 of the reversible attachment system 1 and
the supporting element 75 are preferably arranged at two substantially opposite surfaces
of the crampon, and in particular of the elongated body 71 of the crampon, so that,
once they have been constrained by suitable constraining means 12, the second element
11 is constrained to the crampon 70.
[0104] The supporting element 75 and the second element 11 of the reversible attachment
system comprise one or more holes (respectively denoted by the numeral 13 and 76)
(for example four holes in the embodiment depicted in figures) in order to allow suitable
constraining means, such as one or more screws 12 or bolts, to pass therethrough,
as in the embodiment shown in figures 6 - 6c.
[0105] According to a further embodiment the second element 11 of the attachment system,
and in particular the plate having at least one seat 11a arranged thereon, is shaped
so as to at least partially surround the perimeter of the elongated body 71 of the
crampon (see for example the embodiment of figures 7 - 7c).
[0106] In other words, the plate 11 is substantially "U"-shaped, so that the supporting
element 75 is not needed, as in the embodiment depicted in figures 6 - 6c.
[0107] Suitable constraining means 12, such as one or more screws 12 or one or more bolts
(screw and nut) or similar constraining elements, can be arranged at suitable holes
13 arranged on two substantially parallel portions of the plate 11 substantially bent
in a "U" shape, so as to allow to connect substantially opposite surfaces.
[0108] Turning back to the reversible attachment method of the system 1 according to an
aspect of the present invention, the configuration of the first element 10 substantially
corresponds to the configuration of the second element 11 such that the first element
10 and the second element 11 slide and/or rotate relatively, in order to reach said
at least one operative position of mutual attachment.
[0109] In more detail, according to an embodiment the configuration of the first element
10 and, in particular, the at least one head 10a (or the at least one flange 10a'),
substantially corresponds to the configuration of the seat 11a of the second element
11 so as to allow the first and the second elements to relatively move to reach a
position of mutual attachment.
[0110] According to the invention, the first element 10 and the second element 11 of the
reversible attachment system relatively move by sliding and/or rotating substantially
within a plane. In other words, as a result of the insertion of at least part of the
first element 10, and in particular the head 10a, into the seat 11a, they move to
the operative position of mutual attachment by moving relatively within a plane that,
according to a possible embodiment, is substantially perpendicular to the direction
along which the first element 10, and in particular the head 10a, is inserted inside
the seat 11a of the second element.
[0111] In other words, during at least part of the relative movement between the first element
10 and the second element 11 to reach the operative position of mutual attachment,
the distance between the first element 10 and the second element 11 and therefore
between the foot ascender 50 and the shoe, or the crampon, is kept constant along
at least part of their relative movement.
[0112] According to the invention (see for example figures 2, 3, 6a, 7a, 9a, 11a), the first
element 10 at least partially can move relative to the second element 11 by a sliding
movement and, in particular, by a linear movement along a direction D (i.e. along
a straight line).
[0113] In other words, the configuration of the first element 10 substantially corresponds
to the configuration of the second element 11 such that they relatively slide substantially
along a direction D (straight line) between said first element 10 and second element
11, to reach said at least one operative position of mutual attachment.
[0114] It should be noted that the first element 10 and the second element 11 are configured
to form a guide-slider type of constraint, and therefore the two elements, in particular
the head 10a and the seat 11a, at least partially move with respect to each other
along a direction D (a straight line). For example, two or more heads 10a can be aligned
with two or more correspondent seats 11a along a straight line, so that the two elements
10, 11, and in particular the head 10a and the seat 11a, move with respect to each
other along a direction D (a straight line).
[0115] In detail, according to a possible embodiment and as shown for example in the appended
figures 4a, 6a, 7a, 9a, 9b, 11a, the two heads 10a are intended to be at least partially
inserted in the corresponding seat 11a of the second element 11 and then moved along
a direction D (by a sliding movement) in the attachment portion 11c of the seat 11a
so as to reach the position of mutual attachment.
[0116] In particular, the two heads 10a are aligned with the two seats 11a along a straight
line, so that once the head 10a is inserted into the seat 11 and in particular in
the inserting portion 11b, the first element 10 and the second element 11 can relatively
move along a direction coincident, or parallel, with the straight line along which
the heads 10a are aligned with the seats 11a.
[0117] As mentioned, according to further possible embodiments, the first and the second
elements 10, 11 can relatively move by rotation, possibly combined with a sliding
movement.
[0118] For example, the rotation movement between the first element 10 and the second element
11 may allow the mutual-attachment by means of a bayonet connection. For example,
according to a possible embodiment not shown, the shape of the head 10a can correspond
to the shape of the seat 11a in order to allow them to be inserted into one another
and, after being relatively rotated, to reach the operative position of attachment.
For example, in the relative rotation movement, for example a bayonet-like movement,
the head 10a can be rotated around an axis passing through the head 10a.
[0119] According to a further possible embodiment such as shown in figure 11b, the relative
movement between the first element 10 and the second element 11 occurs by rotating.
For example, the rotation can take place around an axis R not passing through the
first element 10 and in particular the head 10a.
[0120] In the embodiment shown in figure 11b, the relative movement of the elements 10 and
11 can be also considered as a relative movement in which the head 10a, once inserted
into the seat 10a, slides along a curved path C.
[0121] In detail, according to a possible embodiment and as shown for example in figure
11b, the two heads 10a are intended to be at least partially inserted in the corresponding
seat 11a of the second element 11 and then rotated in the attachment portion 11c of
the seat 11a so as to reach the position of mutual attachment.
[0122] In particular, the two seats 11a are arranged along a curve C, so that once the head
10a is inserted into the seat 11 and in particular into the inserting portion 11b,
the relative rotation movement of the first element 10 and second element 11 is allowed,
and in particular the heads 10a can move in the seats 11a towards the attachment portions
11c along the curve C.
[0123] Generally, the configuration of the first element 10 and in particular the at least
one head 10a, can substantially correspond to the configuration of the second element
11, and in particular the seat 11a, such that they slide substantially along a curved
line C in order to reach the at least one operative position of mutual attachment.
[0124] For example, two or more heads 10a can be aligned with two or more corresponding
seats 11a along a curve C, so that the two elements move along such curve C, in particular
the head 10a moves relative to the seat 11a (thereby causing also a relative rotation
movement of the first and the second elements 10, 11).
[0125] According to an aspect of the present invention, the operative position of mutual
attachment allows to separate the first and the second elements 10, 11 one from another
by reversing the sliding way and/or the rotating way with respect to the way of the
movement to reach the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0126] According to a possible embodiment the first element 10, and in particular the head
10a, substantially moves from bottom to top with respect to the second element 11,
and in particular the seat 11a. "From bottom to top" means the way substantially corresponding
to the ascending way along the rope once the foot ascender is constrained to the shoe
or the crampon. Such way of movement (from bottom to top) of the first element 10
and the second element 11 to reach the operative position of mutual attachment is
advantageous in that is substantially opposite to the stress, and in general the forces,
applied on the foot ascender and then on the shoe or crampon, during the rope ascent.
[0127] According to an aspect of the present invention, the reversible attachment system
1 according to the present invention comprises reversible locking means 15 to reversibly
lock the first element 10 and the second element 11 in the operative position of mutual
attachment.
[0128] It should be noted that "reversible locking means" is used to indicate that the locking
means 15 allow to temporarily lock, during use, the attachment system 1 and in particular
to lock the first element 10 and the second element 11, and thus the foot ascender
50 to the shoe 60 (or the crampon 70). When the foot ascender 50 is not to be used
anymore and has to be separated from the shoe 60, or the crampon 70, the user operates
the locking means 15 in order to allow the relative movement of the first element
10 and the second element 11 of the attachment system, thereby allowing them to move
away from the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0129] In fact, according to an aspect of the present invention, the locking means 15 can
move between a locked position, in which the first and the second elements 10, 11
are held in the operative position of mutual attachment, and a disengaged position
to allow the first element 10 and the second element 11 to relatively move away from
the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0130] The locking means 15 can comprise at least one elastic element 20 made for example
by a plate having a jutting portion 21 (see for example figure 2) or by a spring (such
as in the embodiment of figure 12), which controls the movement of the locking means
so that they are prevented from undesirably move from the locked position to the disengaged
position where the first element 10 and the second element 11 can relatively move
away from the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0131] According to a possible embodiment (shown for example in figures 1-7, 9a, 9b, 10),
the locking means 15 comprise a lever 15a movable between a locked position, in which
the lever engages the second element 11 to hold said first and second element 10,
11 in the operative position of mutual attachment, and a disengaged position in which
the lever 15a is disengaged from the second element 11 to allow the first element
10 and the second element 11 to relatively move away from the operative position of
mutual attachment.
[0132] According to a further possible embodiment (see for example figure 12), the locking
means 15 comprise a snap-fit movable slider 15a' preferably controlled by an elastic
element 20, for example by a spring.
[0133] The movable slider 15a' cooperates with a corresponding seat preferably formed on
the second element 11, and is movable between a locked position, in which the slider
15a' engages the second element 11 to hold said first and second elements 10, 11 in
the operative position of mutual attachment, and a disengaged position in which the
slider 15a' is disengaged from the second element 11 to allow the first element 10
and the second element 11 to relatively move away from the operative position of mutual
attachment.
[0134] Turning back to the embodiment in which the locking means comprise a lever 15a, the
latter is constrained at a head 10a and, in particular, at the lower pivot 10b so
that the lever is rotationally constrained with respect to said pivot 10b.
[0135] In detail, the lever 15a comprises a hole 15b through which the pivot 10b passes
to allow the lever 15a to rotate around it. When the head 10a is installed and constrained
to the pivot 10b, the lever 15a is combined with the first element 10 and therefore
with the foot ascender 50, as in the embodiment depicted in figures.
[0136] The lever 15a further comprises a slot 15c intended to pass at a second head 10a
and, in particular, at the second pivot 10b so as to allow to define two ends (limits)
of the rotational movement of the lever around the other pivot 10b. The ends of the
slot 15c define the limits of the movement of the lever 15a and thus, according to
a possible embodiment, define a locked position of the first and second elements 10,
11 in the operative position of mutual attachment (see for example figure 9a) and
a disengaged position in which the first and second elements 10, 11 are movable away
from said operative position of mutual attachment (see for example figure 9b).
[0137] It should be noted that, according to a possible embodiment, also the elastic element
20 is combined with the first element 10 of the attachment system 1, such as shown
for example in figure 2, in which also the plate 20 provided with a jutting portion
21 to control the position of the lever 15a is arranged at the two pivots 10b by means
of two holes 20a, 20b the plate 20 is provided with.
[0138] According to a possible embodiment, the lever 15a comprising a selection guide 16
(shown for example in figure 2 and schematically in figures 9a and 9b) is configured
to engage at least part of a projecting portion 18 of the second element 11 to prevent
the relative movement between the first element 10 and said second element 11, when
the first and the second elements are in the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0139] In particular, according to a possible embodiment, the selection guide 16 prevents
the first element and the second element 10, 11 from moving and, in particular, prevents
the first and the second elements 10, 11 from sliding along the direction D along
which they are movable.
[0140] According to a possible embodiment, as shown for example in figures 2 and 9a, 9b,
the selection guide 16 can be substantially "L"-shaped. When the lever 15a is in the
disengaged position, the first branch of the "L" is substantially aligned with the
direction D along which the first element 10 and the second element 11 relatively
slide, so that these elements can freely move when the projecting portion 18 slides
in the branch 16a of the guide 16.
[0141] The guide 16 further comprises a second branch 16b substantially perpendicularly
arranged with respect to the first branch 16a (or anyway tilted with respect thereto).
The second branch 16b allows the lever 15a to rotate around the lower pivot 10b as
the first and the second elements 10, 11 are in the operative position of mutual attachment.
In fact, the projecting portion 18 of the second element 11 is at the second branch
16b and, when the lever 15a is in the disengaged position (see for example figure
9b), the projecting portion 18 is at the meeting point (intersection) of the first
and the second branches 16a, 16b thereby allowing, as a result of the projecting portion
moving in the first branch 16a, the movement away from the operative position of mutual
attachment. On the other hand, by turning the lever 15a in the locked position (see
for example Figure 9a), the projecting portion 18 reaches the end of the second branch16b,
where the first element is prevented from moving away from the second element 11.
[0142] The movement away from the position of mutual attachment is possible only by rotating
the lever 15a to the disengaged position, where the projecting portion 18 is at the
meeting point between the first and the second branches 16a, 16b, because as mentioned,
the first branch 16a is substantially coincident with or parallel to the direction
D in which the first element and the second elements 10, 11 relatively slide. The
present invention also relates to a climb system 100 to ascend along one or more ropes
55 (shown only in figure 2 for ease of illustration), comprising a foot ascender 50
and a shoe 60 (or a crampon 70), in addition to a reversible attachment system 1 according
to the present invention advantageously allowing to attach/detach the foot ascender
50 to/from the shoe 60 or to/from the crampon 70.
[0143] It should be noted that the climb system 100 can be seen for example in figures 4,
6 and 7, wherein the foot ascender 50 is shown in the attachment position for the
attachment to a shoe 60, or a crampon 70, by the reversible attachment system 1 according
to the present invention.
[0144] It should be noted that aspects and characteristics herein described referring to
the reversible attachment system for the attachment to the foot ascender, the shoe
or the crampon, can be applied to the climb system 100 to ascend along one or more
ropes according to the invention.
[0145] Hereinafter the steps of the method for reversibly attaching a foot ascender 50 to
a shoe 60 or a crampon 70 by a reversible attachment system 1 according to the present
invention, will be described. Even in this case, it should be noted that aspects and
characteristics described above referring to the reversible attachment system 1 for
the attachment to the foot ascender, the shoe or the crampon, can be applied to the
method according to the invention. Likewise, aspects and characteristics described
referring to the method for reversibly attaching a foot ascender 50 to a shoe 60,
or a crampon 70, can be applied to the reversible attachment system, the foot ascender,
the shoe, or the crampon according to the invention, as well as to the climb system
100 to ascend along one or more ropes.
[0146] As mentioned, a first element 10 of the attachment system 1 and a second element
11 of the attachment system 1 are arranged (constrained to or made in one piece with)
on the foot ascender 50 and the shoe 60 (or the crampon 70), respectively, such as
in the embodiment depicted in figures, and vice versa.
[0147] The foot ascender 50 comprising the first element 10, and in particular at least
one head 10a for example supported by a pivot 10b, is approached to the shoe 60 (or
crampon 70) and in particular to a second element 11 of the reversible attachment
system constrained to the shoe 60 (or the crampon 70) or made in one piece therewith.
[0148] The method comprises the step of inserting at least part of the first element 10
into at least one seat 11a of the second element and relatively moving the first and
the second elements 10, 11, in order to reach the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0149] The at least one head 10a is at least partially inserted in a corresponding seat
11a of the second element, for example a plate constrained to, or made in one piece
with, the shoe 60 or the crampon 70.
[0150] In the possible embodiment (shown for example in figure 12) in which the first element
10 comprises at least one flange 10a' for example constrained to the foot ascender
(not shown), or made in one piece therewith, the flange is at least partially inserted
in at least one corresponding seat 11a of the second element 11, for example a plate
constrained to, or made in one piece with, the shoe 60 or the crampon 70 (see for
example the view A of figure 12).
[0151] Subsequently, the foot ascender is moved with respect to the shoe (or the crampon)
and, in particular, the first element 10 is moved at the seat 11a in order to reach
an operative position of mutual attachment.
[0152] In particular, the first element 10 and in particular the head 10a move along a direction
D, preferably from bottom to top, so that the head 10a moves to the attachment portion
11c of the seat 11a in order to reach the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0153] In more detail, due to the small size of the head 10a placed behind the attachment
portion 11c with respect to the inserting portion 11b of the seat 11a, the foot ascender
can be separated from the shoe (or the crampon) only as a result of the movement along
the sliding direction D, but in the opposite way with respect to movement made to
reach the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0154] In general, according to an aspect of the present invention, the operative position
of mutual attachment allows to separate the first and the second elements 10, 11 by
reversing the sliding way and/or the rotating way with respect to the way of the movement
made to reach the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0155] In the embodiment shown in figure 12, see for example view B, after at least part
of the first element 10 (and in particular the flange 10a') has been inserted in the
seat 11a of the second element 11, it is possible to subsequently rotate them in order
to approach these elements to each other and therefore to approach the foot ascender
to the shoe, or the crampon, so as to reach the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0156] In particular, after at least part of the flange 10a' has been inserted into the
seat 11a (for example by a movement from bottom to top), the lower portion of the
first element 10 is approached to the second element 11 by rotation.
[0157] In the position of mutual attachment, the locking means 15 are operated so as to
hold the first element 10 and the second element 11 in the position of mutual attachment.
[0158] In particular, the locking means prevent the movement, which led to reach the position
of mutual attachment between the first element 10 and the second element 11, from
being inverted.
[0159] In the embodiment shown in the appended figures 1 - 7, 9a, 9b, 10, 11a, the locking
means 15 prevent the head 10a from sliding along the direction D from the attachment
portion 11c to the inserting portion 11b of the seat 11a.
[0160] In particular, the lever 15a positioned in the disengaged position allows the first
element and the second element 10, 11 to relatively move and, in particular, to slide
along the direction D, due to the position of the first branch 16a of the selection
guide 16 of the lever 15a substantially coincident with, or parallel to, the movement
direction D.
[0161] Therefore, the projecting portion 18 will slide in the first branch 16a up to the
meeting point with the second branch 16b (see for example figure 9b). As will be clear
at this point of the description, such position corresponds to reaching the operative
position of mutual attachment, as a result of the sliding of the first element 10.
[0162] At this point, the user rotates the lever 15a to the locked position, preferably
by hand. In particular, the rotation of the lever around the lower pivot 10b allows
the rotation of the slot 15c at the other pivot 10b.
[0163] The rotation of the lever to the locked position (see for example figure 9a) causes
the projecting portion 18 to be moved into the second branch 16b of the selection
guide 16, substantially at the end of the branch 16b far from the meeting point with
the first branch 16a.
[0164] By so doing, the movement away from the operative position of mutual attachment is
prevented, because the first and the second elements 10, 11 are not able to relatively
move. In fact, the projecting portion 18 of the second element 11 engaged in the second
branch 16b of the guide 16 of the lever 15a prevents the first and the second elements
from relatively moving, and in particular from sliding along the direction D.
[0165] In the embodiment shown in figure 12, the movable slider 15a' is temporarily moved
to the disengaged position (by overcoming the elastic force generated by the spring
20) (see the view B of figure 12). In this way, the locked position in which the slider
engages the second element 11 can be reached, thus preventing the first and the second
elements 10, 11 from relatively move away from the operative position of mutual attachment
(see the view C of figure 12).
[0166] When the foot ascender is no longer needed and thus the user wants such device to
be detached from the shoe or the crampon, the method provides the step of arranging
the constraining means 15 in the disengaged position, so as to allow the first and
the second elements 10, 11 to move away from the operative position of mutual attachment.
[0167] According to a possible embodiment, the user rotates the lever 15a to the disengaged
position, wherein the projecting portion 18 is at the meeting point between the second
branch 16b and the first branch 16a of the selection guide 16 (see for example figure
9b). This allows the movement away from the operative position of mutual attachment
and, in particular, allows the first element 10 and the second element 11 to relatively
slide.
[0168] In particular, due to the first element 10 moving from top to bottom with respect
to the second element 11 along the direction D, the projecting portion 18 will slide
within the first branch 16a of the selection guide 16.
[0169] As a result, the head 10a will reach the inserting portion 11b of the seat 11a, thereby
allowing the first element 10 to be separated from the second element 11 and thus
the foot ascender 50 to be separated from the shoe 60, or the crampon 70.
[0170] In the possible embodiment in which the locking means comprise the movable slider
15a', the user will move the slider 15a' to the disengaged position, see for example
the view B of figure 12, for example by applying a force opposite to that applied
by the spring 20. This allows the movement away from the operative position of mutual
attachment and, in particular, allows the first element 10 to rotate away from the
second element 11.
1. Lösbares Befestigungssystem (1) zur Befestigung einer Fußsteigklemme (50) für den
Aufstieg an einem Seil an einer Vorrichtung (60, 70), welche von einem Anwender getragen
und/oder an diesem befestigt werden kann, umfassend ein erstes Element (10) und ein
zweites Element (11), voneinander getrennt und lösbar arretierbar in wenigstens einer
Betriebsstellung einer gegenseitigen Befestigung, wobei das erste Element (10) aufgebaut
ist, um wenigstens teilweise in wenigstens eine Aufnahme (11a) des zweiten Elements
(11) eingesetzt zu werden, und wobei das erste Element (10) und das zweite Element
(11) relativ zueinander beweglich sind, um die wenigstens eine Betriebsstellung der
gegenseitigen Befestigung zu erreichen, und wobei das erste Element befestigbar ist
an der Fußsteigklemme (50) und das zweite Element (11) befestigbar ist an der Vorrichtung
(60, 70), welche von einem Anwender getragen und/oder an diesem befestigt werden kann,
oder umgekehrt, wobei der Aufbau des ersten Elements (10) im Wesentlichen zum Aufbau
des zweiten Elements (11) korrespondiert, sodass das erste Element (10) und das zweite
Element (11) im Wesentlichen entlang einer Richtung (D) gleiten und/oder relativ zueinander
rotieren, um die wenigstens eine Betriebsstellung der gegenseitigen Befestigung zu
erreichen, wobei das erste Element (10) und das zweite Element (11) sich relativ zueinander
bewegen durch Gleiten und/oder Rotieren im Wesentlichen innerhalb einer Ebene.
2. Lösbares Befestigungssystem nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Vorrichtung (60, 70), welche
von einem Anwender getragen und/oder an diesem befestigt werden kann, ein Schuh (60)
oder ein Steigeisen (70) ist.
3. Lösbares Befestigungssystem nach Anspruch 1, wobei das erste Element (10) mit dem
zweiten Element (11) zusammenwirkt durch eine Kupplung, welche der Führungs-Gleiter-Kupplung
entspricht, während sie entlang einer Richtung (D) gleiten.
4. Lösbares Befestigungssystem nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei das erste
Element (10) und das zweite Element (11) starr sind.
5. Lösbares Befestigungssystem nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei das erste
Element (10) wenigstens einen Kopf (10a) oder wenigstens einen Flansch (10a') umfasst,
von einer Form, um im Wesentlichen zur ersten Aufnahme (11a) des zweiten Elements
(11) zu korrespondieren, vorzugsweise umfasst das erste Element (10) wenigstens einen
Drehzapfen (10b), an welchem der Kopf (10a) angebracht ist.
6. Lösbares Befestigungssystem nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei das erste
Element (10) wenigstens einen verlängerten Kopf umfasst, welcher eine überstehende
Führung bildet, wobei die überstehende Führung vorzugsweise einen im Wesentlichen
T-förmigen Abschnitt aufweist.
7. Lösbares Befestigungssystem nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei das erste
Element (10) zwei oder mehr Köpfe (10a) umfasst, zusammenwirkend mit zwei oder mehr
zugehörigen Aufnahmen (11a) des zweiten Elements (11).
8. Lösbares Befestigungssystem nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei das zweite
Element (11) wenigstens eine Platte umfasst, an welcher die wenigstens eine Aufnahme
(11a) angeordnet ist für das Einsetzen wenigstens eines Teils des ersten Elements
(10).
9. Lösbares Befestigungssystem nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei die wenigstens
eine Aufnahme (11a) des zweiten Elements (11) wenigstens einen Einlassbereich (11b)
für wenigstens einen Teil des ersten Elements (10) umfasst sowie wenigstens einen
Befestigungsbereich (11c) für wenigstens einen Teil des ersten Elements (10), wobei
der Befestigungsbereich (11c) eine kleine Größe aufweist im Vergleich zu dem wenigstens
einen Einlassbereich (11b).
10. Lösbares Befestigungssystem nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, gekennzeichnet durch das Umfassen von Befestigungsmitteln (12, 12a) zur Befestigung des ersten Elements
(10) oder des zweiten Elements (11) am Fußsteigeisen (50) für den Aufstieg an einem
Seil oder an der Vorrichtung (60, 70), welche von einem Anwender getragen und/oder
an diesem befestigt werden kann, wobei die Befestigungsmittel (12, 12a) vorzugsweise
ausgewählt sind unter wenigstens einer Schraube, wenigstens einem Schraubbolzen, wenigstens
einem Gurt.
11. Lösbares Befestigungssystem nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, gekennzeichnet durch das Umfassen von lösbaren Verriegelungsmitteln (15), aufgebaut, um in lösbarer Weise
das erste Element (10) und das zweite Element (11) in der Betriebsstellung der gegenseitigen
Befestigung zu arretieren, wobei die lösbaren Verriegelungsmittel (15) vorzugsweise
einen Hebel (15a) oder ein Gleitstück (15a') umfassen, beweglich zwischen einer verriegelten
Stellung, in welcher der Hebel (15) oder das Gleitstück (15a') mit dem zweiten Element
(11) koppelt, um das erste und zweite Element (10, 11) in der Betriebsstellung der
gegenseitigen Befestigung zu halten, sowie einer Stellung der Entkopplung vom zweiten
Element (11), um es dem ersten Element (10) und dem zweiten Element (11) zu erlauben,
sich relativ zueinander aus der Betriebsstellung der gegenseitigen Befestigung weg
zu bewegen.
12. Lösbares Befestigungssystem nach Anspruch 11, wobei der Hebel (15a) eine Auswahlführung
(16) umfasst, von einer Form, um mit wenigstens einem Teil eines überstehenden Bereichs
(18) des zweiten Elements (11) zu koppeln, um die Relativbewegung zwischen dem ersten
Element (10) und dem zweiten Element (11) zu verhindern, wenn sich das erste und zweite
Element in der Betriebsstellung der gegenseitigen Befestigung befinden.
13. Verfahren für das lösbare Befestigen einer Fußsteigklemme (50) für den Aufstieg an
einem Seil an einer Vorrichtung (60, 70), welche von einem Anwender getragen und/oder
an diesem befestigt werden kann, mittels eines lösbaren Befestigungssystems (1) nach
einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 12, umfassend ein erstes Element (10), welches an einem
Fußsteigeisen (50) befestigt werden kann oder einstückig mit selbigem ausgebildet
ist, sowie ein zweites Element (11), welches befestigt werden kann an oder einstückig
ausgebildet ist mit der Vorrichtung (60, 70), welche von einem Anwender getragen und/oder
an diesem befestigt werden kann, oder umgekehrt, wobei das Verfahren den Schritt umfasst
des Einsetzens wenigstens eines Teils des ersten Elements (10) in wenigstens eine
Aufnahme (11a) des zweiten Elements (11) und der Relativbewegung des ersten Elements
(10) zum zweiten Element (11), um die wenigstens eine Betriebsstellung der gegenseitigen
Befestigung zu erreichen.
14. Klettersystem (100) für den Aufstieg entlang eines oder mehrerer Seile (55), umfassend
eine Fußsteigklemme (50) für den Aufstieg an einem Seil und eine Vorrichtung (60,
70), welche von einem Anwender getragen oder an diesem befestigt werden kann, sowie
ein lösbares Befestigungssystem (1) nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 12, umfassend ein
erstes Element (10) und ein zweites Element (11), voneinander getrennt und lösbar
arretierbar in wenigstens einer Betriebsstellung einer gegenseitigen Befestigung,
wobei das erste Element (10) aufgebaut ist, um wenigstens teilweise eingesetzt zu
werden in wenigstens eine Aufnahme (11a) des zweiten Elements (11), und wobei das
erste Element (10) und das zweite Element (11) relativ zueinander beweglich sind,
um die wenigstens eine Betriebsstellung der gegenseitigen Befestigung zu erreichen,
und wobei das erste Element an der Fußsteigklemme (50) befestigbar ist oder einstückig
ausgebildet ist mit der Fußsteigklemme (50), und das zweite Element (11) an der Vorrichtung
(60, 70) befestigbar ist, welche von einem Anwender getragen und/oder an diesem befestigt
werden kann, oder einstückig ausgebildet ist mit der Vorrichtung (60, 70), welche
von einem Anwender getragen und/oder an diesem befestigt werden kann, oder umgekehrt,
wobei die Fußsteigklemme (50) lösbar angebracht werden kann an der Vorrichtung (60,
70), welche von einem Anwender getragen und/oder an diesem befestigt werden kann mittels
des lösbaren Befestigungssystems (1).